Is New Orleans Chef John Besh Opening a Restaurant in The Gulch?

It's been over a year since whispers were last heard regarding prominent New Orleans chef and restaurateur John Besh's potential Nashville expansion plans. But now things might be starting to pick up some speed, as Eater has gotten word from several trusted sources that say plans are in the works for Besh to partner with Commune Hotels and Resorts on their new Thompson Hotel currently under construction in The Gulch.

Located at the intersection of 11th and 12th Avenues, the hotel, first announced in summer 2014, is slated to open next year and feature a "signature ground floor restaurant" along with a rooftop bar and private event space. It's been known that the partners behind the development have been looking for a recognizable name to fill that space, and Besh would certainly fit that bill, with a dozen restaurants currently under his belt, including Restaurant August, Domenica and Shaya.

A representative for Commune Hotels and Resorts tells Eater that they "have not chosen or finalized a partnership with a chef or restaurant partner for the Thompson Nashville yet[,]" but that they hope to have some news soon.

So be sure to check back for updates, and as always, send those tips on the tipline.