Looking for the best restaurants in Nashville with a unique atmosphere and solid food? Pinewood Social is the place you’ll want on your list—whether you’re planning a casual brunch, a fun date night, or a family-friendly meal in downtown Nashville.
As frequent visitors to Music City (we travel to Nashville at least four times a year), Pinewood Social has become one of our top picks. We’ve visited for everything from grown-up date nights to meals with our kids, and it hits the mark every time.
What Is Pinewood Social?
Pinewood Social opened in 2013 and is operated by Strategic Hospitality, the Nashville-based restaurant group led by brothers Benjamin and Max Goldberg. Housed in a renovated trolley barn in the Rolling Mill Hill neighborhood, just south of downtown, the concept is built around social connection—with options to eat, drink, bowl, lounge, and even work remotely.
It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a vibe. And somehow, even with all the activity, it manages to remain relaxed and welcoming.
Our Visit: Midday Lunch With a Side of Atmosphere
We booked a reservation through Resy for around 1:15 PM. The space was bustling but not packed, and we were seated right away. The energy was still vibrant, but without the mid-day rush.
What Makes Pinewood Social Special:
- Lounge seating, a coffee bar, a full-service restaurant, outdoor dining, and even vintage bowling lanes
- An indoor-outdoor space that works year-round
- A coffee shop in the front for a quick grab-and-go or remote work vibes
- A surprisingly quiet dining area—even with background chatter and the sound of bowling pins, conversation is always easy
What We Ate
We kept it simple this time:
- Soft drinks with the good ice (a small but essential detail!)
- The Smashburger was modified to be a Classic Burger – Ordered plain, it was flavorful but a little salty. The fries were excellent: crisp, seasoned, and perfectly portioned.
- Chipotle Avocado Salad – No protein was added, and it was still filling and fresh. The chopped greens, queso fresco, pepitas, corn, avocado, tortilla strips, and spicy buttermilk ranch delivered flavor and texture. It’s worth mentioning that the avocado was served in small chunks generously throughout the salad. So delicious! It’s not a flashy salad presentation-wise, but don’t let that fool you.
Our server, Evan, was friendly and attentive, striking that sweet spot of being helpful without hovering.
Outdoor Patio + Bowling Lanes = Bonus Fun
We hadn’t seen the patio before, but it’s a space worth mentioning. There are tables, yard games, and an outdoor bar for when the weather cooperates. It wasn’t officially open during our visit, but a few people were casually using the space. For families or groups, it’s an ideal way to extend your visit.
And yes—bowling lanes in the back make Pinewood Social one of the most fun restaurants in Nashville for groups, celebrations, or just something a little different.
Insider Tip: Where to Park for Pinewood Social in Nashville
Pinewood Social validates parking for the Trolley Barns Garage, which is just behind the restaurant at:
📍 15 Lea Avenue, Nashville, TN 37210
💡 Here’s how to park like a pro:
- Park in the garage on Lea Avenue
- Bring your parking ticket inside with you
- Have it validated at the host stand
- Enjoy three hours of free parking
It’s just a two-minute walk from the restaurant, and we’ve never had trouble finding a space.
Final Thoughts
Pinewood Social continues to be one of the best restaurants in Nashville for both locals and travelers. The food is consistently good, the service is friendly, and the space itself is unlike anywhere else in the city.
Whether you’re bowling with friends, sipping coffee solo, or enjoying brunch with the family, Pinewood Social delivers an experience that’s as flexible as it is fun. We’ll absolutely be back—and we recommend you give it a try.
Planning Your Visit?
🔗 Visit the official Pinewood Social website
📅 Book a reservation on Resy
📍 Address: 33 Peabody Street, Nashville, TN 37210
🅿️ Parking Garage: 15 Lea Avenue (validation available for 3 hours free)