There's such a deluge of new restaurants and eateries in Nashville, Tennessee, that sometimes hungry folks find themselves in the midst of a form of analysis paralysis. Where to eat?! What's the best spot with the best ever menu options and five stars? It's hard to make a call when social media and review platforms tout different restaurants for a whole bunch of different reasons. Here's the things: sometimes touristy is fine. There's a reason these restaurants are on every Nashville travel guide. Check them out below, and get ready to wait in line. They're well worth the wait.
1. Hattie B's Hot Chicken - Various Locations
Hattie B's usually has a line out the door, but it's for good reason. A single order of hot chicken is bound to keep you full and light your mouth with the best kind of fire. You can choose from a range of spiciness, and the quintessentially southern sides like macaroni and cheese and collard greens are a perfect addition to any meal.
2. Pancake Pantry - Hillsboro Village
Pancake Pantry rocketed to national stardom after Taylor Swift sang its praises years and years ago, and that 'round the block line has only grown in recent years. This humble eatery is located in Hillsboro Village, and has sweet potato pancakes to die for. Come early to beat the lines and hobnob with the locals.
3. Loveless Cafe - West Nashville
The Loveless Cafe is best known for their secret biscuit recipe and their decadent breakfast menu, but their lunchtime eats are just as indulgent. There's nothing like a plate of fried chicken and fried green tomatoes goes great with a glass of traditional sweet tea.
4. Barista Parlor - East Nashville
Barista Parlor is a Nashville classic, and it's been noted by national publications as one of the best coffee shops in the country. There are now four locations around the city, but the original can be found in East Nashville. Come for a cup of joe, made fresh by a passionate barista, and enjoy classic tunes from the parlor's vintage record player.
5. Five Daughters Bakery - Various Locations
Nashville's obsession with Five Daughters Bakery came on hard and fast, and it doesn't seem to be abating any time soon. These 100-layer donuts are sugary sweet bites of heaven, and the vegan and gluten-free menu makes it popular for folks with all sorts of dietary requirements. Make sure to try the bakery's seasonal favorites while they're around, too.
6. The Pharmacy Burger & Beer Garden - East Nashville
The Pharmacy is Nashville's answer to an epic cheeseburger, and it's perhaps one of the best spots to indulge in the state. Choose from fries or tater tots as a side, and maybe eschew the meat for a thoroughly enjoyable black bean burger. Remember that The Pharmacy does not seat parties until all folks have arrived, so make sure everyone is on-site when you're ready to eat.
7. Mas Tacos Por Favor - East Nashville
Mas Tacos is a Nashville classic, serving up Mexican streetfare for $3 a taco. The pulled pork is always a favorite, but there's nothing like the fried avocado taco that's on special. Make sure you snag a bowl of tortilla soup, too, if you're feeling something warm and filling.
Learn more about the great city of Nashville with a visit to The Graduate, one of the most beautiful hotels in the area.
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