The 24 Best Restaurants in Nashville
Best southern food in Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, Tennessee – famous for its lively music scene, rich history, and warm hospitality – is also a food lover's paradise. If you're visiting Nashville and want to enjoy its delectable flavors, this guide will point you to the best eateries in town. From classic Southern comfort food to innovative fusion dishes, Nashville has something for everyone. Whether you're searching for the city's top restaurants or affordable downtown options, you'll find a variety of choices to suit your budget. So, let's embark on a tasty adventure through Music City, USA.
Hot chicken sandwich with pickles from Hattie B's Hot Chicken
Hattie B's Hot Chicken
A trip to Nashville isn't complete without experiencing its iconic dish: hot chicken. Hattie B's Hot Chicken is renowned for its spicy, mouth watering fried chicken. Choose from various heat levels, from mild to "shut the cluck up," and tailor your hot chicken to your preference. Complete your meal with a side of pimento mac and cheese, and you'll understand why this local gem is a must-try.
Authentic mexican street tacos at Mas Tacos Por Favor
Mas Tacos Por Favor
Craving some of the best tacos in town? Mas Tacos Por Favor is a casual, vibrant eatery offering an irresistible selection, including fried avocado, pulled pork, and quinoa-sweet potato, all served on fresh corn tortillas. Pair your tacos with homemade horchata or refreshing agua fresca to quench your thirst.
Martin's bar-b-que with wings and ribs on a grill
Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
Nashville is famous for its mouth watering barbeque, and Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint is undoubtedly one of the best places in downtown Nashville to enjoy this Southern staple. Known for their whole hog barbeque, Martin's slow-smokes their meat over hickory coals for a tender, smoky result that's finger-licking good.
A handmade cheeseburger with fries at the Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden
The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden
The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts. Known for their juicy, gourmet burgers, this popular spot has a menu to satisfy any burger lover. From the classic cheeseburger to the adventurous "Farm Burger" topped with country ham and a fried egg, there's something for everyone. Enjoy your burger and a cold craft beer in their spacious beer garden, complete with twinkling lights and a relaxed vibe.
A close up of a cheesy and pepperoni pizza from Five Points Pizza in East Nashville
Five Points Pizza
In the mood for cheesy goodness? Five Points Pizza, in the heart of East Nashville, is a top choice for pizza lovers. Featuring New York-style pies and slices, Five Points Pizza offers classics like Margherita and pepperoni, as well as unique creations like prosciutto and basil. Their dough is made fresh daily, and their tasty garlic knots are a must-try appetizer.
Trendy Indian food at Chauhan Ale & Masala House in Nashville, TN
Chauhan Ale & Masala House
If you're looking for the best restaurants in downtown Nashville that offer a unique dining experience, Chauhan Ale & Masala House is a perfect choice. This trendy Indian fusion restaurant, led by celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan, combines traditional Indian flavors with a Southern twist. Savor dishes like the tandoori chicken poutine or the meat and three curry platter for a memorable meal that will have you coming back for more.
Fluffy biscuits made fresh in Nashville, TN
Biscuit Love
A visit to Nashville isn't complete without indulging in some fluffy, buttery biscuits. Biscuit Love, with locations in the Gulch and Hillsboro Village, has quickly become one of the best restaurants in Nashville for breakfast and brunch. Known for their signature "bonuts" – biscuit-doughnut hybrids – Biscuit Love offers a variety of biscuit-based dishes like the East Nasty, a fried chicken and gravy-topped biscuit that was named the "Best Sandwich in America" by Bon Appétit in 2015.
Barbecue sandwich from Edley's Bar-B-Que in Nashville
Edley's Bar-B-Que
Another contender for the best barbeque in Nashville is Edley's Bar-B-Que. With locations in East Nashville, Sylvan Park, and 12 South, this casual eatery has become a local favorite for its delicious smoked meats and friendly atmosphere. The Tuck Special, a brisket sandwich topped with house-made pimento cheese, is a must-try. And don't forget to save room for their banana pudding – a true Southern classic.
A stack of grilled cheese melted to perfection
The Grilled Cheeserie
For a gourmet spin on a childhood favorite, The Grilled Cheeserie is one of the best restaurants in Nashville for grilled cheese lovers. What started as a popular food truck has now become a brick-and-mortar eatery in Hillsboro Village, serving up mouthwatering grilled cheese sandwiches made with artisan bread and locally sourced ingredients. Try the Pimento Mac & Chee – a combination of pimento cheese, macaroni, and bacon – for a cheesy delight that will make your taste buds sing.
Speciality pizzas at City House restaurant in Nashville, Tennessee
City House
City House is a trendy eatery in Germantown offering a modern take on Southern Italian cuisine, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and house-made pasta dishes, City House's menu is as innovative as it is delectable. Be sure to try their belly ham pizza topped with mozzarella, grana padano, and an egg for a unique dining experience.
Handmade meatballs at a trendy restaurant called Folk in Nashville
Folk
Located in East Nashville, Folk is a modern neighborhood restaurant specializing in wood-fired pizzas and seasonal small plates. Using only the freshest ingredients, Folk's menu is constantly changing, offering a truly unique dining experience every time you visit. The minimalist, rustic atmosphere adds to the charm of this popular eatery.
Three people sharing glasses of red wine together at Rolf and Daughters restaurant in Nashville
Rolf and Daughters
Situated in the historic Germantown neighborhood, Rolf and Daughters is a stylish restaurant that combines Mediterranean and Southern flavors. Known for their house-made pasta dishes and creative small plates, Rolf and Daughters is a must-visit for a sophisticated dining experience in Nashville. Don't miss their sourdough bread with seaweed butter – it's a crowd favorite.
Close up of a freshly tossed salad at the Butcher & Bee restaurant in Nashville
Butcher & Bee
A popular spot for brunch and dinner, Butcher & Bee brings creative, farm-to-table cuisine to East Nashville. Their ever-changing menu features inventive small plates, sandwiches, and vegetable-forward dishes. Don't miss their whipped feta with honey and black pepper, a house favorite.
A beautifully plated steak and vegetable entree at Lockeland Table in Nashville
Lockeland Table
Nestled in the heart of East Nashville, Lockeland Table is a cozy, community-focused eatery offering a seasonal menu inspired by Southern cuisine. From wood-fired pizzas to hearty meat dishes, Lockeland Table's menu is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings. Be sure to try their crispy pig ears served with buttermilk ranch for a unique appetizer.
Three craft cocktails at the bar inside Pinewood Social in Nashville, Tennessee
Pinewood Social
Part restaurant, part social club, Pinewood Social is a unique dining destination in downtown Nashville. Offering a menu of modern American comfort food, Pinewood Social is perfect for a leisurely brunch or a casual dinner. After your meal, enjoy a game of bowling or lounge by the pool, as Pinewood Social offers a variety of entertainment options for guests.
Glasses of wine sitting at the bar at Barcelona Wine Bar in Nashville, Tennessee
Barcelona Wine Bar
Located in the bustling Edgehill neighborhood, Barcelona Wine Bar offers a taste of Spain in the heart of Nashville. With a menu featuring a variety of tapas, charcuterie, and paella, Barcelona Wine Bar is the perfect spot for sharing a meal with friends or family. Pair your dishes with a selection from their extensive wine list, which focuses on Spanish and South American wines.
A freshly prepared salad at the Wild Cow restaurant in Nashville
The Wild Cow
The Wild Cow, located in East Nashville, is a haven for vegetarians and vegans alike. This casual, eco-friendly eatery offers a variety of plant-based dishes that even meat lovers will enjoy. With options like the Buffalo Beans and Greens, a delicious take on buffalo wings, and the Portobello Tacos, The Wild Cow is the perfect spot to enjoy a guilt-free meal in a relaxed atmosphere.
A vanilla soft serve ice cream cone held up to the sky
Bobbie's Dairy Dip
For a nostalgic dining experience, head to Bobbie's Dairy Dip, a classic American drive-in that has been serving up delicious burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes since 1951. Located in West Nashville, Bobbie's Dairy Dip is a beloved local institution known for its affordable, tasty eats and laid-back atmosphere. Be sure to try their famous soft-serve ice cream, which comes in a variety of flavors and toppings.
Close up of a pizza from Slim & Husky's in Nashville
Slim & Husky's Pizza Beeria
Slim & Husky's Pizza Beeria, with locations in North Nashville and Antioch, is a hip pizzeria known for its customizable, artisan pies and unique atmosphere. Choose your own toppings or select one of their signature pizzas, like the "Cee No Green," topped with ground beef, pepperoni, and sausage. With a focus on local art and community engagement, Slim & Husky's is more than just a pizza joint – it's a true Nashville experience.
Delicious sushi rolls plated nicely at Two Ten Jack in Nashville
Two Ten Jack
Two Ten Jack, a Japanese-inspired izakaya located in East Nashville, is the perfect spot for a relaxed, communal dining experience. With a menu featuring a variety of small plates, sushi, and ramen, Two Ten Jack is a great option for sharing a meal with friends. Don't miss their Tonkotsu Ramen, a rich, pork-based broth served with tender noodles and flavorful toppings.
Vegan dishes on display at The Southern V in Nashville, Tennessee
The Southern V
The Southern V, located in North Nashville, is a family-owned vegan eatery offering delicious, plant-based versions of classic Southern comfort food. Their menu includes dishes like vegan fried chicken, BBQ jackfruit sandwiches, and mac and cheese that even non-vegans will love. With its welcoming atmosphere and hearty, flavorful meals, The Southern V is a must-visit for vegans and omnivores alike.
Pressed sandwiches from the Mitchell Delicatessen in Nashville
Mitchell Delicatessen
Mitchell Delicatessen, located in East Nashville, is a neighborhood favorite known for its delicious sandwiches and laid-back atmosphere. Using locally-sourced ingredients and house-made bread, Mitchell Delicatessen offers a variety of options, like the Turkey, Avocado, and Bacon sandwich, or the Asian Flank Steak sandwich.
A popular Thai noodle dish at Thai Esane in Nashville
Thai Esane
For a taste of Southeast Asia in the heart of Nashville, head to Thai Esane. Located near the Gulch, this family-owned restaurant offers a menu of authentic Thai and Laotian cuisine. From classics like Pad Thai and Green Curry to more adventurous dishes like Papaya Salad and Laab, Thai Esane has something for everyone. Be sure to try their signature Drunken Noodles, a flavorful, spicy dish that's a local favorite.
A colorful plate from Epice Mediterranean restaurant in Nashville
Epice
Epice, located in the bustling 12 South neighborhood, is a cozy, Lebanese-inspired bistro that offers a menu of flavorful, Mediterranean cuisine. With options like chicken shawarma, grilled lamb, and moussaka, Epice's menu is as diverse as it is delicious. Enjoy your meal with a selection from their extensive wine list, which features a variety of Mediterranean and international options.
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Stay at Red Roof in Nashville

Nashville's culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its music scene, offering visitors a wide range of options to satisfy every palate. From classic Southern comfort food to innovative fusion cuisine, these must-try restaurants will make your visit to Music City a delicious and memorable experience. 


Visiting Nashville? Make the most out of your stay and book a room at Red Roof. With affordable prices and pet-friendly accommodations, we make sure your stay is both convenient and comfortable, giving you more time to explore the city and the food it offers.