Food is what binds communities and makes memories. It's what builds out our childhoods, rounds our bellies and serves as the glue to summer nights and wintry mornings. Here in Tennessee, community is what sets us apart. We've found fifteen restaurants spread throughout the state - NOT in our main cities - that deserve a visit from you. We promise they'll leave you with a memory.

15. The Purple Daisy Picnic Cafe - Chattanooga

You're promised good food and fun times at The Purple Daisy Picnic Cafe. You can indulge in their world-famous bbq or picnic fare, the best kind of American comfort food. (4001 St Elmo Ave)

14. The Old Fort Restaurant - Cleveland

A family-owned restaurant, The Old Fort Restaurant has been serving up the best breakfast, lunch and dinner in Cleveland for the last twenty-eight years. Their sausage gravy is fawned over by the greatest of comfort food eaters, and their fun, familial atmosphere makes every visit stand out. (1422 25th St NW)

13. Green Tomato Grill - Mooresburg

You'll find five star reviews for the Green Tomato Grill all over the internet, and for good reason. This family-friendly restaurant is perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, the kind of place where every meal is different and never less than exemplary. It comes highly recommended! (802 Old Highway 11 W)

12. Suba's - Mountain City

If you've never heard of Suba's before, consider yourself changed. This east Tennessee hidden gem is known for its extensive menu. It's a nice place to visit, the atmosphere calm and dinner options delicious. Insider tip? Order dessert! It's next level. (2736 S Shady Street)

11. West Alley BBQ & Smokehouse - Jackson

West Alley has made a name for itself in Jackson, known as some of the best bbq joints in the city coupled with a wildly friendly staff, perfect for an indulgent night out. If you're ever in the vicinity, check 'em out! We also may be partial to the pulled pork nachos...just sayin'.

(215 W Main Street)

10. Buckhorn Inn - Gatlinburg

You can indulge in some freshly baked bread at the beautiful Buckhorn Inn in Gatlinburg, tucked away in the beauty of eastern Tennessee. Quite the place for a romantic dinner away, it has been listed as one of the top bed and breakfasts in Gatlinburg. (2140 Tudor Mountain Road)

9. Miller's Cafe - Christiana

Little Christiana has quite a treasure in Miller's Cafe. Award-winning desserts and a history dug deep in the Tennessee soil keeps this small town locale in business, and we hope for a very, VERY long time. Their southern cookin' is just like mama made it, bringing back sweet memories from your childhood. (7011 Main St)

8. Colorado Grill - White House

This is a family friendly watering hole for folks in White House, Tennessee. Great for the carnivorous and carb fans, this is the kind of Monday night dinner haul you dream about. (2747 Highway 31 W)

7. The Bull & Thistle - Gainesboro

Located in historic Gainesboro, the Bull & Thistle Pub is an upstanding member of the local restauranteur community. The quality and atmosphere are raved over by the locals, and the hefty portions will keep you full 'til Sunday! (102 S Main Street)

6. Amis Mill Eatery - Rogersville

You can sit on the deck of the Amis Mill Eatery, overlooking a waterfall while indulging in homecooked American cuisine. "The Mill" is known as one of the most unique places to eat a meal, both for its natural and historic interest. (127 W Bear Hollow Road)

5. Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant & Grill - Sevierville

It's been thirty years of breakfast, lunch and dinner for ol' Applewood, and it only gets better with time. Lauded by the locals as some of the best comfort food in the nation, it's a must-visit - whether you've heard of it or not. (220 Apple Valley Road)

4. Hagy's Catfish Hotel - Shiloh

The Catfish Hotel has a reputation as one of the oldest family restaurants in the United States, and they wear their pride well - by creating a welcoming atmosphere and a delicious menu. You won't find better catfish anywhere else! (1140 Hagy Lane)

3. Collins River BBQ & Cafe - McMinnville

Just like the sign says, you can come in, carry out or order some bbq for your event from this delicious down home joint. You'll find some affordable and delicious pulled pork that's worth revisiting for, and a dreamy prime rib. Dreamy because you'll be DREAMING about it forever. You've been warned. (117 E Main Street)

2. Crockett's Breakfast Camp - Gatlinburg

Known as the kind of place where the kindness of the staff matches the quality of the food, you'll leave with your belly and your heart full. This is where you visit if you love breakfast, bacon, and beginning your day with ALL sorts of carbs. No calorie countin' here, folks! (1103 Parkway)

1. High Point Restaurant - Monteagle

Known for its dark past (Al Capone once spent time here...), High Point has become a neat place to celebrate anniversaries and birthdays, It's upscale and steeped in history, driving a menu filled to the hilt with scintillating flavor sure to bookmark itself in your memory. (224 E Main Street)

What a fantastic list of experiences - how many have you visited?

PS: Did you know that There’s A One Of A Kind Elephant Sanctuary Right Here In Tennessee?