Rolf and Daughters is located in a converted old factory
Checking out the foodie scene in Nashville was one of the main items on my agenda for my recent trip. First on my list: Rolf and Daughters, located in a cool converted factory in Germantown. The menu skews a bit Italian/Mediterranean but specializes in peasant comfort food. We arrived early on a Friday night, and lucked into the last two seats at one of the large communal tables.
$12 will get you a Frances Bean: Broker’s Gin, Punt e Mes, Amaro CioCiaro, Campari, and chocolate bitters
Communal dining is one of those foodie trends that I didn’t think I’d be down with until I realized I was always a big fan. I’ve eaten solo happily at many a sushi bar and always appreciate the casual ordering advice. The communal table thing is much the same thing. You’re not required to have a full blown conversation with your neighbors, but you don’t feel strange asking if the pasta is as good as it looks.
Go for the communal dining table
Because we sat down at a bit of an in between time– late for early birds but early for the date crowd, the communal diners on either side changed over during my meal and there is no doubt, the first group was far better company. It could have been because they weren’t on serious dates, or just luck of the draw, but it was definitely changed the energy in the room.
The unusually presented beet salad was delicious
The menu had an Italian slant, with the housemade pastas arriving for almost everyone. Portions are large enough to be shared (with more than enough to take home afterwards). Starters ranged in price from $5-$10, with definitely caught my eye. The cocktail menu had drinks in the $10-$12 range. I went for the $12 Frances Bean made with Broker’s Gin, Punt e Mes, Amaro CioCiaro, Campari, Hum and chocolate bitters. It was tasty, but not a great match with my food, so I did not order a second. There is large wine beer selection on the menu as well a variety of alcohol free drinks.
Homemade garganelli verde with heritage pork ragout
Jerusalem artichokes
We ordered based on the advice of our communal dining neighbors– going for the beet salad, Jerusalem artichokes, the house made garganelli with pork ragout, and the sausage. The sausage seemed like a throwback to the restaurant’s Germantown roots, but was the most forgettable of the dishes.
The Yorkshire pork with sauerkraut,potato, and apple sauce was the evening’s lone “meh.”
Rolf and Daughters has a great vibe and lovely atmosphere and the volume didn’t get unpleasant despite the converted industrial space. If you’re in the mood for romance, book a table. For a fun evening out, even solo diners will enjoy a meal at the bar.
The Rolf and Daughters exterior
700 Taylor St. Nashville, TN 37208
Hours: mon thru sun 5:30pm – 10pm
for reservations please call 615.866.9897