In East Nashville's vibrant culinary landscape, Peninsula Nashville emerges as an intimate sanctuary where Chef Jake Howell's Iberian Peninsula-inspired cuisine meets French technique in a 38-seat haven that has redefined Nashville fine dining since 2017.

The story of Peninsula begins with three Seattle transplants—Chef Jake Howell, Craig Schoen, and Yuriko Say—who transformed their shared vision into Nashville's most coveted reservation. After working together at Seattle's acclaimed The Walrus and the Carpenter, the trio personally built Peninsula from the ground up, crafting everything from hand-laid tiles to the gothic wine cellar-inspired bar. Their dedication culminated in Howell receiving the prestigious 2025 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southeast, making him the first Nashville chef to claim this honor in nearly a decade.

Peninsula's ever-evolving menu celebrates the culinary traditions of Spain, Portugal, and the Basque region through a contemporary American lens. Signature dishes like the Grilled Iberico Pork showcase Howell's mastery of fire and flavor, while the Octopus a la Plancha demonstrates his ability to coax extraordinary depth from pristine ingredients. The innovative Heirloom Tomato Salad with house-made cheese and the artfully presented Duck Breast with Port Wine Reduction exemplify the restaurant's commitment to both visual artistry and exceptional taste. With only 20% of the menu remaining constant, each visit promises new discoveries, from rich broths including a celebrated vegan strawberry broth to expertly prepared steaks that have become local legend.

The Peninsula experience unfolds in an elegantly understated space where white walls, soaring ceilings adorned with hanging plants, and floor-to-ceiling windows create an airy backdrop for culinary theater. The open kitchen allows diners to witness Howell's craft firsthand, while the intimate 28-seat dining room and 10-seat bar foster genuine connection. The beverage program stands as a destination unto itself, featuring an expertly curated selection of old-world wines emphasizing Iberian vintages, alongside Nashville's most sophisticated gin-and-tonic menu that transforms the humble cocktail into liquid artistry.

Operating just three nights per week, Peninsula Nashville represents the pinnacle of intentional hospitality, where every element—from the owners' hands-on involvement to the personalized service—creates an experience worthy of its James Beard recognition. Reservations are essential for this East Nashville gem that continues to set the standard for innovative fine dining in Music City.