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best places to eat in Nashvilie
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items I’ve eaten my way through Nashville more times than I’d like to admit — and while it’s known for hot chicken and honky-tonks, there’s so much more to this city’s food scene. Whether you're a local or visiting, here are the spots I genuinely recommend...
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seafood
ie cream
coffe
cafe
seafood
If you love seafood or just want to try something fresh and local in Nashville, these are the places I trust.
This place feels like a secret even though it’s not. The oysters are always fresh, the small plates are creative (get the roasted cauliflower), and the vibe is cool without trying too hard. Perfect for date night or catching up with foodie friends.
Henrietta Red
This place nails the coastal vibe and has some of the freshest oysters and crab cakes I’ve ever tasted in the South. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, perfect for date nights or gatherings with friends.
Nashville — The Optimist Restaurant
For a splurge-worthy seafood dinner with a Southern twist, Bourbon Steak’s seafood offerings are top-tier. Their lobster mac and cheese and seared scallops are next-level indulgence.
Bourbon Steak Nashville
Not strictly a seafood spot, but Etch’s seafood dishes always stand out. Their tuna tartare and daily fresh fish specials are reasons enough to visit.
Etch Restaurant
A fantastic waterfront spot with solid oysters, crab legs, and a seafood tower that’s made for sharing. Great cocktails and a cool vibe make it a perfect weekend hangout.
Watermark Restaurant - Nashville
ie cream
If you’re like me, there’s nothing better than a perfect scoop (or two) of ice cream on a warm Nashville day.
Jeni’s is a Nashville classic. Their creamy, intensely flavorful ice creams make every scoop feel special. I’m obsessed with their Brambleberry Crisp and Brown Butter Almond Brittle. Expect creative flavors that change with the seasons.
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
A local favorite known for small-batch, hand-crafted ice cream. Their rotating menu includes unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else. The salted caramel and lemon lavender are personal faves.
Mike's Ice Cream - Nashville
If you want something refreshing and fun, Las Paletas’ Mexican-style ice pops and ice cream are perfect. Their fruit flavors are fresh and bright, and their paletas always hit the spot after a hot day exploring.
Las Paletas (@laspaletasnashville) • Instagram photos and videos
coffe
Whether you’re visiting or a local looking to branch out from your usual spot, these are the Nashville coffee shops I genuinely keep coming back to.
This place is the epitome of cool. Great vibes, amazing pour-overs, and beautifully designed spaces. Their espresso is strong, their seasonal drinks are creative, and the branding is on point.
Barista Parlor - East Nashville
Crema’s coffee is super high quality, and you can taste the care in every cup. I love their Cuban latte and their outdoor patio is a chill spot for working or people-watching. If you like your coffee smooth and well-crafted, this is the place.
Crema Coffee Roasters
Part café, part community hub. Frothy Monkey is one of those places you can hang out for hours—great coffee, full food menu, and comfy vibes. I love their drip coffee and always grab a muffin or avocado toast while I’m there.
Frothy Monkey
One of my favorite places to grab a serious cup of coffee. Their beans are roasted in-house, and everything from their cold brew to their espresso is consistently excellent. Bonus: they’re super friendly.
8th & Roast
A bit under the radar, but Steadfast is a hidden gem. Their flash-chilled coffee is amazing, and the space has a clean, minimal vibe that’s great for productivity or low-key hangs.
Steadfast Coffee | Café and Roastery | Nashville, TN
cafe
This East Nashville gem is so aesthetically pleasing, but more importantly — the food is fresh, colorful, and satisfying. The egg sandwich is legendary, and the roasted sweet potato bowl is pure comfort. Great spot for a healthy but indulgent-feeling...
Cafe Roze
An Aussie-inspired café with some of the best toast and brunch plates in the city. Their chili scrambled eggs and turmeric lattes are go-to’s. It’s bright, minimal, and always makes me feel like I’ve got my life together
Hearts
their food is seriously good. Think seasonal quiches, croissant sandwiches, and pastries that are almost too pretty to eat. It’s my favorite low-key spot for breakfast with friends or a laptop lunch.
Dose Coffee
Crepes. That’s it. Sweet, savory, breakfast or lunch — I’ve tried almost all of them, and they’ve never missed. Add a latte and you’ve got the perfect chill meal. Bonus: it never feels rushed or too busy.
Red Bicycle Coffee & Crepes