Lona: Nashville’s Newest Hotspot Serving Up Big Flavor and Good Vibes
Lona
Nashville, we’ve got another reason to loosen our belts. Lona, the newest restaurant to hit the scene, serves bold flavors, sleek vibes, and a dining experience that’ll make you question why you ever settled for basic. Located in the heart of Music City, this spot is already drawing in food lovers faster than a country song about heartbreak.
Meet the Masters Behind the Magic
A great restaurant is only as good as the talent in the kitchen, and Lona is in seriously good hands. The culinary vision behind Lona comes from Chef Richard Sandoval, a globally recognized restaurateur known for revolutionizing modern Mexican cuisine. With a portfolio of award-winning restaurants worldwide, Sandoval brings his signature blend of tradition and innovation to Nashville, creating a menu that balances bold flavors with refined techniques.
Bringing even more culinary firepower to the kitchen is Chef Pablo Salas, a celebrated Mexican chef known for his contemporary approach to authentic flavors. Hailing from Toluca, Mexico, Salas has made a name for himself with his inventive dishes that honor tradition while pushing creative boundaries. Together, Sandoval and Salas are serving a fresh take on Mexican cuisine, making Lona a must-visit for food lovers in Nashville.
Lona | Queso Fundido (Bottom Right) Served With Salsas And Corn Tortillas; Traditional Guacamole (Top)
What’s on the Menu?
Lona isn’t here to play it safe. The menu is packed with dishes that deliver serious flavor, whether you’re craving something fresh and vibrant or rich and indulgent. Think modern takes on classic Latin flavors, inventive small plates, and cocktails that deserve their own fan club. If you’re the type who likes a little adventure on your plate, this is your kind of place.
From what I’ve tasted (and let’s be honest, I tasted a lot), a few standout dishes include:
🍴 Appetizers that are seriously swoon-worthy- From the chips and salsa to their guacamole and queso fundido, it’s easy to make a meal out of this deliciousness. This is a bold statement, but the chips and salsa are in my all-time top five.
🌮 Tacos that make you rethink every taco you’ve ever had—bold, balanced, and packed with personality. The shrimp tacos are seriously out of this world.
🍹 Cocktails that are dangerously drinkable—because why stop at just one when they’re this good? If you are a margarita lover like myself, you cannot leave without ordering the Mercado Margarita. Think Jalapeño infused tequila with passion fruit and citrus topped with this knockout hibiscus rosemary foam.
Lona | Shrimp Tacos | Bacon + Cilantro + Lime + Chipotle Aioli Slaw
The Vibe Check
Lona is giving us modern, stylish, and just the right amount of moody. It’s the kind of place that feels effortlessly cool but still welcoming—like the restaurant version of that friend who always knows where the best spots are. Whether you're there for a casual dinner, a date night, or just an excuse to sip a killer margarita, the atmosphere delivers.
Lona | Enchiladas Divorciadas| Chicken + Salsa Roja + Salsa Verde + Crema + Queso Fresco + Onion
Final Verdict?
Lona is officially a must-try in Nashville. If you love bold flavors, top-tier cocktails, and a setting that feels just the right amount of trendy, this place is calling your name. Just don’t blame me when you’re already planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your first meal.
Have you checked out Lona yet? Drop your go-to order in the comments—I’m always looking for an excuse to go back. 🍽️🔥
Lona | Tres Leches | Sponge Cake + Berries + Mascarpone Whipped Cream
Tariff | Appetizers start at $12.00 and go up to $22.00, while tacos and larger entrees range between $16.00 and $35.00.
Can’t Miss | To say I am obsessed with the Mercado Margarita is an understatement. I also love the Guacamole, Mushroom Quesadillas, Shrimp, and Steak tacos.
Potential Pass | I only say this to save room for other things on the menu. I LOVED the Queso Fundido, but I totally overindulged and didn’t leave room for the other bites to come. #foodiefail However, if you are with a large group or do a better job exercising self-control than I do, try it!
Until Next Time!
