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Cafe Fundamental Reviews List
Cafe Fundamental
Chef Jamie Watson brings his passion for cooking & teaching to East Nashville with Cafe Fundamental. Coining his cooking style "southern classique," he combines his classic French training with Southern influences.
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110 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Rating Breakdown 110 reviews
5 stars
(52)
4 stars
(43)
3 stars
(9)
2 stars
(5)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- neighborhood gem(91)
- fit for foodies(84)
- great for brunch(41)
- special occasion(39)
- romantic(29)
- great for lunch(11)
Cafe Fundamental Reviews List
Review 1 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Eggs and Pork Loin Chop
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Eggs are one of my favorite foods. The scrambled eggs at Sunday Brunch were without a doubt the best I've ever had. The pork loin chop was cooked perfectly. I was told that both were prepared by the sous chef. Wow! If you want excellent food cooked in the French tradition, served in a down-to-earth atmosphere in the East Nashville tradition, this is the place to go."
Dined on 6/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 2 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
space
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This place is so great. They need to expand to take care of the customers and to get the number of turns they need."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 3 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
One of the best on the east side
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The service and the food were incredible .What a great place to have a nice meal and its close to my home - WOW"
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 4 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Second visit
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were blown away with Cafe Fundamental on our first visit about a month ago. We were disappointed on our second visit. We waited almost an hour before we got any food, after asking for bread 3 times. We were told the bread was in the oven and would be right out. When we finally got bread it was cold and was not right out of the oven. When the french onion soup arrived it was luke warm. I was given another cup of soup but it was not the steamy hot soup expected. The fish dish was delicious but was served without any sides of any kind so it was not really very much food. We left hungry and disappointed.
We will give Cafe Fundamental another chance and hope it is better the next time."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 5 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent Service
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"There was nothing but a side salad on the menu that was vegetarian. However, the chef made a special vegetarian entree just for me. This is always a major determining factor in how I view a local chef inspired restaurant. He did not do pasta like most lazy chef's want to do when they here vegetarian. Instead, the entree created easily could have been served as one of their regular features.
The wait staff was especially attentive to our needs in a positive way. For the ambiance, quality of food, and customer service, it is well worth the price."
The wait staff was especially attentive to our needs in a positive way. For the ambiance, quality of food, and customer service, it is well worth the price."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 6 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a wonderful experience. Food and staff were terrific."
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Unacceptable
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"It took over an hour for entrees to arrive. Bartender had to come behind the waitress to take the top off the wine bottle so it could breathe. The food, although very good, was not on par with the pricing."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 8 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great night out
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food Megan was fabulous. My only regret is why I waited so long to get there. A great addition to East Nashville."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem
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Review 9 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Some issues but fabulous food!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Our evening didn't get off to a great start because the bar was lacking. They were out of the wine someone in our party wanted, they don't have iced tea, or grapefruit juice for the Seabreeze I was hoping to have. Our server apologized and explained it's a space issue in the small restaurant. So we were a little miffed, but the food more than made up for the drink issues. Loved the authentic crusty French bread, and the bartender's wine pairing for me was spot on. The salads were fresh and tasty, and they altered the pasta dish on the menu to make it vegeterian for me. Our party raved about the meat and fish dishes they ordered. Our server was pleasant and knowledgeable. All in all, a good first visit. We'll definitely be back!"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Inviting, warm, exceeds expectation
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Whenever a new restaurant opens in east nashville,
You just never know what you will find in terms of service, atmosphere, and food- cafe fundamental was warm, inviting, great menu and delightful dishes. Service was spot on- attentive but not rushed on a Friday night."
You just never know what you will find in terms of service, atmosphere, and food- cafe fundamental was warm, inviting, great menu and delightful dishes. Service was spot on- attentive but not rushed on a Friday night."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 11 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful Mother's Day Brunch
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great brunch selections served graciously in quaint intimate historic restaurant."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 12 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Delightful Mother's Day Brunch
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Thanks for a delightful brunch. Food was delicious. Service was comfortable and we did not feel rushed. Chocolate croissants were ot warm but they were good anyway. Berry crepes were outstanding."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem, kid-friendly
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Review 13 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
All that we expected!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our daughter is fluent in French, and lived in Paris for 1 1/2 years, so we were excited to take her to Cafe Fundamental. We found the coffee outstanding, the pain au chocolat was the best outside of Paris, the duck confit hash delicious and very Parisian. We shared a Quiche Lorraine, which competed ably with the duck. The ham and manchego cheese omelette, while good, came in third (although the frites were remarkable). We wanted to try everything on the menu, but proper decorum dictated otherwise. Our server was very friendly and helpful, but not a hoverer. Obviously, we were very impressed with Cafe Fundamental, and plan to return soon, for dinner as well as brunch."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 14 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We had a good time!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We were three people, two of us thought the food was great (ploughman platter, canard and porc) and the last one felt like despite her fish (poisson en papillotte) was perfectly cooked, the portion was on the small side and the taste wasn't particularly out of the ordinary...
Desserts were very good also (chocolate au chocolat, key lime creme brulee and something else).The service was slower than what it usually is in an american restaurant but being from France we liked it.
Wine (cote du Rhone) was a little young (2011) but good nonetheless...
Overall great experience, I'll most definitely go again."
Desserts were very good also (chocolate au chocolat, key lime creme brulee and something else).The service was slower than what it usually is in an american restaurant but being from France we liked it.
Wine (cote du Rhone) was a little young (2011) but good nonetheless...
Overall great experience, I'll most definitely go again."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 15 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Meal and service were very good. Menu selections for Sunday brunch were very good. Closeness of tables and general noise level were not conducive to conversation. Ambient temperature was very cool and lack of a vestibule created a draft when the front door opened. This is a problem typical of buildings converted from other functions to serve as a restaurant."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 16 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Nice Brunch Spot
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We went for a family brunch, not sure what to expect. i mis-orderd by getting the burger, which was tough and had been over handled. The bun was also hard and difficult to eat. Everyone else enjoyed their food and there were many clean plates. The kids loved the "pain Perdue". The grownups loved the $5 bloody marys and bellinis! Overall a nice spot and we will return."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 17 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Horrible dining experience
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were seated over an hour late & after ordering, it took an additional 45 minutes for them to bring us bread & appetizers- ridiculous! Two of the three appetizers were cold, & the third was seared scollops that should only take minutes. I have worked in the food industry and feel confident in my ability to distinguish when a slow order is caused by bad service versus a backed up kitchen, or just a poorly run restaurant. In this case it was the latter. The restaurant was not busy so I'm not sure what the hold up was. Our server made no apologies - she seemed aware of the problem & instead of address it she avoided our table. I cancelled our entrées & asked for the check. They made no effort to keep us there and offered minimal apologies."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 18 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food is so good!! The service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
"Food is so good!! The service was a little in the slow side, but we didn't seem to notice until the end."
Dined on 04/28/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
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Review 19 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We enjoyed our experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We enjoyed our experience at Cafe Fundamental. It is obvious Chef Jamie Watson is gifted; the food was divine. Our service was very good. The ambience was great and we felt like we were being taken care of by everyone from beginning to end.
I would just suggest Cafe Fundamental rethink one thing: We were surprised to be charged $2.00 for a club soda with lemon~a first for this dedicated driver.Our wait person explained it was because they "did not get it from a hose, but they bought individual bottles that were $2.00 each". (?) This felt Kind of chintzy for an upscale restaurant."
I would just suggest Cafe Fundamental rethink one thing: We were surprised to be charged $2.00 for a club soda with lemon~a first for this dedicated driver.Our wait person explained it was because they "did not get it from a hose, but they bought individual bottles that were $2.00 each". (?) This felt Kind of chintzy for an upscale restaurant."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic
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Review 20 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Food was a huge disappointment
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food was a huge disappointment after friends raved about it.
Will not go back"
Will not go back"
Dined on 04/25/2013
2007
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Review 21 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Lovely evening at my favorite
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Lovely evening at my favorite restaurant. Classy bistro, wonderful food. It's a 10!"
Dined on 04/23/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 22 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
AWESOME!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This is the best restaurant in Nashville for dinner. The food is fabulous. I had the snapper special and my husband had the chicken on the menu and they were both outstanding!!!"
Dined on 04/13/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 23 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We hadn't heard of Cafe Fundamental
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We hadn't heard of Cafe Fundamental before but once we walked in the door, we knew we were going to enjoy our dining experience. We will definitely be going back!"
Dined on 04/21/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 24 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Cool restaurant on Porter Rd.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"New French restaurant in East Nashville. Nice, fresh selection of dishes for brunch and dinner. Cool and relaxing interiors. Nice, attentive service."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 25 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Service inconsistent Hostess
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Service inconsistent
Hostess would not seat us further back in restaurant away from cold opening door and seats available
Food good, not a lot of flavors
Drinks good"
Hostess would not seat us further back in restaurant away from cold opening door and seats available
Food good, not a lot of flavors
Drinks good"
Dined on 04/19/2013
2010
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Review 26 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Great Potential - not there yet
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Appetizers and Desserts were phenomenal. Entree were very bland, unseasoned and luke warm. Great neighborhood. Service was good."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2006
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Review 27 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Banner Sunday Brunch
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Sunday brunch was fantastic. Mimosas and bloody marys were both made perfectly and my significant other is a bloody mary snob. The pork chop and eggs, duck confit hash and quiche were all top notch. Pork was cooked perfectly with the right amount of seasoning, duck was mouth watering and the quiche was a nice blend of spinach, bacon and egg. Minimal bar and wine list but all in all a wonderful experience. I would recommend you give it a try."
Dined on 04/14/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 28 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
In other restaurants we usually
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"In other restaurants we usually dread ordering any egg dish for the usual plastic results -- but Cafe Fundamental's egg dishes are outstanding. Recently we visited with two gusets for my husband's birthday (he was a caterer for 25 years and had classic training to serve an upscale clientele in Chicago). We continue to be impressed by your dishes & service! My husband said that the poached egg on the duck confit was perfect. He is VERY hard to please & you have not failed to please on our two visits there! BTW the blueberry Pain perdu was amazing. Thank you so much for such a remarkable restaurant experience!"
Dined on 04/14/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 29 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Settle in and enjoy the flavors!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our table shared three appetizers - the seared scallops (yum), the Ploughman's Platter (meats and cheeses - also good), and the Fundamental Pate. The pate was surprisingly firm but the portion was generous and it tasted good. Those of us who were eating carbs (!) also enjoyed the house-baked bread with good butter. Service was friendly, but slow. By the time our Principal plates arrived, we were famished. We definitely could smell the food being prepared all night in the kitchen, which made us even more eager to eat. Two people had the yellow-eyed snapper special (delicious), two had the pork tenderloin wrapped in rosemary ham (scrumptious), one had the duck breast (outstanding), and one had the steak frites (wonderful. We'll be back!"
Dined on 04/13/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 30 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
At last a Nashville restaurant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"At last a Nashville restaurant that does not feel it has to have "Southern Influence" as part of its menu. Sophisitcated and refreshing. We will be regulars!"
Dined on 04/07/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 31 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
I have never paid more for
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I have never paid more for less. I had a piece of cod that was 2x3 inches and it was about $25. Tiny appetizer was $10. The entree included one cherry tomato. One small piece of fish and a bite size tomato. Food tasted great and the restaurant was cool but way overpriced. Servers were very nice but service was slow. Took more than twenty minutes to get bread and drinks. Then a long wait for appetizer and another long wait for entree."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2010
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 32 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Would drive across town.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
"Despite a couple of small hiccups, we enjoyed Cafe Fundamental very much. After a bit of a wait, we received the freshly cooked bread with butter and salt on the side and it was positively scrumptious. We had the house red, which was perfect for a casual romantic evening.
One note - everything is a bit underdone. I believe that this is a choice by the chef and not a mistake, so fair warning.
I had the scallops in a buttery corn puree. Delicious, but I could have stood another 20 seconds of heat.
I ordered the Steak Frites Medium, but which arrived Rare. To the kitchen's credit, on the second attempt, they got the temperature just right.
My wife had the lamb three ways, and the liver mousse, both of which were winners.
Chocolat a tr"
One note - everything is a bit underdone. I believe that this is a choice by the chef and not a mistake, so fair warning.
I had the scallops in a buttery corn puree. Delicious, but I could have stood another 20 seconds of heat.
I ordered the Steak Frites Medium, but which arrived Rare. To the kitchen's credit, on the second attempt, they got the temperature just right.
My wife had the lamb three ways, and the liver mousse, both of which were winners.
Chocolat a tr"
Dined on 04/05/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem
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Review 33 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We went to Cafe Fundamental
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We went to Cafe Fundamental for the first time for Easter brunch - outstanding! The duck confit hash with poached eggs was the best brunch dish I have ever had. We will be back!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 34 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Better Ventilation PLEASE
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was my 3rd trip to Cafe Fundamental, and my major complaint has nothing to do with the "very good" cuisine - but consistently for all 3 trips - it has to do with the fact that there is no proper ventilation in their kitchen. The tiny dining room becomes so intensely smokey, every inch of fabric you're wearing becomes wholly infused with the smell of burnt and fried and pan-seared food - even my bare skin smelled like smoke. It is quite overwhelming, and akin to spending the night in a crowded and smokey bar. I bring this up because it is quite distracting; my eyes burned and my nose stopped up and you can see the haze in the air. This is not a one-off occurrence either. This has been my experience on all three trips."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2008
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Review 35 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Our second visit, and our
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Our second visit, and our second fabulous meal with great service. My 83-year old father who lived in Paris thought the house pate and the canard a'la orange was lovely, like bistros he knew. We'll certainly be back! Thank you, Cafe Fundamental."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 36 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
what a wonderful meal. we
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"what a wonderful meal. we ordered 4 different dishes and passed them around and liked everything! We will go again!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, great for lunch
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Review 37 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Really enjoyed the brunch.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Really enjoyed the brunch. My husband said the food reminded him of what he ate in Paris at many of the cafes we frequented. I told him I am sure that is exactly what Jamie wanted us to experience...the wonderful French Cuisine!
Thanks Jamie!!"
Dined on 03/17/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 38 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Nice warm small restaurant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Nice warm small restaurant feel. The food was superbly cooked and flavorful.
Now our favorite place to take friends who love great food."
Now our favorite place to take friends who love great food."
Dined on 03/14/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 39 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We've only been to Cafe Fundamental
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We've only been to Cafe Fundamental once but will certainly return. On a chilly Tuesday evening, we tucked into steaming bowls of a rich cassoulet, which was a treat. The service was friendly and attentive, answering questions about dishes and cocktails. The atmosphere was quiet (it was Tuesday evening, after all), but it was that kind of friendly atmosphere where the diners at the next table smile or speak with you, which is always nice. We look forward to returning on a weekend morning and on a night to sample their full menu. But, we'll certainly be back on Tuesday night for the special menu since everything looks so very tasty."
Dined on 03/12/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 40 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very Competant French Cafe
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Found this place on a recent visit to Nashville. My travel companion and I were looking for a place to dine and I found Cafe Fundamental via Opentable. It is a very quiet french cafe in what looks like an old renovated commercial building near Nashville. The staff was very friendly and welcoming and helpful. The onion shooters were incredibly good. The entrees were also very good. I had the Duck Confit and my friend had the special. The only drawback was that the restaurant had an "old smokey fryer" smell. If I lived in Nashville, I would definitely return."
Dined on 03/06/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 41 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Have eaten here several times,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Have eaten here several times, food is consistently great. Service is improving, as is the ambiance."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 42 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A standout in Nashville
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was my first time at Cafe Fundamental for dinner and it was really incredible. We had the scallops as an appetizer and I could have ordered more of those for dinner. Delicious. And then I had the sous vies pork belly and loved it. Once you add in wine and appetizers, it's a bit pricey, but it's well worth it."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 43 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We thoroughly enjoyed the
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The food was exceptional and memorable. We will return often with confidence and anticipation for delicious food and another stratosphere."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2002
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 44 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This was our first visit on
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This was our first visit on the recommendation of friends, who suggested we request the more private booth, which we did. We arrived earlier than our reservation and had a drink at the bar while we waited. Unfortunately, the booth was occupied and stayed occupied while we waited another hour, but the staff was extremely apologetic, offering us other tables, drinks on the house, etc.. Finally, our son approached the booth and mentioned our wait and immediately the party got up to leave. Our food was fantastic (scallops, short ribs, flounder and duck). Despite the wait, we all agreed that we had a great time, service, in my book an essential piece, was outstanding and the food was great. We will definitely be back!"
Dined on 02/23/2013
2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 45 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food - mussels, beet salad,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food - mussels, beet salad, ginger brûlée and apple tart - was over-the-top superb. Come for quality not massive servings. The waiter and bartender made us feel like we royalty, but fun, beloved and admired rulers."
Dined on 02/20/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 46 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Having just planned a trip
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Having just planned a trip to Quebec, was pleasantly surprised to arrive to discover a
french menu with very reasonable pricing. Enjoyed very much! (great Bloody Mary too!)"
french menu with very reasonable pricing. Enjoyed very much! (great Bloody Mary too!)"
Dined on 02/17/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 47 for Cafe Fundamental
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The duck was one of the best
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The duck was one of the best duck dishes I have had in Nashville."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Ratings-Only Reviews for Cafe Fundamental
Based on the average of (63) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
19 out of 21 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic