Who is Villa Castrioti and what should we know about you?
Villa Castrioti is a family-owned and operated Italian kitchen located in the heart of downtown Nashville. We pride ourselves on scratch-made food, a full-service bar, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels both elevated and approachable. Our goal has always been to serve thoughtfully prepared Italian comfort food in a space where guests feel at home—whether they’re joining us for a casual dinner, a celebratory gathering, or a special occasion. As we close out the year, we’re excited to welcome guests for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with a special holiday menu, making Villa Castrioti the perfect destination for ringing in the new year.
What has been the most valuable aspect of your Chamber membership?
The opportunity to connect with and build meaningful relationships within the Nashville business community. The Chamber has been an invaluable resource for networking, collaboration, and staying engaged with fellow local business owners through events and shared initiatives.
Can you share a significant lesson you have learned as a business leader?
Operating a restaurant requires constant adaptability. One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is that you can never stop marketing, listening, and evolving. Staying visible, engaged, and responsive to both guests and the community is essential to long-term success.
How do you manage and maintain a positive company culture?
We believe culture starts with respect. We treat our team the way we would want to be treated—by investing in proper hiring, thorough training, open communication, and removing unnecessary frustrations from their day-to-day work. When employees feel supported, heard, and valued, it shows in the guest experience.
Are there new markets or demographics you are targeting?
Our focus is on welcoming anyone who could become a guest at Villa Castrioti. From local professionals and families to visitors experiencing downtown Nashville, we strive to create an environment that appeals to a broad audience while maintaining our core identity and values.
What is unique about your business that makes you stand out?
We don’t have a walk-in freezer—and that’s intentional. Our dishes are made fresh and cooked to order using quality ingredients. This commitment to scratch cooking allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality meals that reflect traditional Italian hospitality with a modern touch.
How do you stay informed about industry trends and changes?
We stay connected through restaurant associations, industry groups, and social media, but some of our best insights come from conversations—whether that’s with our staff, guests, or peers who travel and experience dining concepts in other markets. We’re always open to ideas that can be thoughtfully adapted to enhance our own concept.
Why is the Nashville region a good place to do business?
Nashville’s sense of community, strong support for local businesses, and vibrant hospitality scene make it an exceptional place to operate a restaurant. The city continues to grow while still valuing relationships, creativity, and collaboration—qualities that align closely with our values at Villa Castrioti.
How do you stay involved in the community?
We actively support the community through catering, food donations, school partnerships, nonprofit events, and participation in local “Taste of” events whenever possible. We look for meaningful ways to give back, whether through food, service, or hosting community-focused gatherings at our venue.
What do you want to be known for in the business community?
We want to be known for serving great Italian food made from scratch, offering fair portions at fair prices, crafting quality cocktails, and being a reliable partner for group dining, private events, and catering. As we head into the holidays, we’re especially excited to welcome guests for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with special menus, as well as support fellow Chamber members with catering options—including a 10% catering discount for Chamber members.