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Nashville, TN

Relocating to a new space to enhance visibility and operational efficiency.

• Unique Dining Experience: Present Tense offers a modern izakaya dining experience with a menu shaped by world-class ingredients and techniques.
• Strategic Relocation: The new location in Wedgewood-Houston provides higher visibility and foot traffic, optimizing for all-day service.
• Experienced Leadership: Co-owners Ryan Costanza and Rick Margaritov bring over 40 years of experience in the food and beverage industry.
• Innovative Beverage Program: Led by Kenneth Vanhooser, the program includes a deep sake list, natural wines, and esoteric cocktails.
• Growth and Expansion Plans: The move aims to lower operating costs and increase efficiency, supporting long-term sustainability and growth.

Present Tense is relocating to a new, more visible location in the heart of Wedgewood-Houston, Nashville. This move aims to provide higher visibility and foot traffic, proximity to national anchor brands, and a layout optimized for all-day service. The new space is expected to lower operating costs and increase efficiency, allowing Present Tense to serve more people throughout the day. The company plans to use the funds raised to build out the new space, upgrade the kitchen, and enhance its operational capabilities.

Present Tense, a modern izakaya, has quickly become a Nashville hotspot since its opening in May 2023. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu shaped by Chef Ryan Costanza, featuring world-class ingredients and techniques inspired by his travels in Japan and Southeast Asia. The beverage program, led by Kenneth Vanhooser, includes a deep sake list, natural wines, and innovative cocktails. Present Tense also features an exclusive omakase counter and its own sake brand, Pure Land Sake. The company is co-owned by Ryan Costanza and Rick Margaritov, who bring over 40 years of experience in the food and beverage industry.

Company Info

Present Tense offers a modern izakaya dining experience in Nashville, featuring Japanese-inspired cuisine and innovative beverages.

Present Tense is a modern izakaya located in Nashville’s Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood, offering a unique culinary experience inspired by Japanese and Southeast Asian flavors. The restaurant features a menu of shareable small plates, including raw dishes, fried items, and charcoal-grilled selections, alongside a selection of soft serve desserts. Guests can also enjoy an exclusive omakase counter with a 16-course tasting menu. The beverage program, led by Kenneth Vanhooser, includes a deep sake list, natural wines, and innovative cocktails that blend Japanese and Western influences.

Founded by Ryan Costanza and Rick Margaritov, Present Tense has quickly become a local favorite, known for its commitment to sourcing world-class ingredients and its minimalist yet esoteric approach to cocktails. The restaurant also offers its own sake brand, Pure Land Sake, available for purchase. With plans to relocate to a more central location, Present Tense aims to enhance its visibility and operational efficiency, providing an all-day dining experience in a vibrant community setting.