From its iconic hot chicken to its unique variety of barbecue, Nashville is the perfect destination for food lovers. As Music City has evolved over the years, new and innovative Black restaurateurs have emerged, reshaping the city’s culinary landscape.
Here are 11 Black-owned restaurants in Nashville ready to satisfy your cravings with a touch of extra spice.
Swett’s
For the last 62 years, Swett’s Restaurant has been owned by the same family. It’s an integral part of Nashville’s culinary scene, and the current owner, David Swett, aims to continue the tradition established by his parents. Diners will find country-fried steak, grilled pork chops, the best fried fish in the city, barbecue chicken, and more.
- Location: 2725 Clifton Ave, Nashville, TN 37209
- Phone Number: (615) 329-4418
- Type of Cuisine: Soul Food
- Menu Spotlight: Meat & Three
- Before You Go: You’ll also find a Swett’s location in the Nashville International Airport for comfort food while you wait to take off.
Prince’s Hot Chicken
Much can be said about Prince’s Hot Chicken in Nashville. The restaurant often competes with Hattie B’s in public debate, but many locals vouch that Prince’s is the originator of the flavorful, spicy chicken the nation has grown to love.
Rumor has it the recipe was born when the founder was caught cheating, and his wife cooked him the spiciest chicken as revenge. Ironically, he loved the chicken — and now the world does, too.
- Location: Multiple locations
- Phone Number: Visit the website for contact details specific to your preferred location.
- Type of Cuisine: Fried Chicken
- Menu Spotlight: Nashville Hot Chicken
- Before You Go: There are multiple locations, but locals say the older spots serve the best food.
Shugga Hi Bakery and Café
Sisters Kathy and Sandra’s love of food began with their mother, who prepared homemade dinners and desserts for their family. Inheriting their mother’s recipes and adding their own twist, Sandra and Kathy decided to build a family legacy, creating an opportunity for all of Nashville to experience the flavors they were blessed to enjoy as children.
- Location: 1000 Dickerson Pike, Nashville, TN 37207
- Phone Number: 615-928-6576
- Type of Cuisine: Bakery & Comfort Food
- Menu Spotlight: Chicken & Waffles
- Before You Go: The owners say the key ingredient in all their recipes is love.
Slim & Husky’s
Slim & Husky’s is a super fun and welcoming pizza parlor chain based in Nashville. The restaurant was founded by three friends who met in college. Many years of friendship and hard work culminated in a successful pizza chain with creative menu items named after your favorite classic hip-hop records. Slim & Husky’s is a must-try on any trip to Nashville.
- Location: Multiple locations
- Phone Number: Visit the website for contact details specific to your preferred location.
- Type of Cuisine: Pizza
- Menu Spotlight: Got 5 On It
- Before You Go: The Slim & Husky’s brand is expanding beyond Tennessee. Keep an eye out for new locations.
Bag Lady’s Fry Joint
Described as the definition of turning “no” into “now,” Bag Lady’s Fry Joint almost didn’t happen. Two brothers launched the business as a food truck after the COVID-19 pandemic derailed their plans.
Now, they’ve opened a dine-in location with an abundance of loaded fries to please your taste buds.
- Location: 1402 Buchanan St, Nashville, TN 37208
- Phone Number: 615-909-3200
- Type of Cuisine: Loaded Fries
- Menu Spotlight: It’s a Tennessee Thang
- Before You Go: The name “Bag Lady” is an ode to the brothers’ grandmothers, who served them fresh crinkle fries in brown paper bags as kids.
Grams Coffee
The Grams Coffee brand was created in 2017 by entrepreneur Edward Gray. He wanted to create a space where conversation and connection could flow freely. Now, the coffee shop is a catalyst for thought and community where drinks are served and ideas are brought to life.
- Location: 632 W. Old Hickory Blvd Madison, TN 37115
- Phone Number: N/A
- Type of Cuisine: Coffee Shop
- Menu Spotlight: Dirty Turmeric Chai Latte
- Before You Go: Gram’s offers a wide selection of teas in addition to its coffee.
Radical Rabbit
The brainchild of a Nashville mom and vegan foodie, the Radical Rabbit is changing how guests view vegan cuisine. They serve your favorite hot and fresh Nashville favorites with a plant-based edge. The restaurant prides itself on being “progressive, natural, and revolutionary” in the changing culinary landscape.
- Location: Available at grab-and-go sections in marketplaces and through pop-ups around Nashville. Check their schedule via social media.
- Phone Number: (865) 214-7116
- Type of Cuisine: Vegan Soul Food
- Menu Spotlight: Vegan Sloppy Joe
- Before You Go: The Radical Rabbit is available for takeout only.
White’s Fish & BBQ
White’s Fish & BBQ has been open for over 20 years. It’s one of Nashville’s oldest restaurants, and they keep the fish and barbecue hot and ready. Everything is seasoned with love, and the batter is so crispy you’ll think someone’s granny is in the kitchen. You can taste the decades of dedication and culinary diligence in every bite at White’s. That may explain why it’s been in business serving Nashville for such a long time.
- Location: Multiple locations
- Phone Number: Visit the website for contact details specific to your preferred location.
- Type of Cuisine: Comfort Food
- Menu Spotlight: Catfish Dinner Plate
- Before You Go: White’s Fish & BBQ is cash-only, so bring cash when grabbing your fish plate.
Ed’s Fish House
A Nashville staple, Ed’s Fish House has served the community for years with its renowned fried fish. Locals flock here for the crispy, golden-battered fish sandwiches that have become a city favorite. The welcoming atmosphere and consistent quality make it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers.
Location: 1801 Dr DB Todd Jr Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208
Phone Number: (615) 255-4362
Type of Cuisine: Seafood
Menu Spotlight: Fried Whiting Sandwich
Before You Go: A local staple for classic fried fish.
Coneheads
Since 2019, Coneheads has been redefining comfort food in East Nashville. This family-owned eatery offers a unique twist by serving crispy chicken tenders nestled in fluffy waffle cones, complemented by homemade sauces and savory sides. The playful, ice cream parlor-inspired setting adds to the fun dining experience.
Location: 1315 Dickerson Pike, Nashville, TN 37207
Phone Number: N/A
Type of Cuisine: Chicken in waffle cones
Menu Spotlight: Hot chicken in a cone with mac & cheese smothered on top
Before You Go: A creative take on hot chicken served in a waffle cone.
400 Degrees
For those seeking authentic Nashville hot chicken, 400 Degrees delivers with its signature spice levels, including the fiery 400-degree option. This Black-owned establishment has earned its place among the city’s hot chicken elite, offering a straightforward menu that lets the bold flavors shine.
Location: 3704 Clarksville Pike, Nashville, TN 37218
Phone Number: (615) 244-4467
Type of Cuisine: Hot Chicken
Menu Spotlight: 400-Degree Hot Chicken
Before You Go: This spot offers varying spice levels for every palate.
Nashville is growing as a hotspot for tourism every year. With more tourists heading to Music City, knowing where to grab delicious, filling, and soul-warming food is essential. Check out these Black-owned restaurants the next time you’re grooving to the rhythm in Nashville.
