What’s Clean
Just about everything on the menu at Henrietta Red is house made including the Potato Gnocchi, Pork Sausage, and breads, with the exception of the sourdough. Most of the produce is locally sourced and organically grown. Likewise, the majority of the seafood is wild caught except for the trout. The clams, mussels, and oysters are farmed responsibly using sustainable methods. The beef is 100% grass fed. The pork is raised naturally, therefore it’s assumed that it’s supplemented with non-GMO feed, however, I was unable to confirm.
What’s Served
Shareable small plates are the mainstay as well as oysters and clams from the raw bar. The varied menu includes veggie-centric options such as the Red Butter Lettuce, Beet, and Heirloom Tomato Salads. Quite a large oyster selection is available, worthy of a menu all its own. Several other seafood choices, toasts, lamb, beef, chicken liver, and a few other options round out the menu. Henrietta Red serves dinner along with brunch on the weekends. Oh and check out the photo of my neighbor’s Mushroom Steak, complete with a topping of crumbled sourdough.
What I Ordered
With so many amazing menu choices, the decision was tough, but ultimately I ordered the Sea Scallops along with the Peach Cobbler for dessert. Firstly, the scallops were some of the most tender and succulent to have touched my palate, quite literally melting in my mouth like a warm piece of chocolate. The pistachio pieces added a nice flavor and slightly crunchy texture while the housemade buttermilk sauce was worthy of plate licking. The tender veggies of tomato, squash, and onion with a hint of saffron flavor made for a delectable accompaniment. And don’t forget the edible flowers, just perfect. Next, the Peach Cobbler was calling my name, so along it came. Again, an unbelievably delish experience. The cobbler was moist and just sweet enough with a hint of lemon, then topped with housemade lavender ice cream, sugar encrusted blueberries, and perfectly ripened peach sections. Heaven!
The Vibe
The decor is modern, clean and simple with white walls, wood floors, and a hip clientele. In the main dining room, you’ll find a wood-burning oven which makes for an inviting and comfortable space. Full menu options are served at both of the large marble bars.
The Takeaway
Wow! Without a doubt, Henrietta Red was my favorite dining experience while performing a Clean Foodie sweep of Nashville. The dishes exiting the kitchen were not only off the charts in beauty and taste, but definitely a goldmine for the Instagram clickbait crowd as well. Earning a rare yet very worthy Clean Foodie rating of 5 on the yummy scale, the food is exquisite and 2 steps above in every category. Kudos to Chef Julia Sullivan for creating phenomenal eats utilizing the freshest and cleanest ingredients around. Can’t wait for a return visit, so delish!!
