Ellington's
A refined restaurant with a mid-century twist, offering classic dishes and craft cocktails with stunning city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Ellington's
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A refined restaurant with a mid-century twist, offering classic dishes and craft cocktails with stunning city views.
"Impeccable service and generous quality of food compared to prices make this a must-visit spot."
Happy Hour Deals
Visit during happy hour for great deals on oysters, cocktails, wines, and appetizers.
Classic Cocktails
Savor well-crafted classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Pisco Sour.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
$$$
Phone
(615) 988-8511
Address
401 Union St Floor 4, Nashville, TN 37219, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nostalgic Mid-Century Ambiance
Experience a chic mid-20th-century vibe with old-school decor and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Etta James Chicken
A highly recommended dish with well-seasoned, tasty chicken and perfectly balanced flavors.
Steak Frites Perfection
Tender steak cooked to perfection, paired with addictive, well-seasoned fries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Happy Hour Deals
Visit during happy hour for great deals on oysters, cocktails, wines, and appetizers.
Classic Cocktails
Savor well-crafted classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Pisco Sour.
Rooftop Patio Views
Consider sitting outside on the rooftop patio for stunning city views at night.
Post-Theater Reservations
Make reservations if dining after theater shows, as it gets busy.
Tips
from all over the internet
Happy Hour Deals
Visit during happy hour for great deals on oysters, cocktails, wines, and appetizers.
Classic Cocktails
Savor well-crafted classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Pisco Sour.
Rooftop Patio Views
Consider sitting outside on the rooftop patio for stunning city views at night.
Post-Theater Reservations
Make reservations if dining after theater shows, as it gets busy.
Wednesday Wine Special
Enjoy half off bottles during happy hour on Wednesdays between 3-6 pm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ellington's is praised for its impeccable service, nostalgic mid-century ambiance, and generous portions that offer great value. Diners rave about dishes like the Etta James chicken and steak frites, often noting the addictive fries. While the food quality is generally high, a few reviews mention inconsistencies in seasoning or cooking, and one found the dessert options lacking. However, the overall experience is highly positive, making it a recommended spot for a refined yet relaxed meal.
"The restaurant is inside a hotel and everything is designed with old school cool in mind. Even the bathrooms have old pictures. I had the Etta James and I recommend that. The chicken was tasty and everything on the dish went together. Portion size was good and everything was seasoned well."
Medicmanti
"We liked the atmosphere of Ellington’s. Our waiter did the perfect balance of attending to us and allowing us to enjoy our dinner. The bread appetizer we had was delicious. We ordered the steak frites and the pistachio gnocchi and both were wonderful. My date said the steak was good perfectly to his liking. The gnocchi was a large size and I wish I could have taken the rest home with me. The dessert options left a lot to be desired but we ordered the ricotta cheesecake. We honestly did not like it but don’t think it ruined our dinner.
We came here for a date night before seeing a show at TPAC. It is pretty close so you can walk to the theatre."
Grace Berton
"Brunch at Ellington’s – Nashville’s Best-Kept Secret (But Not for Long)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tucked into the heart of downtown Nashville, Ellington’s is a hidden rooftop gem that just launched its brunch service — and it’s already one of the best brunches in town. With sweeping skyline views and a vibe that’s effortlessly elegant yet totally relaxed, this spot feels like your secret local escape in the middle of the city.
We enjoyed the Brunch Feast, which truly lives up to its name. From buttery housemade biscuits and smoked salmon to hot chicken sliders and a perfectly cooked steak with chimichurri, every course was beautifully presented and packed with flavor. The scrambled eggs and breakfast potatoes were top-tier comfort food, and the French toast was fluffy and rich without being overly sweet.
But the real sleeper hit? The smoked tomato jam. Tucked quietly among the accompaniments, this spread stole the show — smoky, tangy, and wildly addictive. Don’t overlook it!
Our experience was made even better thanks to our incredible waiter, Christopher Cruise, whose warm, attentive service made us feel right at home. And hats off to Chef Samual Greer, whose thoughtful and flavorful menu proves this brunch is crafted with real care and culinary talent.
We finished with a charming two-tier tray of sweets — delicate macarons, mini cheesecakes, chocolate tarts, and lemon-poppyseed scones — paired with a refreshing spritz. It felt like a little European afternoon tucked into Music City.
Friendly staff, fresh ingredients, and a stunning rooftop setting just steps from Printer’s Alley — Ellington’s is a brunch experience you don’t want to miss. Go now, while it’s still a secret!"
Melissa Green
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Ellington's offers a nostalgic mid-20th-century ambiance with old-school cool decor, creating a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere.
The Etta James chicken and steak frites are frequently recommended, along with the addictive fries.
Yes, Ellington's features a wraparound terrace offering beautiful city views, perfect for dining al fresco.
Yes, especially if you plan to dine after nearby theater shows, as the restaurant can get quite busy.
Happy hour typically includes deals on oysters, cocktails, wines, and appetizers, with specific offers like half off bottles on Wednesdays.
Ellington's serves a range of classic cocktails like Old Fashioned and Pisco Sour, as well as modern and inventive creations.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
The Best Fine Dining Options In Nashville Tennessee
Tucked halfway up the Fairlane Hotel building, secretive and cozy Ellington’s serves nostalgic mid-20th-century favorites. Its menu covers classic bagels and sandwiches, burgers, salads and all your favorite sides. It expertly walks the line between traditional and trendy.
Wesley Mortgage
Ellington's features an unmistakable air of sophistication and pristine utensil sets. The lounge is on the 4th floor of the Fairlane Hotel on Union Street, and it's open to guests and the general public. The cocktail menu has classics like the Old Fashioned and Pisco Sour and modern inventions like the Mixed Signals and the Conspiracy Theory There is a delightful selection of wines and craft beers.
Our Favorite Downtown Nashville Happy Hour Specials
Ellington's is a popular downtown Nashville restaurant known for its classic and modern cuisine. Their Nashville happy hour specials feature $5 beers, $6 well drinks, $7 craft cocktails, and $5 appetizers. The menu focuses on updating classic dishes for modern foodies, and their bar program includes a selection of locally sourced liquors and innovative craft cocktails.
Where To Eat Oysters In Nashville
To celebrate National Oyster Day, Ellington’s Mid Way Bar & Grill at the Fairlane Hotel will offer $1 oysters all day featuring East and West Coast oysters. Guests also have the option to enjoy happier hour on the wraparound terrace which provides an outdoor escape with a dedicated dining area and soft, communal seating enhanced by unparalleled views of Music City.
Happy Hour Guide to Nashville
★ 4.5Located inside of the Fairlane Hotel on the fourth floor, you’ll find Ellington’s Mid Way Bar & Grill. What makes this particular happy hour so special is that it goes on all day long for one day each week. If you find yourself craving 2$ oysters, 7$ cocktails, 6$ wines and 5$ appetizers on a Saturday, the trip up four floors is definitely worth your time.
Nashville Happy Hours: Best Oyster Happy Hours
Located in the Fairlane Hotel Downtown, Ellington’s showcases some serious Mad Men vibes via the moody midcentury-inspired decor. It regularly offers a rotating selection of oysters on the half-shell with mignonette gelée ($20 for six oysters), but every Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., it offers “2 Buck Shuck” — $2 oysters!
18 Best Restaurants in Nashville in 2023
Head over to the Fairlane Hotel’s fourth floor to find Ellington’s, an iconic local restaurant. Outdoor seating is offered on a gorgeous wraparound terrace, offering unparalleled views. One thing to consider is reservations, especially if you have specific seating in mind.
A Romantic Weekend in Nashville for Two
Ellington’s - This is a few floors up at the Fairlane Hotel, and has a beautiful outdoor area that overlooks the busy streets of downtown Nashville. My husband and I bought many a cocktail here when we were dating and engaged.
50 Best Restaurants in Nashville, TN for 2025 (Top Eats!)
401 Union St 4th FloorNashville, TN 37219(615) 988-7333 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Part of the Fairlane Hotel Nashville, this nostalgic restaurant is a tasteful nod to the mid-20th-century.
21 Best Happy Hours in Nashville
401 Union St, Nashville, TN 37219Phone: 615-988-7333 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Ellington’s (@ellingtons.restaurant)
Patios & Rooftops Now Open in Nashville
Ellington’s at The Fairlane Hotel features a spacious rooftop patio with great city views. Stop by for craft cocktails and delicious bites.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit