Nashville is a city that pulses with life, music, and food. Known as the birthplace of country music, Nashville’s vibrant scene extends to its culinary offerings, where Southern hospitality and bold flavors come together to create a food lover’s dream. I love to explore cities through their food, I couldn’t wait to dive into Nashville’s rich and diverse food culture. From iconic hot chicken to indulgent BBQ, Nashville has some unforgettable dishes that you simply can’t miss.
In this guide, I’ll share my personal experiences with the best local dishes Nashville has to offer, the restaurants where you can find them, and some tips on how to make the most of your dining experience. Whether you’re a foodie looking for your next great meal or a first-time visitor eager to try the city’s most famous dishes, Nashville will not disappoint.
1. Hot Chicken: The Spicy Soul of Nashville
Restaurant Name: Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Location: 112 19th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
Let’s start with the one dish you absolutely must try in Nashville: Hot Chicken. I first tried Nashville’s famous hot chicken at Hattie B’s, one of the most iconic places in town, and I can tell you, it lived up to the hype. Hot chicken is a spicy, crispy fried chicken that’s smothered in a fiery blend of cayenne pepper and other spices. It’s served with traditional sides like pickles, coleslaw, and bread to help cool the heat.
What to Try:
When you go to Hattie B’s, you absolutely need to try the Hot Chicken (I went with medium heat, and it was the perfect level of spice). The spicy fries and mac and cheese are also amazing sides to complement the chicken. If you’re really daring, you can go for the “Shut the Cluck Up” level, which is their spiciest offering. But be warned, it’s not for the faint of heart!
Cost:
A Hot Chicken meal with a side usually costs around $15–$20, depending on your order. The portion sizes are generous, so it’s a great value for the amount of food you get.
How to Book:
Hattie B’s is a popular spot, so be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours. If you’re looking to skip the line, I recommend using Yelp to check wait times or OpenTable to book a reservation if available. Also, Grubhub and Uber Eats offer delivery if you prefer to enjoy the meal in the comfort of your hotel.
Click here to book a table at Hattie B’s
2. Barbecue: Slow-Cooked Southern Perfection
Restaurant Name: Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint
Location: 410 4th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201
No visit to Nashville is complete without indulging in some Southern barbecue. Nashville’s Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint is one of the city’s premier BBQ spots, and it’s where I had my first taste of authentic Tennessee barbecue. Martin’s specializes in whole hog BBQ, meaning they slow-cook the entire pig over wood and coal, resulting in tender, smoky, and flavorful meat.
What to Try:
I recommend trying the Whole Hog BBQ Plate, which includes tender pulled pork served with a side of vinegar-based cole slaw, potato salad, and a slice of cornbread. The BBQ sauce is tangy and smoky, adding the perfect touch to the meat. The burnt ends are another must-try, with their crispy, caramelized exterior and juicy interior.
Cost:
The prices for BBQ plates range from $15 to $25 depending on what you order. A family-style meal can be a great deal if you’re traveling with others.
How to Book:
Martin’s doesn’t take reservations, but you can avoid the rush by visiting earlier in the day. For a more convenient option, you can also use Uber Eats or Postmates to order in advance.
Click here to book a table or order online
3. Biscuits & Gravy: A Breakfast Favorite
Restaurant Name: Biscuit Love
Location: 316 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
For a true taste of Nashville’s Southern breakfast, Biscuit Love is a must-visit. Specializing in biscuits and gravy, this place serves up some of the best biscuits I’ve ever tasted—fluffy, buttery, and perfectly baked. Biscuit Love is a popular brunch spot, and it’s easy to see why. The biscuits are made from scratch, and they pair perfectly with their signature gravy, which is rich, creamy, and savory.
What to Try:
I highly recommend ordering the “Bonuts”, which are biscuit donuts drizzled with lemon mascarpone and blueberry compote. For a hearty meal, go for the “Southern Benny”, a twist on the classic eggs Benedict, but with biscuits instead of English muffins and topped with sausage gravy. It’s a Southern breakfast at its best.
Cost:
Most dishes at Biscuit Love are priced between $10 and $15, which is a great value for the portion sizes and the quality of the food.
How to Book:
Biscuit Love is a popular spot, and it can get crowded, especially on weekends. I recommend checking OpenTable to make a reservation, or if you’re visiting during busy times, try arriving early to avoid the long lines. You can also use Grubhub for delivery if you’re staying nearby.
Click here to book a table at Biscuit Love
4. Country Ham: A Southern Staple
Restaurant Name: The Loveless Café
Location: 8400 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37221
For an authentic Southern experience, The Loveless Café is an institution in Nashville. Famous for its country ham, The Loveless Café has been serving up classic Southern dishes for decades. If you’re visiting Nashville and want to try some of the best country ham in the area, this is the place to be.
What to Try:
The Country Ham Plate is a standout dish, served with biscuits, gravy, and fried chicken if you’re feeling extra indulgent. The ham is salty and savory, with just the right balance of sweetness and smokiness. Don’t forget to try the fried green tomatoes or the peach preserves that come with the biscuits—both are absolutely divine.
Cost:
The Country Ham Plate is priced at about $18, while a breakfast or lunch combo can range between $12 and $20.
How to Book:
The Loveless Café doesn’t take reservations, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid long wait times. You can also check Yelp to get an idea of the current wait times and plan your visit accordingly.
Click here to book a table at The Loveless Café
5. Fried Catfish: Southern Comfort Food
Restaurant Name: Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant
Location: 500 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219
When it comes to Southern comfort food, fried catfish is a classic, and Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant is the perfect spot to try it. Known for its laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, Puckett’s serves up delicious Southern dishes with a modern twist. Their fried catfish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, paired with traditional sides like coleslaw and hushpuppies.
What to Try:
If you love fried seafood, the Catfish Plate is a must-try, served with fried green tomatoes, fries, and a side of their tangy tartar sauce. They also offer great smoked meats, so if you’re in the mood for something different, try their pulled pork or brisket.
Cost:
Most dishes at Puckett’s are reasonably priced, with the Catfish Plate costing around $15–$20. The portion sizes are generous, making it a good value for families.
How to Book:
Puckett’s is a casual, walk-in restaurant, but it can get busy, especially on weekends. For larger groups, it’s a good idea to call ahead and inquire about wait times or availability. You can also check Yelp for real-time updates on busy hours.
Click here to book a table at Puckett’s
6. Tennessee Whiskey: A Local Favorite
Restaurant Name: The Barrel House
Location: 2121 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
No visit to Nashville is complete without sampling the local spirit—Tennessee whiskey. The Barrel House is a fantastic bar and restaurant where you can enjoy a wide selection of Tennessee whiskey, paired with delicious Southern fare. The vibe here is cozy and rustic, making it a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
What to Try:
I recommend trying the Tennessee Whiskey Flight, which offers a variety of local whiskeys for you to taste. Pair it with some of their signature pulled pork sliders or brisket nachos for the ultimate experience. The whiskey-infused BBQ sauce is a highlight, and it pairs perfectly with their smoked meats.
Cost:
The whiskey flight is priced around $20, and small plates range from $10 to $15. It’s a great value for the quality of the food and the experience.
How to Book:
You can easily walk in, but for larger groups or weekends, I suggest checking OpenTable or calling ahead to reserve a spot.
Click here to book a table at The Barrel House
Nashville is a city where food is as much a part of the experience as the music, and there’s something truly special about exploring a city through its culinary offerings. From the fiery heat of hot chicken to the smoky, rich flavors of BBQ, Nashville is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re indulging in a Southern breakfast of biscuits and gravy, enjoying the sweetness of country ham, or sipping on some Tennessee whiskey, the city’s food scene will leave you craving more.
To make the most of your trip, I highly recommend using platforms like Expedia, OpenTable, and Yelp to book reservations, check real-time reviews, and find the best deals. These resources will help ensure that your dining experience in Nashville is as smooth as possible, leaving you with plenty of time to savor every bite.
If you’re planning your trip to Nashville, come hungry—because the food scene here is truly something you won’t want to miss!
