Where to Eat in Nashville
Nashville has no shortage of incredible food, but it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to go. This guide is a curated mix of must-try local favorites, popular spots worth the hype, and hidden gems I personally recommend.
Best Brunch Spots
Biscuit Love
A Nashville staple known for fluffy biscuits and Southern-style breakfast comfort food. Expect a line, but it moves quickly and it’s worth the wait.
👉 What to order: “The Bonuts” (biscuit donuts) + East Nasty sandwich
🔥 Vibe: Busy, trendy, classic Nashville brunch stop
The Pancake Pantry
A longtime favorite famous for massive portions and all-day breakfast. It’s a great early-morning stop before exploring the city.
👉 What to order: Sweet potato pancakes or classic buttermilk stack
🔥 Vibe: Cozy, traditional, nostalgic
Milk & Honey
A stylish brunch spot with elevated breakfast dishes and great coffee in a bright, modern space.
👉 What to order: Chicken & waffles or avocado toast
🔥 Vibe: Modern, aesthetic, relaxed brunch vibe
Nashville Hot Chicken
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
One of the most iconic Nashville hot chicken spots where you can choose your spice level from mild to extremely hot.
👉 What to order: Hot chicken sandwich + mac & cheese
🔥 Vibe: Lively, tourist-friendly, always buzzing
Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack
The original birthplace of Nashville hot chicken, offering a more authentic, no-frills experience.
👉 What to order: Hot chicken tenders (medium heat is a good start)
🔥 Vibe: Local, historic, casual
Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish
A beloved local spot known for serious heat and a more intense, authentic hot chicken experience.
👉 What to order: Hot chicken plate with fries
🔥 Vibe: Rough-around-the-edges, local favorite, very spicy
Casual & Comfort Eats
Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden
A retro-style burger spot with a fun outdoor beer garden and some of the best fries in the city.
👉 What to order: Pharmacy Burger + curry ketchup fries
🔥 Vibe: Chill, social, great for groups
Edley’s Bar-B-Que
A go-to Nashville BBQ spot serving hearty portions of smoked meats and classic Southern sides.
👉 What to order: Pulled pork plate + mac & cheese
🔥 Vibe: Casual, filling, Southern comfort
Five Points Pizza
A popular pizza joint known for New York-style slices and a laid-back neighborhood feel.
👉 What to order: Pepperoni slice + garlic knots
🔥 Vibe: Easygoing, quick stop, late-night friendly
Date Night and Upscale Dining
The Southern Steak & Oyster
A stylish downtown restaurant offering steaks, seafood, and cocktails in an upscale but welcoming atmosphere.
👉 What to order: Ribeye + oysters + signature cocktail
🔥 Vibe: Polished, energetic, slightly upscale
Etch
A chef-driven restaurant known for artistic plating and bold, creative flavors in a modern setting.
👉 What to order: Scallops or pork belly
🔥 Vibe: Elegant, artistic, special occasion spot
Henrietta Red
A chic, intimate restaurant famous for oysters and seasonal dishes with a refined but relaxed vibe.
👉 What to order: Oyster selection + roasted fish
🔥 Vibe: Romantic, trendy, quiet upscale
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Five Daughters Bakery
Home of the famous 100-layer donut that’s buttery, rich, and unforgettable.
👉 What to order: Vanilla cream 100-layer donut
🔥 Vibe: Cute, quick stop, Instagram-worthy
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
A creative ice cream shop known for unique flavors made with high-quality ingredients.
👉 What to order: Brown Butter Almond Brittle
🔥 Vibe: Fun, trendy, always a crowd-pleaser
Legendairy Milkshake Bar
A dessert spot famous for over-the-top milkshakes loaded with toppings and decorations.
👉 What to order: Signature loaded milkshake (any seasonal flavor)
🔥 Vibe: Over-the-top, playful, very Instagrammable