Downtown Nashville, Tennessee is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From classic Southern comfort food to international cuisine, and from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this bustling downtown area. As a food lover, it can be overwhelming to navigate the numerous options and decide where to eat. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you discover the best places to eat in downtown Nashville.
Classic Southern Comfort Food
When it comes to classic Southern comfort food, downtown Nashville has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Here are a few must-try spots:
The Loveless Cafe
This iconic cafe has been a Nashville staple for over 60 years, serving up Southern favorites like fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, and sweet potato pie. Be sure to arrive early, as lines can be long on weekends.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
This popular hot chicken joint has gained a cult following, and for good reason. Their signature hot chicken is crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Don’t forget to try their sides, like the creamy coleslaw and crispy hushpuppies.
Edley’s Bar-B-Que
This barbecue joint offers a wide range of meats, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Be sure to try their signature “Notorious P.I.G.” sandwich, featuring pulled pork, bacon, and coleslaw on a bun.
International Cuisine
Downtown Nashville is also home to a diverse range of international cuisines, from Asian fusion to Latin American flavors. Here are a few standout spots:
Etch
This modern American bistro offers a seasonal menu that changes frequently, but always features creative and globally-inspired dishes. Be sure to try their signature “Etch Burger,” featuring a beef patty topped with foie gras and truffle aioli. (See Also: Where to Eat Peking Duck in Beijing? Top Rated Spots)
Las Paletas
This colorful Mexican eatery offers a wide range of creative tacos, from classic carnitas to more adventurous options like grilled octopus and chorizo. Don’t forget to try their signature paletas, or popsicles, in flavors like mango and chili lime.
Biscuit Love
This popular breakfast spot offers a wide range of creative biscuits, from classic buttermilk to more adventurous options like strawberry and brie. Be sure to try their signature “Bonuts,” or biscuit donuts, topped with powdered sugar and maple syrup.
Casual Eateries
When you’re looking for a quick and easy bite, downtown Nashville has plenty of casual eateries to choose from. Here are a few favorites:
The Catbird Seat
This popular food truck turned restaurant offers a wide range of creative sandwiches, from classic grilled cheese to more adventurous options like fried chicken and waffles. Be sure to try their signature “Catbird” sandwich, featuring fried chicken, bacon, and cheddar on a bun.
Five Daughters Bakery
This beloved bakery offers a wide range of sweet and savory treats, from classic cookies and cakes to more adventurous options like cinnamon rolls and s’mores bars. Be sure to try their signature “Famous 55” donuts, featuring 55 different toppings and flavors.
Acme Feed & Seed
This historic building turned restaurant offers a wide range of creative dishes, from classic burgers to more adventurous options like fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits. Be sure to try their signature “Acme Burger,” featuring a beef patty topped with cheddar, bacon, and a fried egg.
Upscale Restaurants
When you’re looking to splurge and treat yourself to a special dinner, downtown Nashville has plenty of upscale restaurants to choose from. Here are a few standouts: (See Also: Where to Eat Best Steak in Vegas? Ultimate Guide)
The Hermitage Hotel’s Capitol Grille
This historic hotel turned restaurant offers a wide range of creative American dishes, from classic filet mignon to more adventurous options like roasted scallops and pan-seared duck breast. Be sure to try their signature “Hermitage Burger,” featuring a beef patty topped with cheddar, bacon, and a fried egg.
The Old Glory
This upscale American bistro offers a wide range of creative dishes, from classic roasted chicken to more adventurous options like grilled octopus and roasted bone marrow. Be sure to try their signature “Old Glory Burger,” featuring a beef patty topped with cheddar, bacon, and a fried egg.
The 404 Kitchen
This trendy American bistro offers a wide range of creative dishes, from classic burgers to more adventurous options like roasted beet salad and grilled pork chops. Be sure to try their signature “404 Burger,” featuring a beef patty topped with cheddar, bacon, and a fried egg.
Recap
In conclusion, downtown Nashville offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From classic Southern comfort food to international cuisine, and from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and eclectic neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy bite or a special dinner, be sure to check out these standout spots and discover the best places to eat in downtown Nashville.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best place to eat in downtown Nashville?
A: The best place to eat in downtown Nashville depends on your personal preferences and budget. However, some popular options include Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Edley’s Bar-B-Que, and The Loveless Cafe for classic Southern comfort food, and Etch, Las Paletas, and Biscuit Love for international cuisine and creative dishes.
Q: Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in downtown Nashville?
A: Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options in downtown Nashville. Some popular spots include Biscuit Love, which offers a variety of vegan biscuits and sandwiches, and The Catbird Seat, which offers a variety of creative vegetarian and vegan dishes. (See Also: Where to Eat in Genting? Best Kept Secrets)
Q: Can I find gluten-free options in downtown Nashville?
A: Yes, many restaurants in downtown Nashville offer gluten-free options. Be sure to ask your server about gluten-free options when dining out, and consider visiting spots like The Loveless Cafe, which offers a variety of gluten-free biscuits and sandwiches.
Q: Are there any restaurants in downtown Nashville that offer outdoor seating?
A: Yes, many restaurants in downtown Nashville offer outdoor seating. Some popular spots include Acme Feed & Seed, which offers a rooftop bar and outdoor seating, and The Old Glory, which offers a patio area with outdoor seating.
Q: Can I find restaurants in downtown Nashville that are open late?
A: Yes, many restaurants in downtown Nashville are open late, especially in the entertainment district. Some popular spots include The Catbird Seat, which is open until 2am on weekends, and Acme Feed & Seed, which is open until 3am on weekends.