Setting the Standard in Music City

When a place names itself “The Standard,” you’ve got to hope they’re being bold enough to speak the truth. And in the case of Nashville’s award-winning restaurant and private club, The Standard does ring true. 

Located on Rosa L. Parks Boulevard, the Smith House (home of The Standard) is the last grand townhouse in Nashville. Built in the 1840s, the place changed owners multiple times through the years, but in 2005, the Smith family purchased and restored the building to its old Victorian-era glory. 

What started as a small “side business” for Joshua Smith in part of the home became one of Nashville’s most elegant eateries, with a private club to boot.

So your first question probably is, do you have to be a member of the Standard Club to enjoy this fine dining establishment? Nope. While members can enjoy VIP treatment in the restaurant, an exclusive wine locker and cigar box, plus use of some of the private meeting rooms—anyone can reserve a table and experience the delectable menu and luxurious ambience.

That delectable menu begins with starters like a Lump Crab Bisque, Calamari, and Filet Mignon Tartare. The Standard Signature dishes include and 8 ounce USDA Prime Filet (with the Standard Sauce, Truffle Hash Cake, and Fried Tobacco Onions), a White Marble Farms Bone-in Pork Chop (Citrus Marinated with Mango Chutney, Roasted Petite Potatoes, and Grilled Asparagus), and the Grilled Rack of Lamb (with Smoked Peach Preserves and Creamed Corn).

Plan on at least sharing a dessert. The Chocolate Torte, Jack Daniel’s Cheesecake, or Half-Baked Cookie (with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream) will be calling your name. They’ve got an extensive wine list and cocktails, including a twist on an old favorite—the “New Fashioned.”

There’s seriously nothing like The Standard in Nashville—so put this one-of-a-kind restaurant experience on your list of spots you’ve got to visit.

Hey, if you’ve already been to this spot, what did you think? Send me your thoughts! I’d love to hear.