16 Wildly Famous Restaurants In Nashville That Are Totally Worth The Hullabaloo
By Meghan Kraft|Updated on July 08, 2023(Originally published July 06, 2023)
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
Nashville has made a name for itself in recent years as a foodie city, and we can understand why. There are so many famous restaurants in Nashville. With the influx of newcomers and transplants, the solidarity of southern food has been reignited into a revolution of the tastebuds. Here are seventeen famous places to eat in Nashville that have been lauded across the country – and they’re well worth the attention. How many have you tried?
Edley's is a great place for a pulled pork sandwich and a neat wood-based restaurant design. It's a fun foray into Tennessee's bbq culture, and although it is a chain, it's the first stop for many once they cross city lines. There are currently three locations in East Nashville, Sylvan Park and 12 South.
This gem of a Germantown spot is great for the upscale meat eater - but really. Their weekend brunch is lovely, and their stunning full bar is perfect for any day of the week. (1416 4th Ave N)
The popular East Nashville eatery is packed once you get to 9 or 10 am in the morning, and for good reason. Low-key and delicious, you can enjoy a game of Trivial Pursuit while you wait for your omelette. We'd recommend coming early to enjoy a cup of coffee in the early morning chill. (700 Fatherland Street)
The Charleston-based Butcher & Bee opened their Nashville location last year and it has since become one of the best spots in the city for small plates and a neat, laid back atmosphere. Their creative menu items make every meal a new adventure. (902 Main Street)
Hailing from the owners of the wildly popular Grilled Cheeserie food truck, the melt shop just recently opened in Hillsboro Village to quite the fanfare. Make your own grilled cheese masterpiece at this darling spot and fall into a comfort food coma - it's worth it. (2003 Belcourt Avenue)
Oh, Mitchell. You've fed so many hungry Nashvillians over the years with your meaty sandwiches and fluffy, fresh breads. Their lesser known breakfast buffet is just as delicious, so don't miss out! (1306 McGavock Pike)
Yes, Hattie B's may be the most chain-esque hot chicken spot in the city, but it's great for tourists and easing transplants into the whole hot-as-heck fried poultry everyone loves. (Various Locations)
And then there's Prince's. The perfect hole in the wall that locals fall in love with over and over, a spot bursting with cayenne spice and crispy chicken that will never, EVER be overrated. Ever. (123 Ewing Drive)
Mas Tacos was the little food truck that could, opening a brick and mortar East Nashville hot spot in response to their Music City taco-lover following. Bring a wad of cash for their $3 tacos - they're worth every single penny. And calorie. (732 McFerrin Ave)
Biscuit Love is known for their fluffy biscuits and brunch skillets. We have to say - their bonuts are the perfect addition to the breakfast pastry family, and yes, those Bloody Marys are delectable. This brunch line is worth it, folks. (316 11th Ave S)
With only a couple of seats around a u-shaped kitchen area, The Catbird Seat has become one of the best known upscale eateries in the Nashville area, but make reservations in advance! This $$$ spot fills up fast. (1711 Division Street)
Husk is located in a historic mansion just south of Broadway, a gorgeous home that houses one of the best known restaurants in the city. Its sister restaurant is located in Charleston, each of them touting locally sourced ingredients and revolving menus. (37 Rutledge Street)
Italian comfort food with a southern twist? Um, yes. Sign us up - twice. Rolf and Daughters is located in a converted loft-style building in Germantown, accented with industrial elements and gleaming hardwood. You couldn't eat in a prettier place. (700 Taylor St)
City House is just down the street from Rolf and Daughters, situated in a darling brick house with a warm, light-infused interior. Their pizza and pasta are delicious and well-worth the Germantown price tag. (1222 4th Ave N)
Ah, yes. The touristy Pancake Pantry. Most locals would stay far, far away from the midday lines down the sidewalk, but that's because we go early - when the great food comes out hot and fast and the lines are still hours away. You should try it sometime! (1796 21st Ave S)
The iconic Nashville restaurant is well worth its salt, folks. Homemade jams and flaky biscuits will give you a breakfast to remember, and it's here that your breakfast ham gets kicked up a notch. Head over on a weekday if you can and beat the crowds - weekends can get CRAZY. (8400 Tennessee Highway 100)
Nashville’s food scene will continue to evolve as it does. What a fun time to be in the city. Keep your eyes open for new and classic places to eat in Nashville! Have you been to any of these iconic Nashville restaurants? Let us know in the comments below.
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What are some iconic places to eat in Nashville?
As mentioned in this article, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a place more iconic than the Loveless Cafe. It’s been around since 1951 and it simply feels special to boot.
The Bluebird Cafe is pretty special too. Many folks who became country music stars began playing here before they were known. Great songwriters are known to try out their new songs here before selling them to stars. You might see someone on their way to fame, and you’ll definitely see and hear folks sharing their talents while you are there.
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is pretty special. It’s not really known for the food, but places like this nourish the soul. Some country music’s greatest icons have played here and bands are still doing their best to live up to the legacy. It’s very busy these days, so you might want to visit early and grab a drink and a bite to eat. Look around and think about all the amazing things that have happened there. Maybe you’ll want to stay all night.
What are the most child-friendly Nashville restaurants?
When we are on the road and a child needs to eat, there is one surefire win: Old fashioned burger places that sell ice cream. There is always something they’ll like and the promise of dessert makes the whole situation better.
Bobby’s Dairy Dip has been a tried and true stop for many families since 1951. It’s legendary for a reason, and the adults win here as well. You’ll love it.
Elliston Place Soda Shop is one of those places that gives the feeling of walking back in time. It opened in 1939 and is still in the same location. You’ll find all the usual southern-style food you’d expect from an old Nashville eatery, and it also has lots of ice cream. Your children will love the food and dessert— and you will too.
If you have other ideas about places to eat with your children, be sure to share them. I know I’m always on the lookout.
