I Dream of Weenie might actually be the most creative and unusual restaurant stand in all of Nashville. This free-standing hot dog shack is actually a renovated vintage VW bus with a small wooden deck attached. I Dream of Weenie relishes (condiment-pun intended) its unusual appearance and even offers T-shirts that share the company name. The hotdogs themselves are very tasty and are offered with a variety of different toppings and chips. The service and prices are both excellent, but the real treat is the experience of the place.
Although it may not look like much other than an Italian flag from the outside, Manny's House of Pizza boasts what many Nashville residents would not hesitate to call the best pizza in the city. The thin crust, New York-style pizzas or the thick Sicilian pies come complete with all the classic toppings, nothing crazy here. In addition to the beloved pies, they also serve many of the most comforting Italian delights like eggplant parmesan, calzones, spaghetti and lasagna, among others. Wash your meal down with a pint (or pitcher!) of draft beer.
Mike's Ice Cream Fountain offers delicious homemade ice cream in the heart of downtown Nashville. It is the perfect stop for Nashville tourists and regulars who need a place to cool off or are looking for a memorable dessert after an evening on the town. The décor at Mike's takes guests back in time to a 1950s ice cream parlor and soda fountain shop. Their most popular homemade flavors include a very yummy butter pecan and a very peanuty nutter butter. Prices are very reasonable, and the service is hometown friendly.
Ugly Mugs is a great place in East Nashville to drink a delicious, hot cup of coffee in a relaxed environment with a trendy vibe and free WiFi. Bring your laptop along and get some work done outside the office. The decor is simple with clean lines, great colors, and a comfortable local feel; something the nation chains don't have. Like most hot spots in East Nashville, the clients are mostly young business professionals looking for the perfect place to think alone or spend time with friends. In addition to the great vibe, the coffee and service at Ugly Mugs is also top notch.
Caffe Nonna is a cozy tiny establishment, but never boring. A small bar and half a dozen tables are always packed. Traditional Italian appetizers and salads begin the meal. The calamari is very good. A full menu features sandwiches and gourmet pizzas that have wheat dough piled high with your choice of meat and vegetables. Mix and match different types of pasta with their specialty sauces like pesto cream, white clam or Arrabiata.
The Pfunky Griddle offers guests a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Unlike your standard pancake house, customers at this Nashville hot spot get to experience the joy of cooking pancakes, French toast, eggs, and home-fries right on the griddle at their table. With a choice of batter types and toppings, there is sure to be something to please everyone. Furthermore, the Pfunky Griddle is a great place to bring children and extended family, since the interactive experience makes this more than just a great place for breakfast food. Be sure to check their Facebook page for free pancake times and other specials. -- by Lynn-nore Chittom
The Horn is a small neighborhood café situated on Murfreesboro Pike. This café offers Somali Chai tea, and the famous Indian snack, samosa. However, don’t expect to taste authentic flavors as this snack comes with a unique cheesy twist at The Horn. Offerings are extremely reasonable and do not put much weight on your pocket.
You won't find an impressive decor in Rae's Gourmet Sandwich Shoppe, in fact if you don't look carefully, you may not find the shop at all. Located on the basement level of an office building on Union Street, this gourmet eatery has been delighting diners for years. Cajun-style favorites like Grilled beef tenderloin, po-boys and red beans and rice offer a spicy change of pace, and the Angus Beef & Cheddar sandwich is a hearty meal for people on the run. Wash it all down with iced tea, soft drinks or a cold beer. Special note—If you love the creative varieties of Zapp's potato chips, you have found the only place in town to buy them.
Mitchell’s Delicatessen is an old-school deli with homemade meats, locally baked bread, and locally-grown organic produce. The delicious meat selections are fresh every day with options including roast beef, grilled chicken, and cajun turkey. Mitchell’s offers a hot bar of entrees for breakfast, lunch and dinner and a wonderfully fresh salad bar. A wide selection of meats and cheeses are also available for purchase by the pound. Any meal of the day, Mitchell’s is well worth a visit. Catering is also available. -Lynn-nore Chittom
Govan's Gathering Place Coffee House is more than just a nice coffee shop on the Gallatin Square. It is the culmination of years of the dreams and hopes of the Govan family. This fabulous local coffee shop offers guests a wide variety of fresh, flavorful coffees and treats in an environment inspired by the artwork and passions of former University of Memphis art professor, Frank Govan, a deceased relative of the owners of this shop. In addition to coffee, Govan's serves as a small art gallery for Professor Govan's personal collection as well as a showplace for his glass and pottery collection. The relaxed environment, beautiful art and fantastic coffee brews make Govan's a perfect spot to relax while antiquing in Gallatin. -Lynn-nore Chittom
Americano Lounge features the European and American cultures that were prevalent during the 1930s. It was during this time that a new wave of cafes and cocktail bars emerged. The interiors are simple yet elegant and make you feel as though you have traveled back in time. Treat yourself to a delightful beverage and pair it with sweet or savory items like bacon and eggs, croissants and sandwiches. The Irish coffee, muffins and Turkish delights are highly recommended. The cozy vibe and friendly staff make you plan a revisit to this place soon enough.
The Subculture Urban Cuisine And Café, housed inside a well-known shopping center, is a charming place to stop for a coffee break. This lovely café, which serves some delectable sandwiches and Latin American cuisine, has maintained its own taste since it opened. The lovely American eatery, which has received numerous awards, is well-known for its burgers, pulled pork ramen, beef empanadas, and a Cuban sandwich. The staff is nice and provides excellent service, and the setting is pleasant.