As Restaurant365 takes over Nashville for our Restaurant Transformation Festival, get ready to explore the latest industry innovations and enjoy the city’s incredible dining scene. It’s going to be an unforgettable mix of insights and great food!
Whether you’re in Nashville for the RTF Nashville, you call this city home—or just hoping to catch a glimpse of your favorite country star—be sure to check out our top restaurant picks. We’ve chosen these spots for their exceptional flavors, creative menus, and genuine local charm. While we couldn’t highlight every amazing spot, these are definitely among the city’s best.
Ready to savor the best flavors Nashville has to offer? Let’s dig in!
Located in East Nashville, Audrey is Chef Sean Brock’s flagship restaurant and a true labor of love. Drawing from his Appalachian roots and Southern traditions, with inspiration from his grandmother, Audrey offers a unique and heartfelt dining experience. The vibe strikes a perfect balance between elegant and cozy, mixing modern sophistication with a welcoming, down-to-earth charm. Whether you’re stopping by for dinner or brunch, Audrey has something delicious to offer any time of day. Locals rave about the Cherokee white eagle grits with blue crab and tomato gravy, and the Appalachian sourdough bread is a must-try. With its personal touch and inventive southern fare, Audrey is certainly quite a gem in Nashville’s dining scene.
If you’re a Nashville local, you’ve probably heard of Big Al—or might even call him a friend. He’s a local legend known for his exceptional culinary skills and genuine love for food. At Big Al’s Deli in Salemtown, his blend of warm hospitality and hearty, down-to-earth cooking has made it a top spot for breakfast and lunch. Drop by from 7 a.m. Tuesday through Friday or 9 a.m. on Saturdays to enjoy classic breakfast fare and Southern lunch favorites like pork shanks and shrimp and grits. The cozy atmosphere makes every meal feel like a comforting home-cooked experience.
Nestled in East Nashville, Folk is a laid-back neighborhood spot run by acclaimed chef Philip Krajeck of Rolf & Daughters. The menu focuses on seasonal produce from local farms, featuring vegetable-forward dishes, hearty large-format options, and naturally leavened pizzas. One standout is their clam pie, so popular that they even have merch for it (yes, dad hats are totally in right now). The bar offers a fantastic selection of natural wines, craft beers, and specialty cocktails. With its outdoor patio and Apero hour (their special version of happy hour), Folk is perfect for a casual dinner or a quick drink. Honored as a James Beard Best New Restaurant semifinalist and named one of Bon Appétit‘s 50 Best New Restaurants, Folk is where great food and good company come together. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Folk is a place where every visit feels special.
No trip to Nashville is complete without trying Nashville Hot Chicken, and Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish is widely considered the best spot in town by the locals. This place is all about the basics—don’t expect any elaborate decor or ambiance, just genuine, mouthwatering hot chicken. The seasoning here is famously fiery, making each bite a bold adventure. If hot chicken isn’t your thing, don’t worry! Bolton’s also serves up incredible catfish that’s equally worth the visit.
The Butter Milk Ranch is a must-stop in the lively 12th South district. This spot blends a charming small–batch bakery with a cozy day dining experience. Pastry Chef Alyssa Gangeri and her team create everything from scratch in their open kitchen, from gelato and beautiful cakes to mouthwatering croissants and cookies. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast at the counter or relaxing in the dining room, you’ll find something to love. Don’t miss The Cube, a breakfast sandwich served on their famous cube croissant or their C’Reuben—voted Nashville’s best sandwich in 2021—featuring house-cured corned beef on a pretzel croissant baked right on-site.
A trip to Nashville wouldn’t be complete without indulging in some top-notch BBQ. Named after the iconic Willie Nelson, Shotgun Willie’s in East Nashville is taking the barbecue game to new heights with its slow-cooked meats and a mouthwatering selection of sides, like dill pickle potato salad and jalapeno cornbread. The relaxed ambiance, adorned with Texas memorabilia, sets the stage for a memorable meal. Chef Bill Laviolette blends his Texan roots with Nashville influences, serving up award-winning brisket, Tennessee-style pulled pork shoulder and expertly smoked chicken.
Since 1975, International Market has been Nashville’s go-to spot for authentic Thai cuisine, thanks to the vision of Win and Patti Myint. Today, their children, including James Beard Award semifinalist Arnold Myint and his sister Anna, keep the family tradition alive with a menu that’s both classic and inventive. Get ready to enjoy beloved dishes like Pad Kee Mao and Pad Thai, and don’t miss the hot chili crisp french fries with wasabi mayo. And if you’re craving the Hatyai Thai fried chicken, be sure to get there early and act fast—it’s a fan favorite that often sells out.
Hidden in Nashville’s historic Trolley Barns, Pinewood Social is a quirky gem where you can enjoy a little bit of everything. Whether you’re in the mood for a coffee fix, a round of bowling, a tasty bistro meal, or just lounging by the pool, this place has it all. From mouthwatering hush puppies to rich short rib mac and cheese, every bite here is spot-on. And if you’re up for something extra, swing by on Friday mornings for a free poolside yoga session, followed by a complimentary coffee or mimosa. It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend!
Looking for the perfect dive bar to clink some beers and enjoy a tasty burger? Look no further than Dino’s Bar. As East Nashville’s favorite late-night hangout and the city’s oldest dive bar, Dino’s has recently added a cozy outdoor patio. It’s the perfect place to savor their famous cheeseburgers, fried chicken sandwiches, Frito pies, and a refreshing beer. And if you’re really looking for those dark bar vibes, the iconic cracked brick entrance and dimly lit interior still deliver that beloved dive bar charm.
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Nashville’s food scene has a little something for everyone—from fancy dinners and classic comfort food to cool dive bars. As you learn about the latest trends with Restaurant365, make sure to take time to enjoy what Nashville has to offer. Each meal is a chance to experience the city’s rich flavors and vibrant dining culture. So, explore and savor every bite—Nashville’s culinary adventure is ready to impress and make your dining experience unforgettable.
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