Ask 10 Nashville residents what the best restaurants are in town, and you are liable to get 10 different answers. This is probably true of any major city. What can’t be said of any major city is the unique blending of cultural influences both past and present that the Music City enjoys. This is certainly true of the available nightlife, and of course, the music scene. It also spills over into Nashville’s budding food scene, where everything from down home southern cooking to modern, experimental cuisine is on display. With all of this in mind, today we will discuss some of the highlights of Nashville’s culinary offerings for both tourists and locals.
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The Rise of Nashville’s Restaurant Scene
Before diving into some picks for restaurants, bars, and other eateries, first let’s explore what makes dining in Nashville such a unique experience. Nashville, often referred to as the Music City, has a historical significance to the United States that is often overlooked in favor of bigger cities like New York, Philadelphia, or Atlanta. Yet the mix of ideas, cultures, and historical events which have shaped this reason are hugely significant to the development of a modern and unique food scene.
Part of the Nashville restaurant explosion has been the influx of young workers from around the globe. Nashville is a budding tech hub, which means youthful residents with a little extra cash burning a hole in their wallets. Where chefs may have previously turned to New Orleans or Atlanta to make a name for themselves in the Southeast, Nashville is becoming an appealing option. This of course has led to a number of nationally recognized food spots that have since elevated the food offerings in the city overall.
We believe that Nashville’s food scene will continue to grow and develop as the region transitions from a traditional southern locale to a modern city. Of course, the regional history and deeply embedded culture just add flavor (literal and metaphorical) to the food landscape!
Can’t Miss Restaurants and Bars in Nashville
Going back to the introduction, there is no question that there are too many great spots in Nashville to name in a single list. That being said, here are a few of our favorites that visitors and locals are sure to enjoy:
Urban Grub: Fresh Fish & Fine Aged Meats
For a modern take on Nashville classics, Urban Grub is a perfect place to start. Founded in 2012, this restaurant picked up steam quickly with its whacky location (an old car wash) and diverse menu. In terms of amenities: “The design of the restaurant features a rustic elegance, filled with custom woodwork, stone fireplaces and rounded booths tucked in intimate corners. Urban Grub offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a combination of the two in the beer garden with a view of the restaurant’s meat curing room, as well as a covered gazebo for larger parties.”
Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint
A Nashville landmark, Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint (mind the spelling) features “West Tennessee Whole Hog Bar-B-Que. And hoo boy does it deliver. Martin’s also has several locations which are sure to be convenient no matter where you are in and around Nashville.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Another Nashville classic, Hattie B’s is a can’t miss spot for authentic, Southern fried chicken. Even the menus scream authentic southern food. Much like Martin’s, Hattie B’s has found its home as both a tourist attraction and a regular haunt for locals. Don’t mind the hats and t-shirts, this place is still authentic Nashville.
Five Daughters Bakery
For those with a sweet tooth Five Daughters Bakery is a modern bakery that does things old school. (If you are noticing a trend, you are absolutely correct.) Five Daughters Bakery was founded by Isaac and Stephanie Meek alongside their five daughters to deliver baked goods with “No chemical preservatives. No GMO. No hydrogenated oils. No soy. No artificial colors or flavors. Our treats are made daily from scratch, sourcing locally and fresh, from our family to yours.”
While we only had the space for four unique options, Nashville’s food scene is well worth exploring! Tourists and locals are encouraged to take some chances on new places or ask around for some hidden gems.
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