Thoughts for Food

Story and graphic by Collin Brown

As a growing cosmopolitan city, Nashville hosts a variety of food ranging from your basic fast food chains and family restaurants to one-of-a-kind specific eateries to the city. I am going to guide you through a culinary journey through Nashville, TN. To start off I would recommend the essential Music City food staple, hot chicken, and there is no better place to get it then...

Prince’s Hot Chicken, the original “Hot Chicken Shack,” has been open for over 70 years and consistently serving Nashville’s staple of hot chicken. Located on 123 Ewing Dr #3 Nashville, TN 37207

Two more essential spots for food in Nashville that expand upon the local flavor…
City House, combines Italian cuisine and southern staples, opening in 2007 and garnering many awards since then. Located on 1222 4th Ave N. Nashville, TN 37208.
Margot Café & Bar, an East Nashville essential, its menu hosts a variety of French and Italian options as well as an ever-changing menu focused on seasonal ingredients. Located on 1017 Woodland St Nashville, TN 37206.

Once you have experienced those three Music City essential restaurants there is no more specific direction. It is completely up to you which path you take on this culinary journey. From ethnic food options to soulfood and homecooking, Nashville has it all.
Nicky’s Coal Fired, the place with the oven named “Enrico,” this West Nashville spot hosts a selection of coal-fired pizzas as well as house-made pasta and gelatos. Located on 5026 Centennial Blvd Nashville, TN 37209.
Taqueria La Juquilita, the one out of many, located in the Nations in an unassuming yellow building, this taqueria serves a variety of traditional Mexican dishes as well your favorite Tex-Mex classics. Located on 5913 Morrow Rd Nashville, TN 37209.
Martin’s BBQ, your backyard beer garden, this Nolensville restaurant draws BBQ aficionados and enthusiasts from around the country every year for its whole-hog take on its dishes. Located on 410 4th Ave S Nashville, TN 37201.
Etch Restaurant, THE Downtown spot, with rotating, seasonal food options and a love for roasted cauliflower; Etch creates a mix of flavors and dishes into art that you can eat. Located on303 Demonbreun St Nashville, TN 37201.
Otaku Ramen, your favorite ramen, your options here are: ramen, ramen and ramen. Specializing in izakaya-style ramen noodles and a focus on Pork, this westernized style of the Japanese essential should not be overlooked as, “another ramen spot.” Located on 1104 Division St Nashville, TN 37203.
Thai Esane, the Gulch’s own Thai food, the amount of heat and flavor packed into the traditional cuisine and family recipes served here should put it above the others. Unassuming and plain in its building, the food shows the true colors of this family owned establishments. Located on 907 12th Avenue South Nashville, TN 37216.
House of Kabob, Nashville’s Kurdish food, along with Kabob’s you will find gyros and even lesser known Kurdish cultural dishes such as zereshk polo (steamed chicken with rice and barberries) or joojeh (grilled Cornish hen). Located on 216 Thompson Ln Nashville, TN 37211.