Kisser, created by Brian Lea and Leina Horii, is a nod to Japanese kissaten—a cozy spot for comfort food, drinks, and community. Brian, a California native, honed his skills under chefs like Charlie Palmer and Jose Andres. After roles at Husk and Trois Mec, he returned to Nashville with Strategic Hospitality. Leina, from a restaurant family, shifted from pre-med to working at renowned eateries like Red Medicine and Bastion. Kisser marks their first venture together. In November 2025, Kisser was awarded a MICHELIN Bibb Gourmand.
Koshō is a modern Japanese restaurant in the heart of Nashville celebrating the diverse flavors found throughout Japan. Our menu features Japanese small plates, yakitori grilled over charcoal, premium shabu shabu, fresh meat and seafood, and seasonal specialties inspired by traditional izakaya dining.Whether you're joining us for a date night, dinner with friends, cocktails at the bar, or a special occasion, Koshō offers an energetic dining experience centered around exceptional hospitality and bold Japanese flavors.Our bar program showcases fresh handcrafted cocktails, an extensive sake selection, premium Japanese whisky, that pair seamlessly with our cuisine.Located in Downtown Nashville, Koshō is redefining modern Japanese dining with creative cuisine, unforgettable hospitality, and one of the city's most unique Japanese dining experiences.
Present Tense is a modern izakaya restaurant and bar from Chef Ryan Costanza with a deep sake, natural wine and cocktail list housed in one of the most beautiful spaces in town beaming with good vibrations, tons of greenery, and great sounds. A focus on vinyl and hifi fills the air. The menus highlight raw and cooked seafood and meat from around the world with the best locally grown produce available.
Bar Mar is a true celebration of the bounty of the sea, with modern takes on classics you know and love, festive cocktails, and a bright, beautiful space that interweaves the nautical with the elegant.
