15 Best Restaurants in Franklin, TN

July 1, 2020 - Updated

15 Best Romantic Restaurants in Franklin, TN

Just south of Nashville is the historic town of Franklin full of charm and interesting things to do. For couples searching for the perfect date spot to grab a bite, the restaurants do not disappoint with eclectic establishments serving everything from Southern favorites to fresh seafood, classic steaks, and contemporary Asian fusion.

1.Sperry’s Cool Springs

Old England meets the Old South at Sperry’s Cool Springs, a quaint establishment with roots going back to 1974 with the opening of the original in Belle Meade. The newer location delivers the same high-quality food and service, and the popular happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the bar—perfect for a pre-dinner date drink. From the Kobe beef burger to the Salmon Florentine, the menu offers many delectable dishes.

650 Frazier Drive, Franklin, TN 37067, Phone: 615-778-9950

2.Cool Cafe

What’s more comforting than eating comfort food together? Couples looking for a cozy place to dine might consider Cool Cafe, a welcoming place known for fine Southern food and scratch cookin.’ The award-winning establishment, known for its Best Meat and Three, also hosts a popular Steak Night on Fridays and Saturdays. Diners can expect memorable meals thanks to Chef Tim Ness turning out hearty selections such as Lemon Baked Chicken and Baked Tilapia, and decadent desserts including the World-Famous Banana Pudding.

1110 Hillsboro Road, B200, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-599-0338

3.Red Pony

When it comes to getting a table for two, Red Pony is a romantic choice for an intimate evening. The upscale, sophisticated ambiance makes an impression as does the contemporary American cuisine by Owner and Executive Chef Jason McConnell who takes an innovative approach that has earned his restaurant many awards including for food, service, scene and as the Best Restaurant to Take a Date. Foodies will enjoy bonding over delicious food such as Grilled Sea Scallops Etouffee and Hickory Grilled Cowboy Ribeye.

408 Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-595-7669

4.Connors Steak & Seafood

They say that the key to winning someone’s heart is through their stomach and Connors Steak & Seafood certainly helps with tasty food. Located in the Cool Springs Galleria, this inviting restaurant offers the perfect setting for getting to know someone over a nice meal. Featuring the finest cuts of meat and freshest seafood, the menu does not disappoint with small plates including Blue Point Oysters and Lobster Dip for sharing before moving on to mains such as the Espresso Rub Ribeye and the Australian Lamb Chops.

1916 Galleria Blvd., Franklin, TN, 37067, Phone: 615-771-5333

5.Wild Ginger

If searching for a modern, elegant locale to take a significant other, Wild Ginger is an outstanding choice. Set in the heart of Cool Springs, the trendy fusion restaurant receives much praise for its signature maki and tapas and other flavorful dishes combining Pan-Asian, South American and Western influences. As for the chic setting, the well-designed dining room boasts expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and an open kitchen so that diners can see all the action, while the outdoor patio overlooks a calming infinity pool. This place is not only about the food but also about live music in the spring, summer, and fall.

101 Market Exchange Court, Franklin, TN 37067, Phone: 615-778-0081

6.J.J.’s Wine Bar

Oenophiles can toast to their special bond at J.J.’s Wine Bar in historic downtown Franklin. Housed in an elegant building that is listed on the National Historic Registry, the establishment also features outdoor seating in its outside courtyard and wraparound porch. Inside, artwork by local artists line the walls, and there is always music to set the mood. Whether into Pinot Noir or Pinot Gris, guests have ample choice when it comes to wine with 28 different types served by the glass and even more by the bottle. Beers and creative cocktails round out the menu, along with food ranging from tapas to dessert.

206 E. Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-942-5033

7.Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill

An enjoyable time is in store for all at the Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill. The upscale chophouse boasts a contemporary feel with dark woods and cozy booths perfect for getting close to a paramour. As for the food, hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood and house specialties such as Famous Steak & Biscuits and the Wild Mushroom Meatloaf are quite satisfying and go nicely with hand-crafted cocktails or wine from the boutique wine list.

6210, 1726 Galleria Boulevard, Franklin, TN 37067, Phone: 615-778-0230

8.Zolo’s

When dinner for two calls for Italian, Zolo’s provides a romantic, candlelit setting. The downtown Franklin restaurant tempts the appetite with contemporary Italian fare such as Tortellini Diablo to Mango and Pineapple Salmon Risotto to classic favorites including Spaghetti Bolognese and Chicken Marsala.

119 5th Avenue N, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-599-2901

9.BrickTop’s

Contemporary American cuisine and a fresh sushi menu keep guests coming back to BrickTop’s. Stellar service and inviting interiors ensure a positive experience for pairs on a dinner date. Appetizers such as Spinach & Artichoke Dip and Coconut Shrimp are great starters for sharing, before enjoying mains such as Ahi Tuna Steak and the Palm Beach Salad.

1576 W. McEwen Drive, Franklin, TN 37067, Phone: 615-771-8760

10.Cork & Cow

A multi-year recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and the Open Table Diner’s Choice Award, Cork & Cow certainly attracts attention with its superb wine selection and diverse menu. The refined steakhouse is known for its hickory and oak wood-grilled meats from Filet Mignon to Dry Aged New York Strip with a choice of sauces such as Classic Bearnaise, Black Truffle Butter and Gorgonzola-Horseradish as well as exquisite entrees such as the Shrimp and Scallops Gnocchi and Steelhead Trout.

408 Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-538-6021

11.GRAYS on Main

Those wanting to charm a potential partner should plan a dinner date at GRAYS on Main. Located in a 19th-century Victorian building that was once a landmark pharmacy, the space may spark some chemistry. Today, the stylish locale honors cultural heritage, flavors, and spirits of Tennessee through its exciting menu and music line-up. From epicurean brandy-inspired libations to the swanky SOCIETY supper club space on the third floor and a modern take on Southern cooking in dishes such as the Peach and Bourbon braised brisket, this sweet spot packs a lot of potential.

332 Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-435-3603

12.Pasta & Cream

If the noodle-sharing scene in Lady and the Tramp inspires love, then Pasta & Cream may be the place for the next date. Executive Chef Eric Shanklin creates gourmet goodness with his flavorful pasta dishes and sauces. Whether it’s Fettuccine Alfredo, Linguine with Creamy Scampi or another combination, there is sure to be a delectable dish to suit your fancy.

1203 Murfreesboro Road, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-224-3971

13.55 South Restaurant

Signature Southern flavors are what’s on the menu at 55 South Restaurant, Chef Jason’s McConnell love story to the fabulous eats along Interstate 55. The lively environment is a great place to meet up with someone whether on a first date or fifteenth date. The menu features a twist on traditional dishes with Brisket Tacos, the Fried Green & Pimento BLT, among others.

403 Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-538-6001

14.The Honeysuckle

The red booths at The Honeysuckle are perfect for getting to know someone better. At this rustic-chic spot, elevated cuisine from restaurateur Kelly Black consistently receives rave reviews for interesting Southern creations such as Duck, Brussels and Grits, and classic favorites such as Steak Frites along with small plates such as Oysters Vanderbilt for sharing.

1770 Galleria Blvd., Franklin, TN 37067, Phone: 615-771-2111