Fishmonger — Restaurant in Nashville-Davidson

I’m a little disappointed by my meal tonight. I wanted some raw oysters because I absolutely love raw oysters. I decided to check out Fishmonger, and it was a poor experience for me. I was by myself so I sat at the bar. I walked in and it was a bit of a rude walk in. When you walk in it a little bit feels like you’re waking into a side door that you’re not supposed to be at. When I walked in I said, “is this the right door?” The guy there said, “for what?” I ended up finding out it was their only door, so I sat at the bar. The whole vibe I experienced was that i felt like I was sitting in a prep section. Here’s why:

First of all, the bar tender was nice, no complaints. I ordered my oysters, and noticed that the bar tender was the one shucking the oysters. Ok, that’s fine. But eveything else happening was a little crazy. It’s important to know that there are only a handful of tables, maybe eight at the very most, but I think that I am overestimating by saying eight. Everything was in very close quarters, which is why it was a little strange that they were shaving ice for the oyster plates at the bar. The ice shaver was very loud, and definitely took over the space for a bit. There was also someone at the end of the bar chopping vegetables or fruits the entire time that I was there on the bar. The person sitting next to me was clearly somebody who worked there. He had his computer out and was editing the menu on his computer.  None of this would’ve bothered me at all if I felt like I was a paying customer, but I just… Didn’t. I just felt like I was an afterthought, which was a little disappointing. 

The oysters were fine. I had several show pieces in my oysters, which was a little frustrating, considering how small the oysters were. The mini and cocktail sauce were served in paper cups, which was also a little strange to me considering their price. I really wanted to like this place, but I think I visited him on a very...

Had lunch here at 12pm noon on Sunday after trying to go for dinner the night before around 5:45-6pm and being told there was already a 1.5hr wait. (They don't take reservations)

We walked up right at 11:59am as they were opening the door and there was already a line around the corner. Luckily not a crazy long line, but Fishmonger's space isn't huge (about 6-7 tables inside) so we got the last available table. Number of seats though at the bar and 2-3 tables outside in a narrow courtyard that people who came afterwards were sat at so no wait that we observed at lunchtime.

We both ordered the gulf shrimp roll ($17 each) and it was incredibly tasty and great for the price. Would have ordered a lobster roll in there but they were unfortunately out. Great mixture of textures and flavors - loved the fried shallots and tobiko particularly against very juicy shrimp and cool mayo and cucumber with a hot buttered roll - delicious!

Service was excellent throughout our meal and food came out very quickly but we certainly didn't feel rushed at all. Lovely meal all...

Fishmonger! A very beautiful and vibrantly designed interior.

Quick, friendly and no nonsense service. It is cashless so keep that in mind. Without further ado let's get into the food. We ordered the: [$18] Market Oysters - The oysters were great. Fresh and to the point. [$13] Chowder - The chowder was my absolute favorite thing. A thinner soup but the flavor definitely packed a punch. It had a vinegar-y essence which I loved. [$20] Hot Fish Sandwich - Huge. Very spicy. Good flavor. [$17] Gulf Shrimp Roll - I liked this but didn't love it. With the shrimp being cold about halfway through I didn't really want it anymore.

Overall, I do think it can get a little on the pricey side depending on how much you want to try. I’d say 2 people is the sweet spot personally. A good experience & I'll be back to try the mussels eventually! (I would’ve but they had ran out so I’m thinking...