Downtown Nashville has been losing some of the charming neighborhood dining spots of the past decades. Recently a new Italian restaurant has opened that is an answer for visitors and locals alike. Tucked away on the corner of the L&C Tower in downtown Nashville is the lively Ophelia’s Pizza + Bar. As a sensory experience, this checks all the boxes. Before entering the intimate restaurant, the whisper of garlic, basil and oregano fills the air, beckoning passers by on the bustling cosmopolitan street. Entering the eatery, guests are instantly welcomed with great music from the 50s and 60s. The walls are covered with notable Italians, Italian artwork and even scenes from Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Before the first bite, the stage is set for a proper neighborhood pizza place.

Created by the dynamic trio of Patrick Whalen, Alejandro Torio and Chef Jamie Lynch who brought us Church & Union, the menu is as familiar as an old friend. Appetizers like prosciutto di parma, soppressata toscana, whipped ricotta and more mingle together in tempting ways. While many devotees of Italian dining might skip the salad course to keep valuable space for richer dishes, the Caesar salad is not to be missed. While almost 10 pizzas grace the menu, guests can also make the pizza their own with Pizza Enhancements like the addition of Mike’s Hot Honey with ghost pepper salt, Calabrian chili or with the addition of the luxurious shaved truffle. The pizzas are all outstanding which ensures guests will be back for more. While the pizzas are certainly craveable, the entrees truly hit a high note. Each of the menu items are tempting which makes decisions almost impossible. Lasagna Bolognese rests beside the tempting meatball sandwich which is neighbor to the calzoni di carne. Luckily, the portions are perfectly shareable so ordering more than one entree is advised.

The wine list embraces old world wines which pair perfectly with the menu. The patio offers a verdant backdrop as guests forget about the hustle and bustle just steps away from where they dine. Recently the restaurant launched brunch service with playful twists on brunch cuisine. The promise of lunch service is just around the corner. This new downtown addition lends itself well to an evening of lingering over conversation with friends and neighbors.