Hey food lovers! Get ready to dive headfirst into the vibrant and delicious food scene of Nashville, Tennessee! This city isn't just about country music; it's a culinary paradise brimming with flavors that'll make your taste buds sing. From iconic hot chicken to mouthwatering BBQ, we're going to explore the best food in Nashville, uncovering the must-try dishes and the absolute best places to find them. So, grab your appetite, and let's get started!

Hot Chicken: Nashville's Fiery Icon

When you think of Nashville, hot chicken is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. This fiery dish is a true Nashville original, and it's not for the faint of heart! Nashville hot chicken is essentially fried chicken that's been marinated in a blend of spices, then fried to crispy perfection and slathered in a paste made from lard and a generous amount of cayenne pepper. The result? An explosion of flavor and heat that'll leave you craving more (and reaching for a glass of milk!).

The History of Hot Chicken

The story goes that hot chicken was born out of a bit of revenge. As the legend goes, Thornton Prince, the man behind Prince's Hot Chicken Shack, was a bit of a ladies' man. One night, after staying out late, his girlfriend decided to punish him by making his fried chicken extra spicy. However, Thornton loved the fiery concoction, and he and his brothers perfected the recipe, eventually opening Prince's Hot Chicken Shack in the 1930s. This spot is the original home of hot chicken, and it's still serving up some of the best in the city.

Where to Find the Best Hot Chicken in Nashville

• Prince's Hot Chicken Shack: This is the OG spot. Be prepared for a wait, but trust me, it's worth it. Order your chicken with your spice level of choice, from plain to XXXHot. Remember, even the mild can pack a punch!
• Hattie B's Hot Chicken: Hattie B's is another Nashville staple, with multiple locations around the city. Their chicken is consistently delicious, and they offer a range of sides, including mac and cheese, coleslaw, and greens.
• Party Fowl: If you're looking for hot chicken with a twist, Party Fowl is the place to go. They offer a variety of hot chicken dishes, including hot chicken and waffles, hot chicken tacos, and even a hot chicken Bloody Mary.
• 400 Degrees Hot Chicken: Don't let the unassuming exterior fool you; 400 Degrees serves up some seriously good hot chicken. Their chicken is crispy, flavorful, and perfectly spicy.
• Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish: For a more local and less touristy experience, head to Bolton's. They serve up a mean version of hot chicken, along with other Southern favorites like fried fish and ribs.

Nashville BBQ: Smoky, Tender, and Irresistible

While hot chicken may be Nashville's most famous dish, the city's BBQ scene is not to be overlooked. Nashville BBQ is all about slow-cooked meats, smoky flavors, and delicious sauces. From pulled pork to brisket to ribs, you'll find a variety of BBQ styles in Nashville, each with its own unique flavor profile.

What Makes Nashville BBQ Unique?

Nashville BBQ is influenced by a variety of regional styles, including Memphis, Texas, and Kansas City. However, Nashville BBQ has its own distinct character, often featuring a sweeter, tangier sauce and a focus on dry-rubbed meats. Many Nashville BBQ joints also incorporate local ingredients, such as Tennessee whiskey and sorghum, into their sauces and rubs.

Top BBQ Spots in Nashville

• Peg Leg Porker: This is one of the most popular BBQ joints in Nashville, and for good reason. Their ribs are legendary, and their pulled pork and brisket are equally delicious. Be sure to try their dry-rubbed ribs, which are cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
• Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint: With multiple locations around Nashville, Martin's is a great option for a casual BBQ meal. Their whole hog BBQ is a must-try, and they also offer a variety of other BBQ favorites, like ribs, brisket, and chicken.
• Edley's BBQ: Edley's is a Nashville institution, serving up delicious BBQ in a laid-back atmosphere. Their pulled pork is some of the best in the city, and their brisket is tender and flavorful. Don't miss their sides, like mac and cheese and potato salad.
• Hog Heaven: Located in Nashville's Centennial Park, Hog Heaven is a popular spot for BBQ lovers. Their pulled pork is a standout, and they also offer a variety of other smoked meats and sides.
• Shotgun Willie's BBQ: Shotgun Willie's is known for its Texas-style BBQ, with a focus on brisket and sausage. Their brisket is smoked to perfection and served with a variety of sauces, including a spicy jalapeno sauce.

Meat and Three: A Southern Comfort Classic

No trip to Nashville is complete without experiencing a meat and three. This classic Southern meal consists of your choice of meat (such as fried chicken, meatloaf, or country-fried steak) and three side dishes (like mac and cheese, green beans, mashed potatoes, or collard greens). It's the ultimate comfort food, and it's a staple of Nashville's culinary scene.

The Allure of Meat and Three

What makes meat and three so appealing? It's simple: it's delicious, affordable, and satisfying. It's a taste of home cooking, and it's a great way to experience Southern hospitality. Plus, it's a customizable meal, so you can choose your favorite meat and sides to create your perfect plate.

Where to Find the Best Meat and Three in Nashville

• Arnold's Country Kitchen: Arnold's is a Nashville institution, serving up classic meat and three dishes since 1982. Their fried chicken is legendary, and their mac and cheese is a must-try. Be prepared for a line, but it moves quickly, and the food is worth the wait.
• Swett's: Swett's is another popular meat and three spot in Nashville, known for its delicious food and friendly service. Their meatloaf is a standout, and they offer a variety of other Southern favorites, like fried okra and collard greens.
• Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant: Puckett's is a Nashville staple, serving up Southern comfort food in a casual atmosphere. Their meat and three is a popular choice, and they also offer a variety of other dishes, like BBQ and burgers.
• Loveless Cafe: Located just outside of Nashville, the Loveless Cafe is a must-visit for anyone looking for a true Southern experience. Their meat and three is legendary, and they're also known for their homemade biscuits and jams.
• Monell's Dining & Catering: Monell's offers a unique dining experience, serving up family-style meals at communal tables. Their meat and three is a popular choice, and it's a great way to meet new people and experience Southern hospitality.

Other Nashville Food Favorites

While hot chicken, BBQ, and meat and three may be Nashville's most iconic dishes, the city has so much more to offer. Here are a few other Nashville food favorites that you shouldn't miss:

• Biscuits: Nashville is a biscuit lover's paradise, with a variety of restaurants serving up delicious, homemade biscuits. Be sure to try biscuits with gravy, fried chicken, or jam.
• Fried Green Tomatoes: This Southern classic is a must-try in Nashville. Crispy, tangy, and flavorful, fried green tomatoes are a delicious appetizer or side dish.
• Goo Goo Clusters: This Nashville original is a chocolate, peanut, caramel, and marshmallow candy that's been around since 1912. It's the perfect sweet treat to end your Nashville food adventure.
• Craft Beer: Nashville's craft beer scene is booming, with a variety of breweries offering a wide range of styles. Be sure to check out some of the local breweries and sample their beers.
• Tennessee Whiskey: No trip to Nashville is complete without trying some Tennessee whiskey. Visit a local distillery and take a tour, or simply order a whiskey cocktail at one of the city's many bars.

Conclusion: Nashville is a Food Lover's Paradise

Nashville's food scene is as vibrant and diverse as its music scene. From the fiery kick of hot chicken to the smoky goodness of BBQ to the comforting flavors of meat and three, there's something for everyone to love in this culinary city. So, come hungry and get ready to experience the best food Nashville has to offer! Guys, you won't regret it!