Nashville’s Iconic Dishes: A Guide to the Culinary Gems of Music City
Nashville, known for its vibrant music scene and rich culture, has a culinary landscape that reflects the same energy and diversity. The city is home to a variety of iconic dishes that locals and visitors alike crave. From spicy hot chicken to comforting Southern classics, here’s a roundup of must-try foods that you can find throughout Music City.
Bite into Hot Chicken
No list of Nashville’s famous foods would be complete without mentioning hot chicken. This unique spicy fried chicken is a staple in the local diet, with roots that trace back to the legendary Prince’s Hot Chicken. According to lore, the dish was created by Thornton Prince as a prank gone wrong by his girlfriend. He perfected the fiery recipe that has now captivated numerous palates. Diners can enjoy this chicken with varying levels of heat, served on a piece of plain white bread with pickles.
Fried Bologna Sandwich at Robert’s Western World
If you’re strolling down Broadway, stop by Robert’s Western World for their fried bologna sandwich. This simple yet satisfying dish comes as part of the “Recession Special,” where you choose crispy bologna, usually grilled to perfection, placed between slices of white bread. Pair it with chips, a MoonPie, and a PBR, all for just six bucks. This spot captures the heart of Nashville’s musical culture while serving up comfort food.
Biscuits and Jam at Loveless Cafe
A journey to the Loveless Cafe, tucked away on Highway 100, is essential for anyone looking to savor classic Southern cooking. Famous for its biscuits and jam, this cafe started as a small motel and now serves fluffy biscuits with sweet and sticky blackberry and peach preserves. The quaint atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a perfect breakfast stop.
Gourmet Tacos from Maiz de la Vida
Meat and Three at Arnold’s Country Kitchen
At Arnold’s Country Kitchen, the meat and three plate epitomizes Southern comfort food. Choose a meat, like fried chicken or pot roast, and pair it with three sides like turnip greens or corn pudding. This casual eatery has been serving hungry customers for decades, including local workers and musicians. The atmosphere is friendly, and the food is always on point.
Coconut Meringue Pie at Elliston Place Soda Shop
Indulge your sweet tooth at Elliston Place Soda Shop, known for its tall, fluffy coconut meringue pies. Linda Melton, a long-time waitress there, has been dubbed the “pie lady” for her signature creation. This treat is a definite crowd pleaser, and often has locals raving about how it’s a slice of nostalgia with every bite.
Whole Hog Barbecue at Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint
Nashville’s barbecue scene was transformed by Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint. Their specialty is whole hog barbecue, utilizing every part of the pig in their cooking. The meats are cooked to perfection and often served with a zingy vinegar sauce. With multiple locations, this spot has garnered a loyal following for its authentic barbecue flavor.
Cheeseburgers at Brown’s Diner
Originating in 1927 from a converted trolley car, Brown’s Diner has been feeding Nashville for almost a century, offering a cheeseburger that’s as classic as it gets. Simple yet satisfying, their cheeseburger features a juicy patty topped with fresh veggies and Duke’s mayonnaise. This diner not only serves great food but also welcomes guests with a nostalgic vibe of old-time Nashville.
Savoring Mediterranean Flavors: Adana Kabob at Edessa Restaurant
In Nashville’s “Little Kurdistan,” Edessa Restaurant serves up some of the best Adana Kabobs. This dish features skewered and grilled ground lamb and beef, which is tender and flavorful. The kabobs can be enjoyed with creamy hummus and a variety of mezze, making it a communal dining experience worth sharing with friends.
Fried Bologna Sandwich and Live Music
In addition to great food, you can enjoy live music at Robert’s Western World, where the fried bologna sandwich pairs perfectly with classic country tunes, adding to Nashville’s rich cultural tapestry.
A Comforting Bowl of Doro Wat
If you lean towards international cuisine, Gojo Ethiopian Cafe has amazing doro wat, a fragrant chicken stew spiced to perfection, served with injera. The warm environment and aromatic spices make this an inviting place to dine.
Nashville’s culinary scene is an ever-evolving tapestry of flavors and influences. From the iconic fried chicken to delectable desserts, there’s a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, indulging in these signature dishes allows you to experience the heart and soul of this vibrant city.
