A new high-end dining-and-listening spot is set to open in September in a space within the footprint of the JW Marriott Hotel. Conjured up by Turnberry, the hospitality group that also operates the hotel and its top-floor restaurant Bourbon Steak, 888 is inspired by jazz kissas in Japan — combination coffee shops and bars where jazz fans gathered to listen to records on a high-fidelity stereo system. The Nashville spot, whose address will be 800 Clark Place (you’ll be able to find it by looking for a glowing red light just off Eighth Avenue South), will feature a carefully curated menu of Japanese food and beverage in an intimate setting, as well as a custom sound system.
Roman Alonso, co-founder of Los Angeles design firm Commune, is responsible for the interior design. The space will accommodate up to 100 and include two sushi bars, a private dining room and a cocktail island. A highlight of the food and beverage menu is the sushi program, which is guided by seasoned sushi chef Deden “Benny the Blade” Bandi. Bandi has worked under chefs the likes of Nobu Matsuhisa, whose eponymous restaurant Nobu helped popularize sushi in the U.S. three decades ago. Nashville-based Steven Durr Designs teamed up with Soundlux Audio and speaker designer Devon Turnbull, aka OJAS, to create 888’s ultra-high-fidelity sound system.
“As the appetite for experiential dining grows, 888 emerges as a beacon for those seeking an unparalleled fusion of exceptional cuisine and curated music,” says 888 general manager Philip Stewart in a release. “888 is a haven where culinary mastery converges with musical artistry. We’ve created a sensational culinary and musical odyssey for our guests that will intrigue both foodies and music-lovers alike.”
A similar but unrelated concept — Bar Continental, headed by chef and restaurateur Sean Brock — ended its eight-month run at the end of May. If you’ve missed that spot, keep an eye on 888’s website and Instagram profile for updates.
