Why You Need To Make Reservations At Audrey... If You Can Get Them

The culinary landscape in Nashville, Tennessee is continually evolving. Even though some may argue that it’s dominated by Southern cuisine and meat and threes are a Music City mainstay, I’ll be the first to tell you that there’s something for everyone. It seems like every week, there’s a new restaurant launching, or resident chefs are expanding their footprint within the city.
Admittedly, I fall victim to the new restaurant hype, often to leave underwhelmed, unsatisfied, and sometimes looking for where I can enjoy a second dinner. When people ask about my favorite new restaurants in Nashville, I’m hesitant to respond because new does not always mean better.

However, there’s one restaurant that Nashvillians have been buzzing about, Audrey. Located in East Nashville, Audrey is the flagship restaurant of Chef Sean Brock. Inspired by his family and Appalachian roots, the restaurant is a tribute to his grandmother, who was his biggest inspiration for his cooking, career, and his approach to modern cuisine.

Audrey

809 Meridian Street

Nashville, TN 37207

Website and Instagram

As skeptical as I may be about new restaurants, I had to see for myself if Audrey lived up to the hype.

Audrey is comprised of two dining experiences and an upstairs bar. At this time, the downstairs dining experience and upstairs bar are open and available for guests. While the current downstairs concept features a five-course tasting menu that transforms daily, the upstairs dining concept will feature a lengthier and more expensive tasting menu and is scheduled to open sometime in 2022. According to our server, the price could be anywhere between $300.00 - $500.00 per person, which would make it the most expensive restaurant in Nashville.

First things first, Audrey does not take walk-ins at this time. While that could change in the future reservations are required and are released on the 1st of each month for the following month. For example, January reservations will be available on December 1. Go ahead a block your calendar because this is one of the hottest reservations in town and will go fast. If you’re unable to secure one of the coveted spots, I recommend adding yourself to the notify list for multiple days to increase your odds.

Audrey | <From L to R> Beet + Foie + Cocoa // Bob Woods Ham + Apple Molasses + Hickory Nut Oil //Chanterelle + Truffle + Thomasville Tomme // Sturgeon Caviar + Pine Rosin Potato

Chef Sean Brock and the Audrey team have done a remarkable job creating an experience that delights all of the senses and one that guests will remember for a lifetime. From the Northern Appalachian White Oak flooring, the unique serving pieces, the quilts, and folk art adorning the walls, the attention to detail are unlike any other in the city, and I have yet to mention the food. If you can, arrive a few minutes early as it will give you a chance to experience the space and enjoy the curated art before immersing yourself in the dining experience.

Audrey | Jimmy Red Grits + Grilled Sweet Potato + Bay Laurel

Brock does a phenomenal job showcasing the flavors of Southern cuisine. Many of the dishes were accompanied by an anecdotal story as to why it was featured on the menu and the significance of ingredients. It’s truly extraordinary to see this type of cuisine elevated and celebrated.

It’s rare to enjoy every single morsel of food presented on a tasting menu, but the tasting menu at Audrey is an exception. Granted, it was only five courses, but I enjoyed every single bite. In fact, I could have revisited several of these dishes because they were that great.

Two dishes stood out during my experience: Sturgeon Caviar + Pine Rosin Potato and Jimmy Red Grits + Grilled Sweet Potato + Bay Laurel. The Pine Rosin Potato dish reminded me of a decadent potato salad, and the Jimmy Red Grits had so much depth and flavor. Both were unexpected and delicious. Brock reminds us that even the simplest ingredients can make phenomenal dishes.

Audrey | Duo Of Bear Creek Beef + Butternut Squash + Unripe Peach

Guests will have the opportunity to choose between two entrees, although it’s unlikely you will know your options before you arrive ( unless you are a super sleuth Instagram stalker). However, if you have the opportunity to try the beef course, I highly recommend it.

Audrey | A Study Of Tennessee Apples < Jonagold + Rome + Arkansas Black>

Dessert consisted of a tasting progression featuring Tennessee apples. From apple mustard to a poached apple garnished with horseradish caramel and buttermilk ice cream, every bite was remarkable and better than the last.

As someone fortunate to experience tasting menus across the globe, Chef Sean Brock has left me with a loss for words. While guests are treated to a true taste of Appalachia, the dining experience is so much more than just the food on the plates. It’s magical, thoughtful and I am left filled with excitement to see what else Brock creates in this kitchen.

Until Next Time!

Tariff: The tasting menu at Audrey is $115.00/person. They’ve made it VERY easy on patrons as the only decision to be made is beef or salmon! Wine pairings are available for $75.00/person. I always like to opt for the wine pairing as I’m always so curious to see how the acidity and flavors of the wine impact the food. If that’s not for you, there’s an assortment of cocktails, both alcoholic and zero-proof, available.

Items of Note: Audrey does not provide a phone number for patrons. Guests are contacted through text via Resy. Patrons are asked to wear a mask until seated and while moving throughout the restaurant.

Can’t Miss: This is one of the few tasting menus that I’ve had recently where I enjoyed every single bite. Chef Sean Brock created the dreamiest menu, and I’m excited to see how it evolves with the seasons.

Potential Pass: As I mentioned above, I enjoyed every single bite. If I had a gun to my head and had to choose a bite that didn’t stand out, it would likely be the beet. There, I said it!