Iconic NYC Parisian Brasserie Has Opened in Our Historic May Hosiery Mills

The weight is finally over.

After years of anticipation, Wedgewood Houston has welcomed one of Nashville's most eagerly awaited dining destinations. Pastis Nashville officially opened recently, bringing a taste of Parisian elegance to our vibrant neighborhood at 512 Houston Street.

A Legend Comes to Music City

This isn't just another restaurant opening—it's the arrival of a dining institution. Pastis has been a cornerstone of New York City's culinary scene since 1999, when it first opened in the Meatpacking District and became a catalyst for transforming that neighborhood's dining landscape. Now, James Beard Award-winning restaurateur Stephen Starr is bringing this legendary brasserie to Nashville, choosing our historic May Hosiery Mills as its new home.

The location couldn't be more fitting. Our neighborhood's iconic sock factory—once the largest in the South and maker of the socks Neil Armstrong wore during his first steps on the moon—provides the perfect backdrop for this classic French establishment. Located right next to Soho House Nashville, Pastis will add another layer of sophistication to our already thriving cultural corridor.

Authentic Parisian Atmosphere

Step inside Pastis Nashville and you'll be transported directly to the boulevards of Paris. The restaurant faithfully recreates the elements that made the original famous: the signature curved zinc bar adorned with classic white subway tiles, vintage gold-framed mirrors displaying handwritten daily specials, and the distinctive red banquettes that have hosted countless memorable meals. The mosaic-tiled floors and carefully curated design details ensure that every visit feels like a genuine Parisian bistro experience.

Classic French Fare with Modern Appeal

The menu celebrates traditional French bistro cuisine with contemporary touches. Neighbors can look forward to crowd favorites including the famous Onion Soup (perfect even in Nashville's summer heat), classic Escargots, and a selection of expertly prepared Steak Frites. The Cheeseburger à l'Américaine has achieved legendary status among Pastis devotees, while new Nashville-exclusive additions like Big Eye Tuna Carpaccio dressed in lemon-leek vinaigrette showcase the kitchen's commitment to both tradition and innovation.

What This Means for Our Neighborhood

Pastis Nashville represents more than just a new dining option—it's a testament to Wedgewood Houston's emergence as Nashville's premier cultural destination. The restaurant joins our growing collection of galleries, studios, and creative spaces, reinforcing our reputation as the city's artistic heartland. With both indoor and outdoor dining available, Pastis will provide year-round gathering space for our community while attracting visitors from across Music City and beyond.

The opening also highlights the successful adaptive reuse of our historic May Hosiery Mills, demonstrating how thoughtful development can honor our industrial heritage while creating exciting new opportunities for residents and businesses alike.

Opening Night Success: Neighbors Weigh In

Several Wedgewood Houston residents were among the invited guests for Pastis Nashville's opening night celebration, and the reviews are glowing.

"The Boeuf Bourguignon was absolutely incredible—definitely the standout of the evening," said Christiana Hayes, a longtime neighborhood resident. "The entire experience from the hostess greeting us to the after-dinner cocktails was remarkable and on point for this restaurant group."

Duane Cuthbertson echoed the sentiment: "You could tell this wasn't just another restaurant opening. The attention to detail and service quality really showed Stephen Starr's expertise."

Chad DiDonato, who lives within walking distance of the restaurant, was impressed by the turnout and atmosphere. "It was exciting to see everyone from New York Times critics to local media all there critiquing alongside the owners and investors. Mr. Starr himself was there, along with several local leadership staff who also call our neighborhood home. It really felt like a community celebration."

What to Expect

Currently, Pastis Nashville is open for dinner service, with weekend brunch also available. The much-anticipated outdoor dining space is still under construction and will be situated directly behind the restaurant, adding even more capacity once completed.

The opening night drew notable attendees including food critics, local public relations professionals, and restaurant industry leaders—all eager to experience Nashville's newest culinary destination.

Mark Your Calendar

Now Open: Pastis Nashville
Location: 512 Houston Street (May Hosiery Mills complex)
Current Hours: Dinner service daily, weekend brunch
Coming Soon: Outdoor dining space (under construction)

As we welcome Pastis to our neighborhood family, we're reminded of what makes Wedgewood Houston special: the perfect blend of creative energy, historic character, and Southern charm that continues to attract world-class establishments to our streets.

Don't forget to explore our neighborhood's monthly Art Crawl while you're out for dinner—with more galleries and studios than anywhere else in Nashville, there's always something new to discover in Wedgewood Houston.

Next Month: Look for our feature on the latest artist studios opening in the neighborhood and updates on upcoming community events.

Newsletter compiled by WEHO Social.