Hey there, fellow foodies! As a self-proclaimed adventurous diner, I’ve scoured every nook and cranny of Nashville to bring you my top 10 favorite restaurants in the area. From farm-to-table eateries to down-home BBQ joints, there’s something for every type of palate on this list. So come along for the ride as we explore the best of the best in Music City!
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Husk
If you’re looking for Southern cuisine with a modern twist, then Husk is the spot for you. Located in a cozy, historic home in downtown Nashville, Husk sources its ingredients from local farms and markets. The result? Mouthwatering dishes like skillet cornbread with sorghum butter and the crispy pig ear salad. Don’t forget to order their infamous burger, topped with Benton’s bacon and American cheese. Trust me, it’s worth the hype.
You’ll leave Husk feeling like you’ve tasted the essence of Nashville’s culinary soul.
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Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack
No discussion of Nashville cuisine would be complete without mentioning hot chicken. And if you ask any local where to find the best hot chicken in town, they’ll likely point you in the direction of Prince’s. This humble little spot has been serving up fiery, crispy chicken for over 100 years, and their secret spice blend is not for the faint of heart. Be sure to order a side of white bread to sop up the heat.
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Prince’s is a must-visit for any true hot chicken lover.
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The Catbird Seat
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, look no further than The Catbird Seat. This intimate, 22-seat restaurant offers front-row seats to all the culinary action, as the chefs prepare a seasonal tasting menu right before your eyes. The dishes are as visually stunning as they are delicious, and the wine pairings are expertly chosen. Reservations are a must, so plan ahead!
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The Catbird Seat is the perfect spot for a special occasion or a splurge-worthy night out.
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Arnold’s Country Kitchen
If you’re in the mood for classic Southern comfort food, Arnold’s is the spot for you. This cafeteria-style restaurant has been serving up home-cooked goodness for over 30 years, and the line out the door at lunchtime is a testament to its popularity. Be sure to try the meat-and-three plate, which lets you choose a main dish and three sides (the mac and cheese and fried green tomatoes are not to be missed).
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Arnold’s will make you feel like you’re dining at your grandma’s house, if your grandma happened to be a master chef.
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Rolf and Daughters
This industrial-style restaurant in the Germantown neighborhood serves up rustic Italian fare with a modern twist. The menu changes frequently, but you can always count on beautifully presented pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas. The open kitchen adds an extra level of excitement to the dining experience, and their creative cocktail menu is not to be missed.
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Rolf and Daughters is a great spot for a date night or a dinner with friends.
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Edley’s Bar-B-Que
Nashville is famous for its BBQ, and Edley’s is one of the best in town. They start smoking their meat at 3 am every morning, resulting in perfectly tender and flavorful brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. Their loaded baked potato salad and banana pudding are also noteworthy sides. Plus, their patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer on a sunny day.
Find out more about Edley’s Bar-B-Que
Edley’s is a casual, laid-back spot that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a family dinner.
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Biscuit Love
As the name suggests, Biscuit Love is all about the biscuits. But these aren’t your average biscuits – they’re fluffy, buttery, and stuffed with creative fillings like hot chicken and lemon mascarpone. Their brunch is a favorite among locals, and the line out the door at their Gulch location is a testament to its popularity. Be sure to try their famous Bonuts (biscuit donuts)!
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Biscuit Love is a breakfast and brunch lover’s paradise.
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The Pharmacy
This Germantown beer garden is the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends. Their burgers are made with grass-fed beef and served on homemade buns, and their selection of craft beers is second to none. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with communal tables and live music on weekends. Pro tip: be sure to order a side of their crispy tater tots.
The Pharmacy is a laid-back spot that’s perfect for a night of good food and good company.
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Otaku Ramen
Nashville might not be known for its ramen, but Otaku is changing that reputation one bowl at a time. Their rich, savory broth and perfectly cooked noodles are a standout, and the creative toppings (like pork belly and soft-boiled eggs) take it to the next level. They also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, so everyone can enjoy a steaming bowl of comfort.
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Otaku is a casual spot that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner with friends.
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Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Last but certainly not least, we have another hot chicken spot that’s worth the wait in line. Hattie B’s has multiple locations in Nashville, each serving up their signature spicy-but-not-too-spicy chicken (you can choose your heat level). Be sure to get a side of pimento mac and cheese to cool down your taste buds!
Find out more about Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Hattie B’s is a Nashville staple that’s not to be missed by any hot chicken lover.