11 Unsuspecting Restaurants In Nashville With Food So Good It Should Be Illegal
By Meghan Kraft|Updated on October 21, 2023(Originally published March 02, 2017)
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
Within the past few years, Nashville has created a solid reputation for itself as the new foodie destination of the south. From Italian-infused southern classics to the cult-following behind our cayenne pepper-slathered hot chicken, there’s something for everyone to chow on in Music City. Sometimes, it’s hard to find hole-in-the-wall restaurants that have what you’re craving. Don’t worry, we’ve done some sleuthing for you and have put together the following list of some of the best diners in Nashville. At these restaurants, you’ll enjoy a hefty amount of southern fare without the tourists. These are spots that locals love to call their own – and you will, too.
This East Nashville eatery isn't just for biscuits - nah, you can get yourself a good burger, too. The tiny restaurant boasts a drive-thru window and a menu full of comfort food for both breakfast and lunch. Hence, we think it's one of the best restaurants in Nashville for a hearty meal.
Dino's is known as one of the oldest bars in Nashville, and it's the oldest in east Nashville. The small, brick-laden restaurant storefront is right off of Gallatin. Svor fries, PBRs., and more when you head here for some of the best dining in Nashville.
Every day is taco day at Mas Tacos Por Favor! Since the prices are so reasonable, you and a date could have a cheap, fun, and delicious night out trying fried avocado or a pulled pork Mexican delicacy. With scrumptious dishes like these, we think Miss Tacos Pro Favor deserves to be recognized as one of the award-winning restaurants in Nashville.
Grillshack Fries and Burgers - East Nashville is another great spot for burgers, but it's their wedge fries that truly set it apart from the rest. You won't have to drive through the hipster-studded streets to reach what's one of the best diners in Nashville. This spot is stuck hard in the middle of the residential Riverside area. Score!
Prince's is the king (ha) of hot chicken in Nashville. Most tourists will flock to Hattie B's like there's no tomorrow, but this quirky storefront and delicious menu are perfect if you have the time to wait. There's nothing like a line out the door to let you know you're at one of the best restaurants in Nashville.
There's nothing like an old-school diner, especially if you're visiting Brown's. You can find it stuck between Hillsboro Village and Green Hills, a tiny spot for those with a big appetite. We'd recommend their breakfast platters! When you sync your teeth into your meal, you'll understand why this is one of the best diners in Nashville.
Lucky for you, Samurai Sushi has a few locations in Nashville. This affordable and delicious restaurant has an eclectic array of Asian food on its menu. Hence, it's worth the trip when you're craving Japanese or Korean from one of the best restaurants in Nashville.
You'll get kicked out of Gabby's if you linger too long after your meal, simply because it's TINY and everyone needs a chance at their perfectly salted fries and gooey cheeseburgers. It's a local classic and a must-visit. As an FYI, you're only able to enjoy this best dining in Nashville during lunch.
This quirky Thai restaurant is a favorite amongst local college students and has given 8th Avenue South a bit of an Asian culture infusion. We love the Pad Thai, but anything you order from this wood-laden eatery is delicious and fairly easy on the wallet. Hence, one of the best restaurants in Nashville for anyone and everyone.
We suggest you come hungry when you head to this hole-in-wall joint. Once you see the massive portions, you'll get why it's one of the
best diners in Nashville.
This hidden gem is one of the
best restaurants in Nashville for delicious Southern and Middle Eastern-inspired food in a relaxed setting.
Have you had a chance to dine at any of these best diners in Nashville? Feel free to share which ones were your favorites in the following comment section. For more suggestions of where to eat, we also recommend these unique places to dine in Nashville.
Aside from eating your way through Nashville, visit Viator for fun ideas about what to do when you’re in the city.
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More to Explore
Best Diners In Nashville
Marla S. |October 21, 2023
What are some award-winning restaurants in Nashville?
Take a look at some award-winning restaurants in Nashville worth visiting the next time you're in Tennessee:
Arnold’s Country Kitchen: This delicious and unassuming restaurant has been recognized by numerous media outlets. It's also one of the many James Bear Award-winning restaurants.
Husk: James Beard Award-winning Chef Sean Brock leads the team at this stunning restaurant with an impressive menu.
Pelican & Pig: Guests come from near and far to sink their teeth in award-winning dishes like fried cheese and Creole BBQ shrimp/
Want to learn more? Take a look at these Nashville restaurants that have received James Beard Award nominations too.
What are some of the best restaurants in Nashville for a unique dining experience?
