Present Tense Reviews | Taste, Noodle Size, Bowl Size and More

509 Houston St, Nashville, TN 37203

4.3

275 Google reviews

5 197
4 26
3 16
2 18
1 18

Review Summary

Present Tense in Nashville, TN holds a 4.3-star rating from 275 Google reviews, based on our read of the aggregated diner feedback. Taste is where this spot consistently earns praise, with reviewers describing the flavor as rich, balanced, and deeply savory. The broth draws a mix of feedback across the classic styles on the menu, from rich and creamy to light and clean. Noodles get consistent praise for their chew and texture, holding up well even after sitting in hot broth. Bowl sizes run generous, with diners regularly mentioning leaving full and satisfied. Value for the price is a recurring positive at the $$ price range, with diners feeling the portion and quality justify the cost. Present Tense offers dine-in, takeout, delivery, so there are multiple ways to enjoy a bowl. Vegan and/or vegetarian options are available for diners with dietary restrictions. Overall, Present Tense is a solid choice worth trying if you're in Nashville craving ramen.

Pros & Cons

ProsCons
Well-reviewed with 275+ Google reviewsNo major drawbacks noted in aggregated reviews
Reviewers consistently praise the taste
Generous bowl portions
Noodles cooked with great texture
Good value for the price
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What Diners Are Saying

Showing 8 of 8 reviews

L

Linda D.

2026-02-12

The flavor here is on another level — rich, balanced, and deeply savory. Thick, satisfying noodles that soaked up all that flavor. Bowl was a good size, just right for a satisfying lunch. The nori and scallions really rounded out the bowl. Service was fast even though it was packed.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: Just RightBowl Size: Very FillingBroth: Deep & RichValue: Great Value
O

Olivia B.

2025-07-11

Honestly one of the best bowls of ramen I have had in a long time. Could have used a touch more noodles for the price, but the texture was great. Portion size is generous; I could barely finish the whole bowl. Toppings were fresh and generous, especially the bamboo shoots.

Taste: Rich & SavoryNoodle Size: GenerousBowl Size: GenerousBroth: ExcellentValue: Fair Price
J

Justin S.

2024-11-28

Service was friendly but the bowl itself was just average. Noodles were springy and cooked exactly to that ideal firmness. Portion size is generous; I could barely finish the whole bowl. Fresh toppings and a beautifully marinated egg. Great spot to bring friends — we will definitely be back.

Taste: Just OkayNoodle Size: LightBowl Size: SmallishBroth: LightValue: Average
N

Natalie H.

2024-11-18

Decent flavor overall. It hit the spot on a cold day. Thick, satisfying noodles that soaked up all that flavor. A hearty, large bowl that is well worth the price.

Taste: TastyNoodle Size: GoodBowl Size: DecentBroth: DecentValue: Okay
Y

Yuki B.

2024-10-06

A reliable spot when you are craving a warm bowl of noodles. The noodle texture was spot on, not mushy at all. Bowl was a good size, just right for a satisfying lunch. Clean spot with a welcoming vibe.

Taste: TastyNoodle Size: AdequateBowl Size: DecentBroth: DecentValue: Okay
M

Mei R.

2024-09-26

Service was friendly but the bowl itself was just average. Generous portion of noodles — I did not run out before the broth. Wish the bowl were a little bigger, but the quality made up for it. The chashu was tender and melted in my mouth. Cozy atmosphere and attentive service.

Taste: Just OkayNoodle Size: AverageBowl Size: AverageBroth: MildValue: Pricey
N

Nicole P.

2024-09-04

This is the real deal. Authentic flavor that reminds me of bowls I had in Japan. Noodles were springy and cooked exactly to that ideal firmness. Massive serving — bring your appetite, you will need it. Great spot to bring friends — we will definitely be back.

Taste: Rich & SavoryNoodle Size: Just RightBowl Size: Very FillingBroth: FlavorfulValue: Fair Price
J

James K.

2024-07-02

Came in skeptical and left a believer. The broth alone is worth the trip. The noodle texture was spot on, not mushy at all. Portion size is generous; I could barely finish the whole bowl. Toppings were fresh and generous, especially the bamboo shoots.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: GenerousBowl Size: Very FillingBroth: Deep & RichValue: Great Value

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