Food is the NASHtoday team’s love language, and we wouldn’t dare gatekeep this new Midtown restaurant.

Pictured: The first floor bar. | Photo by NASHtoday

Leveling up the aesthetic

You don’t need to hit up Broadway honky tonks to get your dose of neon lights. Colorfully-abstract artwork by Joe Sannutti lines Love Language’s walls, featuring legends like Johnny Cash to Disney characters like Snow White. Bonus: Every piece will be available for purchase.

1️⃣ Floor one
Downstairs consists of ~190 seats between the outdoor patio + inside. The chef’s table boasts 4-5 course meals for $125 a person with the option to add wine pairings for $50.

2️⃣ Floor two
Take the elevator (or stairs) to the second level, where a rum-focused, small plate, tiki-style bar will greet you. This intimate hangout will seat ~50 foodies between the bar and high top tables.

3️⃣ Floor three
The party continues on the upper floor. A 1,800-sqft event space featuring stone fireplaces, exposed beams, and a full-service kitchen will house tables fitting 20-30 guests.

Pictured: The wood-roasted half chicken. | Photo by NASHtoday

Let’s feast

The menu (which will continue to expand) offers starters, shareables, and large plates with heavy Spanish, French, and Italian influences. Editor Skylar’s order: arancini made with mascarpone, Greg’s marinara, and parmigiano + the wood-roasted half chicken with Chile vinaigrette, garlic yogurt, and potatoes.

As many as nine specialty cocktails fill the Love Language menu, titled to fit the restaurant’s namesake — Physical Touch, Quality Time, or Lovers Lemonade anyone? Editor Skylar opted for the Purple Mistress, which is bartender Devon Livingston’s own creation. Its lilac color matches the restaurant’s vibes and she can attest it tastes as good as it looks.

History snapshot

Before the building became Love Language, Nashvillians might remember Bound'ry’s 20-year run at 911 20th Ave. S. Pro tip: Love Language’s signature cocktail Out of Bound’ry (bourbon or whiskey combined with orange, lemon, cinnamon syrup, and ango bitters) pays homage to the trailblazing eatery.

Though the building has undergone renovations over the years, much of its charming character remains. You’ll still see remnants of its days in the early 1900s as Graylynn Apartments, to its ‘79 stint catering to rock ‘n’ roll musicians as Close Quarters Hotel, before its long stretch as restaurant + events spaces.

Love Language officially opens today, but reservations are closed. Get a taste of the new space by booking a reservation for the weekend here.