37 Best Southern Restaurants in Nashville

“Husk offers delicious food with good drinks, following a farm-to-table style. While portions may not be huge, the taste makes up for it. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere with knowledgeable and friendly staff. Special occasions like anniversaries are celebrated with personalized menus and cards. The servers, like Claudia, are fun and attentive, providing an elevated dining experience. It's a great Nashville restaurant for those looking for quality farm-to-table dishes.“

“Acme Feed & Seed offers a unique dining experience with a great atmosphere and live music entertainment. The rooftop dining area provides a pleasant escape from the busy city. The menu includes a variety of options, including sushi and poke bowls. The service is attentive, and the staff is friendly. While some dishes like the fries might not be perfect, the overall food quality is good. The cold beer selection is impressive, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal. A great choice for those looking for a country vibe in the heart of the city.“

“Hattie B's Hot Chicken is a popular spot in Nashville's Midtown, known for its delicious and juicy chicken. With quick and friendly service, the restaurant offers a variety of sides to complement its mouth-watering meals. The rustic, small-scale setting provides a fun and lively atmosphere. While lines can be long, they move quickly and are well worth the wait.“

“Mason's Nashville, located in the Loews hotel, serves delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The breakfast menu features standouts like French Toast with whiskey pecan butter and the Rise & Shine, which includes 2 eggs, a selection of meat, and crispy potatoes. For dinner, the smoked French dip and chicken & dumpling soup are popular choices. The restaurant is open from 7am-1pm, and the bar is open in the evening, offering a cozy atmosphere with live music and attentive staff. The menu offers a decent selection of dishes, all presented well and tasting delicious. With friendly and accommodating staff, reasonable prices, and a fun atmosphere, Mason's Nashville is a great choice for a meal or evening out.“

“Biscuit Love Gulch in Nashville is a must-visit breakfast spot. Known for their delicious bonuts and sausage gravy and biscuits, it offers a variety of tasty menu options. The best biscuit in Tennessee, this restaurant supports military and veterans. Despite being busy, the staff is friendly and helpful, guiding first-timers through the process. The atmosphere is cozy, making it a great place to enjoy amazing biscuit dishes in a peaceful setting.“

“Big Al's Deli in Nashville is a fantastic, friendly spot with rustic vibes and delicious, generous portions. The owners, Big Al and his son AJ, provide excellent service that makes you feel right at home. The 4 egg omelet made with dinosaur eggs is a must-try, and the chicken and waffles are moist and flavorful. The shrimp and grits are a bit spicy but incredibly tasty. The warm atmosphere and friendly service create a vibe that feels like dining with family. Affordable prices make this spot a great choice for a satisfying breakfast or lunch. Don't miss out on the opportunity to bond with Big Al over your favorite sports teams.“

“Butcher & Bee is a restaurant that consistently impresses its guests with its exceptional food and service. Whether hosting a private event or a small wedding reception, the restaurant delivers a magical dining experience. The staff is attentive, personable, and ensures that every guest feels welcomed and cared for. The menu features a variety of flavorful dishes, from the creamy and salty whipped feta to the perfectly cooked trout with crispy skin. The desserts, such as the chocolate layer cake and the pistachio mousse cake, are also standouts. The restaurant's passion for food is evident in every bite, and guests leave feeling satisfied and eager to return.“

“The Nashville Jam Co. is a quaint restaurant located in a residential neighborhood, serving delicious food in a cozy setting. The menu, although smaller than most, offers standout dishes such as breakfast tacos with sausage, blueberry pancakes, and biscuits with peach jam. Their strawberry jam and peach habanero jam are must-tries. The service is praised for being phenomenal, with attentive waitstaff. However, seating is limited, and there may be some mix-ups with orders during busy hours. Despite this, the restaurant's unique atmosphere and delicious food make it worth visiting, and many customers plan to return on future trips to Nashville.“

“The Loveless Cafe is a well-known historic restaurant with adjacent gift shops, offering a Southern food experience. It serves delicious biscuits and has breakfast available all day, along with excellent lunch options. Their food, including first-rate desserts like key lime pie and Steeplechase pie, has been highly praised. The staff is friendly, and it's recommended to check in at the restaurant before exploring the shops in case of a wait.“

“Prince's Hot Chicken Shack South offers consistently great quality chicken with a spice level that does not mess around. The sides are decent, and the kid-friendly menu includes plain tenders and fries with just a tiny bit of spice. The chicken is excellent, with the extra hot option being particularly well-executed. The restaurant is often busy, so it's recommended to visit either early or after the rush hour. The Andre's Chicken Sandwich, with Kickin' Ranch sauce and XXX Hot Sauce, is a standout menu item, featuring a perfectly crispy batter. The overall food, service, and atmosphere are excellent, and the presence of the owner on weekends adds to the experience.“

“City House is an Italian restaurant that primarily focuses on pizza, although it was assumed to have a wider pasta selection. The service can be initially inattentive, but the staff, including Eric and Sal, are friendly. They are knowledgeable about dietary restrictions, such as Celiac disease, and can accommodate accordingly. The food is served at a good pace and the cocktails are enjoyable. Overall, it is a recommended restaurant in Nashville that has stood the test of time.“

“Prince's Hot Chicken serves delicious and juicy hot chicken, seasoned to perfection. The medium rare option is quite spicy, even for those with a European palate. Sides, such as fries and coleslaw, are also tasty. The service is attentive and quick, with food ready in as little as 5-10 minutes. While the atmosphere is a food court, the food makes up for it. Highly recommended for those seeking authentic Nashville hot chicken.“

“Arnold's Country Kitchen is a soul food restaurant with a cafeteria-style setup that offers a variety of delicious dishes. While some found the roast beef a bit too bloody, others raved about the brisket and cornbread. The food can be a bit salty, especially the greens and mac and cheese. Make sure to bring cash to avoid extra charges. The bread pudding and chess pie are highly recommended desserts. The restaurant closes early, so plan accordingly. Overall, Arnold's Country Kitchen is a must-visit spot for a taste of Southern hospitality and flavorful comfort food.“

“The Row Kitchen & Pub is a fantastic restaurant with a nice atmosphere, offering quick and excellent service. Their food, including salads, fried pickles, meatloaf, and various brunch entrees, is delicious and brought out promptly. The meatloaf has a spicy sauce that adds a kick. It's a great spot for watching live music, and parking is convenient with free onsite options.“

“Hattie B's Hot Chicken in Nashville's Melrose area is renowned for its delicious fried chicken. The chicken tenders are particularly succulent and crispy, and the medium spicy option offers a flavorful and slightly spicy experience. The comeback sauce, blue cheese dip, and sides like fries and pimento mac n cheese are also highly regarded. The restaurant boasts a great atmosphere, excellent staff, and efficient service. Despite the small on-site parking, street parking is available. Prices are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a meal.“

“Edley's Bar-B-Que is a popular destination for Southern-style BBQ in Nashville. The restaurant serves tender and flavorful meats, including brisket and pork sandwiches, and offers a variety of options to suit every taste. The staff is friendly and attentive, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Diners can expect generous portion sizes and a range of side dishes, including creamy mac and cheese, buttery and moist cornbread, and traditional banana pudding. With multiple locations in Nashville, Edley's Bar-B-Que is a must-visit for BBQ lovers.“

“Ole Red Nashville Airport offers a wonderful atmosphere with live music and great food. The service is friendly and attentive, with a smile. The menu features delicious options like the big ole burrito and avo smashed toast, a cut above average airport food. A lovely spot to hang out during a layover, with a solid vibe and delightful live music performances.“

“Red's Hot Chicken, located near Vanderbilt campus, is a gem serving the best Nashville hot chicken in town. Made to order food like the hot chicken plate with pimento mac and cheese and seasoned fries is a killer meal but worth the wait. The adjacent Springwater bar adds to the experience, offering a place to enjoy your food while chatting with the friendly bartender. With great fried chicken, free pool, and a welcoming atmosphere, Red's Hot Chicken is a must-visit spot for delicious food in Nashville.“

“Meal POPs is a delightful restaurant that offers a unique and whimsical dining experience. The staff is incredibly accommodating and the food is exceptional, with standout dishes like the KFC cauliflower, burger, and shrimp temaki. The secret garden pop-up theme creates a fantastic and whimsical ambiance, perfect for a girls' night or a romantic evening. While the service may have been slow on one occasion, the overall experience is highly recommended, especially for group celebrations. The adorable specialty cocktails and the inviting outdoor patio add to the charm of this establishment.“

“Jane's Hideaway is a unique restaurant with a funky, cool atmosphere and decor. The menu is limited, but everything ordered is good. The restaurant has live music almost every night, which may not be suitable for everyone after 8pm. The food is delicious, with dishes like chicken pot pie and crawfish pasta being particularly praised. The whiskey menu is also impressive and fairly priced. Overall, Jane's Hideaway is a great spot for those who love food, music, and good company.“

“JWB Grill Nashville offers a fantastic dining experience with excellent customer service and a welcoming atmosphere. The cheeseburger is a must-try, and the skillet cookie with ice cream is a top-notch dessert choice. The music adds to the enjoyable ambiance, making it a great spot for a meal out.“

“Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish is a local favorite in Nashville, serving up delicious and fresh food. The menu is simple, offering chicken and whitefish options, but the flavors are bold and satisfying. Be warned, however, that the spice level can be intense, with options like the SC Ripper and Ghost Pepper. The restaurant may look unassuming from the outside, but the food is hot and plentiful. Orders are placed at a window in the cooking area and served at a classic 1950s-style table. With a variety of sides to choose from, including green beans and coleslaw, and a generous serving of meat, this casual eatery is a must-visit for those who dare to try the hottest of hot.“

“Puckett's Restaurant - Downtown Nashville offers a lively atmosphere and good food. The menu features a variety of BBQ options, including smoked chicken, brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. The pulled pork is a standout, especially when paired with spicy BBQ sauce. Sides like sweet potato fries and broccoli are also praised, while the Mac and cheese receives mixed reviews. Attentive servers ensure a pleasant dining experience.“

“The Nashville Biscuit House is a charming and cozy restaurant in Nashville, offering delicious comfort food at reasonable prices. The staff is friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming atmosphere. From classic Southern dishes to indulgent pancakes, the menu has something for everyone. A must-try is the mouthwatering fried pork chop with creamy Mac and cheese and crispy tots. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this restaurant is a Nashville staple that won't disappoint. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal with friends or family, making every visit a memorable one. Highly recommended for those craving comfort food done right in Nashville.“

“Wendell Smith's Restaurant offers traditional southern comfort food, including the best lasagna and ribs in town. The menu features fresh vegetables, yams, cornbread, and delicious desserts. The home cooking has been a favorite for over 40 years. While not fancy, it's the perfect spot for those craving a homecooked meal. Vegetarian options are available with a variety of veggies to choose from daily. Parking might be a bit challenging, so it's recommended to arrive early. A visit to Wendell's promises a treat for your taste buds with its classic and delicious offerings.“

“At Marsh House, enjoy a wonderful time with friends at happy hour, featuring $1.50 oysters and incredible shrimp toast. Savor fresh and delicious seafood, and don't skip dessert. Top-tier service ensures a lovely evening, with attentive servers and a warm atmosphere.“

“Party Fowl Donelson is a must-visit restaurant that exceeds expectations. With its huge space, it's perfect for large groups and families. The menu boasts delicious options like the Hot Chicken and Beignets, Brick Tattooed Chicken, and flavorful Piggy Chips. The servers, like Katie, provide exceptional service, offering personalized recommendations and attentive care throughout the meal. The atmosphere is fun and relaxed, making it an ideal spot for families with kids of all ages. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Party Fowl Donelson is a great choice for a phenomenal dining experience.“

“The Farm House offers a charming and relaxing environment, perfect for a special celebration or a quiet dinner. The menu features a variety of healthy and traditional options, including delicious dishes like pigs ears, lamb ragout, and trout. The portions are generous, and the Pimento Beignets are a must-try. With excellent service from knowledgeable waiters, The Farm House is a great choice for a memorable dining experience.“

“Ed's Fish House - North Nashville Location is a popular spot that serves up delicious and flavorful dishes. The fish sandwich is a standout favorite, with many customers raving about its amazing taste. The staff is always cordial and welcoming. While some may lament the long lines, many visitors are willing to wait for a taste of their favorite dishes. The menu may have changed over the years, with some items, like pizza, no longer available. Despite the prices, many customers will return for more of Ed's Fish House's tasty eats.“

“The Picnic Cafe & Party Catering is a cozy, bright, and friendly spot that offers a delightful dining experience. The menu features a variety of tasty options, including the quiche of the day, which boasts a great level of flavor and texture, and the harvest muffin, which is warm and delightful. The cranberry salad is also an interesting choice. The food is described as filling, and the staff is kind and helpful. The decor is adorable, and the breakfast is delicious, with the muffins being particularly wonderful. The owner is also praised for engaging with customers, such as speaking with a visitor about her beautiful plate collection. The restaurant caters to the "country club" set, with a mostly blue and white signature decor in their new, larger location. The menu is geared more towards women and luncheons, with a focus on salads and sandwiches. The sandwiches are described as being packed and above ordinary, while the little sides like fruit salad and potato salads are made with care. The fruit punch is also a favorite, although it is noted to be quite sugary.“

“Monell's is a unique family-style, all-you-can-eat Southern cooking restaurant in Nashville. The fried chicken, cinnamon rolls, and corn are standout dishes, and the dining experience of sharing tables with strangers is considered a fun and memorable part of the visit. Customers praise the fantastic food and the beautiful outdoor waiting areas.“

“400 Degrees offers the best Nashville hot chicken in town. The 200-degree leg and thigh were juicy, although a bit salty. Ordering ahead is recommended due to wait times. The hot chicken is described as flavorful, juicy, and worth the wait. With only two locations, it might be a challenge to find, but the quality of the food makes it one of the best hot chicken spots in town.“

“Gray & Dudley in Nashville offers a mix of experiences. While some find the waitstaff lacking focus and the wine mediocre, others enjoyed a lively drag show brunch on Valentine’s Day. The breakfast service impressed with a chef willing to go the extra mile, friendly bartender, and March madness on TV. A dinner visit showcased good food and drinks, attentive service, and cute decor, leaving a positive impression for a return visit.“

“TKO serves delicious Chinese-adjacent food with ample portions, offering many gluten-free options. The menu changes seasonally and caters to various dietary restrictions. Enjoy top-quality ingredients, piping hot dishes, and criminally underrated cocktails in a clean and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for small or large groups.“

“Paula Deen's Family Kitchen offers a homestyle experience with excellent service. Friendly staff, like Cassandra, make guests feel welcome. The food is delicious, with dishes prepared to perfection. A great choice for special occasions, like birthdays, with attentive servers ensuring a memorable dining experience.“

“Party Fowl in the airport offers a variety of slushy drinks and hot chicken, making it a great spot for a quick and easy meal. The tenders and Nashville hot are tasty options, but be cautious of the spicy hot sauce. The service is good, and the atmosphere, while quiet on a Friday evening, allows for a pleasant experience to grab a brew, some food, and catch sports before a flight.“

“Meridian Street Café & Bar in Nashville is a hidden gem worth discovering. Whether you're there for breakfast or to enjoy the vibes, the incredible food and friendly service make it a must-visit spot. With a variety of menu options, great music, and tasty mimosas, it's the perfect place to celebrate or relax with friends. The reasonable prices and welcoming atmosphere will have you coming back for more. Don't miss out on this wonderful dining experience!“