When you’re in Tennessee, it can be easy to be distracted by the bright lights and loud music of Lower Broadway in Nashville or Beale Street in Memphis. Still, there’s a quieter side of the state that most Tennesseans experience every day, especially when it comes to dining. Some of the best small-town restaurants in Tennessee are some of the finest. Check out these 13 hidden gem humble restaurants in Tennessee that you simply must visit if you consider yourself a true volunteer state native.

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What do you think of this list of the best small-town humble restaurants in Tennessee? Did we miss any of your favorites? Tell us in the comments! Also if you are a big fan of the culinary arts then check out this Appalachian cooking class.

After you’ve had your fill of the best food Tennessee has to offer, work it off on this natural bridge hiking trail.

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Touring Tennesseee

What are the best state parks in Tennessee?

Sure, almost half of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies in Tennessee. But you should also consider checking out some of the best state parks in Tennessee

  • Radnor Lake State Park: This 1,368-acre park is a great spot for those who want to get out of the hustle and bustle of nearby Nashville. Enjoy hiking and birding here and visit the aviary education center if you have time.
  • Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park: You’ll find this 800-acre park in Manchester. Its centerpiece is the Old Stone Fort, which was built during the Middle Woodland period. Activities at this park include hiking, fishing, and birding.
  • Reelfoot Lake State Park: This 280-acre park is located in Tiptonville. It is home to the very only natural lake in the state. Enjoy water activities and hiking here as well as unique bird-watching opportunities due to the park’s proximity to the Mississippi River.

 

What are the best candy shops in Tennessee?

Grab yourself something sweet at some of the best candy shops in Tennessee

  • Olive and Sinclair Chocolate Co: Opened in 2007, this is a bean-to-bar company that makes small batches. Grab a bar, caramel, nib brittle, and more.
  • Savannah’s Candy Kitchen: Located in Nashville, this company originated in Savannah, Georgia. They specialize in pecans, with choices like pecan pies, glazed pecans, pralines, and more.

 

What are the best ice cream shops in Tennessee?

If you have any room left in your tummy after visiting some of the best small-town restaurants in Tennessee, head to some of the best ice cream shops in Tennessee:

  • Mike’s Ice Cream: Located in Nashville, head here for some delicious homemade ice cream, with more than 30 flavors available. They also have some killer milkshakes.
  • The Ice Cream Show: Create your very own flavor by choosing from 40 different ingredients at this shop in Chattanooga. You can also get coffee and hot chocolate here.
  • Tic Toc Ice Cream Parlor: You’ll find this shop in Loudon. Choose from 29 different flavors. They also serve sundaes and floats.

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