Kisser: East Nashville's Japanese Comfort Food Destination

Kisser: East Nashville's Japanese Comfort Food Destination

Since its opening in March 2023, Kisser has become a standout in Nashville's culinary scene. Located at 747 Douglas Avenue in the Highland Yards development, this intimate eatery is the brainchild of chefs Brian Lea and Leina Horii, who drew inspiration from traditional Japanese kissaten—cozy neighborhood cafés.

Kisser's menu features a blend of Japanese comfort foods, including handmade udon noodles, chicken katsu sandwiches on house-baked milk bread, and shrimp inari. The restaurant's minimalist design, communal tables, and open kitchen create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the couple's Southern California roots.

The restaurant operates Thursday through Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., offering walk-in service only. Due to its popularity, arriving early to secure a spot is advisable. An 18 percent gratuity is added to all checks.

Kisser's unique approach to Japanese cuisine has earned it national recognition, including a nomination for the 2024 James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant and a spot on The New York Times' list of the 50 best restaurants in the U.S.

Building on Kisser's momentum, Lea and Horii will open Babychan in May 2025 in the Neuhoff District. The café will expand its culinary vision with a menu of Japanese and French pastries, katsu sandos, and yuzu desserts, served in a nostalgic space that once housed John Prine's recording studio. With Babychan, the couple continues to redefine Nashville’s food culture with personal and internationally inspired dining experiences.

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Tags: #Wendy S Huffman #KisserNashville #Japanese Comfort Food #East Nashville Eats #James Beard Nominee #Kisser Experience

Wendy Huffman is the Editor of the WBN News Nashville Edition & Founder & Owner of The Brilliant Edge Agency, delivering premier executive search and staffing solutions to help businesses secure top talent using the DREAM™ process. She is also the founder and CEO of the international nonprofit Letsmakethedifference.org based in Nashville.

Connect with Wendy on Linkedin.com/in/wendyhuffman

Sources:

• Kisser Official Website, The Tennessean, Bon Appétit, The New York Times, Food & Wine, Axios, Nashville Business Journal, Nashville Lifestyles