A nice fine dining addition to the Nashville area! We all enjoyed our food tremendously, and rolled out the door with a satisfied oompf factor. Pros: - The food, what can I say? From the appetizers, entrees to the desserts, the presentations are impressive, flavorful and the right portion sizes. A good mix of meat, seafood and vegetarian options. - Nice drink menu selection - Great service - The ambiance is elegant and upscale. A large seating area. - Valet parking and street parking Cons: - It's expensive but worth it So if you want to surprise that special someone with a romantic date, Prima should be top of the list.
(5)
Salman S.
So started off at the bar with the friends and they wanted the happy hour which was pretty nicely priced and the we got served complimentary beef taco appetizers which were decent...but beef felt more like pork ... dunno why. The ambiance of the restaurant was quite nice the hostess got us from the bar to get us seated in a very nice manner. Steven was our waiter who did an amazing job from scratch, he highly recommended the trout and that was what 3/4 ordered except the one who went for the lamb neck. We asked to filet the stuff on the table but due to the amount of people and business in the store it was not possible, he did de bone one fish and it was quite nicely done. I did not order the squash and went for the corn which was beautifully done and presented. Taste -- it was amazing cooked right and marinated right ... nothing else was needed, but the thing that blew me away was the lamb neck which was just melting in your mouth ..once we 3 had a taste of the lamb neck our fish was no comparison . Chef came out and we thanked him great guy Sal and very careful to listen to criticisim about his food. Great restaurant but hard to give it a 5 .. 4 is well enough.
(4)
Cassandra S.
An absolutely amazing experience during our vacation to Nashville. It was pricey, but worth it. We shared a 32 oz prime rib that was our of this world. The foie gras potatoes were amazing as well. We also had great service. The reason for four stars is because there was a child playing video games extremely loudly at the table next to us. When paying this much for dinner, one expects to be able to eat in peace. The kid was playing for at least a half hour. The fact that no one asked the parents to have the child turn the sound off was shocking.
(4)
Rosie D.
This place is beautiful and my only regret was getting there 45 minutes before they closed. However, we sat at the bar and ordered appetizers and drinks and everything was very good. Their octopus was probably the best I've had! It was not chewey, very tasty and just delicious! I also tried their meatballs appetizer and they were really good and with a nice kick. Our drinks were amazing as well and the bartender was nice enough to explain the drinks to us and also made some recommendations. Next time I'm in town I will make it a point to make early reservations and enjoy the rest of their menu.
(5)
Andrea R.
This restaurant was the best service I have ever had, in a beautiful space inside one of the buildings along 12th Ave. in the Gulch. We had no less than six people waiting on our table during our meal for different purposes - wine, water (complimentary sparkling water if you please!), entrees, etc. All of our party of four had steaks, which are sourced out of Leiper's Fork. They were pretty good - not the best or most flavorful I've ever had, but certainly cooked well, tender, and I had no complaints. The foie gras home fries were delicious. I had the oyster mushrooms and they were good, but Asian inspired with soy sauce and the like so they didn't go with my steak. Everyone loved their salads - Caesar and arugula and they were huge! We loved our dessert. We had the affogado which they called their version of tiramisu. It has this little block of chocolate on top that you break open and there's espresso syrup inside, which flows onto a tasty chocolate coated cake. The desserts are tiny though so be forewarned! Delicious Crema coffee for the espressos too. The salads and sides are a la carte and around $10 a piece, so if you get a $50 steak your full dinner's gonna run around $70 a plate without drinks or apps. (The server told us sides weren't big enough to share, but they are plenty big enough for two people to eat on as a side.) Overall this was a great experience - the best we've had in Nashville in the 3 1/2 years we've lived here. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Cole H.
Not only is the food and drink amazing but what I really like about this place is the passion for food and drink that the staff demonstrates. If I ask about a dish or a drink I get a 90 second answer which means they are knowledgable and passionate. Don't lose this quality!!!!
(5)
Michael M.
Boys night out, hard to believe this place just opened as they are in a groove already. Great location in Da' Gulch; if you live in the building thank whoever brought you Prima! Appetizers Lobster gnocchi was a nice play on mac n cheese. Just enough lobster to make ya happy. The gnocchi is really a pasta shaped like gnocchi so don't expect the potato texture to melt in your mouth; it's semolina based made inhouse. Octopus was cooked to perfection with just enough kick to make you notice it but not so much that it destroyed the plate. I could have ate the other seven tentacles. Main Course We both ordered the lamb osso bucco. If you're Italian you know it's either HIT or MISS; there is no in between. This plate was a lil' bingo. The waiter had me worried when he brought out the knives; thankfully we didn't need them. If it was Nonna's house I'd be sucking the marrow out of the bone but this ain't the place. Spinach side was perfect. Dessert I had a macchiato and the espresso was very good. They use coffee from Crema also downtown. We whacked up a pistachio thingy with white chocolate, vanilla mousse, and a cookie bottom. Great with the coffee. Wine List I bought my own because the list wasn't available online but they have some fairly priced selections from all over the globe that will certainly continue to grow. Service Spectacular and they are open a week. Very knowledgeable staff who were in total sync. Black or White napkins sir? Complimentary bottled water? First impressions! Some delays and gaps in the timing but that was expected for a new restaurant and were minor. Kudos to my paisane Angelo who is the GM we remembered from Kayne Prime. This guy is a pro. Cost was under $70 a person without drinks (soup to nuts) which is more than reasonable for this caliber of dining experience. - YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. The only negative - the decor is well done but the high ceilings remove some of the ambiance. Sinatra sounds like he's singing in Hoboken. The huge chandelier helps. The bar should be closer to the front door. Just sayin' Observation not directed at Prima specifically Maybe I eat out too much but the menus are becoming repetitive in Nashville.The menu choices are very limited and basically the same in every restaurant but with the 'chef's take'. I miss the list of 'specials' in New Jersey restaurants. If you visit a Nashville restaurant 3-4 times you basically ran the menu. Now what? Start eating the same thing over and over or look for a new restaurant? Perhaps it's all geared towards tourists? I dunno. Hence no 5 star ratings yet.
(4)
Brandon I.
Outstanding experience full of great service, diverse and interesting menu and worth every penny! Haven't been on Nashville in over four years, and I am so impressed at how the city has transformed in such a short time. This restaurant is no exception.
(5)
Donald G.
Never had the pleasure to experience such a thoughtful meal in Nashville, Tn. As someone who has traveled over the yonder, I've been blessed with travels rewarding myself with the finest of meals. That being said, the passion is in the food at Prima. Prima offers the most exciting adventure your palate could have ever yearned to experience. It begins the moment you just walked through the doors and suddenly realized that this is a local experience of global cuisine. Forget that place named "Prime", what kind of name is that anyway? Do you love your wife? Well a night out in this establishment might as well be equivalent to lugging her to a musical. If the impeccable service doesn't get you, that delicious Cappuccino to accompany some of the best desserts I've ever tasted sure will. You honestly can't order anything that would leave you disappointed. Enjoy.
(5)
Kat S.
Awesome. New Spring menu is the JAM! Must get the octopus flat bread and the pork for 2! I had the lotus and the "jimmerbly" (sp?) drinks and they were great. Overall just incredibly tasty and approachable food.
(5)
Rick D.
Suggestions from our waiter Marcus proved valuable in navigating the menu and extensive wine list. The lobster macaroni and cheese was a great way to start the evening. My wife and I split the KC strip along with a side of mashed potato. Both were amazing. The roasted cauliflower was a pleasant surprise. Ended the evening with a Black and Tan desert; it was light and fun. The whole meal was paired up with some very nice wine suggestions. The entire dining experience was top notch.
(5)
Michael J.
I've been here a few times now and have never been disappointed. Their steak is one of the best I've had in Nashville.
(5)
Rhonda B.
The duck dish was very good. Staff/service was all very friendly. Restaurant was pretty nice but maybe a bit stuff.
Oh yeah. OH Yeah. Ohhhhh YEAH! Superb. All the way around. Proteins? Off the charts. Sides? Glorious. Desserts? Ethereal. Drinks? Did I say Drinks? DRINKS? Best Bloody Mary in the South. The soft shell crab changed the way I think about apps. If charred meats were an ecosystem, my filet was the weather. First visit was Wednesday. I went back on Friday. Going again Tuesday.
(5)
Leslie H.
My son picked this place for his college graduation dinner. We were 8 people. Decor was nice but not warm. The light fixture above our section was huge, beautiful and very unique. I would give this restaurant a 3.5 if I was able. The food was unique and quite good. I probably had the best filet mignon there, that I've ever had. Most of the other people I dined with were pleased with their food. The reason I did not give it a better rating was due to the service. Our waiter tried to be nice, but he had a snooty air about him that you could not miss. All that being said, my aunt and uncle ordered dishes can that came with sides and they never received them, even after asking for them twice. The menu specified the sides came with the dish, but they were left off both dishes. When we questioned the waiter, he said that they did not come with sides. I don't care what the waiter thinks, if the menu says its included, you better bring them. The waiter did not offer any kind of comp for the error. No manager came over to see how we were doing, which I thought was odd in a restaurant of that nature. My aunt and uncle didn't want to make a fuss, so we let it go. I don't mind paying for good food and service, but at over $100 per person, my husband and I were not happy customers. We spent over $800 that night and I will tell you, great food does not win over poor customer service, we will definitely not be back.
(3)
Mitchel B.
Went with some friends a few weeks ago to Prima. The ambience is great. They have beautiful chandeliers that are worth seeing. They have a great drink and wine menu. The service was good though our waiter talked so low we had to ask him to repeat what he said numerous times. The only real reason not to give the restaurant was the food was good but not great. This was among the priciest meals I've bought in Nashville. For the cost, the food should have been spectacular. I may give it another shot at some point and hopefully find we just got them on an off night. Until then, I'd recommend skipping this one.
(3)
David M.
Filet was amazing and cooked perfectly. Actually sat at the bar and all of the staff members were super personable and informative. Great modern atmosphere. Will be going back.
(5)
Stephanie W.
Love this edition to the Nashville food scene. Modern setting and amazing food. Marcus was AMAZING! Check out the wine room.
(4)
Aileen K.
Great food, great ambiance, great service. The trout was excellent and a excellent healthy choice. The Brussels sprouts were good but could have been better without the anchovies. My husband loved the rabbit he ordered. There are limited choices for vegetarians. But we will definitely return.
(5)
Andrew S.
Prima blew all of our expectations out of the water! The food was exceptional, and the service, even better! Somehow we got a last minute reservation and we're very glad we did! The glass room is a must; definitely adds to the experience! Not very often you see a place that offers a full arsenal of linen, water and knives to choose from. Yara was our waitress and she did a phenomenal job! Great service, recommendations, and information on nightlife for us tourists. The home fries with foie gras sauce we're to die for! Bet you can't stop at just one order! Great cocktails, wine selection, food and service! A must do in Nashville!
(5)
Jessica G.
Way!!! Over priced..the building was nice but it wasn't that great..and the atmosphere was alittle cold and stuffy..all in all alittle disappointed
(1)
Jenn Z.
Prima is situated in a condo building in the Gulch, this for me meant Valet was a must because I fear having to park anywhere over here, and fortunately it is complimentary. Easy. Ambiance: Sleek and modern. Everyone seemed enthralled with the very elaborate light fixtures over the main dining area. They are beautiful, and seem to be the entire centerpiece of the restaurant, so large that I don't really recall much other than the light fixtures in terms of decor. I do recall it being very muted. Service: We were seated at a reserved table for a Holiday event, which they referred to as one of the Chef's tables? I thought there was only one, and that is situated in the glass room beside the kitchen, who knows? We were seated just outside the open kitchen. Maybe they just told us it was the Chef's table, because we had a party of 14 people = big bill, or maybe I'm clueless, anyway it felt fancy. We had about 3 servers, 2 main servers, one of which was extremely attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. The other gentlemen the runner so to speak and the third, we sill aren't sure what exactly he did. Whenever we asked for drinks of the alcoholic variety, he would instruct us that he would let our other server know.......odd, as it wasn't an age limit issue, he was easily 40 years old. This sort of disconnect on who was serving what made for longer wait times, most drinks from the bar, situated a few feet from us, took well over 10 minutes to reach us, and this was on a weekday before 7pm. Food: The filet was, pardon the cliche, like butter. Delicious, perfectly cooked to temp and seasoned wonderfully. The mashed potatoes, creamy and delicious. The appetizers were good for the most part, we did a sampling of each, I however was disappointed with the dry tasteless Quail. I literally took one bite and was done, as was the theme with the rest of the table. Overall, definitely a nice dining experience. I would recommend the filet here to anyone and encourage a visit, if even only to stare at the fantastical light fixtures in all their glory!
(4)
Brandon L.
I am giving this place 5 stars because the food was awesome, the service was awesome, and the drinks were, yup you said it, AWESOME! It's a bit pricey $$$, but it's well worth the money. The waiter was engaging and attentive but not overbearing! If you a fancy date or want to take your friends to a upscale place or even want to sit at the full bar in your evening attire. DO IT!
(5)
David M.
I did not have rsvp's for opening night, but was able to grab seats at the bar with me and a buddy. I can't vouch for the service received in the formal dining area, however, I can say we received exceptional service by all at the bar. At one point it became very hectic (opening night, what would you expect) with 2 rows deep of people asking for drinks. We watched in awe at how everyone, including us, were handled - courteous and prompt. We always had the attention of our bartender and the others any time they passed by. We ended up also eating a main course and several sides that were very passionately recommended by the bartender - all were excellent and we would have thought she wrote the menu herself, with how much she knew about it! I can speak for both my friend and I that we'd come back to Prima and even recommend trying the personalized dining experience we had at the bar - overall great time for an opening night! Few minor details: Music was low at some times. I was introduced to and greeted by bar management. For fine dining, it did get loud with a few who were watching the football games on TV.
(5)
Brien W.
Excellent opening, had dinner with the Wife and Son and was expecting some opening confusion but not to be. First off the place is stunning, really beautiful and the seating is very comfortable. Staff is well versed on the menu and able to offer great suggestions. We had 3 apps, octopus, lobster mac and short rib, all excellent. Mains were grass fed ribeye, pork manhattan and lamb osso bucco; we ordered foie gras home fries, garlic mayo potato side that was amazing.The menu skews steak joint / Mediterranean and will allow you to move a side to a main, nice versatility . They crafted us some nice cocktails (sazeracs) and have a great wine list, ordered a bottle of the sea smoke, delicious. Another nice touch is they offer free sparkling and still water (have some kind of fancy filtration system) Hats off to a great meal and experience on opening night.
(5)
Rachel H.
We ate at the bar and enjoyed the small plates. I'll definitely go back and treat it as a tapas bar kind of place. The bar is casual and the small plates are much more economical than sitting at a table and ordering entrees. The food was excellent, so I'd even make a reservation at a table for a special occasion.
(4)
Jay D.
My wife and I came here in a Nashville weekend getaway...and it did not disappoint. We love steakhouses and found this one to be cool and chic, but still comfortable, not stuffy. We had three starters, one as my side dish that accompanied my filet (excellent sear and seasoning), and all were very tasty. Most everyone was dressed up for the restaurant with a few exceptions..I hope it stays a spot that people want to get snazzy for. Good Job Prima!
(4)
Num N.
If you're looking over the menu, definitely get the steak. It literally tasted like delicious butter meat in my mouth. The service was great, very helpful and attentive.
(3)
Patrick N.
I went for drinks and appetizers and had a fantastic time. My girlfriend and I shared the grilled spicy lobster, butternut squash fondants, the red Russian kale salad, and the braised new potato soup. We also tried some of the draft beer and a few cocktails, my favorite of which was the Munro. The bartender explained the drink is named after the guy who designed the featured light fixture in the restaurant. I'm not much of a desert guy, but we ended it with the affogato and it was delicious. It was obvious upon entry that we did not quite meet the description of the typical clientele. That didn't stop the GM from coming over and talking to us, then going out of his way to thank us for coming while we walked out the door. The food was amazing, and the service was even better. It is indeed expensive, but I'd say it's well worth it. This will be our go-to spot for special dining occasions going forward.
(5)
John S.
We ate at Prima on Saturday night with friends. Great place with a great vibe and wonderful staff We had several apps, all great, octopus, kale salad, endive salad For main courses we had the swordfish, pork, duck and all were great. Service was perfect as well, especially given that the restaurant had only been open less than a week Definitely going back
(5)
Bill C.
Had dinner there last night. The service was exceptional. Attentive but not intrusive, knowledgeable but not pretentious. The kale salad with sweet potato chips was extraordinary, as was the endive salad. You must have the whole trout, that they gladly filet at the table. Also try the house-made chorizo. The smoked pork was dry, and, for our table, over cooked. Be prepared for your table to eat family style, which for us, was really fun. And, the desserts, try everything! The ambience is very east coast. You could be in Manhattan or Philadelphia, but you are still in Nashville with valet parking. The black and grey walls are complimented with perfect lighting. The noise level is quiet enough to have a conversation, but you feel the buzz of a restaurant with people having fun. The booths provide privacy, but you feel connected to the vibe of good food being enjoyed by everyone. This is a great addition to the food scene in Nashville. Go, go, go.
(4)
A Gandhi G.
Took some colleagues there for dinner and The food was good, but not amazing....and it was definitely overpriced. They have a pretty extensive wine list, but come prepared to spend a minimum of $50 per/bottle and get a snoody look/attitude from your waiter if you don't order the $100+ recommendations that they provide. Let's also be very clear...this place is nowhere close to being a Michelin one star rated restaurant, but the prices come close.
(2)
Sanky S.
I had an event I hosted tonite at Prima, which I started planning in 3 months ahead. Despite advanced planning, the event was a disaster because the food was 1hr late. I had guests complaining constantly to me about of how long we were forced to wait. I was embarrassed and will never host any event there again! Food was good and the actual servers were nice but not enough to make up for the ridiculous delay!
(2)
Robert S.
Salt, way too much in almost every item we ordered. (And I like salt.) I thought my taste buds had gone haywire when the after-dinner espresso was salty, so I asked my companion to taste it. She almost spit it out. Salt in espresso made no sense until I remembered my days in the business; we used salt to help clean the coffee/espresso equipment. But we rinsed. It was a celebratory night out and I wasn't in the mood to complain. At nearly $200 for two people, there should have been nothing to complain about. I did return the first item I ordered, a classic martini that showed up at room temperature. Should have returned most everything.
(1)
Heather G.
My husband and I had dinner here late Saturday night and, overall, we were very impressed. The space has a great look (love the chandelier) and the service was great! Very friendly and polite. We had a pheasant for an appetizer which we both really enjoyed. It had a great smokey flavor. The main course was the rabbit and the swordfish. Again, both were excellent. We also ordered the foie gras potatoes which were amazing! Dessert was probably my least favorite part of the meal. We ordered a chocolate something which was kind of like a Milky Way. It was good, but just not as great as the rest of the meal had been. Though the coffee is from Crema so you can't go wrong there! We will be back and look forward to trying more off the menu (and more of those potatoes!).
(5)
Barbara F.
Beautiful, wonderful environment due to open space but feels intimate and comfortable. Where to go with someone special. Not inexpensive but everything is worth it. The food is interesting, beautifully prepared and delicious. The service is excellent. I went with friends who are not vegetarians but I am a vegetarian. While we all had wonderful meals, I needed the help of our great waiter. I was able to assemble three wonderful starters and sides but this restaurant, like others in Nashville, should have at least one vegetarian entree. We can't wait to go back!
(5)
Sheena T.
We had a party of 4 that luckily snagged reservations on their first night. I absolutely love the interior. It's gorgeous, modern, and left me feeling like I was in a NY or Vegas restaurant (the light fixtures..omg). Plus, I am SO glad they aren't doing the farm to table thing and there wasn't a flannel shirt in sight. Yes! We had a very tough time deciding on what to order, but started small with the cocktail list. I had the honey and thyme with gin and it was absolutely delicious. The jimberly and southern belle were hits at the table as well. However, be prepared that they are $13.00 each, but also very well made. Our server was sure to tell us about the appetizers and sold us on what he called "an appetizer platter" (whatever you do, DON'T order this, but more later) which included short ribs, quail, octopus, and sausage. I also had to try the spicy lobster gnocchi. The appetizers were all good minus the octopus. No one liked it; it was cold and rubbery and we didn't even finish it all. But the quail...wow. Probably my favorite from the appetizers. They were out of the mushrooms and trout for the evening, so we all ended up ordering red meat; steak and the lamb osso bucco. All of them were great, but the sides were really outstanding. The crispy sweet potatoes I couldn't stop eating and I didn't even order them! But I can speak highly of the foie gras home fries with garlic mayo and grilled brussels were extremely good as well. All around a spectacular meal. With one big problem: Remember that appetizer platter that was sold to us at the beginning of the meal? They charged us for each individual item, and the sausage alone was $25. That's right. the cost of an entree. The grand total for our appetizer platter of 4 items (one of which we didn't eat) SEVENTY dollars. You read that correctly $70.00! OUCH. We felt completely duped. In fact, we didn't stop talking about it the rest of the evening. We talked to our waiter and he apologized but then made the fantastic comment: "We were told not to say the price." Baffled, we asked for the octopus to be taken off. He took them off without any push back, so that was nice, but we still were in shock about our bill. Ridiculous. So. Prima is great, but whatever you do, don't order the appetizer "platter" and make sure you know the price before ordering!
(4)
Julie K.
We had reservations for two. From the moment we arrived until we left everything was beyond perfect. The servers and all staff were phenomenal! We both got the 8 oz filets. They were so tender one cut with the steak knife the rest we cut with our forks. We were there for a birthday they asked prior to my reservation if I had special requests, I stated it was for a birthday. We arrived and were greater with "happy birthday" at the end of our entrees they quietly brought out a "happy birthday" dessert complete with a candle. Everything from beginning to end was 100% fabulous. Looking for 5 star in Nashville look no further.
(5)
Karen G.
Worth Every Penny! Dined with a group of 9. Everyone loved their dish. I had the trout, which had the deepest flavor of any trout I've ever had. I ordered the whole fish which our server, David, perfectly and flawlessly filleted table side. The skin was crisp but the flesh was moist with smoky flavor. Truly one of the best fish I have ever eaten. We shared too many orders of the Foie Gras Home Fries. Put one in your mouth and you know your diet is "done for". Beautiful restaurant, gracious staff. Only complaint is we were there during Happy Hour and the wine at the bar was half price but turn around sit at a table and its full price. They shouldn't do that.
(5)
Steve E.
A conflicted review. Overall good experience. Service was really nice and very timely. The room itself is excellent, but we were seated up front and felt "away" from the larger part of the room. Food included apps of lobster pasta (phenomenal) and mussels (very good) entrees were steaks and I had the duck. Best duck breast I have eaten with a wonderful BBQ sauce. The steak eaters agreed it was good but not up to snuff with Bob's and Kayne. Sides were the potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Good, not great. Dessert was a take on a Black and Tan "chocolate" cake. Weirdest dessert any of us have tried in some time. That was the only outright fail. I would call it a second tier restaurant up against City House, Bob's, Kayne Prime, Rolf, Etch....you get the point. Good---just not the great I hoped for.
(4)
Anna J.
Excellent Experience! I came here for date night and was worried that this place would not live up to the hype especially for the price. I was pleasantly surprised. This is absolutely one of the most beautiful restaurants in Nashville, with all the lights, it was extremely romantic. Service was top notch with complimentary sparkling water. Cocktails were amazing. We had the jimberly and lotus. Both were tasty and unique. Now onto the food. For starters, we share the lobster and pea pasta. It was divine. The pasta looked like gnocchi but it certainly was just pasta, more al dente. There was ample lobster meat and the cream sauce was amazing. Cashews on top really added to the texture. It was a decent portion as well, and quite filling I must say. I had the lamb osso bucco and it was perfectly fork tender. The fiance had the homemade chorizo and it was delicious. We also got grilled brussels and foie gras fries as sides. They were delicious! The brussels had huge smokey flavor which was unique. We were worried about the portion of the food but was very surprised that we couldn't even finish everything and had to ask for to go boxes. Overall, a great experience with tasty food. A bit pricey though, but I definitely recommend this place for special occasions!
(5)
Jeannie G.
Somehow I had not heard of Prima -- I guess I was living under a rock since it opened -- so when my hubby made reservations there, I wasn't really sure what to expect. When we walked in, we were promptly greeted and escorted to a beautiful table. The restaurant is very elegant, modern and inviting. I loved the ambience. The modern chandelier lighting was really neat and the seating was very comfortable. We had excellent service and our waiter, Matt, was very attentive. He did a great job informing us about the menu and making some great recommendations. We decided to share the lobster and pea appetizer, which he described as similar to lobster mac & cheese. For our entrees, we both decided on the filet, but I gave serious thoughts to ordering the Pork Manhattan, which also came highly recommended. For sides, we shared mashed potatoes and the grilled brussel sprouts. The lobster and pea appetizer was extremely generous! It was practically a meal in itself. I liked the flavor and there a lot of lobster pieces, too. It was more like gnocchi than macaroni, in my opinion. Definitely enough to share with 3 or 4 people and plenty for 2! Before our steaks were brought out, Matt came over and presented several different knives to us. We actually got to choose the type of knives we wanted for our steaks. That was very unique. Our steaks were perfectly cooked and very tender! The sides were also delicious. The mashed potatoes were very creamy and rich. Reminded me of my grandma's, which is a huge compliment. All in all, Prima was the perfect spot for a romantic dinner. If you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to impress your date, this place will not disappoint. Looking forward to going back again!
(5)
Jamee C.
I absolutely love Prima. I had planned on going to the 404 Kitchen on a Saturday night but missed my table because I ran late so I went over to Prima. I sat at the bar with a friend and had octopus, ricotta balls, foie gras fries, ice cream, couple of cocktails and port wine and all were excellent. The atmosphere is absolutely delectable, the staff were pleasant and overall was a very pleasing experience.
(5)
Tabitha T.
Sat at the bar one evening with some girlfriends and was delighted to see that even though we were at a more casual area in the restaurant, we still had top notch service. We snacked on some of the bar menu items (try the cracklin nachos!) and ended up just staying on and ordering dinner form the main menu. I can't get enough of that Lobster Tail Gnochetti! Prima is a fantastic fine dining restaurant that's, at the same time, laid back and fun. The servers are all knowledgeable and engaging, the food is so good and whether it's a casual drink at the bar or for a full meal at a table under that gorgeous chandelier, I have to say it's one of the best dining experiences I've ever had in Nashville and it's fast become a favorite. Tip: save room for dessert!
(5)
Shawn T.
Been to Prima 6-7 times including opening night. The decor is very stylish, vibrant, and classy. Nothing else like it in Nashville. The service from opening to now has done nothing but increase leaps and bounds. The servers are attentive and knowledgable and you can tell management has been listening to its guests. The food is unique and the variety is second to none. Really love the duck, the quail, and the filet. Highly recommend.
(5)
Leslie B.
So many great restaurants in Nashville, so it can be hard to convince me to try a new place. After hearing much about Prima, I decided to try. I do feel it's geared towards an older crowd. I'm 40 and I felt young in there tonight :). It's more dressy with a "business casual" dress code. Many men were in suits tonight- it was a Wednesday so I'm guessing a bit more relaxed on the weekend. The decor and space are gorgeous. It has a very sexy feel. The light fixtures are amazing and organza sheer drapes hang on the large floor to ceiling windows. I would love to see the space in the daylight. I had a wonderful cocktail at the bar for $13. It was the Honey Thyme. I highly recommend it. $13 wasn't too crazy to me since I've spent $15 in Vegas on sub par cocktails. We sat at a great table in the center. Our service was impeccable. I almost felt like a star with all the attention, but honestly I think that's just their style. Top notch, 5 star service. We shared the lobster appetizer and sweet potatoes. They were both delicious. We also each had the Caesar salad. It was $10 and it was okay, but I regretted ordering it. The appetizers were generous portions, and I still had my entree coming. For dinner I had the tile fish and my friend had the filet. She loved her filet. My fish was really good but not a huge portion for the $28 price. We each drank 2 glasses of wine. $15-$21 per glass. I'm happy I've tried Prima. It's definitely a unique addition to Nashville's booming food scene, but it is pricey. I think you're paying for the atmosphere and sophisticated, sexy decor plus the impeccable service. I don't have anything bad to say except for the price. Just be ready to spend at least $250-$300 for a party of 2. Depending on your drink choices. :)
(4)
Marcia M.
Prima is the equivalent of a "mic drop" when it comes to restaurant ratings... From the impeccable decor and excellent service to the fantastic cocktail list and wine list, I was smitten even before the food made it's way out. My friend ordered the steak (from a sustainable farm in Leipers Fork) while I opted for some vegan options that ranged from a potato soup that was full of sustenance and flavor paired with an interesting Lobster Gnocchi (sans lobster) that energized my palate. I ended the evening with a delightful Cortado which was comprised of beans from local coffee haven - Crema. Along with all the other thoughtful details, I also appreciated the Thistle Farms soap and toiletries in the restrooms. The dedication to utilizing local purveyors was across the board. All around the experience was very enjoyable. I look forward to many more enchanting meals at this premier Nashville restaurant. This is a very solid option for special occasions or romantic dinners! Hint hint! TIP: Valet is available but there is also a self-serve parking lot across the street.
(5)
Katie F.
Just ate here with a couple of friends last night and it was terrific to say the absolute least. The place itself is beautiful, decorated with superb art. The crew was also great - friendly and professional. I'm only sad I don't live closer to enjoy it all more often!
(5)
Morgan O.
Super tasty. Atmosphere that simply cannot be beat. I haven't had the steak yet which is kind of a sin for a place as nice as this. But our duck and chicken breast was pretty legit. Living in the gulch there is some seriously stiff competition for high end cuisine but Prima holds its own with spectacular service and high end selections. The dessert was disappointingly small - even for a place which I would absolutely expect small portions- but tasty all the same. It's a must for business meetings, company parties, or simply looking to impress the family. Our order; half chicken, bbq duck, chocolate ingot and French fries (best French fries ever btw)
(4)
Brian S.
If you are seeking fine dining in Nashville look no further than Prima. The service was spectacular, but the food is what sells this place. To start, my girlfriend very briefly mentioned to the hostess we were celebrating her acceptance to her top choice for graduate school. As we were asking for the check, the waiter surprised us with a Black and Tan dessert that had congratulations scripted across the top of the plate. Needless to say it was devoured in a few seconds (not a big dessert person either). The food, as mentioned previously, is the key selling point here. Between what we ordered the soft shell crab appetizer was perfectly crisped on the outside, the spicy pork appetizer very well balanced, and the mushroom dish was surprisingly delicious (just make sure to get a little of everything in each bite). The fries are an obvious choice for a fan of foie gras. The swordfish and duck breast were of the best I've ever had. If you are starving I recommend the brisket as it was quite hearty. As far as the wine selection goes, the list is not a mile long but very well curated. I didn't get a chance to try any cocktails but the champagne on the by the glass menu was excellent for the price per bottle. As far as wine goes I recommend going by the bottle to save a little bit. If you are uncertain that it will pair well with your food, ask the waiter and they will point you in the right direction without just rushing to the highest dollar sign.
Beautiful interior, service was "off" and the prices are asinine. 40 dollars for a trout and 58 for a steak. For the first time in my 44 years on this planet, I sent food back. Not because of poor preparation but for poor quality. Nashville can do better and is doing better. I do not recommend and will not return.
(1)
Mark T.
Overall a decent restaurant, but not one of my favorites. Dined there for the first time this past Friday evening. The cauliflower appetizer was good. Spinach was flavorful. The short ribs were over-cooked and dry. The sauce that came with the ribs was good, but the meat was just too dry. Caesar salad was okay, but nothing special. The 18 ounce Kansas City Strip had a bone in it, which wasn't mentioned in the description. It was the worst thing we had. Not tender, and quite a bit of gristle. The 1/2 chicken was excellent, it had a unique smoky flavor. 8 ounce filet mignon was like most other 8 ounce filet's. The potatoes were the best thing we had all evening. Overall, not a bad experience, but for the price, and it was expensive, I'm in no hurry to return.
(3)
Kim P.
The setting is lovely. Having Valet is definitely a plus especially when the Gulch is so small and busy. Everything I ate was delicious but wasn't memorable enough for me to "have to" return.
(3)
Be G.
Outstanding meal. Two of us shared 2 starters (octopus, mushrooms & gnocchi), cauliflower soup, and the roasted cabbage "salad", and all 4 dishes were excellent. Service was spot on, and while it was pricey, it was absolutely worth it. We appreciated the diverse small plate menu, which let us try many flavors instead of a couple of large entrees. The only downside? The smell of baby talc (or something similar) in the lobby that wafted into the restaurant. Don't sit near the door, I guess. Oh, and the wording of the dessert menu gave us no clue what the dishes really *were*. After our server explained them, they sounded much more appealing. (But we were too full to partake.)
(5)
Erika K.
We had a fantastic dinner before the Opry tonight. Lovely cocktails, the octopus appetizer with cantaloupe was very interesting. Caesar salad with raw cauliflower? Yes! Had the pork kan kan for 2 with a great pull from the wine list (Martinelli zin). What a "chef" cut of meat, wow! Sad we could not stay for dessert, had to get to Opryland. This meal capped of a great trip to Nashville
(5)
Y. N.
Came in to town from Los Angeles and had been looking forward to this restaurant. I've spent 20 years in restaurant management and have some experience. Restaurant itself is really beautiful and calming. Calming maybe because it was about 30% full on a Thursday evening, 8pm. Since it was half full, you would think the service would be amazing. When we could find an employee on the floor, we'd have to wave them down to get a drink refill. No one visually present most of the night. Where do they go? The waiter should be on the floor at all times, working through his staff, and available for his tables. I'm not sure who was management, because there was no presence of someone in charge. The food mediocre and overpriced. I don't mind spending $200 for 2 people if its worth it. Appetizers we had were the Lobster gnocchi and soft shell crab. Blah and blah. Lobster was tough, gnocchi was al dente pasta, sauce was flavorless. The single crab was like every other deep fried crab. I've worked with numerous high end chefs (Michael McCarty, Michel Richard) that know how to make sauces. These were by far, less than average. I ordered the $60 rib eye rare!! It was cooked medium well and really a poor/ flavorless cut of meat. About 1/2" thick at best. My friend ordered the filet, he also said was nothing great. For sides we had the asparagus and foie gras potatoes. Potatoes mushy with a glob of mayo. I only gave it 2 stars because of the decor.
(2)
Carolan D.
This is more modern restaurant with a wonderful focus on gastronomy. The designers did a great job making a large space feel intimate with one suggestion - make the lighting "warmer". The candles help, but the room could use a little less industrial lighting. As far as the food goes, though - EVERYTHING was good!! We had the grilled endive salad, which was light and citrusy along with the beef tongue - delicious! Then my husband had a fabulous filet while I had a flavorful kale salad as my entree. Dessert was a tasty (small portion) italian creme treat. My martini was excellent and the red wine the bartender poured was also really nice. Service is attentive without being overbearing and the atmosphere is jazzy/stylish/a hip romantic place. I definitely recommend!
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Valet, Garage Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Romantic Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Cher Y.
A nice fine dining addition to the Nashville area! We all enjoyed our food tremendously, and rolled out the door with a satisfied oompf factor. Pros: - The food, what can I say? From the appetizers, entrees to the desserts, the presentations are impressive, flavorful and the right portion sizes. A good mix of meat, seafood and vegetarian options. - Nice drink menu selection - Great service - The ambiance is elegant and upscale. A large seating area. - Valet parking and street parking Cons: - It's expensive but worth it So if you want to surprise that special someone with a romantic date, Prima should be top of the list.
(5)Salman S.
So started off at the bar with the friends and they wanted the happy hour which was pretty nicely priced and the we got served complimentary beef taco appetizers which were decent...but beef felt more like pork ... dunno why. The ambiance of the restaurant was quite nice the hostess got us from the bar to get us seated in a very nice manner. Steven was our waiter who did an amazing job from scratch, he highly recommended the trout and that was what 3/4 ordered except the one who went for the lamb neck. We asked to filet the stuff on the table but due to the amount of people and business in the store it was not possible, he did de bone one fish and it was quite nicely done. I did not order the squash and went for the corn which was beautifully done and presented. Taste -- it was amazing cooked right and marinated right ... nothing else was needed, but the thing that blew me away was the lamb neck which was just melting in your mouth ..once we 3 had a taste of the lamb neck our fish was no comparison . Chef came out and we thanked him great guy Sal and very careful to listen to criticisim about his food. Great restaurant but hard to give it a 5 .. 4 is well enough.
(4)Cassandra S.
An absolutely amazing experience during our vacation to Nashville. It was pricey, but worth it. We shared a 32 oz prime rib that was our of this world. The foie gras potatoes were amazing as well. We also had great service. The reason for four stars is because there was a child playing video games extremely loudly at the table next to us. When paying this much for dinner, one expects to be able to eat in peace. The kid was playing for at least a half hour. The fact that no one asked the parents to have the child turn the sound off was shocking.
(4)Rosie D.
This place is beautiful and my only regret was getting there 45 minutes before they closed. However, we sat at the bar and ordered appetizers and drinks and everything was very good. Their octopus was probably the best I've had! It was not chewey, very tasty and just delicious! I also tried their meatballs appetizer and they were really good and with a nice kick. Our drinks were amazing as well and the bartender was nice enough to explain the drinks to us and also made some recommendations. Next time I'm in town I will make it a point to make early reservations and enjoy the rest of their menu.
(5)Andrea R.
This restaurant was the best service I have ever had, in a beautiful space inside one of the buildings along 12th Ave. in the Gulch. We had no less than six people waiting on our table during our meal for different purposes - wine, water (complimentary sparkling water if you please!), entrees, etc. All of our party of four had steaks, which are sourced out of Leiper's Fork. They were pretty good - not the best or most flavorful I've ever had, but certainly cooked well, tender, and I had no complaints. The foie gras home fries were delicious. I had the oyster mushrooms and they were good, but Asian inspired with soy sauce and the like so they didn't go with my steak. Everyone loved their salads - Caesar and arugula and they were huge! We loved our dessert. We had the affogado which they called their version of tiramisu. It has this little block of chocolate on top that you break open and there's espresso syrup inside, which flows onto a tasty chocolate coated cake. The desserts are tiny though so be forewarned! Delicious Crema coffee for the espressos too. The salads and sides are a la carte and around $10 a piece, so if you get a $50 steak your full dinner's gonna run around $70 a plate without drinks or apps. (The server told us sides weren't big enough to share, but they are plenty big enough for two people to eat on as a side.) Overall this was a great experience - the best we've had in Nashville in the 3 1/2 years we've lived here. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Cole H.
Not only is the food and drink amazing but what I really like about this place is the passion for food and drink that the staff demonstrates. If I ask about a dish or a drink I get a 90 second answer which means they are knowledgable and passionate. Don't lose this quality!!!!
(5)Michael M.
Boys night out, hard to believe this place just opened as they are in a groove already. Great location in Da' Gulch; if you live in the building thank whoever brought you Prima! Appetizers Lobster gnocchi was a nice play on mac n cheese. Just enough lobster to make ya happy. The gnocchi is really a pasta shaped like gnocchi so don't expect the potato texture to melt in your mouth; it's semolina based made inhouse. Octopus was cooked to perfection with just enough kick to make you notice it but not so much that it destroyed the plate. I could have ate the other seven tentacles. Main Course We both ordered the lamb osso bucco. If you're Italian you know it's either HIT or MISS; there is no in between. This plate was a lil' bingo. The waiter had me worried when he brought out the knives; thankfully we didn't need them. If it was Nonna's house I'd be sucking the marrow out of the bone but this ain't the place. Spinach side was perfect. Dessert I had a macchiato and the espresso was very good. They use coffee from Crema also downtown. We whacked up a pistachio thingy with white chocolate, vanilla mousse, and a cookie bottom. Great with the coffee. Wine List I bought my own because the list wasn't available online but they have some fairly priced selections from all over the globe that will certainly continue to grow. Service Spectacular and they are open a week. Very knowledgeable staff who were in total sync. Black or White napkins sir? Complimentary bottled water? First impressions! Some delays and gaps in the timing but that was expected for a new restaurant and were minor. Kudos to my paisane Angelo who is the GM we remembered from Kayne Prime. This guy is a pro. Cost was under $70 a person without drinks (soup to nuts) which is more than reasonable for this caliber of dining experience. - YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. The only negative - the decor is well done but the high ceilings remove some of the ambiance. Sinatra sounds like he's singing in Hoboken. The huge chandelier helps. The bar should be closer to the front door. Just sayin' Observation not directed at Prima specifically Maybe I eat out too much but the menus are becoming repetitive in Nashville.The menu choices are very limited and basically the same in every restaurant but with the 'chef's take'. I miss the list of 'specials' in New Jersey restaurants. If you visit a Nashville restaurant 3-4 times you basically ran the menu. Now what? Start eating the same thing over and over or look for a new restaurant? Perhaps it's all geared towards tourists? I dunno. Hence no 5 star ratings yet.
(4)Brandon I.
Outstanding experience full of great service, diverse and interesting menu and worth every penny! Haven't been on Nashville in over four years, and I am so impressed at how the city has transformed in such a short time. This restaurant is no exception.
(5)Donald G.
Never had the pleasure to experience such a thoughtful meal in Nashville, Tn. As someone who has traveled over the yonder, I've been blessed with travels rewarding myself with the finest of meals. That being said, the passion is in the food at Prima. Prima offers the most exciting adventure your palate could have ever yearned to experience. It begins the moment you just walked through the doors and suddenly realized that this is a local experience of global cuisine. Forget that place named "Prime", what kind of name is that anyway? Do you love your wife? Well a night out in this establishment might as well be equivalent to lugging her to a musical. If the impeccable service doesn't get you, that delicious Cappuccino to accompany some of the best desserts I've ever tasted sure will. You honestly can't order anything that would leave you disappointed. Enjoy.
(5)Kat S.
Awesome. New Spring menu is the JAM! Must get the octopus flat bread and the pork for 2! I had the lotus and the "jimmerbly" (sp?) drinks and they were great. Overall just incredibly tasty and approachable food.
(5)Rick D.
Suggestions from our waiter Marcus proved valuable in navigating the menu and extensive wine list. The lobster macaroni and cheese was a great way to start the evening. My wife and I split the KC strip along with a side of mashed potato. Both were amazing. The roasted cauliflower was a pleasant surprise. Ended the evening with a Black and Tan desert; it was light and fun. The whole meal was paired up with some very nice wine suggestions. The entire dining experience was top notch.
(5)Michael J.
I've been here a few times now and have never been disappointed. Their steak is one of the best I've had in Nashville.
(5)Rhonda B.
The duck dish was very good. Staff/service was all very friendly. Restaurant was pretty nice but maybe a bit stuff.
(4)Bridgette C.
Since this restaurant opened in the Gulch, and I've been able to see their beautiful chandeliers from the street, I had been dying to try this place out, admittedly just to sit under those beautiful lights. So post holidays, me and some girlfriends decided to catch up over some good food and try someplace we had never been before. I got to choose, and so I chose the place with the lovely décor that had been taunting me. First of all I was running late to my reservation and when I called the staff was very sweet and understanding. Our server was extremely cordial and helpful with going over the small if beautiful menu. My friends and I elected to try a few of the appetizers and soups and salads, although my friend got the salmon entrée that was to-die-for delicious. As a note, the entrees do not automatically come with sides, they have to be ordered separate. If you want a good sampling of what Prima has to offer, and their talent in the kitchen, I recommend trying a few of the small plates (which, in all actuality, aren't that small). The lobster gnochetti was absolutely amazing (and although rich, not uncomfortably so) as was the roasted sweet potatoes with fig jam. I very much enjoyed their chopped romaine salad (which was essentially a Ceasar salad with ground up croutons, which was really nice actually, because I don't know about you but attempting to stab a giant crouton has resulting in many embarrassing flying-food moments for me). We also split a dessert, the affogato, which, while small, was very different and delicious. And you cannot beat the beauty of this place. It feels huge and yet totally intimate at the same time. It was a great dining experience overall with good food and great staff. This is definitely a pricier place, but it's a great treat that I highly recommend.
(4)Eddie D.
Oh yeah. OH Yeah. Ohhhhh YEAH! Superb. All the way around. Proteins? Off the charts. Sides? Glorious. Desserts? Ethereal. Drinks? Did I say Drinks? DRINKS? Best Bloody Mary in the South. The soft shell crab changed the way I think about apps. If charred meats were an ecosystem, my filet was the weather. First visit was Wednesday. I went back on Friday. Going again Tuesday.
(5)Leslie H.
My son picked this place for his college graduation dinner. We were 8 people. Decor was nice but not warm. The light fixture above our section was huge, beautiful and very unique. I would give this restaurant a 3.5 if I was able. The food was unique and quite good. I probably had the best filet mignon there, that I've ever had. Most of the other people I dined with were pleased with their food. The reason I did not give it a better rating was due to the service. Our waiter tried to be nice, but he had a snooty air about him that you could not miss. All that being said, my aunt and uncle ordered dishes can that came with sides and they never received them, even after asking for them twice. The menu specified the sides came with the dish, but they were left off both dishes. When we questioned the waiter, he said that they did not come with sides. I don't care what the waiter thinks, if the menu says its included, you better bring them. The waiter did not offer any kind of comp for the error. No manager came over to see how we were doing, which I thought was odd in a restaurant of that nature. My aunt and uncle didn't want to make a fuss, so we let it go. I don't mind paying for good food and service, but at over $100 per person, my husband and I were not happy customers. We spent over $800 that night and I will tell you, great food does not win over poor customer service, we will definitely not be back.
(3)Mitchel B.
Went with some friends a few weeks ago to Prima. The ambience is great. They have beautiful chandeliers that are worth seeing. They have a great drink and wine menu. The service was good though our waiter talked so low we had to ask him to repeat what he said numerous times. The only real reason not to give the restaurant was the food was good but not great. This was among the priciest meals I've bought in Nashville. For the cost, the food should have been spectacular. I may give it another shot at some point and hopefully find we just got them on an off night. Until then, I'd recommend skipping this one.
(3)David M.
Filet was amazing and cooked perfectly. Actually sat at the bar and all of the staff members were super personable and informative. Great modern atmosphere. Will be going back.
(5)Stephanie W.
Love this edition to the Nashville food scene. Modern setting and amazing food. Marcus was AMAZING! Check out the wine room.
(4)Aileen K.
Great food, great ambiance, great service. The trout was excellent and a excellent healthy choice. The Brussels sprouts were good but could have been better without the anchovies. My husband loved the rabbit he ordered. There are limited choices for vegetarians. But we will definitely return.
(5)Andrew S.
Prima blew all of our expectations out of the water! The food was exceptional, and the service, even better! Somehow we got a last minute reservation and we're very glad we did! The glass room is a must; definitely adds to the experience! Not very often you see a place that offers a full arsenal of linen, water and knives to choose from. Yara was our waitress and she did a phenomenal job! Great service, recommendations, and information on nightlife for us tourists. The home fries with foie gras sauce we're to die for! Bet you can't stop at just one order! Great cocktails, wine selection, food and service! A must do in Nashville!
(5)Jessica G.
Way!!! Over priced..the building was nice but it wasn't that great..and the atmosphere was alittle cold and stuffy..all in all alittle disappointed
(1)Jenn Z.
Prima is situated in a condo building in the Gulch, this for me meant Valet was a must because I fear having to park anywhere over here, and fortunately it is complimentary. Easy. Ambiance: Sleek and modern. Everyone seemed enthralled with the very elaborate light fixtures over the main dining area. They are beautiful, and seem to be the entire centerpiece of the restaurant, so large that I don't really recall much other than the light fixtures in terms of decor. I do recall it being very muted. Service: We were seated at a reserved table for a Holiday event, which they referred to as one of the Chef's tables? I thought there was only one, and that is situated in the glass room beside the kitchen, who knows? We were seated just outside the open kitchen. Maybe they just told us it was the Chef's table, because we had a party of 14 people = big bill, or maybe I'm clueless, anyway it felt fancy. We had about 3 servers, 2 main servers, one of which was extremely attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. The other gentlemen the runner so to speak and the third, we sill aren't sure what exactly he did. Whenever we asked for drinks of the alcoholic variety, he would instruct us that he would let our other server know.......odd, as it wasn't an age limit issue, he was easily 40 years old. This sort of disconnect on who was serving what made for longer wait times, most drinks from the bar, situated a few feet from us, took well over 10 minutes to reach us, and this was on a weekday before 7pm. Food: The filet was, pardon the cliche, like butter. Delicious, perfectly cooked to temp and seasoned wonderfully. The mashed potatoes, creamy and delicious. The appetizers were good for the most part, we did a sampling of each, I however was disappointed with the dry tasteless Quail. I literally took one bite and was done, as was the theme with the rest of the table. Overall, definitely a nice dining experience. I would recommend the filet here to anyone and encourage a visit, if even only to stare at the fantastical light fixtures in all their glory!
(4)Brandon L.
I am giving this place 5 stars because the food was awesome, the service was awesome, and the drinks were, yup you said it, AWESOME! It's a bit pricey $$$, but it's well worth the money. The waiter was engaging and attentive but not overbearing! If you a fancy date or want to take your friends to a upscale place or even want to sit at the full bar in your evening attire. DO IT!
(5)David M.
I did not have rsvp's for opening night, but was able to grab seats at the bar with me and a buddy. I can't vouch for the service received in the formal dining area, however, I can say we received exceptional service by all at the bar. At one point it became very hectic (opening night, what would you expect) with 2 rows deep of people asking for drinks. We watched in awe at how everyone, including us, were handled - courteous and prompt. We always had the attention of our bartender and the others any time they passed by. We ended up also eating a main course and several sides that were very passionately recommended by the bartender - all were excellent and we would have thought she wrote the menu herself, with how much she knew about it! I can speak for both my friend and I that we'd come back to Prima and even recommend trying the personalized dining experience we had at the bar - overall great time for an opening night! Few minor details: Music was low at some times. I was introduced to and greeted by bar management. For fine dining, it did get loud with a few who were watching the football games on TV.
(5)Brien W.
Excellent opening, had dinner with the Wife and Son and was expecting some opening confusion but not to be. First off the place is stunning, really beautiful and the seating is very comfortable. Staff is well versed on the menu and able to offer great suggestions. We had 3 apps, octopus, lobster mac and short rib, all excellent. Mains were grass fed ribeye, pork manhattan and lamb osso bucco; we ordered foie gras home fries, garlic mayo potato side that was amazing.The menu skews steak joint / Mediterranean and will allow you to move a side to a main, nice versatility . They crafted us some nice cocktails (sazeracs) and have a great wine list, ordered a bottle of the sea smoke, delicious. Another nice touch is they offer free sparkling and still water (have some kind of fancy filtration system) Hats off to a great meal and experience on opening night.
(5)Rachel H.
We ate at the bar and enjoyed the small plates. I'll definitely go back and treat it as a tapas bar kind of place. The bar is casual and the small plates are much more economical than sitting at a table and ordering entrees. The food was excellent, so I'd even make a reservation at a table for a special occasion.
(4)Jay D.
My wife and I came here in a Nashville weekend getaway...and it did not disappoint. We love steakhouses and found this one to be cool and chic, but still comfortable, not stuffy. We had three starters, one as my side dish that accompanied my filet (excellent sear and seasoning), and all were very tasty. Most everyone was dressed up for the restaurant with a few exceptions..I hope it stays a spot that people want to get snazzy for. Good Job Prima!
(4)Num N.
If you're looking over the menu, definitely get the steak. It literally tasted like delicious butter meat in my mouth. The service was great, very helpful and attentive.
(3)Patrick N.
I went for drinks and appetizers and had a fantastic time. My girlfriend and I shared the grilled spicy lobster, butternut squash fondants, the red Russian kale salad, and the braised new potato soup. We also tried some of the draft beer and a few cocktails, my favorite of which was the Munro. The bartender explained the drink is named after the guy who designed the featured light fixture in the restaurant. I'm not much of a desert guy, but we ended it with the affogato and it was delicious. It was obvious upon entry that we did not quite meet the description of the typical clientele. That didn't stop the GM from coming over and talking to us, then going out of his way to thank us for coming while we walked out the door. The food was amazing, and the service was even better. It is indeed expensive, but I'd say it's well worth it. This will be our go-to spot for special dining occasions going forward.
(5)John S.
We ate at Prima on Saturday night with friends. Great place with a great vibe and wonderful staff We had several apps, all great, octopus, kale salad, endive salad For main courses we had the swordfish, pork, duck and all were great. Service was perfect as well, especially given that the restaurant had only been open less than a week Definitely going back
(5)Bill C.
Had dinner there last night. The service was exceptional. Attentive but not intrusive, knowledgeable but not pretentious. The kale salad with sweet potato chips was extraordinary, as was the endive salad. You must have the whole trout, that they gladly filet at the table. Also try the house-made chorizo. The smoked pork was dry, and, for our table, over cooked. Be prepared for your table to eat family style, which for us, was really fun. And, the desserts, try everything! The ambience is very east coast. You could be in Manhattan or Philadelphia, but you are still in Nashville with valet parking. The black and grey walls are complimented with perfect lighting. The noise level is quiet enough to have a conversation, but you feel the buzz of a restaurant with people having fun. The booths provide privacy, but you feel connected to the vibe of good food being enjoyed by everyone. This is a great addition to the food scene in Nashville. Go, go, go.
(4)A Gandhi G.
Took some colleagues there for dinner and The food was good, but not amazing....and it was definitely overpriced. They have a pretty extensive wine list, but come prepared to spend a minimum of $50 per/bottle and get a snoody look/attitude from your waiter if you don't order the $100+ recommendations that they provide. Let's also be very clear...this place is nowhere close to being a Michelin one star rated restaurant, but the prices come close.
(2)Sanky S.
I had an event I hosted tonite at Prima, which I started planning in 3 months ahead. Despite advanced planning, the event was a disaster because the food was 1hr late. I had guests complaining constantly to me about of how long we were forced to wait. I was embarrassed and will never host any event there again! Food was good and the actual servers were nice but not enough to make up for the ridiculous delay!
(2)Robert S.
Salt, way too much in almost every item we ordered. (And I like salt.) I thought my taste buds had gone haywire when the after-dinner espresso was salty, so I asked my companion to taste it. She almost spit it out. Salt in espresso made no sense until I remembered my days in the business; we used salt to help clean the coffee/espresso equipment. But we rinsed. It was a celebratory night out and I wasn't in the mood to complain. At nearly $200 for two people, there should have been nothing to complain about. I did return the first item I ordered, a classic martini that showed up at room temperature. Should have returned most everything.
(1)Heather G.
My husband and I had dinner here late Saturday night and, overall, we were very impressed. The space has a great look (love the chandelier) and the service was great! Very friendly and polite. We had a pheasant for an appetizer which we both really enjoyed. It had a great smokey flavor. The main course was the rabbit and the swordfish. Again, both were excellent. We also ordered the foie gras potatoes which were amazing! Dessert was probably my least favorite part of the meal. We ordered a chocolate something which was kind of like a Milky Way. It was good, but just not as great as the rest of the meal had been. Though the coffee is from Crema so you can't go wrong there! We will be back and look forward to trying more off the menu (and more of those potatoes!).
(5)Barbara F.
Beautiful, wonderful environment due to open space but feels intimate and comfortable. Where to go with someone special. Not inexpensive but everything is worth it. The food is interesting, beautifully prepared and delicious. The service is excellent. I went with friends who are not vegetarians but I am a vegetarian. While we all had wonderful meals, I needed the help of our great waiter. I was able to assemble three wonderful starters and sides but this restaurant, like others in Nashville, should have at least one vegetarian entree. We can't wait to go back!
(5)Sheena T.
We had a party of 4 that luckily snagged reservations on their first night. I absolutely love the interior. It's gorgeous, modern, and left me feeling like I was in a NY or Vegas restaurant (the light fixtures..omg). Plus, I am SO glad they aren't doing the farm to table thing and there wasn't a flannel shirt in sight. Yes! We had a very tough time deciding on what to order, but started small with the cocktail list. I had the honey and thyme with gin and it was absolutely delicious. The jimberly and southern belle were hits at the table as well. However, be prepared that they are $13.00 each, but also very well made. Our server was sure to tell us about the appetizers and sold us on what he called "an appetizer platter" (whatever you do, DON'T order this, but more later) which included short ribs, quail, octopus, and sausage. I also had to try the spicy lobster gnocchi. The appetizers were all good minus the octopus. No one liked it; it was cold and rubbery and we didn't even finish it all. But the quail...wow. Probably my favorite from the appetizers. They were out of the mushrooms and trout for the evening, so we all ended up ordering red meat; steak and the lamb osso bucco. All of them were great, but the sides were really outstanding. The crispy sweet potatoes I couldn't stop eating and I didn't even order them! But I can speak highly of the foie gras home fries with garlic mayo and grilled brussels were extremely good as well. All around a spectacular meal. With one big problem: Remember that appetizer platter that was sold to us at the beginning of the meal? They charged us for each individual item, and the sausage alone was $25. That's right. the cost of an entree. The grand total for our appetizer platter of 4 items (one of which we didn't eat) SEVENTY dollars. You read that correctly $70.00! OUCH. We felt completely duped. In fact, we didn't stop talking about it the rest of the evening. We talked to our waiter and he apologized but then made the fantastic comment: "We were told not to say the price." Baffled, we asked for the octopus to be taken off. He took them off without any push back, so that was nice, but we still were in shock about our bill. Ridiculous. So. Prima is great, but whatever you do, don't order the appetizer "platter" and make sure you know the price before ordering!
(4)Julie K.
We had reservations for two. From the moment we arrived until we left everything was beyond perfect. The servers and all staff were phenomenal! We both got the 8 oz filets. They were so tender one cut with the steak knife the rest we cut with our forks. We were there for a birthday they asked prior to my reservation if I had special requests, I stated it was for a birthday. We arrived and were greater with "happy birthday" at the end of our entrees they quietly brought out a "happy birthday" dessert complete with a candle. Everything from beginning to end was 100% fabulous. Looking for 5 star in Nashville look no further.
(5)Karen G.
Worth Every Penny! Dined with a group of 9. Everyone loved their dish. I had the trout, which had the deepest flavor of any trout I've ever had. I ordered the whole fish which our server, David, perfectly and flawlessly filleted table side. The skin was crisp but the flesh was moist with smoky flavor. Truly one of the best fish I have ever eaten. We shared too many orders of the Foie Gras Home Fries. Put one in your mouth and you know your diet is "done for". Beautiful restaurant, gracious staff. Only complaint is we were there during Happy Hour and the wine at the bar was half price but turn around sit at a table and its full price. They shouldn't do that.
(5)Steve E.
A conflicted review. Overall good experience. Service was really nice and very timely. The room itself is excellent, but we were seated up front and felt "away" from the larger part of the room. Food included apps of lobster pasta (phenomenal) and mussels (very good) entrees were steaks and I had the duck. Best duck breast I have eaten with a wonderful BBQ sauce. The steak eaters agreed it was good but not up to snuff with Bob's and Kayne. Sides were the potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Good, not great. Dessert was a take on a Black and Tan "chocolate" cake. Weirdest dessert any of us have tried in some time. That was the only outright fail. I would call it a second tier restaurant up against City House, Bob's, Kayne Prime, Rolf, Etch....you get the point. Good---just not the great I hoped for.
(4)Anna J.
Excellent Experience! I came here for date night and was worried that this place would not live up to the hype especially for the price. I was pleasantly surprised. This is absolutely one of the most beautiful restaurants in Nashville, with all the lights, it was extremely romantic. Service was top notch with complimentary sparkling water. Cocktails were amazing. We had the jimberly and lotus. Both were tasty and unique. Now onto the food. For starters, we share the lobster and pea pasta. It was divine. The pasta looked like gnocchi but it certainly was just pasta, more al dente. There was ample lobster meat and the cream sauce was amazing. Cashews on top really added to the texture. It was a decent portion as well, and quite filling I must say. I had the lamb osso bucco and it was perfectly fork tender. The fiance had the homemade chorizo and it was delicious. We also got grilled brussels and foie gras fries as sides. They were delicious! The brussels had huge smokey flavor which was unique. We were worried about the portion of the food but was very surprised that we couldn't even finish everything and had to ask for to go boxes. Overall, a great experience with tasty food. A bit pricey though, but I definitely recommend this place for special occasions!
(5)Jeannie G.
Somehow I had not heard of Prima -- I guess I was living under a rock since it opened -- so when my hubby made reservations there, I wasn't really sure what to expect. When we walked in, we were promptly greeted and escorted to a beautiful table. The restaurant is very elegant, modern and inviting. I loved the ambience. The modern chandelier lighting was really neat and the seating was very comfortable. We had excellent service and our waiter, Matt, was very attentive. He did a great job informing us about the menu and making some great recommendations. We decided to share the lobster and pea appetizer, which he described as similar to lobster mac & cheese. For our entrees, we both decided on the filet, but I gave serious thoughts to ordering the Pork Manhattan, which also came highly recommended. For sides, we shared mashed potatoes and the grilled brussel sprouts. The lobster and pea appetizer was extremely generous! It was practically a meal in itself. I liked the flavor and there a lot of lobster pieces, too. It was more like gnocchi than macaroni, in my opinion. Definitely enough to share with 3 or 4 people and plenty for 2! Before our steaks were brought out, Matt came over and presented several different knives to us. We actually got to choose the type of knives we wanted for our steaks. That was very unique. Our steaks were perfectly cooked and very tender! The sides were also delicious. The mashed potatoes were very creamy and rich. Reminded me of my grandma's, which is a huge compliment. All in all, Prima was the perfect spot for a romantic dinner. If you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to impress your date, this place will not disappoint. Looking forward to going back again!
(5)Jamee C.
I absolutely love Prima. I had planned on going to the 404 Kitchen on a Saturday night but missed my table because I ran late so I went over to Prima. I sat at the bar with a friend and had octopus, ricotta balls, foie gras fries, ice cream, couple of cocktails and port wine and all were excellent. The atmosphere is absolutely delectable, the staff were pleasant and overall was a very pleasing experience.
(5)Tabitha T.
Sat at the bar one evening with some girlfriends and was delighted to see that even though we were at a more casual area in the restaurant, we still had top notch service. We snacked on some of the bar menu items (try the cracklin nachos!) and ended up just staying on and ordering dinner form the main menu. I can't get enough of that Lobster Tail Gnochetti! Prima is a fantastic fine dining restaurant that's, at the same time, laid back and fun. The servers are all knowledgeable and engaging, the food is so good and whether it's a casual drink at the bar or for a full meal at a table under that gorgeous chandelier, I have to say it's one of the best dining experiences I've ever had in Nashville and it's fast become a favorite. Tip: save room for dessert!
(5)Shawn T.
Been to Prima 6-7 times including opening night. The decor is very stylish, vibrant, and classy. Nothing else like it in Nashville. The service from opening to now has done nothing but increase leaps and bounds. The servers are attentive and knowledgable and you can tell management has been listening to its guests. The food is unique and the variety is second to none. Really love the duck, the quail, and the filet. Highly recommend.
(5)Leslie B.
So many great restaurants in Nashville, so it can be hard to convince me to try a new place. After hearing much about Prima, I decided to try. I do feel it's geared towards an older crowd. I'm 40 and I felt young in there tonight :). It's more dressy with a "business casual" dress code. Many men were in suits tonight- it was a Wednesday so I'm guessing a bit more relaxed on the weekend. The decor and space are gorgeous. It has a very sexy feel. The light fixtures are amazing and organza sheer drapes hang on the large floor to ceiling windows. I would love to see the space in the daylight. I had a wonderful cocktail at the bar for $13. It was the Honey Thyme. I highly recommend it. $13 wasn't too crazy to me since I've spent $15 in Vegas on sub par cocktails. We sat at a great table in the center. Our service was impeccable. I almost felt like a star with all the attention, but honestly I think that's just their style. Top notch, 5 star service. We shared the lobster appetizer and sweet potatoes. They were both delicious. We also each had the Caesar salad. It was $10 and it was okay, but I regretted ordering it. The appetizers were generous portions, and I still had my entree coming. For dinner I had the tile fish and my friend had the filet. She loved her filet. My fish was really good but not a huge portion for the $28 price. We each drank 2 glasses of wine. $15-$21 per glass. I'm happy I've tried Prima. It's definitely a unique addition to Nashville's booming food scene, but it is pricey. I think you're paying for the atmosphere and sophisticated, sexy decor plus the impeccable service. I don't have anything bad to say except for the price. Just be ready to spend at least $250-$300 for a party of 2. Depending on your drink choices. :)
(4)Marcia M.
Prima is the equivalent of a "mic drop" when it comes to restaurant ratings... From the impeccable decor and excellent service to the fantastic cocktail list and wine list, I was smitten even before the food made it's way out. My friend ordered the steak (from a sustainable farm in Leipers Fork) while I opted for some vegan options that ranged from a potato soup that was full of sustenance and flavor paired with an interesting Lobster Gnocchi (sans lobster) that energized my palate. I ended the evening with a delightful Cortado which was comprised of beans from local coffee haven - Crema. Along with all the other thoughtful details, I also appreciated the Thistle Farms soap and toiletries in the restrooms. The dedication to utilizing local purveyors was across the board. All around the experience was very enjoyable. I look forward to many more enchanting meals at this premier Nashville restaurant. This is a very solid option for special occasions or romantic dinners! Hint hint! TIP: Valet is available but there is also a self-serve parking lot across the street.
(5)Katie F.
Just ate here with a couple of friends last night and it was terrific to say the absolute least. The place itself is beautiful, decorated with superb art. The crew was also great - friendly and professional. I'm only sad I don't live closer to enjoy it all more often!
(5)Morgan O.
Super tasty. Atmosphere that simply cannot be beat. I haven't had the steak yet which is kind of a sin for a place as nice as this. But our duck and chicken breast was pretty legit. Living in the gulch there is some seriously stiff competition for high end cuisine but Prima holds its own with spectacular service and high end selections. The dessert was disappointingly small - even for a place which I would absolutely expect small portions- but tasty all the same. It's a must for business meetings, company parties, or simply looking to impress the family. Our order; half chicken, bbq duck, chocolate ingot and French fries (best French fries ever btw)
(4)Brian S.
If you are seeking fine dining in Nashville look no further than Prima. The service was spectacular, but the food is what sells this place. To start, my girlfriend very briefly mentioned to the hostess we were celebrating her acceptance to her top choice for graduate school. As we were asking for the check, the waiter surprised us with a Black and Tan dessert that had congratulations scripted across the top of the plate. Needless to say it was devoured in a few seconds (not a big dessert person either). The food, as mentioned previously, is the key selling point here. Between what we ordered the soft shell crab appetizer was perfectly crisped on the outside, the spicy pork appetizer very well balanced, and the mushroom dish was surprisingly delicious (just make sure to get a little of everything in each bite). The fries are an obvious choice for a fan of foie gras. The swordfish and duck breast were of the best I've ever had. If you are starving I recommend the brisket as it was quite hearty. As far as the wine selection goes, the list is not a mile long but very well curated. I didn't get a chance to try any cocktails but the champagne on the by the glass menu was excellent for the price per bottle. As far as wine goes I recommend going by the bottle to save a little bit. If you are uncertain that it will pair well with your food, ask the waiter and they will point you in the right direction without just rushing to the highest dollar sign.
(5)Kala B.
Drinks were fantastic! We started off with the fried jimmy nardellos--so tasty! I got the lamb neck and my fiancé got the duck breast. They both were great! My favorite part of the dining experience was dessert. We ordered a white chocolate concoction that featured oranges, sea salt and caramel cream, and a dark chocolate covered plum puree. It came out looking like an orange atop a spun sugar nest. DELICIOUS! We reserved a small room, encased in glass, for a private dining experience.
(5)Scott G.
Beautiful interior, service was "off" and the prices are asinine. 40 dollars for a trout and 58 for a steak. For the first time in my 44 years on this planet, I sent food back. Not because of poor preparation but for poor quality. Nashville can do better and is doing better. I do not recommend and will not return.
(1)Mark T.
Overall a decent restaurant, but not one of my favorites. Dined there for the first time this past Friday evening. The cauliflower appetizer was good. Spinach was flavorful. The short ribs were over-cooked and dry. The sauce that came with the ribs was good, but the meat was just too dry. Caesar salad was okay, but nothing special. The 18 ounce Kansas City Strip had a bone in it, which wasn't mentioned in the description. It was the worst thing we had. Not tender, and quite a bit of gristle. The 1/2 chicken was excellent, it had a unique smoky flavor. 8 ounce filet mignon was like most other 8 ounce filet's. The potatoes were the best thing we had all evening. Overall, not a bad experience, but for the price, and it was expensive, I'm in no hurry to return.
(3)Kim P.
The setting is lovely. Having Valet is definitely a plus especially when the Gulch is so small and busy. Everything I ate was delicious but wasn't memorable enough for me to "have to" return.
(3)Be G.
Outstanding meal. Two of us shared 2 starters (octopus, mushrooms & gnocchi), cauliflower soup, and the roasted cabbage "salad", and all 4 dishes were excellent. Service was spot on, and while it was pricey, it was absolutely worth it. We appreciated the diverse small plate menu, which let us try many flavors instead of a couple of large entrees. The only downside? The smell of baby talc (or something similar) in the lobby that wafted into the restaurant. Don't sit near the door, I guess. Oh, and the wording of the dessert menu gave us no clue what the dishes really *were*. After our server explained them, they sounded much more appealing. (But we were too full to partake.)
(5)Erika K.
We had a fantastic dinner before the Opry tonight. Lovely cocktails, the octopus appetizer with cantaloupe was very interesting. Caesar salad with raw cauliflower? Yes! Had the pork kan kan for 2 with a great pull from the wine list (Martinelli zin). What a "chef" cut of meat, wow! Sad we could not stay for dessert, had to get to Opryland. This meal capped of a great trip to Nashville
(5)Y. N.
Came in to town from Los Angeles and had been looking forward to this restaurant. I've spent 20 years in restaurant management and have some experience. Restaurant itself is really beautiful and calming. Calming maybe because it was about 30% full on a Thursday evening, 8pm. Since it was half full, you would think the service would be amazing. When we could find an employee on the floor, we'd have to wave them down to get a drink refill. No one visually present most of the night. Where do they go? The waiter should be on the floor at all times, working through his staff, and available for his tables. I'm not sure who was management, because there was no presence of someone in charge. The food mediocre and overpriced. I don't mind spending $200 for 2 people if its worth it. Appetizers we had were the Lobster gnocchi and soft shell crab. Blah and blah. Lobster was tough, gnocchi was al dente pasta, sauce was flavorless. The single crab was like every other deep fried crab. I've worked with numerous high end chefs (Michael McCarty, Michel Richard) that know how to make sauces. These were by far, less than average. I ordered the $60 rib eye rare!! It was cooked medium well and really a poor/ flavorless cut of meat. About 1/2" thick at best. My friend ordered the filet, he also said was nothing great. For sides we had the asparagus and foie gras potatoes. Potatoes mushy with a glob of mayo. I only gave it 2 stars because of the decor.
(2)Carolan D.
This is more modern restaurant with a wonderful focus on gastronomy. The designers did a great job making a large space feel intimate with one suggestion - make the lighting "warmer". The candles help, but the room could use a little less industrial lighting. As far as the food goes, though - EVERYTHING was good!! We had the grilled endive salad, which was light and citrusy along with the beef tongue - delicious! Then my husband had a fabulous filet while I had a flavorful kale salad as my entree. Dessert was a tasty (small portion) italian creme treat. My martini was excellent and the red wine the bartender poured was also really nice. Service is attentive without being overbearing and the atmosphere is jazzy/stylish/a hip romantic place. I definitely recommend!
(4)