As fun as it sounds, you can’t have a special-occasion meal every day. Here’s where to eat a good casual meal—which involves laid-back attire, an affordable menu, and waiter service—in Nashville.
The Best Casual Restaurants in Nashville
Pancho & Lefty’s
This cantina is what of the top-rated Tex-Mex destinations in Nashville, known for their very own blend of Southern flavors and modern Mexican techniques to create “Nash-Mex.”
- Neighborhood: Melrose | Sylvan Park
- Order This: Adobo Chicken Tacos
Von Elrod’s
While Germantown has seen a surge in fine dining, Von Elrod’s low-key beer hall has been welcomed with open arms.
- Neighborhood: Germantown
- Order This: Angry Bird
Burger Up
Burger Up is a community-driven restaurant that brings together families and friends over locally sourced beef and produce.
- Neighborhoods: 12 South
- Order This: Bison Burger
Pinewood Social
Swing by Pinewood Social any time of day for a quick refuel. The breakfast, lunch, and dinner items are all equally delicious.
- Neighborhood: SoBro
- Order This: Crispy Brussels Sprouts
The Pharmacy
The Pharmacy’s burgers are indeed like medicine—even if you eat too much, you’ll walk out of this joint with a spring in your step.
- Neighborhood: East Nashville
- Order This: Pharmacy Burger
bartaco
Check the forecast, then chill outside or inside as you chow down on tacos, rice bowls, and assorted seafood dishes at bartaco.
- Neighborhood: 12 South
- Order This: Sesame Ribeye Bowl
M.L.Rose
“Get out without getting fancy” is one of M.L.Rose’s mottos. Expect simple pub food, craft beer, and burgers at this local favorite.
- Neighborhoods: Melrose | Sylvan Park | Capitol View
- Order This: Taproom Burger
Pastaria
Pastaria is a family-friendly restaurant serving organic pasta and pizza that tastes like fine Italian dining. (Yes, even the risotto balls.)
- Neighborhood: West End
- Order This: Pistachio Ravioli
Neighbor’s
Neighbor’s has two locations boasting a chill environment, tasty pub grub, and an excellent selection of brews.
- Neighborhoods: Sylvan Park | Germantown
- Order This: Smoked Wings
The Stillery
A quick sit-down meal is possible in Midtown or Downtown, courtesy of The Stillery. Drinks at both locations are stiff and plentiful.
12 South Taproom
12 South Taproom is a longtime gathering spot for friends, families, and—when it’s nice out—their pups.
- Neighborhood: 12 South
- Order This: The Nashville Burger
51 North Taproom
Like its sister property, the 12 South Taproom, 51 North Taproom is armed with mouthwatering bar fare and plenty of beers on tap.
- Neighborhood: The Nations
- Order This: Shrimp & Chips
The Best Fast-Casual Restaurants
Sometimes even waiter service is a little too fancy for your needs. Here are the top fast-casual restaurants in Nashville.
Hugh-Baby’s
- Cuisine: Burgers
Martin’s
- Cuisine: Bar-b-que
Edley’s
- Cuisine: Bar-b-que
Fido
- Cuisine: American
Hattie B’s
- Cuisine: Hot chicken
Radish Kitchen
- Cuisine: Healthy salads, wraps, and bowls
Five Points Pizza
- Cuisine: Pizza
Frothy Monkey
- Cuisine: American
Mitchell Delicatessen
- Cuisine: American/Deli
Greko Greek Street Food
- Cuisine: Greek
Grilled Cheeserie
- Cuisine: Grilled cheese
Mas Tacos
- Cuisine: Mexican
Vui’s Kitchen
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
Sunflower Cafe
- Cuisine: Vegetarian and vegan
Nicoletto’s Italian Kitchen
- Cuisine: Italian
Slim & Husky’s
- Cuisine: Pizza
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