Nobu Hospitality, the global luxury brand co-founded by actor Robert De Niro, has announced plans to develop a new hotel and restaurant in Nashville. The property will be situated in the city's developing River North district, near the site of Oracle's future campus.
The project will include a 120-room hotel, a signature Nobu restaurant, and a rooftop pool. While an official opening date has not been released, the announcement marks a significant addition to Nashville's rapidly growing hospitality market.
Key Takeaways
- Nobu Hospitality is planning a new 120-room hotel and restaurant in Nashville.
- The development will be located in the River North area, adjacent to the planned Oracle campus.
- The building will feature a lobby-level restaurant and an infinity-edge rooftop pool with skyline views.
- London-based architectural firm Foster + Partners has been selected to design the project.
Project Details and Architectural Vision
The planned Nobu Hotel and Restaurant in Nashville will feature 120 guest rooms and suites. According to the company's announcement, the interior design will incorporate Nobu's well-known Japanese-inspired aesthetic, combined with modern elements to create a sophisticated atmosphere.
A key feature of the development will be a large, lobby-level Nobu restaurant, bringing the brand's celebrated cuisine to the city. Additionally, the hotel is designed to include an infinity-edge rooftop pool, which will offer expansive views of the Nashville skyline.
A World-Renowned Design Team
The design of the new building will be managed by Foster + Partners, an internationally recognized architectural firm based in London. The firm has a global portfolio with projects in numerous countries, including Canada, China, Egypt, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. Their involvement suggests a high-profile and architecturally significant building for Nashville's East Bank.
While the announcement provided these initial details, specific information regarding the project's cost, construction timeline, and the total number of floors in the building has not yet been made public. Nobu officials were not available for immediate comment on these aspects of the development.
Strategic Location in a Growing District
The choice of location in Nashville's River North neighborhood is strategic. This area, also known as the East Bank, is poised for significant growth, anchored by the development of a major new campus for technology corporation Oracle.
The proximity to the Oracle campus is noteworthy. Nobu Hospitality and Oracle share a business connection, as Oracle founder Larry Ellison is a co-owner and investor in several Nobu properties and resorts worldwide. This relationship suggests a synergistic approach to the development of the area.
"We're excited to bring the Nobu lifestyle to Nashville's East Bank, a vibrant district ready for growth," said Trevor Horwell, CEO of Nobu Hospitality. "After much anticipation and requests from our loyal Nobu customers, partnering with Oracle is a perfect match."
Horwell further commented on the city's appeal, stating, "Nashville's rich culture and culinary scene make it an ideal home for Nobu, and we can't wait to create a destination that embodies the city's spirit and our unique experience." This statement highlights the brand's intention to integrate with the local culture while offering its distinct luxury service.
Nobu's Expansion and Brand Profile
Nobu Hospitality was founded by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, film producer Meir Teper, and actor Robert De Niro. The brand has grown from a single restaurant into a global hospitality powerhouse known for its luxury hotels and fine dining experiences.
From Restaurant to Global Hotel Brand
- The first Nobu restaurant opened in 1994.
- The first Nobu hotel debuted in Las Vegas in 2013 as part of Caesars Palace.
- The brand has been recognized by Robb Report as one of the world's 25 most innovative luxury brands.
The Nashville location will join a growing portfolio of Nobu hotels in major cities across the globe, including Barcelona, Toronto, and Warsaw. Within the United States, Nobu already operates hotels in several key markets. The closest Nobu hotel to Nashville is currently in Atlanta. Other notable U.S. locations include Chicago, Las Vegas, Miami Beach, and New Orleans.
The expansion into Nashville reflects the city's rising status as a major tourist and business destination. The addition of a high-end brand like Nobu is expected to further elevate the city's hospitality offerings and attract a new segment of luxury travelers.
Future Outlook for Nashville's East Bank
The announcement of the Nobu hotel is one of the first major hospitality projects confirmed for the East Bank area surrounding the future Oracle campus. This development is expected to act as a catalyst for further investment in the district, potentially attracting other high-end retail, dining, and residential projects.
As the Oracle campus takes shape, the demand for premium accommodations and services in the immediate vicinity will likely increase. The Nobu hotel is positioned to meet this demand from business travelers, tourists, and local residents alike.
While residents and visitors await further details on the project's timeline, the plan itself signals confidence in Nashville's economic future and its continued evolution as a world-class city. The combination of a globally recognized luxury brand, a world-class architect, and a strategic location points to a landmark development for the city's skyline and its hospitality landscape.
