Nestled in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, Salento Italia stands as a culinary gem, offering a unique and tantalizing fusion of Italian and Greek flavors. This inviting restaurant has become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic and elevated dining experience.
The name “Salento Italia” pays homage to the Salento region of Italy, a peninsula in the heel of the country’s boot, where the influences of Greek culture have left an indelible mark on the local cuisine. This harmonious blend of Italian and Greek culinary traditions is masterfully executed at Salento Italia, creating a menu that is both familiar and excitingly novel.
From the moment you step through the doors, the warm and welcoming ambiance envelops you, setting the stage for a memorable evening. The decor is a tasteful fusion of Italian elegance and Greek charm, with accents of terracotta, olive greens, and azure blues adorning the space. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends and family, Salento Italia provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion.
Starters (Antipasti)
Embark on a culinary journey at Salento Italia with our exquisite selection of starters, or “Antipasti.” These tantalizing dishes showcase the vibrant flavors of Italy, meticulously crafted with the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients.
Begin your dining experience with the classic “Bruschetta al Pomodoro” ($9), where grilled Tuscan bread is topped with a harmonious blend of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The burst of flavors in each bite will transport you to the sun-drenched piazzas of Italy.
For those seeking a taste of the sea, indulge in the “Calamari Fritti” ($12), featuring tender calamari rings lightly fried to perfection and served with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping. This crispy delight is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to using only the freshest seafood.
Embrace the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with the “Melanzane alla Parmigiana” ($11), a classic dish of thinly sliced eggplant layered with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. This vegetarian-friendly option is a true celebration of Italian culinary traditions.
Elevate your starter experience with the “Prosciutto e Melone” ($13), featuring thinly sliced prosciutto di Parma, a delicate Italian dry-cured ham, served alongside sweet cantaloupe melon. This harmonious pairing of salty and sweet flavors is a timeless classic that showcases the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine.
No matter your choice, each starter at Salento Italia is a masterpiece of flavors, expertly prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring an unforgettable beginning to your dining adventure.
Salads (Insalata)
At Salento Italia, our salad selections offer a fresh and flavorful start to your dining experience. Crafted with the finest locally sourced ingredients, each salad is a harmonious blend of traditional Italian flavors infused with a touch of Greek influence.
The Insalata Caprese ($9) is a classic Italian favorite, featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Simple yet bursting with flavor, this salad celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine.
For those seeking something more substantial, the Insalata di Pollo ($12) is a must-try. Grilled chicken breast, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese are tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
The Insalata Greca ($10) is a true representation of the Greek influence on our menu. Crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese are dressed with a zesty Greek vinaigrette, transporting your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
For a heartier option, the Insalata di Tonno ($13) features flaky tuna, mixed greens, hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, and red onions, all tossed in a tangy lemon-herb vinaigrette, making it a refreshing and satisfying choice.
Pasta Dishes
At Salento Italia, the pasta dishes are a true celebration of Italian culinary traditions with a unique Greek twist. Whether you opt for a small portion or indulge in a main plate, each pasta dish is meticulously crafted with the finest ingredients and bursting with rich, authentic flavors.
For a delightful starter, try the Cavatelli alla Pugliese, a small portion of handmade cavatelli pasta tossed in a savory tomato sauce with broccoli rabe, garlic, and pecorino cheese ($12). Alternatively, the Orecchiette al Pesto di Noci ($14) offers a delightful small plate of ear-shaped pasta coated in a creamy walnut pesto sauce.
If you’re seeking a heartier main course, the Linguine alle Vongole ($22) is a must-try. This classic dish features linguine pasta tossed with fresh littleneck clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean. For a unique twist, the Pappardelle al Ragu di Agnello ($24) presents wide pappardelle noodles in a rich lamb ragù sauce, showcasing the Greek influence on Italian cuisine.
Vegetarians will delight in the Gnocchi al Pomodoro ($18), pillowy potato gnocchi served with a vibrant tomato sauce and fresh basil. For a heartier option, the Rigatoni alla Norma ($20) combines rigatoni pasta with a flavorful eggplant and tomato sauce, topped with ricotta salata.
No matter your preference, Salento Italia’s pasta dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds with their exceptional quality and diverse range of flavors, expertly crafted by our skilled chefs.
Pizza Selection
At Salento Italia, our pizza selection is a testament to the art of traditional Italian pizza-making. Each pizza is carefully crafted with the utmost attention to detail, using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.
Our pizza dough is made daily, using a time-honored recipe that combines Italian flour, water, yeast, and a touch of salt. The dough is then allowed to rise slowly, developing a rich, complex flavor and a chewy, yet light texture.
Once the dough is ready, our skilled pizzaiolos stretch and shape it by hand, creating a thin, crispy crust that perfectly balances crunch and chewiness. The pizzas are then topped with a variety of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, including vine-ripened tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a selection of cured meats and vegetables.
Our pizza menu features a range of classic and innovative options, each showcasing the vibrant flavors of Italy. From the traditional Margherita, with its simple yet sublime combination of tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil, to the more adventurous Capricciosa, topped with artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and prosciutto, there is something to delight every pizza lover.
Prices for our pizzas range from $12 for a classic Margherita to $18 for our specialty pies, ensuring that there is an option to suit every budget. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic or a more inventive creation, our pizza selection is sure to satisfy your cravings for authentic Italian flavors.
Main Plates (Piatti Principale)
Salento Italia’s main plate selections showcase the restaurant’s commitment to using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients and traditional Italian cooking techniques. Each dish is a masterful blend of flavors, expertly prepared by the talented culinary team.
One standout option is the Pollo alla Cacciatora, a classic Italian dish featuring succulent chicken breast simmered in a rich tomato sauce with onions, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. The chicken is perfectly tender, and the sauce bursts with robust flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
For seafood lovers, the Branzino al Forno is a must-try. This delicate Mediterranean sea bass is baked to perfection and served with a vibrant lemon-caper sauce, roasted vegetables, and a side of risotto. The delicate flavors of the fish are complemented by the bright, zesty sauce, creating a harmonious and unforgettable dining experience.
Meat enthusiasts will delight in the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a prime cut of Certified Angus Beef® ribeye steak grilled to your desired doneness and topped with a savory compound butter. Served with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables, this dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to sourcing only the finest ingredients.
Vegetarians can indulge in the Melanzane alla Parmigiana, a classic Italian dish featuring layers of thinly sliced eggplant, fresh mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. This hearty and satisfying dish is a celebration of flavors and textures, sure to delight even the most discerning palate.
Prices for main plates range from $18 to $32, ensuring there is something to suit every budget and taste preference.
Decadent Desserts
Indulge in the sweet finale of your dining experience at Salento Italia with our decadent dessert offerings. Our dessert menu showcases the rich traditions of Italian dolci, expertly crafted with the finest ingredients and a touch of creative flair.
For the classic Italian dessert lover, savor the velvety smooth Tiramisu ($8), a heavenly combination of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa powder. Embrace the timeless elegance of the Panna Cotta ($7), a silky Italian custard infused with vanilla and served with a drizzle of berry coulis.
Venture into the realm of unique dessert creations with our Limoncello Cheesecake ($9), a tantalizing fusion of tart lemon and rich, creamy cheesecake, topped with a zesty limoncello glaze. Delight in the Nutella Lava Cake ($10), a decadent chocolate cake with a molten Nutella center, served warm and accompanied by a scoop of gelato.
For those seeking a lighter indulgence, our Affogato al Caffè ($6) offers a perfect harmony of rich espresso and creamy gelato, while the Seasonal Fruit Tart ($8) showcases the freshest fruits of the season nestled in a buttery pastry crust.
Each dessert is a masterpiece of Italian dolci tradition, meticulously crafted to delight your senses and leave you with a lasting impression of the sweet side of Salento Italia.
Beverage Selections
At Salento Italia, our beverage selections are carefully curated to complement our exceptional cuisine. Our full bar offers a diverse range of cocktails, crafted with premium spirits and fresh ingredients, ensuring a perfect pairing for any dish or occasion.
For those who prefer a refreshing brew, we offer a selection of Italian and local craft beers, each one chosen for its unique flavor profile and commitment to quality. Whether you’re a fan of crisp lagers or robust ales, our beer menu has something to delight every palate.
However, the true star of our beverage program is our extensive wine list. Our knowledgeable staff has meticulously curated a collection of wines from the finest Italian vineyards, ensuring that each glass or bottle perfectly captures the essence of the region it hails from. From bold reds to crisp whites, our wine selections are a harmonious complement to our authentic Italian dishes.
Elevate your dining experience by visiting Salento Italia during our Happy Hour. Indulge in discounted prices on select cocktails, beers, and wines, making it the perfect opportunity to explore our beverage offerings while enjoying a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.
Conclusion
Salento Italia offers a truly unique and authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of Nashville. With its blend of traditional Italian cuisine and Greek influences, the restaurant presents a diverse menu that showcases the rich flavors and high-quality ingredients of the Mediterranean region.
From the mouthwatering antipasti to the decadent desserts, each dish is carefully crafted with passion and expertise, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every guest. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the exceptional service, creates a welcoming ambiance perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re a local foodie or a visitor to Nashville, Salento Italia is a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience. Don’t hesitate to make a reservation and immerse yourself in the flavors of Italy and Greece. Explore the full menu on their website and plan your visit during Happy Hour to enjoy discounted beverages and appetizers.
Indulge in the authentic flavors, embrace the unique fusion of cultures, and create lasting memories at Salento Italia. Buon appetito!