If you're looking for someplace crazy cool and exciting to eat while you're in Tennessee, then we have quite the treat for you! From cafeteria-style southern food to burgers and bourbon, the Volunteer State has you covered. Take a look at 12 unique dining options In Tennessee!
12) The Catbird Seat - Nashville
The u-shaped dining counter seats nine, and your meal is prepared right in front of you. The Catbird Seat is a premier new Tennessee restaurant that takes reservations months in advance. Why? Because you simply can't experience luxury like this anywhere else.
11) Dyer's Burgers - Memphis
If you're looking for a trip back to the fifties, then you'll want to grab a bite at Dyer's Burgers. The fun diner style is like a blast to the past, and you can get a deep-fried burger the same way it was served at opening in 1912. We approve.
10) Interstate BBQ - Memphis
The year 1978 saw the birth of this fantastic BBQ joint, a Memphis necessity that has grown into a well-worn legend. The bologna is to die for and the storefront is located inside a converted grocery store. Neat, hey? Make sure you visit the Interstate BBQ website for any more information.
9) King Tut's Grill - Knoxville
Editors Note: Unfortunately King Tut's Grill has gone the way of the pharaoh in which it gets its name and this establishment is closed permanently. The decor at Tut's Grill is, well ... unique. To say the least. If you're looking for a crazy atmosphere and a couple of stories to tell your friends, then we've found just the place for you.
8) The Patterson House - Nashville
Modeled after an old-time speakeasy, the shadowed Patterson House is sure to serve up a drink that'll whet your whistle. The wait can get a bit tricky, but once they lead you past the heavy curtain into the dining area? You'll never want to leave. Make sure to visit The Patterson House website for any more information.
7) Pfunky Griddle - Nashville
Because why wouldn't you want to make your own pancakes? At The Pfunky Griddle, you get to choose from a plethora of toppings AND fry them on your own griddle. We call that a YES.
6) Rolf & Daughters - Germantown
Named the #3 best new restaurant by Bon Appetit magazine in 2013, this trendy hipster spot specializes in upscale 'peasant' food. It's not your normal meat and potatoes kind of menu, though - Rolf & Daughters is stunningly designed with brick and wood accents.
5) Saffire - Franklin
Editor's note: as of September 2020, Saffire is permanently closed. Located in The Factory, an airy brick event space in Franklin, Saffire offers comfort food from around the world with a classy industrial vibe.
4) Silver Diner Pizza Car - Chattanooga
Editors Note: Unfortunately like many of the great iron horses of the past, this pizza car is no longer in operation and the restaurant is closed. Take a ride on the Chattanooga Choo Choo and indulge in a meal at the Silver Diner. Have you ever eaten on a train in this river city? We bet not. Come on ova'.
3) The Smiling Elephant - Nashville
Voted one of the best Thai restaurants in Nashville, you'll get to enjoy a fantastic meal in a cool room that looks AND feels like it has been transported from Thailand. Take a look at the intricate wood designs on the walls and soak in the authentic cultural atmosphere. For more information please visit The Smiling Elephant website.
2) The Stock and Barrel - Knoxville
The farm-to-table trend is going strong here, where you can experience a truly rustic vibe accentuated by their tagline, 'burgers and bourbon.' We get it. We're going. Make sure to visit The Stock and Barrel website for any more information.
1) Swett's - Nashville
Cafeteria-style comfort food serves up a unique dining experience and the best calorie-laden fried chicken you've ever had the pleasure of tasting. Put a little meat on your bones in a place that transports you back to the nostalgic feel of high school. Please check out Swett's website for any more information.
What do you think of unique dining in Tennessee? These twelves spots are exactly where you'd want to take those out-of-town guests. Traditional? Nope. Exciting? Most definitely. Let us know where you've been in the comments below!
Here are 10 more diners for you to try out.
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