Bastion

I really wanted to give them 5 stars because the staff was wonderful here and there was a lot to love. We met a chef who was on the opening team at Next (a highly regarded creativity focused restaurant in Chicago I have reviewed several times and have a deep admiration for) and a chef who was originally from Canada (like myself so we shot the sh** about hockey). The concept of sitting at a bar facing the kitchen as you intimately interact with the cooking crew for a tasting menu is delightful and makes it feel like everyone has the experience of sitting at the beloved 'chef's table' - great concept!!!

So why not the full 5 stars, I felt at times underwhelmed by the food - let me clarify this is not bad food, technically was almost perfect (cook on the beef belly was a bit off though and needed a little more time to break down) but I feel the need to compare this experience to fine dinning tasting menus I have had elsewhere (including Nashville) and it didn't quite reach the same level, despite it still being a delicious meal. I wanted some flavors to be turned up a little because I think it would have captured the VERY creative thought process behind their flavor combination choices. There were dishes that were in my estimation perfect as well.
The cocktails were other wordly and quite frankly consistent with the best drinks I have ever had - this to me was a huge part of the experience here that left me salivating and impressed. The bar program is ON POINT!!!

Despite a few misses the entire night was a hit, we left with smiles on our faces and felt very well taken care of (I can't compliment the level of service enough). 4-4.5 stars, just barely short of getting that full 5 stars for me - if I am ever back in Nashville you bet I'll be back!!!

Everything about my visit here was amazing! The staff were incredibly nice and helpful. The ambiance of the restaurant was classy and set the mood perfectly for the evening. My finance and I came here for the experience which was out of this world awesome! Seeing the chefs preparing and creating magnificent dishes was fantastic and made the evening really something special. The food was quite obviously delicious and I recommended that you step out of your comfort zone and try something different. Even though the courses are "small plates", we both found ourselves comfortably full, which was something we weren't expecting. Overall this place is a 10/10 and if we're ever back in Nashville we'll also come back here.

One of the best dining experiences I have ever had. Casual, friendly place and chef teamwork leads to an elevated tasting experience. The bartenders were great, too. Can't say enough. The whole experience was flawless excellence.

Personal favorite. Cocktail game is on point. Tell the bartenders what type of drink you like and they'll make something fantastic. Great vibe with plenty of lounge seating. Usually has good music playing and the garage door open. Go to cocktail spot.

I won’t be able to do this venue justice, because it’s been a while since I’ve been. But they are wonderful enough that they are my first search for reservations on a regular basis. I have only had wonderful experiences here!

Highlights include the shift from an open hip, buzzing bar to the first step through the industrial barn door that exposes you to an entirely different world. Counter seats are the only way to go if you’re taking a date. It’s an intimate, adventurous experience with authentic chefs that want nothing more than for you to savor every dish. They move through the kitchen with fluidity, every chef aware of the next, all while enjoying conversation with you. A culinary symphony. With up to 18 dishes, which can be shared with your date, there is plenty of opportunity to appreciate presentation and diversity for the pallet! Your comfort zone may be pushed if you’re a chicken nugget kind of gal, but no one is out to present you with anything beyond your tolerance for creativity. It isn’t about grandiosity. It’s just enough to expose you to a refreshing challenge that I promise you will not regret.

From the host to the cocktails to the main event, Bastion is by far my favorite dining venue.