Barry PhilipsTennessee is one of the most exciting culinary destinations in the United States. From the world-famous barbecue joints of Memphis to the spicy hot chicken restaurants of Nashville and the charming Southern eateries in Knoxville, the state offers unforgettable dining experiences for every type of traveler.
Whether you are visiting Tennessee for vacation, relocating, or simply searching for the best restaurants in Tennessee, this guide highlights some of the finest dining establishments across the state. You’ll discover restaurants known for authentic Southern cuisine, award-winning barbecue, fresh seafood, upscale dining, and unique local flavors.
Restaurants In Tennessee
1. The Loveless Cafe (Nashville)
The Loveless Cafe has become one of Tennessee’s most iconic restaurants.
Serving guests since 1951, it is famous for homemade biscuits, country ham, fried chicken, preserves, and classic Southern breakfasts. Many travelers consider stopping here a Tennessee tradition.
Popular menu items include:
- Country ham biscuits
- Fried chicken
- Chicken-fried steak
- Homemade jams
- Blackberry preserves
- Peach cobbler
The rustic atmosphere and excellent service make it one of the best restaurants in Tennessee.
2. Central BBQ (Memphis)
No guide to Tennessee restaurants is complete without Memphis barbecue.
Central BBQ is consistently ranked among America’s best barbecue restaurants. Their meats are slow-smoked for hours using traditional techniques.
Must-try dishes include:
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Smoked ribs
- Brisket
- Smoked turkey
- BBQ nachos
- Homemade baked beans
The smoky flavor keeps locals and tourists returning.
3. Hattie B’s Hot Chicken (Nashville)
Hattie B’s helped make Nashville Hot Chicken famous worldwide.
Customers can choose their spice level, ranging from Southern (no heat) to “Shut the Cluck Up,” one of the hottest options available.
Popular choices include:
- Hot chicken sandwich
- Chicken tenders
- Fried chicken plates
- Mac and cheese
- Coleslaw
- Banana pudding
Expect long lines during weekends because of its popularity.
4. The Barn at Blackberry Farm (Walland)
This luxurious restaurant offers one of America’s finest dining experiences.
Located inside Blackberry Farm, the restaurant serves farm-to-table cuisine prepared using ingredients grown on the property.
Guests enjoy:
- Seasonal tasting menus
- Fresh vegetables
- Artisan cheeses
- Local meats
- Premium wines
- Elegant desserts
Perfect for romantic dinners and special celebrations.
5. Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint (Nashville)
Martin’s specializes in whole-hog barbecue, cooked slowly over hickory wood.
Their authentic Tennessee barbecue attracts visitors from around the world.
Best sellers include:
- Whole hog barbecue
- Smoked brisket
- BBQ tacos
- Pulled pork
- Dry-rub ribs
- Smoked wings
The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for families.
6. Calhoun’s (Knoxville)
Calhoun’s is one of East Tennessee’s favorite restaurants.
Known for excellent ribs and waterfront dining, it combines Southern comfort with American classics.
Popular menu items include:
- BBQ ribs
- Smoked chicken
- Burgers
- Seafood
- Steaks
- Homemade desserts
Many locations offer scenic river views.
7. Arnold’s Country Kitchen (Nashville)
Arnold’s Country Kitchen represents authentic Southern cooking.
This famous “meat-and-three” restaurant lets diners choose one meat and three side dishes.
Favorites include:
- Roast beef
- Fried chicken
- Meatloaf
- Mac and cheese
- Turnip greens
- Cornbread
Its cafeteria-style service provides a nostalgic dining experience.
8. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack (Nashville)
Prince’s is the original birthplace of Nashville Hot Chicken.
For decades, locals have enjoyed their legendary spicy fried chicken.
Popular choices include:
- Hot chicken quarters
- Wings
- Fries
- Bread
- Pickles
This restaurant is considered essential for food lovers visiting Tennessee.
9. Corky’s Ribs & BBQ (Memphis)
Corky’s has earned national recognition for authentic Memphis barbecue.
Their slow-cooked meats are complemented by homemade sauces and classic Southern sides.
Recommended dishes:
- Baby back ribs
- Pulled pork
- BBQ sandwiches
- Smoked sausage
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
10. Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen (Knoxville)
Originally founded in nearby Asheville before expanding, Tupelo Honey remains popular in Tennessee.
Its menu features modern Southern comfort food.
Highlights include:
- Fried chicken
- Shrimp and grits
- Sweet potato pancakes
- Biscuits
- Meatloaf
- Cocktails
The stylish interior appeals to younger diners.
11. Ye Olde Steak House (Knoxville)
Operating since the 1960s, this steakhouse has become a Tennessee institution.
Known for:
- USDA Prime steaks
- Ribeye
- Filet mignon
- Prime rib
- Baked potatoes
- Homemade desserts
Excellent service and generous portions define the experience.
12. Peg Leg Porker (Nashville)
Owned by award-winning pitmaster Carey Bringle, Peg Leg Porker specializes in traditional barbecue.
Signature dishes include:
- Dry-rub ribs
- Pulled pork
- Smoked turkey
- BBQ beans
- Fried pies
The restaurant has won numerous barbecue awards.
13. Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro (Townsend)
Nestled near the Great Smoky Mountains, this restaurant offers refined Appalachian cuisine.
Guests enjoy:
- Local trout
- Seasonal vegetables
- Handcrafted cocktails
- Artisan breads
- Farm-raised meats
Its peaceful mountain setting enhances every meal.
14. The Old Mill Restaurant (Pigeon Forge)
One of Tennessee’s most visited restaurants, The Old Mill is famous for traditional Southern cooking.
Menu favorites include:
- Chicken pot pie
- Country fried steak
- Corn chowder
- Homemade breads
- Pecan pie
Its historic mill setting creates a memorable dining experience.
15. Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint (Multiple Locations)
Burger lovers frequently rank Jack Brown’s among Tennessee’s best.
Specialties include:
- Wagyu beef burgers
- Unique burger combinations
- Craft beers
- Loaded fries
- Fried Oreos
The casual atmosphere attracts college students and families alike.
16. Chez Philippe (Memphis)
Located inside the historic Peabody Hotel, Chez Philippe offers luxury French fine dining.
Guests enjoy:
- Multi-course tasting menus
- Premium seafood
- Duck
- Lamb
- Extensive wine list
- Elegant desserts
Ideal for anniversaries and special occasions.
17. Biscuit Love (Nashville)
Breakfast enthusiasts love Biscuit Love.
Their homemade biscuits have become nationally recognized.
Popular dishes include:
- Bonuts
- East Nasty biscuit
- Biscuit French toast
- Grits
- Breakfast sandwiches
Morning crowds are common.
18. Puckett’s Restaurant (Various Tennessee Locations)
Puckett’s combines Southern comfort food with live music.
Popular menu options include:
- BBQ platters
- Catfish
- Meatloaf
- Fried green tomatoes
- Sweet tea
- Cobbler
The welcoming atmosphere makes guests feel at home.
19. Blue Plate (Chattanooga)
Blue Plate serves creative comfort food using fresh ingredients.
Customer favorites include:
- Breakfast plates
- Burgers
- Sandwiches
- Shrimp and grits
- Homemade pies
Its colorful interior reflects Chattanooga’s vibrant personality.
20. White Duck Taco Shop (Knoxville)
This casual eatery offers gourmet tacos inspired by global flavors.
Popular tacos include:
- Korean beef
- Thai peanut chicken
- Fish tacos
- Buffalo chicken
- BBQ pork
Affordable prices make it ideal for quick meals.
Why Tennessee is Famous for Its Restaurants
Tennessee’s food culture reflects its rich history and diverse influences. The state’s cuisine combines Southern comfort food, Appalachian traditions, soul food, barbecue, and modern American cooking.
Some of Tennessee’s signature dishes include:
- Memphis-style barbecue
- Nashville Hot Chicken
- Country fried steak
- Biscuits and gravy
- Fried catfish
- Meat-and-three meals
- Southern fried chicken
- Banana pudding
- Homemade pies
Visitors can enjoy everything from historic family-owned diners to Michelin-recognized chefs creating innovative Southern dishes
What Makes Tennessee Restaurants Special?
Several qualities distinguish Tennessee’s dining scene:
- Authentic Southern hospitality
- Family-owned businesses
- Slow-smoked barbecue traditions
- Locally sourced ingredients
- Historic dining establishments
- Award-winning chefs
- Rich musical atmosphere
- Affordable dining options
These elements create unforgettable culinary experiences.
Best Foods to Try in Tennessee
Before leaving Tennessee, be sure to sample:
- Memphis dry-rub ribs
- Nashville Hot Chicken
- Pulled pork barbecue
- Fried catfish
- Southern biscuits
- Banana pudding
- Fried green tomatoes
- Shrimp and grits
- Chicken and dumplings
- Peach cobbler
Each dish reflects Tennessee’s culinary heritage.
Tips for Dining in Tennessee
To make the most of your dining experience:
- Arrive early at popular restaurants.
- Make reservations for upscale establishments.
- Try local specialties instead of familiar dishes.
- Visit family-owned restaurants.
- Explore food festivals if visiting during event seasons.
- Pair meals with Tennessee whiskey or sweet tea.
- Save room for homemade desserts.
Comparison Table of the Best Restaurants in Tennessee
| Restaurant | City | Cuisine | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Loveless Cafe | Nashville | Southern | Breakfast | $$ |
| Central BBQ | Memphis | Barbecue | BBQ Lovers | $$ |
| Hattie B’s | Nashville | Hot Chicken | Famous Chicken | $$ |
| Blackberry Farm | Walland | Fine Dining | Luxury Dining | $$$$ |
| Martin’s Bar-B-Que | Nashville | Barbecue | Families | $$ |
| Calhoun’s | Knoxville | American BBQ | Riverfront Dining | $$ |
| Arnold’s Country Kitchen | Nashville | Southern | Comfort Food | $ |
| Prince’s Hot Chicken | Nashville | Hot Chicken | Authentic Experience | $$ |
| Corky’s BBQ | Memphis | Barbecue | Groups | $$ |
| Tupelo Honey | Knoxville | Southern | Brunch | $$ |
| Ye Olde Steak House | Knoxville | Steakhouse | Steaks | $$$ |
| Peg Leg Porker | Nashville | Barbecue | Award-Winning BBQ | $$ |
| Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro | Townsend | Appalachian | Romantic Dining | $$$ |
| The Old Mill Restaurant | Pigeon Forge | Southern | Tourists | $$ |
| Jack Brown’s | Multiple Cities | Burgers | Casual Dining | $$ |
| Chez Philippe | Memphis | French | Fine Dining | $$$$ |
| Biscuit Love | Nashville | Breakfast | Brunch | $$ |
| Puckett’s | Multiple Cities | Southern | Live Music | $$ |
| Blue Plate | Chattanooga | Comfort Food | Local Favorites | $$ |
| White Duck Taco Shop | Knoxville | Tacos | Quick Bites | $ |
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Conclusion
Tennessee’s restaurant scene is a celebration of Southern hospitality, bold flavors, and culinary tradition. Whether you’re craving smoky Memphis barbecue, fiery Nashville hot chicken, hearty Appalachian comfort food, or an elegant farm-to-table dining experience, the Volunteer State offers something to satisfy every palate.
From legendary institutions like The Loveless Cafe and Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack to refined destinations such as The Barn at Blackberry Farm, each restaurant tells a story through its food and atmosphere. Exploring these dining spots is not just about eating—it’s about experiencing Tennessee’s culture, history, and warm hospitality one meal at a time.
If you’re planning a trip or looking for your next great meal, these restaurants represent some of the very best that Tennessee has to offer.