James Beard semi-finalist Chef Dung “Junior” Vo brings Asian-inspired wood-fired cuisine to Porter Road, where people-over-profit isn’t just a slogan – it’s the guiding philosophy behind every plate at Noko Nashville.
This East Nashville spot has earned recognition from OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in America and Eater Nashville’s Best New Restaurant, proving their innovative technique resonates far beyond the local dining scene.
Tuna crispy rice and burnt end lettuce wraps lead a menu where wood-fired preparation meets Asian fusion, creating dishes like crab fried rice and lobster bao buns that have made this upscale casual spot a true destination.
What Makes Noko Nashville Special
This restaurant delivers Asian-inspired wood-fired preparation where a take-care-of-your-people philosophy creates exceptional dining through their guiding belief system.
Tuna crispy rice arrives with spicy tuna over crispy rice, earning its status as the most popular dish and signature item on the menu.
Wood-fired technique and James Beard recognition accompany every meal in this upscale casual fine-dining service that balances innovation with hospitality.
The Story Behind the Restaurant
Noko Nashville launched with founders Jon Murray, Executive Chef Dung “Junior” Vo, and Managing Partner Wilson Brannock on a mission where people-over-profit creates the foundation for their restaurant philosophy.
OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in America and Eater Nashville’s Best New Restaurant built their reputation, with wood-fired Asian fusion proving innovative technique resonates throughout the East Nashville dining scene.
The James Beard 2025 semi-finalist recognition and guiding belief prove their take-care-of-your-people philosophy creates a true destination through award-winning concepts.
Food Highlights
- Tuna Crispy Rice: Spicy tuna over crispy rice creates the most popular dish with signature appetizer status. The textural contrast delivers satisfaction in their Asian-fusion starters. 🍣
- Burnt End Lettuce Wraps: Wood-fired burnt ends in crisp lettuce creates an interactive option for shareable appetizers. The smoky preparation showcases fire technique throughout their Asian-inspired menu. 🥬
- Crab Fried Rice: Lump crab with fried rice creates a luxurious take on Asian classics. The quality seafood delivers indulgence in their rice dishes. 🦀
- Lobster Bao Buns: Succulent lobster in steamed buns creates an elevated take on Asian street food. The delicate preparation showcases quality in their bao menu. 🦞
- Wagyu Brisket: Premium beef with wood-fired preparation creates a signature main in their protein menu. The marbled quality showcases technique in their wagyu offerings. 🥩
- Wagyu Tartare: Raw wagyu with Asian seasonings creates a luxurious start in their beef appetizers. The hand-cut quality delivers premium experience in raw preparations. 🥩
Atmosphere
The restaurant sits at 701 Porter Road with a hipster trendy interior creating moderate noise throughout their East Nashville location.
Inside, the romantic classy space with upscale casual vibes and wood-fired cooking creates a welcoming environment in this Asian-inspired fine-dining space.
The people-over-profit setting welcomes special occasions with Sunday brunch service, creating a destination built on their take-care-of-your-people philosophy.
Bottom Line
Visit Noko Nashville for award-winning wood-fired Asian featuring tuna crispy rice and burnt end lettuce wraps from James Beard semi-finalist Chef Dung Vo’s kitchen.
Crab fried rice, lobster bao buns, and wagyu brisket earn their place on OpenTable’s Top 100 America and Eater’s Best New Restaurant through a people-over-profit philosophy.
The wood-fired technique, take-care-of-your-people belief, and Asian-inspired innovation prove exceptional dining is worth seeking out at this Nashville institution. 🌟
Noko Nashville
701 Porter Road, Nashville, TN 37206
📞 (615) 712-6894
🕐 Tue-Thu: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Fri-Sat: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Sun: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Closed Mon)
OpenTable Top 100 | James Beard semi-finalist | Wood-fired cuisine | Sunday brunch | East Nashville | People-over-profit
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