José Andrés Group is thrilled to announce the opening of Zaytinya, a new addition to W Nashville. Opening on February 12th, the restaurant is located in the heart of the Gulch and brings a vibrant Eastern Mediterranean dining experience to Music City, rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Turkey, Greece, and Lebanon.
This marks Zaytinya’s first location in the South, welcoming both locals and visitors into an elevated mezze dining experience inspired by the flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean, paired with striking design, and warm hospitality. Designed for sharing and connection, Zaytinya complements Nashville’s vibrant spirit and strong sense of community.
“Zaytinya is an expression of my love for the foods and flavors of Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon,” said Chef José Andrés. “It’s about gathering people around the table and creating moments of joy through food, like we’ve done since Zaytinya first opened over 20 years ago. Nashville’s creativity and energy make it the perfect home for this next chapter.”
Since launching in Washington, D.C. in 2002, Zaytinya has consistently ranked as a top dining destination and has been recognized with honors including Michelin’s Bib Gourmand. Built on Chef José Andrés’ deep knowledge of Mediterranean cooking and years of research and travel, the menu features shared small plates, creative cocktails, and unique Mediterranean wines, making Zaytinya one of the most exciting restaurants in every city it enters.
“As we thoughtfully expand José Andrés Group into dynamic, culture-forward cities, Nashville stood out as a place where Zaytinya truly belongs,” said Sam Bakshandepour, CEO of José Andrés Group. “I’m incredibly proud of how this restaurant blends bold Mediterranean flavors, striking design, and genuine hospitality. It’s the kind of experience we’re passionate about creating, one that invites guests to linger, connect, and return again and again.”
Culinary: A Taste of the Mediterranean
Led by José Andrés Group Chef Partner Michael Costa, alongside Zaytinya Head Chef Cory Seykoski and W Nashville Executive Chef Michael Lishchynsky, Zaytinya Nashville blends authenticity with a modern point of view, creating a bright, dynamic menu designed to be shared.
Guests can explore a wide range of mezze, including classic spreads like Hommus and Baba Ghannouge, alongside vegetable-forward dishes such as Crispy Brussels Afelia and seasonal salads that round out the experience. Standout mezze includes Shish Taouk – grilled chicken skewer, sumac onions, garlic toum, and roasted tomato — and Garides Me Anitho – sautéed shrimp, dill, shallots, mustard, and lemon. In addition to its signature mezze, Zaytinya Nashville will also feature select large-format dishes, such as a Kebab Platter, Smoked Lamb Shoulder, and Whole Fish offering a more expansive way to experience the bold, layered flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean. The menu will continue to evolve with the introduction of brunch offerings later this spring.
Zaytinya Nashville also introduces dishes created specifically for the Nashville market, weaving local influence into the brand’s Eastern Mediterranean foundation. Highlights include Black Eyed Peas, Iberico Pork Souvlaki – roasted roma tomatoes and sumac onions — and Banana Pudding Muhallebi – banana tahini pudding, date, sesame, and caramelized phyllo. In addition, Zaytinya Nashville will debut Tirokafteri – harissa-spiced goat cheese purée finished with toasted pine nuts, Greek honey, and mint.
The beverage program brings Mediterranean flavors to life with inventive cocktails and a curated wine selection. Highlights include the Minoan Sour, made with Spanish olive oil emulsified with egg white for a creamy texture, and the Ancient Olive Martini, featuring olive oil fat-washed gin, vermouth, bitters, and an olive oil garnish. Zaytinya Nashville also features the Melissa Old Fashioned — a guest-favorite cocktail previously offered exclusively in D.C., now brought to the Nashville market as a location-specific offering. Created to reflect the spirit of the city, the cocktail underscores Zaytinya’s commitment to crafting drinks that feel both rooted in the brand and uniquely connected to their surroundings. Spirit-free cocktails, such as the Mediterranean Milk Punch, and a thoughtfully curated selection of Mediterranean wines complete the experience, offering something for every guest.
Design: A Space That Tells a Story
Zaytinya Nashville spans 4,800 square feet, featuring a 3,400-square-foot open-plan dining room and a 1,400-square-foot outdoor patio. The space accommodates 202 guests, including an intimate private dining room for up to 18.
Designed by Rockwell Group in collaboration with architect Baker Barrios, the space blends warm, modern interiors with a light, neutral palette accented by rich blues and natural materials that evoke the coastal Mediterranean.
Warm woods, brass accents, white aged brick, and lush greenery ground the space create a comfortable, transportive atmosphere. While signature hand-painted pendant lights, custom two-toned glass disc sconces inspired by the Greek “evil eye,” and Gio Ponti–inspired tiled tables add character and texture throughout. Soft ambient lighting and a refined, Mediterranean-influenced soundscape complete the experience, offering a setting that feels elevated, welcoming and distinctly Zaytinya.
José Andrés Group in Nashville
The opening of Zaytinya marks an exciting addition to Nashville’s growing culinary scene and a meaningful milestone for José Andrés Group in Tennessee. Located within W Nashville, Zaytinya will be joined by Bar Mar, Butterfly and an additional pool bar set to debut soon, collectively positioning the hotel as a dynamic culinary destination within the city.
With its thoughtful design, shareable menu, and welcoming atmosphere, Zaytinya is set to become a destination for locals and visitors alike.
To make reservations, please SEE HERE.
HOURS OF OPERATION:
Easily accessible through the main entrance of W Nashville, or on the corner of 12th Avenue S and Laurel Street.
Sunday-Thursday: 11am-10pm
Friday & Saturday: 11am-11pm
Stay tuned for updated hours on additional programming.
For more information, visit wnashville.com or follow us on Instagram.
Dining and Cooking