Before exploring the city, fuel up with some of the best breakfast and brunch offerings in Nashville. From classic Southern biscuits to Instagram-worthy pancakes, here are some top picks:
1. Biscuit Love
đź“Ť Locations: The Gulch, Hillsboro Village
Biscuit Love started as a food truck and quickly became one of Nashville’s most beloved breakfast spots. Their famous “Bonuts”—a hybrid of a biscuit and a donut—are a must-try. Also, don’t miss their East Nasty, a buttermilk biscuit with fried chicken, cheddar, and sausage gravy.
2. Loveless Cafe
đź“Ť Location: Highway 100
For a truly Southern breakfast, Loveless Cafe is a legendary institution. Known for its flaky, buttery biscuits served with homemade jams, it has been serving up comfort food since 1951. Their country ham, sausage gravy, and hashbrown casserole are worth the short drive from downtown.
3. Pancake Pantry
đź“Ť Location: Hillsboro Village
This Nashville staple has been serving up pancakes for over 60 years. The Sweet Potato Pancakes are a local favorite, topped with cinnamon cream syrup. Be prepared for a wait, as this place is always packed with tourists and locals alike.
Lunch Hot Spots: Where to Find Midday Eats
After a morning of sightseeing, you’ll need a satisfying lunch. Nashville’s diverse food scene offers everything from hot chicken to gourmet burgers.
4. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack
đź“Ť Locations: Several across Nashville
You can’t visit Nashville without trying its signature hot chicken. Prince’s is the original, serving fiery fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Choose your spice level wisely—extra hot is not for the faint of heart!
5. Arnold’s Country Kitchen
đź“Ť Location: 8th Avenue South
A no-frills meat-and-three (choose one meat and three sides), Arnold’s is a James Beard Award-winning restaurant that serves Southern soul food at its best. Their fried catfish, roast beef, and mac & cheese keep locals and visitors coming back.
6. Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
đź“Ť Locations: Midtown, West Nashville, and more
Another strong contender in the hot chicken game, Hattie B’s is known for its perfectly fried chicken, ranging from mild to the infamous Shut the Cluck Up spice level. Pair it with pimento mac & cheese and Southern greens.
7. The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden
đź“Ť Location: East Nashville
If you’re craving a burger, The Pharmacy is the place to go. This retro-style burger joint serves juicy, house-ground beef patties with creative toppings. The Farm Burger, topped with bacon, country ham, and a fried egg, is a must-try. They also have one of the best beer gardens in town.
Afternoon Sweet Treats: Where to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Take a break from exploring and indulge in some of Nashville’s most delicious desserts.
8. Five Daughters Bakery
đź“Ť Locations: 12 South, East Nashville
Their 100-layer donuts are legendary, made with croissant-like layers of flaky, buttery goodness. Try their famous King Kong donut, topped with maple glaze and bacon.
9. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
đź“Ť Locations: Multiple across Nashville
Jeni’s offers unique and seasonal ice cream flavors made with high-quality ingredients. Try Brambleberry Crisp, Brown Butter Almond Brittle, or Wildberry Lavender for a taste of something different.
10. Goo Goo Cluster Shop
đź“Ť Location: Downtown Nashville
This Nashville-born candy has been around since 1912, made with caramel, nougat, peanuts, and chocolate. Visit their shop to make your own custom Goo Goo Cluster and learn about its history.
Dinner Destinations: Must-Visit Restaurants for a Night Out
Nashville’s dinner scene is diverse, offering everything from upscale dining experiences to casual Southern eateries.
11. Husk
đź“Ť Location: Rutledge Hill
Helmed by award-winning chefs, Husk redefines Southern cuisine with farm-to-table ingredients. Their cornbread, country ham, and fresh seafood dishes showcase local flavors in the best way possible.
12. The Catbird Seat
đź“Ť Location: Midtown
If you’re a fan of multi-course tasting menus, The Catbird Seat offers a chef’s table experience that changes with the seasons. It’s one of the city’s most exclusive dining experiences, so reservations are a must.
13. Rolf & Daughters
đź“Ť Location: Germantown
This trendy restaurant offers New American cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Their handmade pasta dishes, fermented sourdough bread, and seasonal small plates are highly rated.
14. City House
đź“Ť Location: Germantown
A mix of Southern and Italian flavors, City House is known for its wood-fired pizzas, house-cured meats, and unique pasta dishes. Their belly ham pizza with egg is a standout.
15. Peg Leg Porker
đź“Ť Location: The Gulch
For authentic Tennessee BBQ, Peg Leg Porker is a go-to spot. Their dry-rub ribs, smoked wings, and pulled pork sandwiches make for a finger-licking good meal.
Late-Night Eats: Where to Satisfy Your Cravings After Dark
After a night of honky-tonking on Broadway, you’ll need something delicious to soak up the drinks.
16. The Donut + Dog
đź“Ť Location: Belmont Blvd
Serving up gourmet hot dogs and craft donuts, this late-night eatery is an unexpected gem. Their Elote Dog, topped with Mexican street corn flavors, is a must-try.
17. Dino’s Bar & Grill
đź“Ť Location: East Nashville
Nashville’s oldest dive bar, Dino’s, serves up greasy, delicious burgers that hit the spot after a night out. Their Dino’s Cheeseburger is legendary.
18. Robert’s Western World
đź“Ť Location: Broadway
Not only is this one of the best honky-tonk bars, but their late-night Fried Bologna Sandwich is famous. Grab a cheap beer and enjoy live country music while you eat.
Nashville Food Festivals & Events to Plan Around
If you’re planning your visit around food, check out these top culinary events:
- Nashville Hot Chicken Festival (July 4th) – A celebration of the city’s most famous dish.
- Music City Food + Wine Festival (September) – Features celebrity chefs, wine tastings, and live cooking demos.
- Tomato Art Fest (August) – A quirky festival celebrating tomatoes with food, drinks, and art.
- Nashville Scene’s Burger Week (July) – Try discounted burgers at top spots across the city.
Final Thoughts: Eating Your Way Through Nashville
From hot chicken joints to fine dining establishments, Nashville is a paradise for foodies. Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food, BBQ, or international flavors, Music City delivers. With so many incredible eateries to choose from, you might want to come hungry and stay a little longer.
Ready to explore Nashville’s culinary scene? Let your taste buds guide the way! 🍽️ 🎶
