DOWNHOME DINING
Arnold’s Country Kitchen Probably Nashville’s most celebrated meat-and-three restaurant. Consistently great southern offerings. Save room for dessert. Free parking in their lot. Lunch only. Closed Sundays.
Peg Leg Porker There’s some local disagreement but this barbecue spot generally ends up among the Top 3 in local purveyors. Pitboss Carey Bringle has won national awards for his dry rub “Q.” Thirty beers on tap. Closed Sundays.
Party Fowl A few blocks south of Music City Center, it’s is a little trendier than my traditional taste buds favor. More likely to find tourists than hot chicken aficionados here. Unlike most joints, they’ve got a full bar and run happy hour specials during the week.
QUICK BITES
Biscuit Love Get a taste of the south with biscuits and all the fixins.
Burger Republic Locally based chain for all-American essentials.
Gumbo Brothers A taste of New Orleans in Music City.
Milk & Honey Breakfast and lunch options leaning toward healthier items. Opens at 6am.
Vui’s Juice Cafe Locally owned cafe for Vietnamese and American influenced dishes. Healthy choices for breakfast and lunch. Boba tea, smoothies, and coffee drinks.
Calle Taco. Minimalist spot for tacos, fajitas, quesadillas, and other Mexican favorites. Open 11am-3am for you night owls with delivery available.
Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe Yes, it’s a chain but it consistently delivers satisfying lamb, chicken, hummus, potatoes, and salad.
TABLE SERVICE
ML Rose Look for the Capitol View location (aka as North Gulch). Better than sports bar food although the place has that vibe without an obnoxious number of TVs. Try the sweet potato fries.
Neighbors Similar vibe with a more extensive menu. Locals tout their smoked wings. Offers a happy hour M-F.
The Pub One of the few places in Nashville where you’ll find bangers and mash on the menu. Great spot to hoist a beer and watch British soccer teams.
UPSCALE DINING
Adele’s Known for their brunch, my neighbor proclaims it’s her go-to anytime (and her brother’s a NY chef).
Marsh House An elevated approach to southern cuisine with strong Gulf Coast influences and an extensive wine program.
Saint Añejo Not your typical Mexican restaurant, the atmosphere and offerings meet a higher standard.
Virago Progressive Asian cuisine is their description of a menu boasting an extensive array of offerings.
Moto Seeking Italian dining with a wow factor? This cucina is worthy of your investigation. (Photo: Moto FB)
Luogo Another memorable experience in Italian dining, this eatery focuses on Mediterranean coastal cuisine.
Carne Mare Steaks, chops, and seafood in a clubby atmosphere. Extensive wine selection.
The Iberian Pig Travel to Spain with this extensive tapas menu complemented with Spanish wines and bebidas. Vegetarian and GF menus.
St. Vito Focacceria Pizza goes to a new level with these premium ingredients atop outstanding dough.