When you think of Nashville, you may immediately think of Honky Tonk, Music City or Broadway Street. While Nashville might be known for its rich music history, Nashville also hits all the right notes with its vibrant foodie scene. From fiery hot chicken to mouthwatering BBQ and quirky brunch spots, Nashville offers something for every palate. Whether you’re in Germantown, East Nashville (a personal favorite!), Downtown or The Gulch, there’s no shortage of places to indulge. Let’s dig into what makes Music City a foodie’s paradise. Warning: This article is going to make you hungry.
EXPLORE NASHVILLE’S FOOD NEIGHBORHOODS
Before we dig in, it’s helpful to understand that Nashville is a city of diverse food neighborhoods, each with its own flair. East Nashville, my personal favorite neighborhood, is known for its trendy eateries and laid-back vibe, while Germantown offers a more upscale, historical feel with farm-to-table favorites. The Gulch is where you’ll find hip, modern dining alongside iconic Nashville murals like the famous angel wings – yes, you know the ones, and we won’t blame you for snagging this photo op. Neighborhoods like 12 South, Wedgewood-Houston, Sylvan Park and The Nations also serve up their own local flavor, from casual bites to fine dining.
NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN: MUSIC CITY’S STAPLE
Other than Music City, when you think of Nashville, two words that naturally follow are “hot chicken.” It’s true – Nashville’s legendary hot chicken is a must-try for any visitor. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, the birthplace of this iconic dish, has been serving up spicy, crispy goodness for over 70 years. If you want to taste the original, head to Prince’s where the heat levels range from mild to “burn your face off.” For a slightly more tourist-friendly version, Hattie B’s is another great spot to get your hot chicken fix without sacrificing flavor. 400 Degrees and Pepperfire deserve a mention here and at Pepperfire, you can get Nashville Hot Chicken on top of a deep-fried grilled cheese sandwich topped with apple pie filling…calories don’t count on vacation, right? Just be sure to have the Tums and Pepto close by.
BBQ: SLOW-COOKED PERFECTION
The BBQ scene in Nashville is a heated debate among locals, and with good reason. From smoky pulled pork to tender ribs, the city boasts a variety of BBQ joints each with its loyal following. Martin’s BBQ Joint is famous for whole-hog barbecue, while Peg Leg Porker delivers award-winning ribs and pulled pork with a side of Southern charm. If you’re near East Nashville, Edley’s BBQ offers a laid-back vibe and delicious smoked meats. Don’t forget Shotgun Willie’s, where the brisket melts in your mouth or Bar-B-Cutie for a quick, satisfying bite.
BRUNCH: THE MOST IMPORTANT MEAL OF THE WEEKEND
Nashville knows how to brunch which is arguably the most important meal of the weekend! Biscuit Love in The Gulch is a Nashville staple, prepare to wait in line—although, it’s worth it for their famous “Bonuts” (biscuit doughnuts – YUM). However, when we say wait in line, we mean it. Mondays, Fridays, weekends and holidays are their peak days and wait times are generally an hour or more. For a more modern twist on southern brunch and possibly not as long of a wait, The Butter Milk Ranch offers indulgent dishes like chicken and waffles and if you’re looking for a high-end experience, brunch at Audrey’s will leave you wowed with innovative, beautifully plated dishes.
OFF THE EATEN PATH: UNIQUE MUSIC CITY DINING
When you’re looking for something a little different, Nashville has plenty of unique dining experiences. Etch, in the heart of Downtown, is known for its globally inspired menu and innovative dishes. The Catbird Seat is a must for foodies wanting an immersive dining experience—it’s a chef’s table concept where the meal unfolds like a story. Skull’s Rainbow Room in Downtown Nashville’s historic Printers Alley district doubles as a dining and entertainment experience as one of Nashville’s only downtown jazz lounges. Pro tip: try one of their award-winning cocktails.
Now that your mouth is watering, it’s time to plan your trip to Nashville. We’ll see you there – save us a seat!