Award-Winning Restaurants in Nashville for 2023

It’s no secret that in the South, we love to eat! And while you’re guaranteed to encounter some fantastic restaurants in Nashville serving classic southern comfort dishes—smoked meats, fried chicken, sauteed greens, and biscuits—you might be surprised by the diverse selection of other cuisines and fine-dining options as well. And while you don’t want to miss the famous meat and three-plate joints, there are so many restaurants in Nashville to explore, many with award-winning chefs and national recognition.

One other tradition you can’t miss: get in line for some Nashville Hot Chicken, crispy fried chicken dipped in spicy sauce and served with white bread and pickles—pick your sides too, like mac and cheese and creamy coleslaw. Another trend at the restaurants in Nashville you’re bound to notice is the number of chef-driven establishments. Many of these creative chefs (James Beard winners or not) are dedicated to supporting local agriculture and nearby farms.

Before you start making dining reservations at the best restaurants in Nashville, you’ll want to secure your lodging. That’s where our historic Nashville Bed and Breakfast comes in. We offer some of the most comfortable accommodations in town, and our service team is second to none. Each morning of your stay, you’ll be treated to a tasty Southern breakfast included in your rate and always served hot on real China in our elegant dining room or the veranda (weather permitting). Start planning your next getaway and reserve a room at our Nashville Bed and Breakfast today!

Our Favorite Restaurants in Nashville for 2023

You’ll find such a creative and diverse culinary scene in Music City. From Nashville hot chicken to meat-and-three plates and an eclectic mix of cuisines with a farm-to-table focus—there’s no shortage of excellent restaurants in Nashville. Here’s a selection of some of our favorite recommendations to help you narrow down the list.

Hattie B’s: You’ll find four locations of this popular Nashville hot chicken chain. If you’re in downtown Nashville, get in line (they have it down to a science, so it moves quickly) and order from a selection of heat levels, which range from Southern (no spice) to “shut the cluck up” for the incredibly brave.
Once Upon a Time in France: As one of the best French restaurants in Nashville, you’ll find Parisian treats like Steak frites, escargot, and an extensive French wine list served in a charming, cozy cafe space.
City House: James Beard Award-winning chef Tandy Wilson is known for producing flavorful and authentic Italian cuisine. Eager diners devour the rustic thin crust, brick oven pizzas, delicate salads, and house-made pasta dishes.
Butcher & Bee: The locally sourced ingredients shine on this creative menu of sharable mezze platters, appetizers, and Mediterranean-by-way-of-the-South entrees.
Mas Tacos Por Favor: What started as a food truck with a strong local following is now one of the favorite brick-and-mortar restaurants in Nashville, serving authentic Mexican food to the masses.
The Catbird Seat: As one of the most exclusive restaurants in Nashville, this 22-seat spot feels a bit more like culinary theater than just dinner out on the town. Reservations are a bit easier to come by nowadays, but be sure to plan ahead if you want to see Chef Brian Baxter in action.
Hawthorn: For fine dining without the fuss, this restaurant and bar in West Nashville’s Sylvan Park neighborhood is located in a renovated church. The motto here is “Love the guest. Share the food.”
Husk: Located in a historic mansion in downtown Nashville, this local farm-to-table restaurant is consistently recognized as one of the best for locally-grown produce, heirloom varietals, and Tennessee-farmed proteins.
Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina: At the top spot on TripAdvisor as one of the best restaurants in Nashville, Michelin Star chef Michael Mina puts on quite a culinary show. You’ll dine with one of the most breathtaking city skyline views from the 34th floor of the JW Marriott.
TennFold Brewing: This brewery is just a couple of blocks from our Nashville Bed and Breakfast for fantastic pizzas and local craft beers. It’s the perfect spot for a casual and relaxed evening!

The Best Nashville Bed and Breakfast

As you begin to sift through the list of best restaurants in Nashville, one thing is for sure, you’ll eat well on your trip here! Start your day with us. We’ll treat you to a spectacular breakfast each morning of your stay. Our plated Sounthern-style breakfast includes a main dish (sweet and savory options), fresh fruit, biscuits or pastries, juice, coffee, and tea. We always have lighter options, including yogurt, granola, and oatmeal as well, and our menu changes daily.

After you’re full and caffeinated, our Nashville Bed and Breakfast is in an excellent location for setting off to enjoy the local attractions. We’re set back a bit from the hustle and tunes of the Honky Tonk Highway, the popular museums, and the downtown shopping areas. This gives you a quiet place to land after a big day exploring all that Nashville has to offer. In the evenings, head back to your comfortable suite to relax in the soaking tub or by the fire with a glass of wine.

One important goal we aim to achieve with each and every guest is connection and hospitable service. Whether that’s making dinner reservations for you at the best restaurants in Nashville or giving a historical tour of our grand Antebellum mansion, we’re here to make your stay as perfect as it can be. Reserve your lodging today!