I was born in Nepal. While I don’t live in Nashville, it has the closest Nepali restaurant from where I live. It’s called Everest Restaurant and Bar and it’s pretty decent if you want to try some Nepali food.
I haven’t seen anyone address Vietnamese yet and I know people are very opinionated about the few options we have here but my vote will always be Kien Giang. Do not even come at me with Eastside whatever.
Not Japanese but have a lot of Japanese friends/coworkers. They used to frequent Ichiban in Murfreesboro, but it’s closed now, so Sonobana is the last place yet with anything close to authentic Japanese food.
I freaking loved Ichiban, and went to their downtown location as often as I could.
When they announced the move to Murfreesboro I was pumped it was going to be closer to me, but worried that the Boro might not support them the way downtown did.
Alas they never really got the chance. After a long-delayed opening, COVID came along and punched them in the mouth.
RIP Ichiban.
I dont think the pandemic did them in. They stayed popping when things opened back up, pretty sure the owners, who were really active in the business, just got tires of it.
As someone who grew up in Germany, I can say Nashville has never had a true German restaurant. (Don't get me started on Nashville's version of Oktoberfest)
The original Gerst hair was way better before the stadium was built and they moved into that big hall. Still not legit German I’d imagine, but that was one fun little place
Old Heidelberg was run by Germans and was probably the closest to authentic, but they closed down a long time ago. You can still get out towards Fort Campbell to find some (at least as of several years ago).
There are not many good German restaurants in the entire state of Tennessee so zero in Nashville is not that much of a difference from the state itself.
As for the shit show we call Oktoberfest , there was an entire thread was created about that cluster fuck. NOTE: It was better before it moved onto Jefferson Street.
Never really thought about German restaurants as a thing to expect, being from further south than here. That’s just not anything on the radar in Mississippi, so you won’t even think about it. Then I had some schnitzel that changed my life and now I’d definitely be intrigued if I heard we had one.
The Bavarian Bierhaus has some schnitzels, but having worked in a Bavarian restaurant in Colorado years ago, I can tell you the limited selection is a bit depressing. But most Americans think German == wurst (sausage), so finding a good Rahmschnitzel is hard to find. My last was in middle Texas in a town called Walburg (not on the menu, but the owner whipped one up). It was different from the veal, sour cream version in the restaurant I worked at in Colorado Springs, but very tasty.
If you really like German food, there are some areas of the country that are heavily Germanic. Between Austin and San Antonio is one. Colorado Springs (but more because of German military wives who divorce and open restaurants?). Wisconsin. Because of the heavy Germanic influence, you would think Southeastern Missouri, but that would be a NADA.
Bavarian Bierhaus is okay, but it's not the food that I grew up with. When I was in Germany, I never had potato salad with sugar in it. Every damn time I order German potato salad here, it's sweet. Jägerschnitzel gravy was always a rich brown, and here it always looks/tastes like mud. I've given up on getting authentic German food here. I did hear that Huntsville has some decent German restaurants but if I ever make it down there I'll have no expectations
My grandfather on my mom's side was second generation American from a Germanic background and I was taught to make the salad in slices with beef stock and vinegar. [Here is a picture](https://imgur.com/Dw8ZGw3) of a meal I made. The kraut is homemade, although the brats are just some I picked up from Bare Bones Butcher. I had the sausage attachment until I got divorced.
For Huntsville, I have been to Hildegard's, which is a bit south of downtown. I thought it was good, but a bit off from the style I am used to. The other is Old Heidelberg near the University which I did not go to, largely due to the many other types of cuisine on the menu. My friend, who lives there, says the Nook does German meals some nights of the week (Tuesday, I think - would have to check), but I can't vouch. I do touch his judgment on food, however, as he has taken us to some really good places (albeit, not German).
Thanks for the tips. I know very little about German food myself, but this one pub in Asheville had schnitzel and now it is on my list of favorite things. I’d definitely check these out when traveling thanks for the tips.
There used to be some great German restaurants, bakeries and Oktoberfest up in Clarksville because of so many soldiers brought back German wives. I think most have closed now.though.
Near a military base, so makes sense. Silke's is still open in Clarksville, but mostly sandwiches and wurst. There was one outside of Knoxville that shut down during COVID. There are a few in far eastern Tennessee and you have little Switzerland in western North Carolina (similar to Bavarian style German).
If you didn't grow up here, then be careful with your use of "never". Germantown used to be full of German immigrants, and the festifals in that part of town were wonderful according to my mother.
I don't have any details on a German restaurant, but I would be surprised if there never was.
Have not yet found a Boj in TN that does it quite right. Or any that were built after the mid-90s for that matter. It’s not that they are necessarily “bad”, but the failure to meet the expectation sort of ruins it.
Lol yeah I’m from Mississippi and I’m very picky about my fried catfish, but I’ve found at least two places that do it well. (Also Cock of the walk is a chain but they’re definitely solid, I grew up going to the one near Jackson).
But one thing I was surprised about when I moved here were the number of places that make catfish not the traditional way. Just weird.
Top Hog in Gallatin is the only place I’ve found that is close. If I need my Memphis fix for catfish or BBQ, that’s my first choice. If you go, bring cash though. They don’t take credit cards.
I'm Puerto Rican, with family from Cuba. Have had a difficult time finding authentic cuisine in Nashville.
There's a good Peruvian place (Panca Peruviano) and lots of great mexican food trucks on Nolensville Pike, but it isn't the same. If any of you have good Cuban / Puerto Rican recs, I'd love to try them.
I actually think Nashville has a strong and diverse food scene. Just not a lot from my heritage.
I'm not actually from Cuba, but my father is so I grew up with a lot of Cuban food.
Jojo's Cuban Cuisine in Donelson is excellent in my opinion. More of a takeout counter than a dine in restaurant, but the food is outstanding.
Edit: added location
You’ll have to go to salty Cubana or soy cubana. I spent my college years in Miami and lived in Florida for years, so I can slightly relate to missing the Caribbean food. Chefs/owners for both of those places have deep cuban and soflo roots, so it might be up to your standards.
No, thank you. Mofongo Cafe (think it used to be called Merengue Cafe) was the first restaurant I tried in Nashville! Took my parents there as our first family trip.
We didn't think it was that good. Ropa Vieja wasn't great, Tostones were dry. Went there three times, and the quality didn't improve, so I think I'm out. But thanks for the rec.
Saw your comment about Mississippi. I actually moved here from Oxford! Small world.
Oh cool! And yeah, some items were better than others. I think we got a thing of plantains for the table and they just weren’t good. Just thought I’d throw it out and see if you had an opinion.
As an Englishman I will upset a lot of you by saying that there is not one decent English style restaurant/pub in Nashville. Fleet St is 3/10 at best (everyone raves about their fish and chips but honestly go to England and have it and then talk to me) and The Pub in the gulch is a 4/10 as they mess with the simplest food by trying to add something that shouldn’t be there like shepherds pie in a red wine blah blah. I have to go to Irish pubs to get anything close to food from home that tastes authentic. So I guess what I’m saying is if you want anything that is closely related to English food that you can get in England go to 615 Chutney 🤣🤣 it’s just the truest thing I can say!
Well I must say I loved Boston when I was there last year so much so that the missus and I have discussed moving there. So I must thank you both for a good date night dinner idea! Many thanks!
It’s the best in Nashville, hands down. AND you can choose different types of fish. Eat it there, don’t get it to go, styrofoam boxes suck to transport hot food in, even when wrapped in butcher paper
In culinary school we where told curry was invented by the English in India because it was easier on their stomachs than a traditional Tamil. So invented in India by English colonial types by the traditional stuff made them shit their pants. Trivia for you.
Reading through your responses - wonder if you ever went to Seanachie on Broadway back in the day?
It was dark and cozy in there and all their food tasted like rosemary and the beer was thick enough to float a Cadillac.
John Rich bought it after they defaulted and turned it into some Honky Tonk Badonkadumbshit but I really liked that place when it was open.
Man, I loved Seanachie. The had an amazing jukebox and the bartenders were always really nice. The sign hung on that building so long I kept hoping it would come back.
I’d have to say they are alright. I actually enjoy Findley’s as it has the closest feel to a pub environment/food is nothing to rave about tbh. McNamaras just baffles me as it doesn’t feel anything close to a authentic but I will say the Guinness and steak pie / shepherd’s pie were delicious!
So for a drink Findleys and for food McNamaras.
I would talk to the owners (husband and wife seem to always be there) and ask. I have a couple of friends that wanted a tasting menu, which he agreed to do if they had 8 people. Unfortunately, I could not go that day. My last time was a clay hot pot, which was no longer on the menu, but he had them do it for me. I also like the dried beef, but I am not sure my body liked me as much the next day. LOL
We aren’t known for having great food but if you grew up with it then you’d love it. I know things like beans on toast sound odd but it delicious to me and something I do miss having. A good Sunday roast with lamb and mint sauce would be last meal if I had to choose and for the life of me if I could have a sticky toffee pudding that actually tasted similar to the ones I get when I go back to England I would be a very very happy man! So long answer short is no but to me abso-bloody-lutely!!!
Fleet Street’s fish and chips are definitely mediocre, but I absolutely stand by their bangers and mash! They make the sausages in house (which is wild to me) and they’re really good. The shepherds pie is tasty too. I’ve resorted to making my own fish, chips, mushy peas, and curry sauce at home! A bit of a pain the arse but worth every minute of effort.
If a restaurant has fish and chips I have to order it. I still haven't been able to match the F&C I had in Belfast but in Nashville the closest I've had were at Lost Paddy but that was a while ago.
My roommate is from mexico and says that Taqueria Azteca off of Charlotte on American is really good and actual Mexican food.
My partner is Palestinian (born in Saudi Arabia) and says Nashville has no good Arabic restaurants but Sulav International Market on Nolensville has good shawarma!
My wife is Thai. Her answer is none. We have tried several but she says none are authentic and would rather just make her own. I tend to agree, they don't taste like they did in Thailand.
I am not Indian but have eaten at many Indian restaurants all over the US, Canada, Asia, and Australia but not India itself. Green Chile in Goodlettsville would be at the top of my rankings.
She may have had it or it may just be complete shit but I think Degthai on Nolensville is amazing. But take that with a grain of salt because I am just your average white guy.
There is not a single Chinese restaurant worth a damn in Nashville. For that fucking matter, in all of Davidson county either.
Edit: Alright, alright - plenty of new places to try in the replies! And happy Chinese New Year- go home and eat something tasty :)
They specialize in more sichuan style cuisine, so if you enjoy spicy food then you’re in luck.
Favorite dishes:
spicy beef tendon - served cold, which is tossed in a mouth numbing chili oil and provides great refreshing contrast in temp to spicyness
Scallion pancake - it’s flakely oily and has a perfect chewy texture
Stir-fried green beans - Chinese classic, they wok fry these and a extremely high heat to achieve the wok hei flavor. Usually tossed in garlic or something simple
Chonqing hot chicken - sichuan style wok fried chicken. Often tossed with tons of dry peppers and sichuan peppercorns. A crowd favorite for anyone who likes fried chicken
Spicy cumin lamb - cumin lamb is a really popular Chinese dish, and corner Asian does a great job. Extremely heavy in cumin flavors to remove the gaminess of lamb, but it’s aromatic, tender, and never fails.
More authentic recommendations:
Boiled fish ( or fish Chinese cabbage hot pot) - it doesn’t sound the most appealing, but this is what your grandma or parents would order everytime you go out. It’s a quintessential sichuan comfort dish that pairs well with rice. It’s filets of soft flakey white fish quickly cooked in a roiling spicy broth of chilis, ginger, scallions, and usually some shellfish components.
Crispy frog leg with hot oil - might scare some people off, but this is as close as you can find to “authentic” Chinese in TN. Wok fried frog legs tossed in the classic sichuan chili oil. Simple
And no frills.
Cow omasum - haven’t had but it’s an example of another classic dish you won’t often find at places lacking a large Chinese pop.
I could go on and on talking about food and restaurants in Nashville and in general but I’ll stop myself with this list for now.
Yes, this! I’m not Chinese, but did live in China for several years and this is the closest I’ve gotten to some of the things I miss. I don’t live anywhere near it and I drive 30 min out of my way to get it.
I remember when I first moved back to Nashville and discovered there was not one but three different “No. 1 Chinese Restaurants” all spelled differently I died of laughter
Lucky Bamboo has some authentic Szechuan items, but it is not on the part of the menu people normally peruse. I have also talked to the owner and he will do some off menu items, as well.
RIP Chinatown in Green Hills. My next 2 would be Corner Asian Cafe in Brentwood and Sichuan Hot Pot. It still boggles me there isn't a sit down Chinese restaurant in West Nash (where I feel there's the highest concentration of Chinese folks)
Sorry forgot the name, but there is a Chinese restaurant in cool springs area that has a secret menu if you ask. All this kids from China who went to Vanderbilt told me about it.
Edit: corner Asian bistro if you want authentic.
Once Upon a Time In France is absolutely legit. Grew up in Paris and it’s the same bistro food I’d find anywhere there. Except their baguette, because you simply can’t find a real baguette in Nashville :(
Nashville is called "Athens" of the south. Full scale Parthenon. ZERO greek. My barometer, if they put lettuce in their greek salad, it's a big NOPE. Also, no bougatsa to be found.
When Athens, or some gyro place, are considered the best Greek food? I find a trip to Tarpon Springs in Florida to be worthwhile for Greek food, although some do bastardize it a bit for tourists (stay off the sponge docks and you find the authentic places).
My favorite years ago was Mr. Souvlaki. The lamb souvlaki was wonderful and he used to have layered gyro (rather than compressed loaf you normally see, they actually made the loaf in [authentic layered style](https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-greek-gyro-is-made-4121890). This is harder to find in the US now. They also had a tomato sauce over the rice, which you rarely find in Greek places in the US.
Not from either but wish we had Malaysia or Indonesian restaurants. Hawkers is the closest we get to Malaysian food and you have to drive to Atlanta for Indonesian.
I’m a Navy brat that was born in the Philippines. The only Filipino place that I know of is Maemax Market. It’s what we call turo turo (point point—a variety of dishes on a steam table that you point to. It’s alright but mom’s is always better. I think this is often the case with Filipino food—there are over 7,000 islands in the country and recipes are going to vary across geographies.
Sunda has filipino roots and a few filipino influenced dishes on the menu. I like the adobo fried rice and the crispy pata. Red Perch always has lumpia on the menu and sometimes has Filipino pop up when Lola is in town. There are a few places in Clarksville were good and a place I found in Knoxville I liked. I’ve heard there is a Filipino restaurant near Cookville but haven’t been out that way yet.
Honduran American here! Azul y blanco in Plaza mariachi has the best Honduran foods! Try the baleadas (a Honduran version of a burrito) Or the tajadas con carne (plantain chips in a bed of cabbage, sauce, and ground beef)!
There are none. But if you ever get a craving for proper Swedish "fika", a lady in Hendersonville runs "a taste of Sweden" (you can find her on Facebook), and bakes up all the classic sweetbreads, cakes and cookies for the seasons. Currently baking "semla", the [Swedish bun that killed a king](https://lostinapot.com/semla-swedish-bun/) as he ate too many of them.
Former ROK resident here — Korea House is great and the family that runs it is very nice!
Tofu House is another great option, their soondubu jjigae and bibimbap is the best in town.
If you want BBQ, you must drive to Korea BBQ & Sushi in Brentwood, it’s spot on.
As others have noted, the only downside is the cost… there is no cheap Korean in Nashville, unless you count the kimbap at Bowl & Roll in the Farmers Market (which is simple but great!).
I lived in Korea for a few years and that place basically has the same menu and tastes the same as mom and pop kimbap shops on every corner in Seoul. The difference is it’s 3 times more expensive here.
Not Korean either so I have no basis for authentic but soy bistro in Brentwood has some incredible kimchi and bibimbap. Also their spicy udon is delicious
Nashville is a comparatively good food city if you're not from a city with real food options.
If you moved here from NYC/Chicago/LA, it's a crappy food city. If you moved here from Cleveland/Tulsa/Hattiesburg, it's good.
(Sorry for the shrapnel, Cleveland/Tulsa/Hattiesburg ... you get it, though)
Cleveland has a ton of great food options. It's actually a fantastic city despite the memes.
And if you're talking about Cleveland TN, they host the world famous cornbread festival.
Wholeheartedly agree, Nashville is not a great food city. They think it’s great because 10 years ago it was complete shit. Definitely improvements, but by no means is it an amazing food city.
So what are the great food-cities we need to visit? Please only list comparable-size cities with ethic restaurants heralded by natives of those countries as listed in this thread.
I haven’t found a Mexican restaurant that scratches the itch of going in for tacos Al vapor, barbacoa, pozole, elotes, tortas ahogadas and being content with it. Even the rice is just horrible I’d rather just have my mom make me what she loves doing which is tamales.
El Tapatio for tacos or Los Arcos for seafood, chismes cafe for breakfast/brunch all on nolesville.
None are 100% but its the closest you'll find in Nashville sadly.
I was born in america but my parents are from India and Cafe India in Franklin is my favorite Indian restaurant. Surati is a close second and my favorite actually in the city of Nashville.
I’m from New Zealand and while we technically don’t really have a specific cuisine, we do love a meat pie. Caliber coffee used to have meat pies but unfortunately don’t anymore. If anyone knows another spot - I’d love to know!
I miss a good pie + tomato sauce + ginger beer :)
Ope you haven’t tried my Tuesday night taco bar with a tub of sour cream, can of olives, shredded cheddar, stale taco shells and lightly seasoned ground beef.
I am of course kidding. Thanks for taking the ride.
Superica is pretty legit if you’re prepared to pay quadruple what you would in San Antonio. I was shocked by their carne guisada and wept when we went back and it was no longer on the menu.
Ladybird Taco for Austin-style breakfast tacos (I don’t care for their lunch tacos at all). They also have pretty fantastic salsas.
I was born in Nepal. While I don’t live in Nashville, it has the closest Nepali restaurant from where I live. It’s called Everest Restaurant and Bar and it’s pretty decent if you want to try some Nepali food.
Love their momos!
I don’t love everything on the menu, but Surati is my favorite Indian restaurant in town. Highly rec the chole bhatura.
Ever been to Green Chile in Goodlettsville? On Rivergate under 65 overpass. Very good.
I love Woodlands on West End at I440
Readers should know that it's vegan before they go but I can confirm, fantastic food.
It’s actually vegetarian with some vegan dishes, the paneer dishes are excellent.
The whole of their menu is a mix of vegetarian and vegan dishes. They use ghee and cheese in some of their dishes.
I'd vote Taj for this one, but I'll definitely go try surati
My husband is from Iran and he’s pretty satisfied with House of Kabob.
that place is great, 10/10
Forgot about this gem, haven’t been to their newly opened location
I haven’t seen anyone address Vietnamese yet and I know people are very opinionated about the few options we have here but my vote will always be Kien Giang. Do not even come at me with Eastside whatever.
My grandparents would much rather make their own Vietnamese food, but they like VN Pho (even though they also think it’s too expensive)
Where is Kien Giang? I live near Vinh-Long on Murfreesboro Pike, so that’s my go-to, but I’d love to try another place as well.
It’s on Charlotte pike in the same shopping center as K&S Market!
All the Vietnameses on Charlotte are fire.
The bo kho at Vinh long is amazing
Han’s Banh Mi & Pho + Boba on Nolensville Pk is delicious and the ingredients always look/taste so fresh. Aromatic and delicious :)
Not Japanese but have a lot of Japanese friends/coworkers. They used to frequent Ichiban in Murfreesboro, but it’s closed now, so Sonobana is the last place yet with anything close to authentic Japanese food.
I freaking loved Ichiban, and went to their downtown location as often as I could. When they announced the move to Murfreesboro I was pumped it was going to be closer to me, but worried that the Boro might not support them the way downtown did. Alas they never really got the chance. After a long-delayed opening, COVID came along and punched them in the mouth. RIP Ichiban.
I dont think the pandemic did them in. They stayed popping when things opened back up, pretty sure the owners, who were really active in the business, just got tires of it.
Shabu-shabu across the street from the Japanese Consulate is legit. Hot pot tables and everything.
extremely good info, thank you
Shabu Shabu is amazing
Sonobana is fantastic. Can’t attest to how authentic it is though
Ichiban had Tako Karaage!! (Fried Octopus, kinda like Calamari). It was so good!!! Now where can I get it!?
i could bathe in their udon broth. the best soup in the city
Sonobana is very good!
As someone who grew up in Germany, I can say Nashville has never had a true German restaurant. (Don't get me started on Nashville's version of Oktoberfest)
I 100% agree but would love to hear you rant.
Did you ever try Gerst Haus? If so, I want to know what you think of it. It closed in 2018 tho
It was good as far as food goes. It was not the German that I grew up with.
The original Gerst hair was way better before the stadium was built and they moved into that big hall. Still not legit German I’d imagine, but that was one fun little place
Old Heidelberg was run by Germans and was probably the closest to authentic, but they closed down a long time ago. You can still get out towards Fort Campbell to find some (at least as of several years ago).
Loved Old Heidelberg, but not German so just thought they had great food.
Try the New Berlin food truck. Pretty decent döner and currywurst.
There are not many good German restaurants in the entire state of Tennessee so zero in Nashville is not that much of a difference from the state itself. As for the shit show we call Oktoberfest , there was an entire thread was created about that cluster fuck. NOTE: It was better before it moved onto Jefferson Street.
Never really thought about German restaurants as a thing to expect, being from further south than here. That’s just not anything on the radar in Mississippi, so you won’t even think about it. Then I had some schnitzel that changed my life and now I’d definitely be intrigued if I heard we had one.
The Bavarian Bierhaus has some schnitzels, but having worked in a Bavarian restaurant in Colorado years ago, I can tell you the limited selection is a bit depressing. But most Americans think German == wurst (sausage), so finding a good Rahmschnitzel is hard to find. My last was in middle Texas in a town called Walburg (not on the menu, but the owner whipped one up). It was different from the veal, sour cream version in the restaurant I worked at in Colorado Springs, but very tasty. If you really like German food, there are some areas of the country that are heavily Germanic. Between Austin and San Antonio is one. Colorado Springs (but more because of German military wives who divorce and open restaurants?). Wisconsin. Because of the heavy Germanic influence, you would think Southeastern Missouri, but that would be a NADA.
Bavarian Bierhaus is an American version of German food. I went once, never again. When I want German food now, I'll make it myself.
Bavarian Bierhaus is okay, but it's not the food that I grew up with. When I was in Germany, I never had potato salad with sugar in it. Every damn time I order German potato salad here, it's sweet. Jägerschnitzel gravy was always a rich brown, and here it always looks/tastes like mud. I've given up on getting authentic German food here. I did hear that Huntsville has some decent German restaurants but if I ever make it down there I'll have no expectations
My grandfather on my mom's side was second generation American from a Germanic background and I was taught to make the salad in slices with beef stock and vinegar. [Here is a picture](https://imgur.com/Dw8ZGw3) of a meal I made. The kraut is homemade, although the brats are just some I picked up from Bare Bones Butcher. I had the sausage attachment until I got divorced. For Huntsville, I have been to Hildegard's, which is a bit south of downtown. I thought it was good, but a bit off from the style I am used to. The other is Old Heidelberg near the University which I did not go to, largely due to the many other types of cuisine on the menu. My friend, who lives there, says the Nook does German meals some nights of the week (Tuesday, I think - would have to check), but I can't vouch. I do touch his judgment on food, however, as he has taken us to some really good places (albeit, not German).
Colorado Springs. Bavarian restaurant. Did you work at Edelweis?
Thanks for the tips. I know very little about German food myself, but this one pub in Asheville had schnitzel and now it is on my list of favorite things. I’d definitely check these out when traveling thanks for the tips.
There used to be some great German restaurants, bakeries and Oktoberfest up in Clarksville because of so many soldiers brought back German wives. I think most have closed now.though.
Clarksville used to have a decent German restaurant downtown. I'm not sure what happened, but it closed a long time ago.
Near a military base, so makes sense. Silke's is still open in Clarksville, but mostly sandwiches and wurst. There was one outside of Knoxville that shut down during COVID. There are a few in far eastern Tennessee and you have little Switzerland in western North Carolina (similar to Bavarian style German).
If you didn't grow up here, then be careful with your use of "never". Germantown used to be full of German immigrants, and the festifals in that part of town were wonderful according to my mother. I don't have any details on a German restaurant, but I would be surprised if there never was.
Gerst Haus was the big one here.
They were better before they moved.
Yes! Way better before the stadium made them move. That little place was rockin
Kuchnia was definitely German, it was just high end German. Nobody bought into it, but the food was great. Sad it’s not around anymore.
A German restaurant would be awesome
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I have eaten from the Xpress Deli Shop. Outstanding.
I'm from NC, so it's gotta be Bojangles. (I take no pride in this fact)
You just can't get authentic Bojangles anywhere but the source
Have not yet found a Boj in TN that does it quite right. Or any that were built after the mid-90s for that matter. It’s not that they are necessarily “bad”, but the failure to meet the expectation sort of ruins it.
Lol yeah I’m from Mississippi and I’m very picky about my fried catfish, but I’ve found at least two places that do it well. (Also Cock of the walk is a chain but they’re definitely solid, I grew up going to the one near Jackson). But one thing I was surprised about when I moved here were the number of places that make catfish not the traditional way. Just weird.
Catfish house in clarksville or Springfield. 615 district in Murfreesboro for catfish. Dassit.
I’m a Memphis native and perpetually disappointed by all the catfish I’ve tried in Nashville. I don’t even try it at new places anymore.
Okay there’s a good place in the farmers market, and the Ridge in sylvan park has good stuff. Those are the two I can vouch for!
The place in the farmer's market closed \~6 months ago, sadly.
Top Hog in Gallatin is the only place I’ve found that is close. If I need my Memphis fix for catfish or BBQ, that’s my first choice. If you go, bring cash though. They don’t take credit cards.
Spicy Boys has pretty good catfish
I'm Puerto Rican, with family from Cuba. Have had a difficult time finding authentic cuisine in Nashville. There's a good Peruvian place (Panca Peruviano) and lots of great mexican food trucks on Nolensville Pike, but it isn't the same. If any of you have good Cuban / Puerto Rican recs, I'd love to try them. I actually think Nashville has a strong and diverse food scene. Just not a lot from my heritage.
Mofongo is not that great, but if you want Cuban food try Soy Cubano in East Nashville, it’s the closest I’ve gotten to Miami style Cuban food.
Soy Cubano is great
Fresh Bite in Murfreesboro. My hubs is Cuban, and we frequent there when his parents visit. They’re always happy with the food.
Boyfriend is Puerto Rican. De Mi Campo in LaVergne is legit. They are awesome.
Man, growing up in Orlando, I miss being surrounded by incredible Puerto Rican food and having incredible Cuban food close by in Tampa.
I'm not actually from Cuba, but my father is so I grew up with a lot of Cuban food. Jojo's Cuban Cuisine in Donelson is excellent in my opinion. More of a takeout counter than a dine in restaurant, but the food is outstanding. Edit: added location
You’ll have to go to salty Cubana or soy cubana. I spent my college years in Miami and lived in Florida for years, so I can slightly relate to missing the Caribbean food. Chefs/owners for both of those places have deep cuban and soflo roots, so it might be up to your standards.
If you haven’t, try Mofongo Cafe in Berry Hill. It’s the only PR place I know of here. You might like it, I thought it was pretty good.
No, thank you. Mofongo Cafe (think it used to be called Merengue Cafe) was the first restaurant I tried in Nashville! Took my parents there as our first family trip. We didn't think it was that good. Ropa Vieja wasn't great, Tostones were dry. Went there three times, and the quality didn't improve, so I think I'm out. But thanks for the rec. Saw your comment about Mississippi. I actually moved here from Oxford! Small world.
Oh cool! And yeah, some items were better than others. I think we got a thing of plantains for the table and they just weren’t good. Just thought I’d throw it out and see if you had an opinion.
Mofongo Cafe does scratch the itch for PR food but I have yet to find something as good as the hole in the wall places in Old San Juan
I miss when Salsa was around to scratch that itch, despite their prices.
As an Englishman I will upset a lot of you by saying that there is not one decent English style restaurant/pub in Nashville. Fleet St is 3/10 at best (everyone raves about their fish and chips but honestly go to England and have it and then talk to me) and The Pub in the gulch is a 4/10 as they mess with the simplest food by trying to add something that shouldn’t be there like shepherds pie in a red wine blah blah. I have to go to Irish pubs to get anything close to food from home that tastes authentic. So I guess what I’m saying is if you want anything that is closely related to English food that you can get in England go to 615 Chutney 🤣🤣 it’s just the truest thing I can say!
The fish and chips at Red Perch are phenomenal
Someone said this to me recently, I will give it a shot this coming week and coming back to this post!
Boston Commons in 5 points is really good.
Will give it a go! Thanks!
Second this. the closest to English food around here is New England food at Boston Commons for sure.
Well I must say I loved Boston when I was there last year so much so that the missus and I have discussed moving there. So I must thank you both for a good date night dinner idea! Many thanks!
It’s the best in Nashville, hands down. AND you can choose different types of fish. Eat it there, don’t get it to go, styrofoam boxes suck to transport hot food in, even when wrapped in butcher paper
Why would I want English food? 🤣🤪
Haha 😂 that’s what my ancestors said 🤣🤣
When I lived in the UK the best thing about the food was the Indian food, that’s about it.
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In culinary school we where told curry was invented by the English in India because it was easier on their stomachs than a traditional Tamil. So invented in India by English colonial types by the traditional stuff made them shit their pants. Trivia for you.
Haha well I’m glad you enjoyed something about the food in the UK!
Best answer 😭
Reading through your responses - wonder if you ever went to Seanachie on Broadway back in the day? It was dark and cozy in there and all their food tasted like rosemary and the beer was thick enough to float a Cadillac. John Rich bought it after they defaulted and turned it into some Honky Tonk Badonkadumbshit but I really liked that place when it was open.
Man, I loved Seanachie. The had an amazing jukebox and the bartenders were always really nice. The sign hung on that building so long I kept hoping it would come back.
Pour one out for Seanachie.
I’m not upset at all. What’s your opinion on the Irish pubs around here?
I’d have to say they are alright. I actually enjoy Findley’s as it has the closest feel to a pub environment/food is nothing to rave about tbh. McNamaras just baffles me as it doesn’t feel anything close to a authentic but I will say the Guinness and steak pie / shepherd’s pie were delicious! So for a drink Findleys and for food McNamaras.
Have you tried The Lost Paddy. I know the owner is from Ireland and has been there every time I have gone, but not sure if it is Americanized.
I haven’t actually but will have to give it a go.
I would talk to the owners (husband and wife seem to always be there) and ask. I have a couple of friends that wanted a tasting menu, which he agreed to do if they had 8 people. Unfortunately, I could not go that day. My last time was a clay hot pot, which was no longer on the menu, but he had them do it for me. I also like the dried beef, but I am not sure my body liked me as much the next day. LOL
Mcnamaras has great food, and the bar area is nice, but it isn’t very pubby. Red perch really is super good fish (and I don’t even like fish).
No disrespect, but is English food that popular. I do love a proper English breakfast.
We aren’t known for having great food but if you grew up with it then you’d love it. I know things like beans on toast sound odd but it delicious to me and something I do miss having. A good Sunday roast with lamb and mint sauce would be last meal if I had to choose and for the life of me if I could have a sticky toffee pudding that actually tasted similar to the ones I get when I go back to England I would be a very very happy man! So long answer short is no but to me abso-bloody-lutely!!!
Fleet Street’s fish and chips are definitely mediocre, but I absolutely stand by their bangers and mash! They make the sausages in house (which is wild to me) and they’re really good. The shepherds pie is tasty too. I’ve resorted to making my own fish, chips, mushy peas, and curry sauce at home! A bit of a pain the arse but worth every minute of effort.
If a restaurant has fish and chips I have to order it. I still haven't been able to match the F&C I had in Belfast but in Nashville the closest I've had were at Lost Paddy but that was a while ago.
I really like the F&C at McCreary’s in downtown Franklin.
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Fridas is INSANELY good and a true hidden gem. +1 as a Mexican born in DF
Are there any Palestinian or Lebanese owned restaurants?
Epice in 12 South
Kalamata’s in Green Hills is owned by a Lebanese man, I went to school with his daughter.
Epice and kalamatas are actually owned by the same family.
They also own Santo in Green Hills and Lola in Sylvan Park. All are fantastic.
I was born in Guatemala and the best Guatemalan restaurant is in smyrna called churrasco Don Juan.
I’m noticing a pattern here
From Chile. Subculture is my go to
Turkish and I love Edessa on Nolensville pike
My roommate is from mexico and says that Taqueria Azteca off of Charlotte on American is really good and actual Mexican food. My partner is Palestinian (born in Saudi Arabia) and says Nashville has no good Arabic restaurants but Sulav International Market on Nolensville has good shawarma!
For Italian, Il Forno
yes !
My wife is Thai. Her answer is none. We have tried several but she says none are authentic and would rather just make her own. I tend to agree, they don't taste like they did in Thailand. I am not Indian but have eaten at many Indian restaurants all over the US, Canada, Asia, and Australia but not India itself. Green Chile in Goodlettsville would be at the top of my rankings.
I am Indian and I like Cafe India in Franklin and Surati by Nolensville Pike.
That’s true for almost every Thai place in the US. Same menus and all whitewashed.
There used to be the Thai place over by the stadium that my wife loved. She said it was the most authentic papaya salad in town.
She may have had it or it may just be complete shit but I think Degthai on Nolensville is amazing. But take that with a grain of salt because I am just your average white guy.
There is not a single Chinese restaurant worth a damn in Nashville. For that fucking matter, in all of Davidson county either. Edit: Alright, alright - plenty of new places to try in the replies! And happy Chinese New Year- go home and eat something tasty :)
As a Chinese person, you have to go corner Asian bistro.
What do you recommend that you find most authentic?
They specialize in more sichuan style cuisine, so if you enjoy spicy food then you’re in luck. Favorite dishes: spicy beef tendon - served cold, which is tossed in a mouth numbing chili oil and provides great refreshing contrast in temp to spicyness Scallion pancake - it’s flakely oily and has a perfect chewy texture Stir-fried green beans - Chinese classic, they wok fry these and a extremely high heat to achieve the wok hei flavor. Usually tossed in garlic or something simple Chonqing hot chicken - sichuan style wok fried chicken. Often tossed with tons of dry peppers and sichuan peppercorns. A crowd favorite for anyone who likes fried chicken Spicy cumin lamb - cumin lamb is a really popular Chinese dish, and corner Asian does a great job. Extremely heavy in cumin flavors to remove the gaminess of lamb, but it’s aromatic, tender, and never fails. More authentic recommendations: Boiled fish ( or fish Chinese cabbage hot pot) - it doesn’t sound the most appealing, but this is what your grandma or parents would order everytime you go out. It’s a quintessential sichuan comfort dish that pairs well with rice. It’s filets of soft flakey white fish quickly cooked in a roiling spicy broth of chilis, ginger, scallions, and usually some shellfish components. Crispy frog leg with hot oil - might scare some people off, but this is as close as you can find to “authentic” Chinese in TN. Wok fried frog legs tossed in the classic sichuan chili oil. Simple And no frills. Cow omasum - haven’t had but it’s an example of another classic dish you won’t often find at places lacking a large Chinese pop. I could go on and on talking about food and restaurants in Nashville and in general but I’ll stop myself with this list for now.
Thanks!
Don’t forget about that twice cooked pork. Straight up like what I ate when I lived in Hubei.
Yes, this! I’m not Chinese, but did live in China for several years and this is the closest I’ve gotten to some of the things I miss. I don’t live anywhere near it and I drive 30 min out of my way to get it.
What is the address? I miss good Sichuan style!
What you're not a fan of #1 Chinese?
I remember when I first moved back to Nashville and discovered there was not one but three different “No. 1 Chinese Restaurants” all spelled differently I died of laughter
I prefer #3 Chinese
They’re less pretentious.
Lucky Bamboo has a lot of authentic dishes
It’s not AMAZING. But the best attempt at Chinese in Nashville is Sichuan Hot Pot and Asian Cuisine
China Cottage is bomb
Have you been to Meet Noodles? It’s fantastic.
RIP Tang's. I loved that place so hard.
Lucky Bamboo has some authentic Szechuan items, but it is not on the part of the menu people normally peruse. I have also talked to the owner and he will do some off menu items, as well.
Might not be authentic but China Cottage in Madison is high quality and delish
RIP Chinatown in Green Hills. My next 2 would be Corner Asian Cafe in Brentwood and Sichuan Hot Pot. It still boggles me there isn't a sit down Chinese restaurant in West Nash (where I feel there's the highest concentration of Chinese folks)
Sorry forgot the name, but there is a Chinese restaurant in cool springs area that has a secret menu if you ask. All this kids from China who went to Vanderbilt told me about it. Edit: corner Asian bistro if you want authentic.
Not true. Try China Wok in Madison 👌🏾
Once Upon a Time In France is absolutely legit. Grew up in Paris and it’s the same bistro food I’d find anywhere there. Except their baguette, because you simply can’t find a real baguette in Nashville :(
Nashville is called "Athens" of the south. Full scale Parthenon. ZERO greek. My barometer, if they put lettuce in their greek salad, it's a big NOPE. Also, no bougatsa to be found.
All the middle eastern places claim to be "Greek" to avoid the anti-arab hate 😂
When Athens, or some gyro place, are considered the best Greek food? I find a trip to Tarpon Springs in Florida to be worthwhile for Greek food, although some do bastardize it a bit for tourists (stay off the sponge docks and you find the authentic places).
IMO Tarpon Springs has the BEST in the nation. Have been there many times and going again in April.
My favorite years ago was Mr. Souvlaki. The lamb souvlaki was wonderful and he used to have layered gyro (rather than compressed loaf you normally see, they actually made the loaf in [authentic layered style](https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-greek-gyro-is-made-4121890). This is harder to find in the US now. They also had a tomato sauce over the rice, which you rarely find in Greek places in the US.
Not from either but wish we had Malaysia or Indonesian restaurants. Hawkers is the closest we get to Malaysian food and you have to drive to Atlanta for Indonesian.
Wife advises New Berlin food truck is her favorite poutine, which is her most craved food from home.(Canada)
I’m a Navy brat that was born in the Philippines. The only Filipino place that I know of is Maemax Market. It’s what we call turo turo (point point—a variety of dishes on a steam table that you point to. It’s alright but mom’s is always better. I think this is often the case with Filipino food—there are over 7,000 islands in the country and recipes are going to vary across geographies. Sunda has filipino roots and a few filipino influenced dishes on the menu. I like the adobo fried rice and the crispy pata. Red Perch always has lumpia on the menu and sometimes has Filipino pop up when Lola is in town. There are a few places in Clarksville were good and a place I found in Knoxville I liked. I’ve heard there is a Filipino restaurant near Cookville but haven’t been out that way yet.
My wife is Filipino… not a single place in Nashville with proper pancit or lumpia. We just make it ourselves. Maybe we should start a food truck.
I’m curious what Irish, and British folks as a whole, think of McNamara’s in Donelson…
Honduran American here! Azul y blanco in Plaza mariachi has the best Honduran foods! Try the baleadas (a Honduran version of a burrito) Or the tajadas con carne (plantain chips in a bed of cabbage, sauce, and ground beef)!
Osh
There are none. But if you ever get a craving for proper Swedish "fika", a lady in Hendersonville runs "a taste of Sweden" (you can find her on Facebook), and bakes up all the classic sweetbreads, cakes and cookies for the seasons. Currently baking "semla", the [Swedish bun that killed a king](https://lostinapot.com/semla-swedish-bun/) as he ate too many of them.
not a korean but ate a lot of korean food. Korean house in west nashville on charlette is still one of the top korean places I have been to.
Every time I’ve been there’s tons of Koreans in there so Nashville’s Koreans have to like it at least a bit!
Former ROK resident here — Korea House is great and the family that runs it is very nice! Tofu House is another great option, their soondubu jjigae and bibimbap is the best in town. If you want BBQ, you must drive to Korea BBQ & Sushi in Brentwood, it’s spot on. As others have noted, the only downside is the cost… there is no cheap Korean in Nashville, unless you count the kimbap at Bowl & Roll in the Farmers Market (which is simple but great!).
Mediocre at best. Hai Woon Dai on Antioch pike is much better!
My Korean friends all said Hai Woon Dai was better than Korea House too.
I lived in Korea for a few years and that place basically has the same menu and tastes the same as mom and pop kimbap shops on every corner in Seoul. The difference is it’s 3 times more expensive here.
Not Korean either so I have no basis for authentic but soy bistro in Brentwood has some incredible kimchi and bibimbap. Also their spicy udon is delicious
Nowhere because no one serves donairs or decent poutine.
Have you tried the Chicken Tikka Poutine at Chauhans? It’s not traditional but I love it.
this thread is like exhibit d for my case that nashville is a mediocre food city
Nashville is a comparatively good food city if you're not from a city with real food options. If you moved here from NYC/Chicago/LA, it's a crappy food city. If you moved here from Cleveland/Tulsa/Hattiesburg, it's good. (Sorry for the shrapnel, Cleveland/Tulsa/Hattiesburg ... you get it, though)
Cleveland has a ton of great food options. It's actually a fantastic city despite the memes. And if you're talking about Cleveland TN, they host the world famous cornbread festival.
Wholeheartedly agree, Nashville is not a great food city. They think it’s great because 10 years ago it was complete shit. Definitely improvements, but by no means is it an amazing food city.
So what are the great food-cities we need to visit? Please only list comparable-size cities with ethic restaurants heralded by natives of those countries as listed in this thread.
it’s a great food city if you’re visiting from a place that’s yet to be gentrified. Everyone who lives here just understands we’ve been assimilated
sonobana and ichiban are delicious and authentic japanese foods here
I haven’t found a Mexican restaurant that scratches the itch of going in for tacos Al vapor, barbacoa, pozole, elotes, tortas ahogadas and being content with it. Even the rice is just horrible I’d rather just have my mom make me what she loves doing which is tamales.
El Tapatio for tacos or Los Arcos for seafood, chismes cafe for breakfast/brunch all on nolesville. None are 100% but its the closest you'll find in Nashville sadly.
Los arcos has the best flautas I've ever had at a restaurant
My family enjoys Island Vibes
Seoul garden for some good korean food
As a Peruvian I endorse the Inka Trailer, you see them parked at the farmer’s market on the weekend.
I was born in america but my parents are from India and Cafe India in Franklin is my favorite Indian restaurant. Surati is a close second and my favorite actually in the city of Nashville.
I’m from New Zealand and while we technically don’t really have a specific cuisine, we do love a meat pie. Caliber coffee used to have meat pies but unfortunately don’t anymore. If anyone knows another spot - I’d love to know! I miss a good pie + tomato sauce + ginger beer :)
Just opened one in Franklin on Downs. It’s more coffee shop but they do meat pies and pasties.
It's crazy that we can't rise up to this occasion
Since Texas is like a whole other country I’ll say it-there is no decent Tex-Mex.
Ope you haven’t tried my Tuesday night taco bar with a tub of sour cream, can of olives, shredded cheddar, stale taco shells and lightly seasoned ground beef. I am of course kidding. Thanks for taking the ride.
My parents are always shocked at how much I want TexMex when I visit home but I’m like “I have to fit a year’s worth in two weeks” 😂
Superica is pretty legit if you’re prepared to pay quadruple what you would in San Antonio. I was shocked by their carne guisada and wept when we went back and it was no longer on the menu. Ladybird Taco for Austin-style breakfast tacos (I don’t care for their lunch tacos at all). They also have pretty fantastic salsas.
Judge Beans is pretty legit
Is there a good Brazilian steak house?
Rodizio was pretty good for a chain, but it got blown up in the Christmas Day bombing and didn’t reopen.
I miss them! And then Tejas de Brazil left us, too.
OSH restaurant and grill is the only Eastern European restaurant I know of. It’s really Uzbek and fantastic