Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Nashville | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Nashville | Upscale Soul Food Food

• The Goo Goo Shop — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant confectionery landmark invites guests into a world of nostalgic indulgence, where the air is perpetually perfumed with the rich scent of melting chocolate and toasted pecans. Artisans hand-craft legendary clusters of gooey caramel and marshmallow, while velvety mugs of truffle-infused hot cocoa offer a warm, decadent embrace in a space that celebrates the sweet soul of Southern candy-making.
• City Limits Bakery & Cafe — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the comforting aroma of toasted croissants and sizzling savory fillings creates an inviting morning sanctuary. The kitchen transforms breakfast classics into soulful experiences, from the golden, pressed crunch of signature baninis to the bold, zesty flair of Huevos Rancheros and decadent Belgian waffles. It is a place where the hum of conversation meets the artistry of a well-made brunch, offering a perfect balance of hearty Southern warmth and fresh California inspiration.
• El Agavero Mexican Restaurant — Mexican · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched colors and the enticing aroma of toasted chiles fill this vibrant cantina, where every meal feels like a festive escape from the midday hustle. Plates arrive piled high with golden-melted cheese and savory fillings, from the crisp crunch of a taco salad fajita to the comforting richness of enchiladas smothered in traditional sauces. Whether grabbing a brisk 'Speedy Gonzalez' lunch or lingering over a decadent quesadilla de lujo, diners find a soulful retreat that celebrates the hearty, time-honored staples of Mexican comfort food.
• Players Inn — American · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood haunt pulses with the energy of a classic local tavern, where warm wood accents and the soft glow of neon invite guests to settle in and stay a while. The kitchen turns out soul-warming comfort food that pairs perfectly with a rotating selection of crisp drafts, filling the air with the irresistible aroma of toasted buns and savory, seasoned grills. Whether cheering on a favorite team or sharing a round with friends, the experience is defined by a sense of easy camaraderie and the timeless appeal of a well-loved community staple.
• Brotherly Love Cheesesteaks — American · rated 4/5: The air hums with the savory aroma of sizzling ribeye and caramelized onions, drawing guests into a vibrant haunt where the art of the griddle takes center stage. Whether you’re diving into a classic, gooey cheesesteak, a crusty smash burger, or a pile of loaded nacho fries, each dish delivers a bold, comforting embrace of flavor that celebrates the soulful spirit of East Coast street food.
• Alley Pub — American · rated 4/5: Tucked away like a local secret, Alley Pub hums with the soulful energy of a neighborhood hangout where the air is thick with the irresistible scent of slow-smoked hickory. Platter after platter of fall-off-the-bone ribs and crispy, smoke-kissed wings emerge from the kitchen alongside golden-fried catfish and zesty hot chicken quesadillas that pack a fiery punch. It is a place where cold drinks and bold, pit-master flavors turn every meal into a spirited celebration of Southern comfort and community.
• Pho Ann Nashville — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: The air is thick with the comforting scent of star anise and slow-simmered bone broth, drawing diners into a bright, welcoming space where steaming bowls of authentic pho take center stage. Crisp bean sprouts, fragrant basil, and zesty lime brighten each savory spoonful, while a variety of traditional Vietnamese favorites offer a vibrant balance of textures and bold, herbaceous flavors. Whether stopping in for a quick, soul-warming lunch or a relaxed evening meal, the atmosphere hums with the quiet satisfaction of guests enjoying honest, heart-crafted comfort food.
• Marrowbone Creek Brewing Company — American · rated 4/5: Marrowbone Creek Brewing Company serves as a soulful community anchor where the earthy aroma of simmering hops and the warmth of reclaimed wood create an instantly welcoming retreat. Guests savor a rotating selection of artisanal brews alongside elevated comfort food that celebrates local flavors, all while the relaxed, sun-dappled atmosphere invites long afternoons of easy conversation and shared pints.
• Prince's Hot Chicken — American · rated 4/5: Steeped in Nashville history, this legendary institution draws crowds with the irresistible aroma of spice-rubbed poultry sizzling to a perfect, golden crunch. Each piece arrives cloaked in a fiery, crimson glaze that balances a searing heat with deep, savory undertones, served simply atop white bread with crisp pickles to temper the building burn. It is a visceral dining experience where the unpretentious atmosphere gives way to the bold, unapologetic soul of authentic Southern comfort.
• Flat Tire Diner — American · rated 4/5: This nostalgic roadside gem captures the heart of classic Americana, where the neon glow of vintage signage and the rhythmic sizzle of the griddle create a welcoming sanctuary for hungry travelers. Guests settle into gleaming chrome-trimmed booths to enjoy towering plates of comfort food and steaming mugs of coffee, all served with a side of warm hospitality that makes every visit feel like a homecoming.
• Shugga Hi Bakery And Cafe — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this vibrant neighborhood gem, where the sweet perfume of golden-brown pastries mingles with the savory, soul-warming aromas of Southern comfort classics. Guests gather around tables laden with towering stacks of chicken and waffles and decadent, hand-crafted cakes that offer a celebratory burst of flavor in every bite. It is a soulful sanctuary where the genuine warmth of the hospitality is matched only by the richness of the kitchen’s creations, inviting you to linger over a cup of coffee and a slice of something sweet.
• Party Fowl — American · rated 4/5: Neon lights and high-octane energy set the stage at this vibrant Southern haunt, where the air is thick with the tantalizing scent of spice and deep-fried indulgence. The kitchen turns out shatteringly crisp Nashville hot chicken in a range of daring heat levels, perfectly balanced by frosty boozy slushies and a sprawling list of local craft beers. It’s a boisterous celebration of bold flavors and communal spirit, inviting guests to lean into the burn while soaking up the lively, modern honky-tonk atmosphere.
• Cracker Barrel — American · rated 4/5: Stepping onto the wide front porch lined with wooden rocking chairs, guests are transported to a nostalgic roadside retreat where the scent of buttermilk biscuits and country ham fills the air. Inside, a crackling stone fireplace and walls adorned with vintage Americana create a cozy backdrop for hearty, slow-cooked comfort food that feels like a warm embrace from the past.
• Savannah's Candy Kitchen — American · rated 4/5: Step into a nostalgic wonderland where the intoxicating aroma of bubbling brown sugar and toasted pecans wafts from giant copper kettles. Artisans hand-scoop legendary pralines onto marble slabs while crafting "Gophers" that layer velvety caramel and crunchy nuts beneath thick blankets of rich milk, dark, and white chocolate. This sweet sanctuary captures the essence of Southern indulgence, offering a decadent journey through time-honored recipes that melt away with every buttery, salt-kissed bite.
• ML Rose Craft Beer & Burgers — American · rated 3/5: This lively neighborhood haunt hums with a convivial energy, where the scent of sizzling burgers and golden-fried chicken biscuits drifts through a space defined by its impressive craft beer lineup. Guests dive into indulgent feasts featuring gooey skillet monkey bread and zesty breakfast burritos, creating a spirited atmosphere where elevated comfort food and cold brews turn every meal into a celebration.
• Whitt's Barbecue — American · rated 3/5: The air at Whitt's Barbecue hangs heavy with the intoxicating aroma of hickory smoke, signaling a sanctuary where slow-cooked meats are the undisputed stars of the show. Whether you’re biting into a tender pork sandwich piled high with crunchy vinegar slaw and pickles or unearthing a steaming, salt-crusted baked potato loaded with savory turkey, every dish captures the heart of unpretentious Southern pit-cooking. It is a place where tradition is served by the ounce, offering a warm, soul-satisfying experience that celebrates the simple, smoky flavors of the hearth.
• Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint — American · rated 3/5: The air at Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint hangs heavy with the intoxicating perfume of hickory smoke, drawing guests into a high-energy space where the art of the pit is on full display. Towering plates of BBQ nachos and crispy smoked wings set the stage for soulful sandwiches piled high with tender pulled pork or melt-in-your-mouth brisket, all served with a side of genuine Southern hospitality. Whether you're biting into a thick slab of smoked bologna or savoring the creamy tang of pimento cheese, each dish captures the messy, glorious essence of slow-cooked tradition.
• Zulema's Taquiera — Mexican · rated 3/5: Vibrant colors and the rhythmic pat-pat of handmade tortillas set the stage at this lively neighborhood gem, where the air carries the smoky, irresistible aroma of slow-cooked carnitas and charred chiles. Diners gather around sun-drenched tables to savor tacos overflowing with bright, zesty salsas and tender meats, each bite offering a soulful celebration of traditional street-food artistry.
• Another Broken Egg Café - Sylvan Park — American: Sunlight streams into this vibrant Sylvan Park haunt, where the air is thick with the sweet aroma of griddled cinnamon rolls and the savory sizzle of Southern-inspired brunch classics. Guests linger over decadent plates where velvety hollandaise drapes over golden crab cakes and crispy fried chicken meets fluffy waffles, all served in a bright, bustling space that captures the effortless charm of a neighborhood celebration. From the spicy, soulful kick of Cajun-infused omelettes to the comforting warmth of buttery shrimp and grits, every dish invites a leisurely morning spent savoring the bold and creative flavors of the South.
• Tower Market and Deli — American: The morning sun streams into this bustling neighborhood hub, where the comforting aroma of golden-toasted bagels and savory, peppered gravy invites locals to linger over a hearty breakfast. From the sweet and salty harmony of a Southern cheese and jam bagel to the sizzle of farm-fresh eggs and savory meats, every dish captures the soulful, unpretentious charm of a classic deli morning.
• Brown's Diner — American: Step into a timeless slice of Americana where the rhythmic sizzle of the griddle and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee create a nostalgic sanctuary for hungry travelers and locals alike. Sun-drenched vinyl booths and polished chrome accents set the stage for hearty plates of golden hash browns and juicy, hand-pressed burgers that celebrate the simple, enduring joy of honest comfort food.
• Elliston Place Soda Shop — American: Step back in time at this iconic Nashville landmark, where the nostalgic hum of a vintage soda fountain mingles with the comforting sizzle of a well-seasoned griddle. Golden-brown pancakes and thick-cut Tennessee country ham anchor a menu of soulful Southern staples, served alongside towering biscuits and gravy that evoke the warmth of a home-cooked Sunday morning. Whether you are sliding into a vinyl booth for a stack of French toast or a savory fried bologna sandwich, every bite captures the timeless charm of a classic American diner.
• Tumeric & Company — Indian: Golden hues and the intoxicating aroma of toasted spices fill the air at Tumeric & Company, where traditional Indian street food is reimagined with a playful, modern flair. From the satisfying crunch of onion pakoras to the buttery, spiced decadence of baked pav bhaji, every dish offers a vibrant explosion of flavor that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Whether tucking into a hearty tikka masala bowl or sharing a plate of zesty Chicken 65, diners are treated to a soulful experience that celebrates the bold, colorful essence of contemporary Indian cuisine.
• Hugh-Baby's BBQ & Burger Shop - East Nashville — American: Hugh-Baby's captures the nostalgic charm of a classic Southern burger stand, where the air is thick with the savory scent of griddled beef and slow-smoked barbecue. Guests tuck into paper-wrapped treasures ranging from juice-dripping double cheeseburgers to the legendary, crispy-edged slugburger, all served in a bright, high-energy space that feels like a permanent summer afternoon. This East Nashville staple blends the simplicity of a neighborhood hangout with the soul of a pitmaster’s kitchen, making every bite a celebration of unpretentious comfort.
• Mr. J's Original — American: This bustling neighborhood cornerstone pulses with the energy of a classic American eatery, where the aroma of searing meats and toasted buns wafts through a space filled with chrome accents and friendly chatter. Every plate celebrates the art of the "original," delivering hearty, soul-satisfying flavors that have stood the test of time and continue to anchor the community. From the first savory bite to the last drop of a thick milkshake, the experience is a nostalgic journey into the heart of honest, handcrafted comfort food.
• Tennessee Cobbler Company — American: This charming spot captures the heart of Southern hospitality, where the nostalgic aroma of warm, bubbling fruit and golden-brown crusts fills the air. Guests indulge in the ultimate comfort of steaming cobbler topped with velvety scoops of ice cream, or sip on thick, decadent shakes that transform classic banana pudding and fruit crumbles into frosty, straw-ready treats. Whether paired with a glass of ice-cold sweet tea or a mug of spiced apple cider, every bite offers a soulful journey through the timeless, sugary flavors of a Tennessee summer.
• Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row - Nashville — American: Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row pulses with the high-octane energy of Broadway, seamlessly blending the rustic charm of a Southern kitchen with the sleek sophistication of a premier nightlife destination. From the comforting warmth of a soul-satisfying brunch to the late-night glow of VIP bottle service and fine whiskeys, the space vibrates with live music and the spirited hospitality of the modern South.
• Peg Leg Porker — American: The air around this lively Nashville staple hangs heavy with the sweet, intoxicating scent of hickory smoke, drawing diners into a bustling space where the spirit of Tennessee barbecue reigns supreme. Succulent, dry-rubbed ribs take center stage, boasting a peppery crust and tender bite that pairs seamlessly with soulful Southern sides and a pour of smooth local whiskey. It is a quintessential pit-to-plate experience where the warmth of family tradition and the vibrant energy of the Gulch create a spirited, finger-licking celebration of the South.
• 5th and Taylor — American: Bathed in the warm glow of candlelight and industrial-chic charm, this soulful destination invites guests to gather over elevated comfort food that celebrates the spirit of the American table. The kitchen masterfully balances rustic heartiness with refined technique, offering a parade of flavors ranging from honey-drizzled sausage biscuits and smoky bacon-wrapped quail to the bright, clean notes of citrus-kissed hamachi. Every plate feels like a shared celebration, turning a meal into a lingering, sensory journey through bold textures and nostalgic aromas.
• McDougal's Chicken Fingers & Wings — American: The air hums with the rhythmic sizzle of the fryer and the lively chatter of a hungry crowd, all drawn in by the intoxicating aroma of spice and golden-fried perfection. Tender, hand-breaded chicken fingers and crispy wings arrive piping hot and glistening with bold sauces, inviting diners to dive into a messy, flavorful feast where the simple joy of a perfectly executed crunch takes center stage. Paired with piles of seasoned fries and a casual, high-energy atmosphere, it is a vibrant neighborhood staple that celebrates the ultimate in soulful comfort food.