Nashville, Tennessee, once primarily renowned for its music scene, has undergone a culinary renaissance over the past decade. As the city evolved into a global hub for tourism, sports, and entertainment, its dining scene experienced a dynamic transformation, characterized by diversity, innovation, and unexpected flavors. While some long-time favorites bid farewell, a plethora of new and exciting restaurants emerged, offering an eclectic array of cuisines to satisfy every palate. From Asian-inspired tasting experiences to traditional Southern barbecue joints, Nashville’s culinary landscape has never been more vibrant.
Asian and Middle Eastern Delights
Tailor: A Fusion of South Asian and Southern Cuisine
- Chef Vivek Surti’s innovative restaurant, Tailor, seamlessly blends South Asian flavors with Southern culinary traditions.
- Offering a tasting experience with up to 14 small courses, Tailor takes diners on a gastronomic journey through carefully curated dishes paired with wines and cocktails.
- Reservation is a must due to limited seating at Tailor’s intimate setting, providing a personalized dining experience.
Noko: Wood-Fired Fare with Asian Flair
- Located in the Shops at Porter East complex, Noko specializes in wood-fired dishes influenced by Japanese, Filipino, and Korean cuisines.
- From tuna crispy rice to lobster bao buns, Noko’s menu offers a modern twist on classic Asian-inspired dishes, accompanied by an array of flavorful sides.
Lyra: Elevating Middle Eastern Cuisine
- Chef-owner Hrant Arakelian brings the flavors of Lebanon and Oman to Nashville with Lyra’s menu of hummus, Man’oushe, and seared scallops infused with Middle Eastern spices.
- Inspired by his childhood memories, Arakelian crafts dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the region, paired with signature desserts by pastry chef Elizabeth Endicott.
Iberian Pig: Tapas Bar Extravaganza
- Atlanta-born Iberian Pig expands its footprint to Nashville’s Gulch, offering a vibrant tapas experience with Spanish favorites like albondigas and piquillo relleno.
- With a diverse selection of sharable plates and wines by the glass, Iberian Pig’s colorful ambiance and rooftop patio make it a hotspot for food enthusiasts.
Two Ten Jack: Izakaya-style Delights
- Chef Jessica Benefield’s izakaya-style restaurant, Two Ten Jack, serves up comforting bowls of ramen alongside an array of small plates, nigiri, and sashimi.
- Unique offerings include draft cocktails and flights of sake, providing a refreshing twist to traditional Japanese fare.
Thai Esane: Authentic Northeastern Thai Cuisine
- Founded by Nina Singto, Thai Esane celebrates the culinary heritage of northeastern Thailand, offering a menu of rice dishes, curries, and regional specialties.
- Drawing inspiration from her family’s food entrepreneurship, Singto’s restaurant showcases the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with dishes like chicken larb and papaya salad.
Bad Idea: Design-forward Laotian Cuisine
- Chef Colby Rasavong’s Bad Idea brings a design-forward approach to Laotian cuisine, offering a unique dining experience in a former church sanctuary.
- With a focus on wine pairing from a custom-built cellar, Bad Idea combines Chef Rasavong’s heritage with owner Alex Burch’s expertise, creating a culinary haven in Nashville.
Epice: Authentic Lebanese Fare
- Tucked away in 12South, Epice transports diners to a cozy bistro in the heart of the Mediterranean, serving up traditional Lebanese dishes with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- From mezze platters to grilled skewers, Epice’s menu offers a taste of Lebanon’s culinary heritage, drawing locals and tourists alike.
Butcher & Bee: Israeli-inspired Delicacies
- Born from Charleston’s renowned restaurant, Butcher & Bee brings Israeli-influenced cuisine to Nashville with a focus on produce-forward dishes and inventive flavors.
- Offering a curated selection of sharable snacks and zero-proof cocktails, Butcher & Bee‘s menu caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
Southern, American, and Mexican Eateries
Big Al’s Deli: A Taste of Southern Comfort
- Big Al’s Deli continues to charm patrons with its home-style cooking and Southern hospitality, serving up breakfast and lunch classics like shrimp and grits and BBQ skillet beans.
- A beloved soul food spot, Big Al’s has remained a constant amidst Nashville’s ever-changing culinary landscape, drawing loyal customers with its hearty fare.
Edley’s Bar-B-Que: A Barbecue Institution
- Edley’s Bar-B-Que pays homage to Nashville’s barbecue heritage with a menu featuring pulled pork, brisket, and a variety of smoked meats served in different styles.
- With multiple locations across Nashville, Edley’s offers a quintessential Southern dining experience, complete with signature cocktails like the famous Bushwhacker.
Deb Paquette’s Culinary Oasis
- Deb Paquette’s etc. restaurant offers a diverse menu of comfort food classics, including lamb meatballs, smoked salmon, and veggie Thai curry bowls.
- A sister bistro to downtown’s etch, etc. provides a cozy neighborhood vibe, making it a popular choice for business lunches and intimate dinners alike.
Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish: Hot Chicken Heaven
- Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish is a must-visit for hot chicken aficionados, offering a range of spice levels to suit every taste, alongside classic Southern sides like corn on the cob and potato salad.
- Known for its no-frills approach to hot chicken, Bolton’s has earned a reputation as one of Nashville’s best spots for fiery, flavor-packed poultry.
Martin’s BBQ: Whole Hog Barbecue
- Martin’s BBQ has been a Nashville staple for whole hog barbecue since its inception, drawing crowds with its mouthwatering ribs, turkey legs, and Redneck Tacos.
- With a multi-level downtown location featuring live music and outdoor games, Martin’s offers a festive atmosphere perfect for enjoying Tennessee’s barbecue traditions.
Dino’s Bar & Grill: A Dive with Delicious Eats
- Dino’s Bar & Grill, a Five Points dive bar, serves up hearty comfort food favorites like burgers, grilled cheese, and Frito pie until the early hours of the morning.
- A neighborhood institution, Dino’s offers a laid-back atmosphere and reliable fare, making it a go-to spot for late-night dining in Nashville.
Hathorne: Neighborhood Gem with a Twist
- Chef John Stephenson’s Hathorne delights diners with its ever-changing menu of American favorites, showcasing inventive dishes like Berkshire pork ribs and porchetta.
- A neighborhood favorite in Lockeland Springs, Hathorne offers a warm and welcoming ambiance, complemented by a thoughtful selection of cocktails, wine, and beer.
Mas Tacos Por Favor: From Food Truck to Cantina
- Mas Tacos Por Favor started as a food truck and has since evolved into a beloved cantina, serving up a variety of tacos and traditional Mexican fare.
- With options for both meat lovers and vegetarians, Mas Tacos delights diners with its hand-rolled tamales, Baja fish tacos, and refreshing agua frescas.
Cafés and Bakeries
Frothy Monkey: Iconic Coffee and Comfort Food
- Frothy Monkey‘s Nations outpost offers a laid-back ambiance and a diverse menu featuring seasonal lattes, breakfast classics, and hearty sandwiches.
- A favorite among locals, Frothy Monkey combines exceptional coffee with delicious food, making it a go-to spot for breakfast, brunch, and dinner.
Dozen Bakery: A Neighborhood Favorite
- Dozen Bakery has become a neighborhood staple with its rotating menu of tartines, soups, sandwiches, and pastries, all made from scratch using high-quality ingredients.
- From holiday cookie pop-ups to daily offerings of sourdough bread and seasonal pastries, Dozen Bakery delights customers with its commitment to artisanal baking.
Café Roze: Minimalist Elegance and All-Day Dining
- Café Roze‘s minimalist interior and all-day dining concept make it a popular choice among East Nashville residents, offering breakfast, lunch, and “in-between” menus.
- With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Café Roze serves up healthy and flavorful dishes like energy-boosting smoothies and smoked trout toast, alongside a selection of cocktails and wine.
Fido Café: A Neighborhood Institution
- Fido Café has been a Hillsboro Village fixture for nearly 30 years, serving up breakfast classics, burgers, and salads alongside locally roasted coffee from Bongo Java.
- Located near Belmont and Vanderbilt universities, Fido’s relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu make it a favorite spot for students, locals, and tourists alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nashville’s dining scene offers a culinary adventure like no other, with a diverse array of restaurants showcasing flavors from around the globe. From Asian-inspired tasting menus to traditional Southern barbecue joints, Nashville’s restaurants cater to every taste and preference, providing a gastronomic journey that delights locals and tourists alike. Whether seeking comfort food classics or innovative fine dining experiences, visitors to Music City are sure to find their palate satisfied in this vibrant culinary landscape.