When chef Arnold Myint made the decision late last year to give his flagship Belmont Boulevard restaurant, Cha Chah, a reboot, he wanted to emphasize that this was not bad news. 'I am excited to share my revamped space and menu for what I hope will be a place that is inviting and delicious for everyone,” he announced.
The result is blvd Nashville, the 'b” intentionally lowercase to represent the low-key, causal atmosphere and the menu, which features affordable bistro food designed for sharing. Myint and his chef de cuisine Francesco Vito have reworked the menu to better fit the neighborhood's desire for food that is comforting and delicious without being too heavy. Not to say that the menu isn't inventive; it's just a little more familiar than the Spanish and Mediterranean tapas Myint emphasized at Cha Chah.
Some Cha Chah favorites did make the jump to blvd, including the lamb meatballs that won him acclaim as a contestant on Top Chef, the warm Brussels sprouts salad, and Mama Myint's house salad, a culinary event that requires at least four patrons and 24-hours advance notice.
A compact selection of bistro plates shows off the kitchen's inventiveness and interest in house-made ingredients. Dishes run the gamut from walnut gnocchi to an extremely rich duck cassoulet; there's also a shepherd's pie involving beef, lamb, bacon, and truffled parsnips that will make you yearn for the return of a chilly winter evening. Nothing on the menu is over $20, meaning it's priced appropriately for the college crowd as well as a friendly nosh for neighbors.
blvd Nashville
2013 Belmont Blvd.
(615) 385-2422; blvdnashville.com
Dishes to Try:
A surefire power lunch, the 'haute dog” hoagie is made with all-beef wieners from Porter Road Butcher served with crunchy carrot slaw, a Sriracha aioli, and arugula on an onion roll. Don't miss out on 'Le French Fries,” and follow it up with the creamy mac ‘n cheese gratin or the smoky hickory chicken.
The Bar:
While the wine list features some great bargains and unexpected treasures, the cocktail menu only lists a few signature cocktails, including 'The Pinky Lee.” Don't be put off by the name; it's strong enough for a guy. But there's also a full bar if you'd prefer your own personal brand.
Hours:
11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., 7 days a week
Sunday Brunch: 11:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Bar: 4 p.m. – midnight
Blvd is open between lunch & dinner with fresh, deli case sandwiches & salads available from 3 to 5 p.m.
Walk-ins welcome. A minimum of 24-hours' notice is required for Mama Myint's House Salad or Chef Tasting dinner.
