Whether you’re a local like me, who's been around these parts since 2012, or just visiting, these dining experiences are bound to leave a lasting impression. And trust me, after driving my friends and family around town for over a decade, I know a good meal when I taste one.
Drusie & Darr
Tucked inside the Hermitage Hotel, Drusie & Darr isn’t just another fancy restaurant—it’s a culinary masterpiece led by none other than the French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. If you think Nashville's all about hot chicken and BBQ, this place will change your mind.
The ambiance? Imagine a plush, futurist design with soft hues that make you feel like you've stepped into a serene dream.
Their Burrata with strawberry compote is not just a dish; it’s an experience. And let’s not forget the carrot schnitzel—yes, you read that right, a schnitzel made from carrots. For those of us who have seen Nashville grow and evolve, this spot is a reminder of how far our food scene has come.
Big Al's Deli
If you’re after a no-frills, down-home Southern meal, Big Al’s Deli is where you want to be. Now, this isn’t the kind of place you go to for a five-course meal. No, Big Al’s is all about comfort food that sticks to your ribs and warms your soul.
And the man himself? Big Al is practically a local celebrity, having been featured on Food Network and regional TV shows. His four-slice French toast platter is the stuff of legends, and don’t even get me started on the shrimp and grits.
As someone who's walked the streets of downtown Nashville for years, places like Big Al's remind me of the city's heart and soul—simple, genuine, and unforgettable.
Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack
You can’t talk about Nashville without mentioning hot chicken, and you can’t talk about hot chicken without paying homage to Prince’s. This is the place where it all began, folks. Run by Thorton Prince’s great-niece, Andre Prince Jeffries, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack is the original, the one that started the fiery craze.
Their hot chicken isn’t just a dish; it’s a rite of passage for anyone new to the city. You choose your heat level, but a word of advice—don’t be a hero. Whether you’re here on a casual visit or, like me, you’ve been exploring Nashville for over a decade, this is one experience you simply can’t miss.
The Hampton Social
If you’re looking for a place that feels like a breath of fresh sea air in the middle of a bustling city, The Hampton Social is it. With its coastal-inspired decor and menu, it’s easy to forget you’re in the heart of Tennessee.
The lobster roll is buttery perfection, and the avocado corn pizza is as unique as it is delicious. The vibe here is relaxed yet chic, making it a perfect spot for a casual brunch or a laid-back dinner. As someone who’s spent countless weekends showing friends around town, I can tell you this place always hits the spot.
Hattie B's Hot Chicken
Sure, Prince’s might be the original, but Hattie B’s has carved out its own place in Nashville’s hot chicken scene. Known for its six different heat levels, Hattie B’s offers something for everyone—from the mild-mannered to the heat-seekers.
And don’t worry, they’ve got plenty of sides to cool you down, like their creamy coleslaw or potato salad. For those of us who call Nashville home, Hattie B’s is where we take our out-of-town guests when they say they want to “try something local.”
Robert's Western World
Last but not least, we have Robert’s Western World. This place is the epitome of what Nashville is all about—good food, good music, and good times. It's a lively honkytonk with some of the best live music in town. And while you’re tapping your feet to the tunes, don’t forget to order their cheeseburger and sweet potato fry basket.
It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve discovered one of Nashville’s best-kept secrets, even though it’s right there on Broadway. And as someone who’s been to every bar on that famous strip, I can tell you, Robert’s never disappoints.