Posted in Nashville
May 31, 2017
10 Family Kitchens Around Nashville That Serve Meals To Die For
There’s nothing like a homecooked meal, especially if you’re far from home. Whether the night has just gotten away from you or you’re visiting and in search of something new and comforting, we’ve found a space for you. Enjoy your foray into southern cooking and hospitality, find time to experience the sweetness of kind folks and fried chicken. It’s a partnership that has worked out for years, just fine.
Editor’s Note: Sadly, Ruby’s Kitchen and The Family Wash have both closed their doors since this list was published. Still looks for 10 excellent dining destinations? Round out this list by adding RedByrd Coffee Shop and The A&J Diner for a bucket list-worthy experience.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Monell's is a Germantown staple, serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. Each meal they serve features their famous skillet fried chicken, but what really sets Monell's apart is the family-style dining. Guests all eat together around large tables, passing plates like it was a family Thanksgiving feast. Seats are first-come, first-served, so be sure to get there early! (Various Locations)
James Beard Award-winning Arnold's Country Kitchen has been owned and operated by Jack and Rose Arnold since it opened in 1982. The building recently underwent some expansion and a façade renovation, but the meals haven't changed. Be sure to try out the greens, the green tomatoes, and/or the cornbread. (605 8th Ave S)
Located in the Talbot's Corner neighborhood, Jay's Family Restaurant has been serving up southern favorites for over 20 years. They serve breakfast and lunch every day, but they also serve dinner on weekdays. For the ultimate Jay's experience, go for dinner on Friday night, when you can get the all you can eat catfish. You'll thank us later. (3037 Dickerson Pike)
Started by husband and wife duo Ruby and Norris Davidson, Ruby's Kitchen has now opened multiple locations across the Nashville area: one in Hendersonville, one in Goodlettsville, and one by the Percy Priest Dam. The menu changes daily, but you can always expect freshly cooked breakfast and lunch in a down home, family-style setting. (Various Locations)
Located on Main Street in East Nashville, the Family Wash serves up food from 8am to 1am Monday through Saturday, and they also offer a Sunday Brunch from 9am to 3pm. What sets this restaurant apart is their stage, which features live music multiple nights per week. This is a great place for a late night southern dinner and some real Nashville music. (626 Main St A)
Thai Kitchen is tucked away in the Berry Hill neighborhood, and it features some of the best Thai in Nashville. The meals are authentically Thai, being low-key, friendly, and budget-friendly. They even serve every meal with the tray of spices that you'd find at any restaurant in Bangkok - but few in Nashville. Be sure not to miss this hidden gem! (738 Thompson Lane)
Nicoletto's is special because they make their own pasta in house. Owned by the Nicoletto brothers, this place is truly Italian. Located on the corner of Trinity and Gallatin in East Nashville, this is a restaurant that deserves more recognition than it gets. You can't go wrong when ordering, but be sure to get a dish with their fresh pasta. You'll never want to go back to boxed pasta again! (2905 Gallatin Pike)
One of the best vegetarian restaurants in Nashville, the Sunflower Café is known for their veggie burgers and vegan barbecue. They also feature daily chef specials, giving you more reason to go back again and again to try them all. Also tucked in the Berry Hill neighborhood, the Sunflower Café is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. (2834 Azalea Place)
Located in the Melrose neighborhood on 8th Avenue, Athens Family Restaurant was actually voted as the best breakfast in Nashville by the Nashville Scene in 2005. They've also been featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives with Guy Fieri. Still need more reason to go? Try their bacon lamb burger or their gyro meat, feta omelettes. (2526 Franklin Pike)
Fifty-First Kitchen is open for Dinner Tuesday through Saturday in the up-and-coming Nations neighborhood of Nashville. Though it's only been open for two years, this restaurant has quickly become a staple for not only its neighbors, but also for all of Nashville. The seasonal menu features Italian-inspired dished and vegetables grown in their own garden out back. (5104 Illinois Ave)
PS: Have you experienced The 11 Mistakes Every Tennesseean Has Made At Least Once…? Maybe, maybe not – check it out!
