25 Best Restaurants in Nashville for 2024: A Local’s Guide
How do you feel about BBQ and hot chicken wings? If you love these, you will cherish Nashville’s meat ‘n’ three diners, fiery chicken, and robust farm-to-table community. Nashville restaurants have consistently ranked as a global music scene fronting some iconic names like Johnny Cash. However, lately, the culinary scene has become Nashville’s allure, with so many chef-driven and James Beard-Award nominees rocking the stage.
Trying to pick apart a myriad of cuisines is one of the most challenging feats for many of Nashville’s visitors. And it is easy to see why. With so many finger-licking options, many are faced with the dilemma of selecting from a robust pool of the best places to eat in Nashville, especially if you are in town for a short visit. But worry not. We have compiled a list of the top restaurants in Nashville to help you decide. Here are the 25 best restaurants in Nashville.
1. Josephine
The little gem found in the vibrant South neighborhood is one of Nashville’s hidden culinary treasures.
What to eat
Josephine’s menu comprises innovative treats to cater to an upscale traveler. So, if you want delicious brunch, we recommend you try the Josephine Benedict with brown butter and country ham.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
Led by Chef Andy Little (a two-time James Beard semifinalist), Josephine has a thoughtful and distinct cuisines and wine catalog, making it a top contender among the top restaurants in Nashville, TN.
What is the cost of a meal?
Starters such as Cope’s Style Cornbread and Bloomy Rind Cheese cost between $16 and $23, whereas entrees like scallops ($37) and prime ribeye steak ($125).
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Josephine through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 2316 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Contact: (615) 292-7766
2. Rosie Food & Wine
This Hendersonville wine bar provides well-prepared meals and fine wines.
What to eat
Their short ribs are delicious. These braised ribs are delicious, supple, juicy, and full of beef flavor.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
This 60-seat chef-driven restaurant is one of the best in the region. It serves Spanish and Italian-inspired appetizers, sweets, and wines.
What is the cost of a meal?
Beef Shortrib such as Potato puree/ mustard glazed onions, costs $32, and Grilled Octopus, such as Potato puree/ Spanish olive oil, costs $14.
How do I make a reservation?
You can securely make a reservation at Rosie Food & Wine immediately through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 203 Anderson Ln N Suite 107, Hendersonville, TN 37075
Contact: (615) 757-3305
3. Lou Nashville
This Parisian-inspired café became famous in 2019 when it opened. It is one of the best places to eat in Nashville.
What to eat
If available, get fennel bacon. This sticky bacon is salty and sweet, just perfect. Next, try their crispy Rice with walnuts, pickled currants, and saffron.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
Lou Nashville is a culinary paradise. It pours the city’s best natural wines when not serving breakfast and brunch. It also provides a seasonal, light, and fresh supper and lunch menu.
What is the cost of a meal?
Fruit + Honey (Honey, Bee pollen, black sesame seed) cost $5 and Fried Eggs, Fennel Bacon & Toast (Herbs & flowers, fennel bacon w/charred wheat sourdough & honey pepita butter) cost $12.
How do I make a reservation?
You can easily make a reservation at Lou Nashville through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1304 McGavock Pk, Nashville, TN 37216
Contact: (615) 499-4495
4. Pelican & Pig
This East Nashville restaurant’s live-fire cuisine is entertaining and innovative.
What to eat
Must-try carrots. These carrots are roasted in beef fat and coated in a salty, delicious spice combination. Also, try their crispy, gooey fried cheese.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
This diner-only spot has talented cooks and a wood-burning fireplace for flavorful dishes. Limited seating creates a pleasant atmosphere.
What is the cost of a meal?
Carrots (Grilled local baby carrots, green harissa, coriander yogurt, and toasted nuts) cost $15, while Mussels (Pei mussels, chorizo Verde, white wine, patatas bravas, and spicy tomato) cost $28.00.
How do I make a reservation?
You can easily book a reservation at Pelican & Pig through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1010 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Contact: (615) 730-6887
5. East Side Banh Mi
Gallatin Avenue diner serves a Vietnamese sandwich.
What to eat
Try their banh mi. It’s a crispy baguette packed with pickled veggies and thick pate.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
Nashville Vietnamese sandwiches? This sandwich cafe is a must-visit in Nashville. In addition, this restaurant serves vegetarian alternatives, noodle bowls, and salads.
What is the cost of a meal?
Kids Chicken Pho Regular (Poached chicken, fatty rice noodles, chicken broth) costs $7.95. also, House Made Limeade costs $36.
How do I make a reservation?
You can book a reservation at East Side Banh Mi through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1000 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Contact: (615) 953-7424
6. Big Al’s Deli
Salemtown’s favorite lunch and supper place serve Southern comfort cuisine.
What to eat
Their fried chicken is delicious. This chicken meal is perfectly spicy, moist, juicy, and crunchy.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
Big Al’s Deli feeds hungry travelers. This restaurant is known for its homestyle food and Southern hospitality.
What is the cost of a meal?
Both the french toast platter and pancake platter cost $6.5 each. Also, four pancakes and six slices of french toast cost $5 each.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Big Al’s Deli through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1828 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
Contact: (615) 242-8118
7. Folk
Since 2018, this East Nashville pizza establishment has been a neighborhood favorite.
What to eat
Get clam pizza. Umami, zingy, and salty tastes will blow you away. It features a chewy-crispy crust.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
Chef Philip Krajeck’s restaurant serves simple dishes with robust flavors. Folk is known for its wood-fired pizzas and employs fresh, local ingredients.
What is the cost of a meal?
Sourdough and Il Tratuello cost $6.00, while Chicken Liver, Green Tomato, Cacoa, and Toast cost $9.00.
How do I make a reservation?
You can conveniently make a reservation at Folk through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 823 Meridian St, Nashville, TN 37207
Contact: (615) 610-2595
8. Redheaded Stranger
East Nashville has this unusual Tex-Mex restaurant.
What to eat
Their beef taco is juicy, flavorful, and delicious. Try their green chili burger with three handmade sauces.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
Redheaded Stranger serves Tex-Mex and delicious tacos on handmade flour tortillas. Breakfast burritos, chile burgers, and unique drinks are all available.
What is the cost of a meal?
Queso With Fresh Tortillas costs $8.78, while Chorizo Breakfast Taco costs $4.94.
How do I make a reservation?
You can easily book a reservation at Redheaded Stranger through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 305 Arrington St, Nashville, TN 37207
Contact: (615) 544-8226
9. Lyra
Lyra debuted in 2018 to offer Middle Eastern tastes to Nashville.
What to eat
Fatayers are beloved—Lebanese pies filled with hot feta cheese, wrapped in dough with greens, onions, and sumac.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
Visit East Nashville’s Middle Eastern standout. This eatery updates Middle Eastern favorites, including lamb manti and baba ganoush. The pub serves whiskey drinks and has an outside terrace.
What is the cost of a meal?
Meat & Seafood, such as Lamb Rillettes, cost $13, while Veggies, such as Fattoush Salad, cost $14.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Lyra through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 935 W Eastland Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Contact: (615) 928-8040
10. Peninsula
East Nashville’s 35-seat restaurant serves Iberian-inspired meals.
What to eat
Serrano ham is delicious. This thinly sliced ham tastes excellent with tomato butter and toasted bread.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
This restaurant serves old-world wines and inventive shared cuisine. In addition, this restaurant employs local, sustainable foods.
What is the cost of a meal?
Dinner Menus like Warm Olives cost $4 also, and Desserts such as Lemon Ice Cream, Jasmine, and Meringue cost $7.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Peninsula through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1035 W Eastland Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Contact: (615) 679-0377
11. Dino’s Bar
East Nashville’s 1977 dive bar is low-key and old-school.
What to eat
Pair an excellent beer with a sweet, salty, and sour cheeseburger. You can make your burger tastier by adding a fried egg, avocado, and bacon.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
A terrific place to end a day in Nashville is Dino’s Bar. Fun and fuzzy, this bar has sticky floors, dim lighting, friendly locals, and hilarious staff. Even better, it serves truck-stop food like fries and burgers.
What is the cost of a meal?
Side Of Hashbrowns cost $3, and Breakfast Patty Melt (Beef patty, bacon, egg, cheese, grilled onions, special sauce on buttered toast) cost $10.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Dino’s Bar through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 411 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Contact: (615) 226-3566
12. Ed’s Fish & Pizza House
This 1972 Nashville original has tasty sandwiches.
What to eat
Fish sandwich fans rave. Large fish chunks on white bread with pickles, onions, spicy sauce, and mustard.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
They provide a unique fried sandwich, making our list of Nashville’s greatest eateries. In addition, they have pleasant and timely service.
What is the cost of a meal?
Sandwich & fries cost $8.50 while whiting fish plate cost $10.50.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Ed’s Fish & Pizza House through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1801 Dr DB Todd Jr Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208
Contact: (615) 255-4362
13. City House
This Germantown restaurant blends Italian and Southern cuisines.
What to eat
Try their belly ham pizza. It has a light and crunchy crust, pork belly, chiles, and melting mozzarella.
Why is the restaurant a must-eat?
City House offers delicious indulgences at every turn. This restaurant serves traditional Italian meals with whiskeys, wines, bourbons, and artisan cocktails.
What is the cost of a meal?
Grains such as Cavatelli, Chard, Ciccioli, White Beans, and Parmesan cost $17, while Fish & Meat like Chicken Sausage, Mustards, Sweet Onion Dressing, and Peanuts cost $21.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at City House through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1222 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
Contact: (615) 736-5838
14. Lockeland Table
This East Nashville eatery serves wood-fired pizzas and Southern cuisine.
What to Eat
Try their spicy, flavorful, chewy pig ears and salty, sweet, cheesy Woodstock pizza.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Lockeland Table’s hot, crispy pig ears are a Nashville institution. Red curry mussels and wood-fired pizzas are also on the menu.
What is the cost of a meal?
Regional three cheese plates (sheep/somerset, cow/camembert served with proper accompaniments) cost $20, while empanadas of the night cost $17.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Lockeland Table through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1520 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206
Contact: (615) 228-4864
15. Butcher & Bee
This Main Street hotspot serves house drinks and New American food.
What to Eat
Butcher & Bee doesn’t disappoint. If we must choose, whipped peta wins. Creamy cheese dip with black pepper and fermented honey is savory and delicious.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Butcher & Bee’s delicious sandwiches are a Nashville lunchtime classic. Shareable umami-laden meals, drinks, and wines make it a great dining option.
What is the cost of a meal?
Brunch, such as Pastry Basket (House-made chef’s choice of pastries), costs $9, and Brunch – Mezze, like the House-Made Pickle Plate (Pickled vegetables for 3), costs $15.00.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Butcher &Bee through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 902 Main St, Nashville, TN 37206
Contact: (615) 226-3322Riddim n Spice
16. Riddim n Spice
Riddim n Spice opened in 2019 on Meharry Boulevard.
What to Eat
Their jerk chicken is fantastic. This smoky, spicy chicken has a delicious barbeque taste.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
You need to avoid going to Jamaica to enjoy authentic Caribbean flavors. Chef Kamal Kalokoh leads this vibrant restaurant, which serves mango-cucumber slaw and Oxtail.
What is the cost of a meal?
Plates like Oxtail cost $19.99, while Rice, like the Jamaican, costs $10.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Riddim n Spice through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 2116 Meharry Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208
Contact: (615) 953-7121
17. Skull’s RainbowRoom
This 1948 hangout was renowned until it disappeared in 1999. In 2015, it reopened with old-school elements.
What to Eat
Prime rib is fantastic. This large, juicy, tender steak bursts with juice and meaty tastes.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Skull’s Rainbow Room is amazing. Along with its great exquisite food, it also has sparkling burlesque performances, live music, and craft cocktails. It’s one of the top birthday Nashville restaurants with its vibrant environment and delicious meals.
What is the cost of a meal?
Heroes Vodka. Ginger. Pineapple, Orange, and Cava cost $13, while Gin, Italicus, Lemon, Grapefruit, and Basil cost $14.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Skull’s RainbowRoom through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 222 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37201
Contact: (615) 810-9631
18. Juquilita
This Morrow Road eatery is a Mexican culinary utopia.
What to Eat
Try a pupusa. Crispy outside, oozing with refried beans and cheeses.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
La Juquilita serves the best Mexican meals. Unassuming and modest, it serves authentic homestyle Mexican dishes, including tlayudas and pupusas.
What is the cost of a meal?
Chiles Rellenos (Stuffed peppers) cost $9.99, and Chimichanga (Steak, Mexican sausage, chicken, ground beef) cost $9.99 as well.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Juquilita through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 5913 Morrow Rd, Nashville, TN 37209
Contact: (615) 524-9053
19. Nashville’s Continental
The Continental is an upscale Grand Hyatt Nashville restaurant.
What to Eat
Their venison is delicious. This well-cooked beef has a great texture and explodes with flavor without being gamey. The sauces are incredible.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
The Continental offers a premium dining experience in Nashville. Their cuisine is delightfully good, and their service is unmatched. Guests love the wine list and beverages.
What is the cost of a meal?
Oysters Continental (California white sturgeon caviar, pernod gelee, spinach & finger lime) vody $19 while Mushroom Bisque (Crème fraiche, fines herbes & Parmigiano-Reggiano) cost $14.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Nashville’s Continental through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1000 Broadway Suite 101, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 622-3225
20. Chauhan Ale & Masala House
Chef Maneet Chauhan runs this Indian eatery with a Southern twist.
What to Eat
Chicken tikka masala is delicious. It’s creamy and flavorful, with nicely cooked chicken.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Chauhan Ale & Masala House is flavorful. This brick garage-turned-restaurant combines Southern and Indian cuisines. You’ll appreciate their creative beverages, particularly “moment of clarity.”
What is the cost of a meal?
Taj Mule (fords gin, cranberry, rosemary, ginger, bubbles) cost $14, while Woodpecker (650 ml Indian lager) cost $16.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Chauhan Ale & Masala House through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 123 12th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 242-8426
21. Yolan
This Italian restaurant has an extensive wine list and avant-garde entrees.
What to Eat
Enjoy their elegant 8-course tasting menu. It’s a refined supper with delectable Italian food and great wines.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Yolan is a top Nashville restaurant. This high-dining restaurant’s James Beard-winning chef, outstanding service, and Italian cuisine dazzle. Plus, it’s at the beautiful Joseph Hotel.
What is the cost of a meal?
Mercado (Market greens, burrata, honeycomb, mushrooms, hazelnuts) is $17, while Cacio Pepe (Mafalde, pecorino romano, black pepper) costs $20.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Yolan through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 403 4th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201
Contact: (615) 231-0405
22. Thai Esane
This Music Row eatery serves real Thai food.
What to Eat
Pad Thai cuisine combines sour, salty, bitter, and sweet elements. It contains shrimp, tofu, tamarind paste, tofu, and eggs.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
This restaurant’s perfectly prepared cuisine will transport you to Thailand. In addition, this restaurant’s unmatched hospitality and eye-catching decor offer a glimpse into Thai culture. A terrace and central bar provide beverages.
What is the cost of a meal?
Calamari (Lightly breaded calamari fried crispy and served with sweet and sour sauce) costs $13.00, while Green Curry (Green curry with coconut milk, bell pepper, mushroom, bamboo, and basil) costs $17.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Thai Esane through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 1520 Division St, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 454-5373
23. Peg Leg Porker BBQ
Pitmaster Carey Bringle, the CEO of the restaurant, has been smoking meats for 20 years.
What to Eat
Their pulled barbeque sandwich is delicious. This sandwich has sweet, delicious, and tender pulled pork, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
This is popular old-school BBQ restaurant in Gulch. It is one of the Nashville restaurants that is famous for its southern sides and smoked meats. On the terrace, you may enjoy specialty drinks and BBQ.
What is the cost of a meal?
Appetizers like BBQ Nachos cost $11.95. Also, Desserts like Fried Pie cost $5.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Peg Leg Porker BBQ through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 903 Gleaves St, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 829-6023
24. Arnold’s Country Kitchen
This Southern café has been a Nashville staple since 1982. Arnold’s Country Kitchen is one the perfect downtown Nashville restaurants for the best chicken fried.
What to Eat
Chicken fried with collard greens, candied yams, cornbread, and gravy is a delight. Each meal is flavorful and distinct. The thick, spicy gravy complements the crisp chicken.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Arnold’s Country Kitchen is a must-visit in Nashville. This no-frills James Beard award-winner has served Southern classics for decades. It’s Nashville’s best Southern and soul cuisine.
What is the cost of a meal?
Chess Pie and Spicy Chocolate Pie cost $3.50, while Banana Pudding and Pecan Pie cost $3.50.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at Arnold’s Country Kitchen through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 605 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 256-4455
25. VN Pho & Deli
This family-run restaurant in West Nashville offers wallet-friendly prices and delicious Vietnamese food.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must-Eat?
Nashville’s Asian-inspired restaurants are affordable. At VN, you may have spring rolls and bun bo hue.
What to Eat
Order the beef pho. It’s a fresh and flavorful meal with limes, noodles, and tendon pieces.
What is the cost of a meal?
Beef like Rare Steak costs $12.50, while veggies like Yu Choy and Nappa cost $12.50.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation at VN Pho & Deli Kitchen through their website on the reserve button.
Where is the restaurant found?
Address: 5906 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209
Contact: (615) 356-5995
Conclusion
We hope this list of the top restaurants in Nashville helped you plan your next meal. The restaurants on this list run the gamut from Lockeland Table to City House, but they all have one thing in common: they’re the best of the best in Nashville. So, whether you need a romantic night out or a casual meal with friends, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at one of these best places to eat in Nashville.
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