Tour Guide's Top 5 Nashville BBQ & Lunch Spots: A Local's Guide to Smoky Perfection
When exploring things to do in Nashville, diving into the city's incredible barbecue and lunch scene should be an essential part of your Music City experience. Nashville's BBQ culture runs deep, offering everything from traditional Tennessee pit barbecue to innovative hot chicken that has put the city on the culinary map. Whether you're planning your Nashville weekend itinerary or seeking authentic Nashville local experiences, these lunch destinations showcase the smoky, spicy, and soul-satisfying flavors that make Nashville a true food lover's paradise. As the guides behind some of Nashville's most popular tours, we're sharing our insider picks for the best BBQ and lunch spots that capture the authentic taste of Music City.
Edley's Bar-B-Que
What started as a dream to bring authentic Tennessee barbecue to Nashville has grown into one of the city's most beloved BBQ institutions. Founded by Will Newman, Edley's combines traditional smoking techniques with a modern approach to Southern hospitality. With multiple locations throughout Nashville, including 12th Avenue South and East Nashville, this locally-owned eatery draws crowds for its slow-smoked meats and scratch-made sides. The rustic, welcoming atmosphere provides the perfect setting to experience genuine Nashville barbecue.
What to Order: The brisket sandwich with their signature Alabama white sauce – it's tender, smoky perfection that melts in your mouth. Don't miss their mac and cheese made with five different cheeses, and save room for a slice of their famous banana pudding.
Peg Leg Porker
Located in The Gulch, Peg Leg Porker brings authentic Memphis-style barbecue to Nashville with a commitment to quality that's earned them a devoted following. Pitmaster Carey Bringle's restaurant features a massive smoker that works around the clock, filling the space with that irresistible barbecue aroma. The industrial-chic setting perfectly complements their serious approach to 'cue, while the friendly service keeps the atmosphere relaxed and welcoming.
What to Order: The dry-rubbed ribs are phenomenal – perfectly smoky with a beautiful bark that showcases traditional Memphis technique. Pair them with their tangy coleslaw and cornbread that's baked fresh throughout the day.
Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint
While technically a burger joint, Jack Brown's has earned its place on Nashville's essential lunch list through their creative approach to comfort food and impressive beer selection. This dive bar-style eatery in Germantown offers a no-frills atmosphere where the focus is squarely on exceptional burgers and an extensive tap list. With only a handful of tables and a laid-back vibe, it's the kind of place where locals hang out and visitors quickly feel at home.
What to Order: The "Greg Brady" burger featuring peanut butter, bacon, and jalapeños – it sounds crazy but tastes incredible. Their hand-cut fries are perfectly crispy, and with 30+ beers on tap, you'll find the perfect pairing for your meal.
Red Headed Stranger
Bringing Texas-style barbecue to East Nashville, Red Headed Stranger offers a different perspective on smoked meats in a city dominated by Tennessee traditions. This stripped-down, authentic joint focuses on doing a few things exceptionally well, with beef taking center stage. The minimal décor and cafeteria-style ordering put all the attention on the quality of the meat, which speaks for itself with every bite.
What to Order: The beef rib is a massive, caveman-style cut that showcases their mastery of Texas barbecue techniques. Their burnt ends are equally impressive – perfectly caramelized cubes of brisket that represent barbecue at its finest.
Prince's Hot Chicken
No Nashville lunch guide would be complete without mentioning the birthplace of Nashville hot chicken. Prince's has been serving their legendary spicy fried chicken since 1945, when Thornton Prince III first created this now-iconic dish. Located in a humble building on Ewing Drive, this family-owned institution continues to set the standard for authentic Nashville hot chicken. The no-nonsense atmosphere and focus on tradition make every visit feel like stepping into Nashville culinary history.
What to Order: Start with "medium" heat unless you're a seasoned hot chicken veteran – their "hot" and "extra hot" levels are seriously intense. The leg quarter gives you the most meat for your money, and it's always served atop white bread with pickles to help cool the burn.
Experience Nashville's BBQ Scene Like a Local with Music City Adventure Co.
At Music City Adventure Company, we believe the best way to experience Nashville's incredible barbecue and lunch scene is with local guides who know where to find the most authentic flavors. Whether you're visiting Nashville for the weekend or looking for unique things to do in Nashville as a local, our food-focused adventures can introduce you to the smoky, spicy, and satisfying tastes that make Music City special.
Book your next Nashville adventure today and discover the flavors that define Music City!
