888 has earned its slot as one of Nashville’s most sought-after reservations. Tucked inside the JW Marriott, the space seamlessly blends intimate Japanese dining with the nostalgic charm of a vinyl listening room. Every detail, from the food and music to the design, comes together to create a thoughtful intersection of culture, atmosphere, and flavor. Upon entering the doors, patrons are met with the sounds of a vinyl record spinning, a dim-lit central cocktail island with an array of specialty and classic selections, and an ambient 100-seat dining room. 888 takes inspiration from hachi, the Japanese word for eight. The number is often associated with rhythm, repetition, and continuity, while also evoking the sound of applause—a quiet acknowledgment of something thoughtfully and beautifully executed.
Master Sushi Chef Kiichi Okabe brings over twenty years of experience working in Michelin-recognized kitchens and globally acclaimed Japanese restaurants across Japan, Singapore, Dubai, the Maldives and Los Angeles. Leading The Kounter at 888, he crafts each dish with a creative lens and applies his decades-refined shari—sushi rice—recipe and carefully sources fish from long-standing Japanese market brokers, selecting each ingredient based on texture, fat content, and age. His menu leans into seasonal nigiri, inventive specialty rolls, and intentional pairings guided by omotenashi, the spirit of Japanese hospitality.
In addition to Chef Okabe, Executive Chef Alfredo Bueno is internationally trained and brings a deep understanding of flavor and composition to the restaurant. The pair have curated a menu that includes dishes such as donabe, wagyu, tempura, and composed seasonal plates designed for sharing. Signature selections include expertly prepared nigiri and maki, cured salmon onigiri, donabe fried rice, and hot karaage, alongside an extensive beverage program featuring Japanese craft beers, rare whiskies, and a curated selection of sake. While there are many standout dishes on the 888 menus, we asked the chefs to share insight on their personal favorites.
“The Sashimi & Edomae Sushi ‘A Journey from Japan’ would be my pick,” Chef Kiichi Okabe shares. “It’s a refined composition of seven selections that celebrates the purity of the sea and the artistry of traditional Edomae sushi.”
Executive Chef Alfredo Bueno recommends The Katsu Sando. “It's one of those dishes that just hits every time… Crispy, juicy, packed with flavor, and super satisfying without being overly complicated. If I could only have one thing from the menu, that would be it,” he explains.
With a handmade sound system and impressive acoustics, 888 beautifully blends Japanese culture with Nashville influence. With records stacked on shelves surrounding the tables, it is no question that music plays a big role in 888’s dining experience—in fact, the restaurant was designed as a spot for vinyl lovers, foodies, and design enthusiasts to come together and enjoy. Records are even selected in real time, without programming or imposed structure. Designer Steven Durr has worked with artists including Lenny Kravitz, Sean Lennon, Neil Young, Blake Shelton, and Dan Auerbach and specifically had vinyl in mind while creating the sound system.
“What sets 888 apart is the harmony between our two culinary concepts: the Edomae sushi counter and our hot kitchen. Rather than competing, both sides work together to shape a complete dining experience framed by Japanese kissa culture,” Chef Bueno explains. “Whether you’re seated at Chef Kiichi’s Korner for a tailored Kaiseki or sharing dishes like tableside donabe rice and wagyu with a group, the food pairs directly with the beat from our vinyl lounge. It’s an approach that bridges masterful Japanese culinary technique with an atmosphere that is uniquely Nashville.”
888’s culinary program celebrates Japanese technique, premium ingredients, and thoughtful preparation, with offerings spanning sushi, robata, and expertly crafted hot dishes. While the restaurant’s inviting and eclectic setting captures the tone, the food more than lives up to the experience.
“We want guests to remember how every sense feels completely in sync—the food, atmosphere, and music naturally fit together,” Chef Alfredo Bueno explains. “Dining at 888 is a bit like watching a mixtape get cut live in the studio: every ingredient creates something entirely collaborative and one-of-kind each service.”
For more information on 888, visit their website 88nashville.com and follow them on socials @888nashville.
“It’s an approach that bridges masterful Japanese culinary technique with an atmosphere that is uniquely Nashville.”