We are trying to decide on a location for celebrating a college graduation. Steak, Italian, or possibly Seafood. Would like a 'Nasvhille' experience but there are also some chains that I love. What are your recommendations? Some possibilities: Ruth Chris, Stockyard, Old Hickory, Flemmings, Antonios, Marios, Valentinos, Mere Belle(?), any other suggestions?

www.sperrys.com

(Come back here and thank me in 20 years...when you're still remembering your delicious meal!)

I like Sperry's, too, but I also like Zola's and Capital Grille, in the Hermitage Hotel. I don't recommend Old Hickory (overpriced) or the Stockyard (overpriced and past its prime).

out of your listed possibilities: Antonios is out in the suburbs. Valentinos is very good
Mere Bulle is also kind of past its prime
Two other steak houses to consider: Jimmy Kelly's (a Nashville institution)
Nick and Rudy's (near campus)

Also good are the Acorn, near Centennial Park, Mambu (less traditional but funky and delicious) and there have been good reviews for seafood at the restaurant in the Vanderbilt Marriott (whose name escapes me)

I would recommend Bricktop's on West End, Midtown Cafe, or Tayst.

I went to the Sperrys web site and it looks quite nice. There were no photos from the exterier. Any preference between the Belle Mead or Cool Springs locations?

How large is the group and what kind of experience do they want? Hip or traditional?

We are a small group of seven. We want a more tradiational setting.

I'm not sure which college this is, but the Belle Meade location of Sperry's will almost certainly be closer, assuming the graduation is on campus. Cool Springs is about 20 minutes south of downtown and any of the campuses I can think of.

Thanks for all of the info...we decided on Sperry's. When we first arrived we were a little disappointed. The setting was nice but not quite what we had expected. Also, it was crowded and quite noisy. However, after the table behind us left we settled in for a nice evening of celebrating. Our waiter was great and the steaks were fabulous. I would highly recommend the food, the entire meal was very good.