
Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Nashville, United States
1. Hot Chicken at Prince's Hot Chicken Shack
Spicy fried chicken served in various heat levels, a Nashville classic. Experience the unique blend of spices and crispy texture.
- Unique Heat Levels: Offers several heat levels from mild to extremely hot, catering to different tastes.
- Historical Significance: Originating in the early 1940s, it's a staple of Nashville's food culture.
- Authentic Experience: Prince's Hot Chicken Shack is a family-owned business that maintains the traditional recipe.
2. Meat and Three at Arnold's Country Kitchen
Traditional Southern meal consisting of meat and three sides, served family-style in a cozy diner atmosphere.
- Hometown Cooking: Features dishes made from scratch with fresh ingredients daily.
- Wide Variety of Sides: Over a dozen side options to choose from, each with its unique Southern flair.
- Longstanding Legacy: Established in 1983, Arnold's Country Kitchen is a beloved local institution.
3. BBQ at Edley's Bar-B-Que
Slow-smoked BBQ with unique recipes and sides, showcasing Tennessee's rich barbecue tradition.
- Fresh Ingredients: Uses locally sourced ingredients to ensure the best quality.
- Creative Spin on Classics: Offers unique BBQ dishes like the pulled pork nachos and catfish sandwich.
- Community-Focused: A strong commitment to giving back to the Nashville community.
4. Goo Goo Clusters at Goo Goo Shop
Iconic Nashville dessert created in 1927, featuring a blend of marshmallow, peanuts, and caramel covered in milk chocolate.
- One-of-a-Kind Recipe: The only known recipe for Goo Goo Clusters is held by the company.
- Giftable Souvenir: Packages of Goo Goo Clusters make great gifts or souvenirs.
- Rich History: Goo Goo Shop is a part of Nashville's rich culinary history and culture.
5. Nashville Hot Fish at Loveless Cafe
Fried catfish coated in a spicy tomato-based sauce, served with cornbread and Southern sides.
- Crispy Fried Catfish: Uses fresh catfish for a crispy yet tender texture.
- Authentic Diner Atmosphere: Experience the classic diner atmosphere and hospitality at Loveless Cafe.
- Generous Portions: Large servings perfect for sharing or taking leftovers home.
6. Biscuit Bowl at Biscuit Love
Creative takes on the classic Southern biscuit, served in a bowl with various savory and sweet options.
- Artisanal Biscuit Making: Uses high-quality ingredients to create the perfect flaky and buttery biscuit.
- Innovative Menu: Offers unique combinations like bonuts (biscuit + donut) and chicken biscuit bowls.
- Fast-Casual Concept: Efficient service with a relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for a quick meal.
7. Pho at An Café
Authentic Vietnamese pho served in a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.
- Fresh Ingredients: Uses fresh ingredients like beef eye round and rice noodles for each serving.
- Customizable Options: Offers various meat options, herbs, and spices to personalize your bowl.
- Community Hub: An Café is a gathering place for the local Vietnamese community in Nashville.
8. Pancake at Pancake Pantry
Classic Southern-style pancakes made from scratch, served in a cozy and lively setting.
- Handcrafted Pancakes: Made using a secret family recipe for over 60 years.
- Wide Variety of Toppings: Over 25 topping options, including fresh fruit, nuts, and candies.
- Long Waits but Worth It: Known for long lines but the delicious pancakes make it worth the wait.
9. Southern Taco at Mas Tacos Por Favor
A fusion of Mexican and Southern cuisine in a taco format, featuring local ingredients.
- Fresh Ingredients: Uses locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful tacos.
- Creative Flavors: Offers unique taco combinations like the fried catfish and pork shoulder tacos.
- Trendy Atmosphere: Modern, hip decor with a vibrant energy perfect for dining or grabbing drinks.
10. Fried Bologna Sandwich at The Pharmacy Bar
A beloved Nashville sandwich made with fried bologna, mustard, and pickles on white bread.
- Unique Ingredients: The simple yet bold flavors of the fried bologna make this sandwich stand out.
- Retro Atmosphere: Inspired by a 1950s pharmacy, the decor and ambiance are reminiscent of that era.
- Local Favorite: A staple in Nashville's food scene with multiple locations across the city.
11. Fried Pickles at The Row Kitchen & Pub
Crispy fried pickle spears served with a creamy dipping sauce, perfect as an appetizer.
- Unique Appetizer Option: A tasty alternative to traditional bar snacks.
- Vibrant Sports Bar Atmosphere: Enjoy the game while dining in a lively and energetic environment.
- Variety of Food Options: Offers a diverse menu, making it perfect for groups with different tastes.
12. Beignets at The Donut Distillery
New Orleans-style beignets served in a modern and creative setting.
- Fluffy and Delicious: Powdered sugar-coated beignets with a light and airy texture.
- Flexible Menu: Offers various coffee drinks, milkshakes, and other sweet treats to pair with the beignets.
- Instagrammable Decor: Colorful and unique interior provides a picturesque backdrop for your meal.
13. Steak at The Catbird Seat
A high-end dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative presentations.
- Innovative Cuisine: Offers a multi-course tasting menu that showcases chef-driven creativity.
- Upscale Atmosphere: A stylish and intimate setting for a special dining experience.
- Premium Ingredients: Uses the finest ingredients to create unforgettable dishes.
14. Nashville-Style Barbecue Ribs at Jack's Barbeque
Tender and juicy ribs slow-cooked to perfection, served with classic Southern sides.
- Slow-Cooked Perfection: Cooked over hickory wood for hours to achieve the perfect flavor and texture.
- Wide Variety of Sides: Offers several Southern side options, from collard greens to macaroni and cheese.
- Outdoor Seating: Enjoy your meal on the spacious outdoor patio with a view of downtown Nashville.
15. Sausage Platter at The Sausage Kingdom
A variety of artisanal sausages from around the world, served with homemade sauerkraut and mustard.
- Global Selection: Offers a diverse selection of sausages from different countries.
- Freshly Prepared Sausages: All sausages are made in-house using quality ingredients.
- Wine and Beer Pairings: Features a curated wine and beer list to complement the unique flavors of the sausages.