Nashville Originals Roll Out New Website and Announce January Restaurant Week Dates

Organized in 2006 as Music City's independent restaurant association, the

represent almost 50 of the city's favorite dining spots. Recently, the group has unveiled a revamped website at

that is chock-full of new features.

In addition to the list of members, the new iteration of the site allows you to search for a Nashville Original by neighborhood, cuisine type or which specific meal of the day you're looking for. If you're more of a graphical thinker, you can also see all the Originals on a Google Maps overlay.

Diners can check the hours and make reservations while visiting the site, or even buy gift certificates that are usable at all the locations — as a present or to use for yourself. This is not to be confused with the quarterly gift certificate sale where smart shoppers who are early risers can get great deals at specific restaurants.

If you haven't visited an old favorite Nashville Original or maybe are looking for a new find, mark your calendar for the week of Jan. 20-26 for the first of this year's two Nashville Originals Restaurant Weeks. Participating restaurants will offer prix-fixe meals for special prices of $20.14 or $30.14 to encourage us diners to get out from under the blankets on our couches and head out for a great dining deal. Some spots will offer choices of their regular menus at special pricing, while others will make up new dishes just for Restaurant Week.

Expect the individual restaurants' menus to start being posted on the Originals website soon. Watch this space, and we'll keep you updated when more information is available.