To gain entry into Nashville’s latest restaurant sensation –888– simply keep an eye out for the glowing red recording light. Nestled within the JW Marriott Nashville with its own private entrance, this innovative Japanese restaurant and vinyl recording-listening lounge welcomes guests when the red light flickers on. 888 opened its doors on September 6th, offering an unforgettable experience that blends fine dining with the nostalgia of vinyl records. It’s truly a special experience for every customer who comes through their doors.
“What I truly believe is my forte is making people feel special,” Philip Stewart, 888’s general manager, says. “And that’s for the people sitting in the seats and the people who are working there and looking after the people who are sitting in the seats.”
The name 888 was chosen due to its slang online usage in Japan, representing applause. In Japanese culture, 888 also means something amazing is coming your way: prosperity and something bigger and better than ever before. The speakeasy-inspired restaurant aims to bring Nashville a dining experience that can often be found in New York City and Los Angeles, where meals are not only intimate and personalized but also communal. Guests will also enjoy a warm, engaging atmosphere where they will learn about the history behind each dish on their plate.
“As part of this opening, I want this also to be a case to educate locals,” Philip says. “You can absolutely have top-quality sushi in a landlocked state. There’s a stigma surrounding it down here, and it's just not true with today’s advanced logistics, so we’re looking forward to having educational pieces at tableside. We’re also going to do classes on sushi making, sushi rolls, and sake. So just the things that the people haven't had a lot of exposure to over the decade, we want to help there.”
Another highlight of 888’s dining experience is its remarkable vinyl collection, which guests are encouraged to request new vinyls to add to the restaurant’s anthology. As of its opening, the restaurant has an impressive collection of over 2,000 vinyl records, with that number rapidly growing.
Additionally, 888 has enlisted the support of the local community to bring this unique concept to life, making it a true collaboration that reflects Nashville’s vibrant culture.
“Everything from one half of the team who designed the entire sound system and the acoustics of the space was born and bred here and have done some really cool work with some musicians around town,” Philip explains. “We’re working with a local pottery firm to do a lot of our plateware and our sake cups, as we're trying to invest back into the community as best we can.”
888 has something on the menu for everyone, from high-quality sushi to an unforgettable Wagyu filet. They even offer traditional Japanese desserts, and all of their menu items can be paired perfectly with anything from their long and impressive cocktail and sake list.
888 offers an unforgettable dining experience for all who come. Secure your reservation by visiting their website or making it over the phone. And remember, when you see that red light flicker on, you know something exceptional awaits you.
888nashville.com