In Nashville's historic Germantown district, Rolf & Daughters transforms the century-old Werthan Factory into a temple of modern peasant cuisine, where Chef Philip Krajeck's Mediterranean-influenced New American cooking has redefined Nashville fine dining since 2012. This neighborhood cornerstone marries rustic charm with culinary sophistication, creating an experience that feels both elevated and effortlessly approachable.

Krajeck's journey from Belgium's kitchens to Florida's Fish Out of Water culminated in this James Beard Award-nominated venture that earned immediate national recognition. Bon Appétit named it among America's top 10 best new restaurants in 2013, while Food & Wine honored Krajeck as Best New Chef the same year. His philosophy centers on "common sense fine dining" – a refreshing approach that prioritizes ingredient integrity and seasonal evolution over culinary theatrics.

The cuisine celebrates house-made pastas as its cornerstone, with signature dishes like garganelli verde with heritage pork ragù and squid ink fusilli showcasing Krajeck's Italian-influenced technique. The morphing seasonal menu features dry-aged beef tartare on warm new potatoes, agnolotti with sweet corn and jalapeño, and pastured chicken with preserved lemon confit. Each dish reflects Tennessee's terroir through partnerships with local producers, while the famous sourdough bread service with seaweed butter sets the tone for meals that honor both tradition and innovation.

The restored industrial space features exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood communal tables crafted by local artisans, and a ceiling adorned with rough-hewn sawmill scraps that soften the soaring architecture. Long banquettes and ten-top communal tables encourage the neighborhood interaction Krajeck envisioned, while dim lighting creates intimacy within the expansive factory setting. The classic-style bar showcases an Old World wine program emphasizing natural producers and low-intervention bottles that complement the seasonal menu's evolution.

Service strikes the perfect balance between knowledgeable professionalism and genuine warmth, with staff building lasting relationships with regulars while guiding newcomers through seasonal discoveries. The restaurant accepts reservations through Resy, though walk-in bar seating often accommodates spontaneous visits. Private dining options utilize the building's architectural features for special occasions.

Rolf & Daughters represents Nashville's culinary coming-of-age – a restaurant that locals frequent weekly while drawing national attention to Music City's evolving food scene. Reserve well in advance for this Germantown pioneer that continues setting the standard for best restaurants Nashville offers discerning diners.