Where Should I Eat in Nashville? (Caitlyn’s Recommendations as a Sorta-Local)

Where Should I Eat?

I’m all about food that doubles as an experience when I travel, so I tried to keep that in mind with these recommendations. Most of these spots aren’t downtown, so just a heads-up if you find yourself wandering Broadway drunk and hungry without a car. I included my favorite thing from each place—let me know if you try any of them and what you think!

P.S These prices are just based on ordering food. Of course, if you buy 3 cocktails or 5 beers, it’s going to be more expensive… the liquor tax in Nashville is 15%.

Ballin’ on a Budget?

I’m normally hanging out in this category, so here are a few solid suggestions if your trip budget is adding up fast (or you’d just rather spend money on the beer and the bands). A few of my favorite places to eat that are budget friendly (think $20 or less per person including tip).

1. Baja Burrito
   • Essentially a locally owned Chipotle, but substantially yummier in my opinion.
   • Try: The Chicken Burrito with a side of their fruit tea.
     
2. Bobby’s Dairy Dip
   • A local ice cream shop. No indoor seating, essentially a little trailer, but it’s so good!
   • Try: Ali Baba Shake (think a Chai Latte but add in ice-cream)
     
3. Crieve Hall Bagel Company
   • If you know me you know I love bread, and bagels are one of the best kinds of bread. It’s sourdough and delicious.
   • Try: Autumn Brie-Ze bagel sandwich on an everything bagel!
     
4. Maple Street Biscuit Company
   • You can’t go to the south without eating biscuits… it’s honestly a right of passage.
   • Try: The Farmer Biscuit Sandwich and some Smashbrowns!
     If you’re somehow still hungry their iced cinnamon biscuits are also mouth watering.
     
5. Elliston Place Soda Shop
   • A classic Old Fashion Diner. It’s a “meat and three’ which is a traditional southern thing. Essentially it just means you can get a meat with three sides. It’s been open since 1939! If you want to feel like you’re in the Grease movie, or just want some good and affordable eats, I would highly recommend.
   • Try: An icecream soda! I did the blackberry lavender last time (swoon), but the flavor combos are unlimited!
     
6. Tailgate Pizza / Brewery
   • Super chill spot to hangout and watch sports (or not watch sports if you’re not into that kinda thing…) They have multiple locations, but my favorite is the OG one on Charlotte Pike. It’s got a ton of outside seating and is a great place to hangout. Their pizza is super good, and may I recommend you go on Wednesday when they serve half price pizza (dine-in).
   • Try: All of them are good, but my current favorite is the Spicy Vodka Pizza!

Goldilocks Spots

If you’re looking for something right in the middle – average priced (for Nashville), try one of these! You can expect to spend $20-$50 at any of these locations. I’ve listed them by where they fall in that price range.

1. VN Pho
   • I love this little hole in the wall restaurant. Cash only. Vietnamese food. The staff is very friendly and will happily educate you if you don’t know where to start with Vietnamese food!
   • Try: Vietnamese Coffee (if you like your Starbucks and sweet drinks). I am very obsessed with their spring rolls/ peanut sauce, but obviously (if you couldn’t tell from their business name) they’re known for their Pho.
2. Burger Up!
   • This is such a classic crowd pleaser. Chill atmosphere, great happy hour, solid local sourced food. Everyone can find something they like that fits their dietary preferences and taste pallet.
   • Try: The Woodstock Burger and sweet potato fries! Also their Kale Salad is literally what made me a kale fan.
     
3. Hampton Social
   • Mostly known for their coastal cuisine but this restaurant is near Broadway downtown. It’s serving good vibes, and a slightly elevated atmosphere. This would be a great option for celebrating a bachelorette party, date night, etc. They also have some very Instagram-worthy cocktails and are known for rose/froze if you’re into that sort of thing.
     Try:
     Their Banana Cream “Pie” (I say “pie” because it’s served on a waffle and it’s freaking delicious).

YOLO It’s Vacation!

If you’re one of those people who think money doesn’t matter when you’re on vacation, and you’re just in it for the good vibes, good times, and good eats – here are my recommendations that are a little pricier ($50+ per person)

1. House of Cards
   • I thought the food was good, but honestly you go here for the immaculate vibes! It’s a hidden restaurant, no phones out, and magic that will absolutely impress the hell out of you! The magic was so good, it actually freaked me out a little… (at one point the magician somehow got my applewatch off my wrist and onto his without me noticing). This is a really cool experience. Also if you like wagyu or seafood – that’s kinda their thing. They also have a weird menu so mentally prepare for the fact that if you are an adult that eats like a toddler (chicken strips and hamburger gang), you will probably be a little scared of your options. Expect to spend 2-3 hours here enjoying the shows, food, and magic!
     Pro Tip: Even if they tell you that the sides are small and not share worthy they are lying. Also you probably don’t need a side to fill you up, so only get them if you’re just wanting to try more things – the portions are fairly standard if not slightly large for their regular entrées.
     Try: The Burrata Salad
     
2. Mangia
   • Honestly this is one of my favorite experiences in Nashville! They do a dinner event on Friday’s and Saturdays. You need to have a reservation. They’re certified gluten free for my friends who struggle with celiac, but they’ve also got plenty of gluten-filled options for those of us who don’t. This is a three hour event filled with great Italian food, dancing, and good vibes. I would definitely recommend!
     Try: It’s a chef curated menu, so you don’t get to pick your food.. however their charcoal focaccia still sneaks into my dreams.