Here’s the thing: in Tennessee, we’re not about judging based on your looks. From people to our acclaimed southern eateries, we know there are some gems hiding behind an interesting exterior. Ready for a few spots you never would have tried without this fantastic little list here? Because we have 11 adventures for your tastebuds, right here.
- Bea’s - Chattanooga
Bea’s - Chattanooga If you’re looking for family style southern comfort food (and who isn’t?) Bea’s in Chattanooga is the answer. This humble eatery is a Tennessee staple, one that feeds a contemporary crowd with the fantastic, calorie-laden fare of the past. It’s a true experience!
- Rotier’s Restaurant - Nashville
Rotier’s- Facebook Known for their hamburgers on french rolls, Rotier’s is a modest Nashville restaurant that boasts a past steeped in Tennessee history. The burgers are consistently rated as some of the best in Nashville, and the vibe is old school class.
- Burger Barn - Jackson
Burger Barn - Facebook You’re served delicious fast-food through a window with a side of southern character at Burger Barn. Jackson has a cult following in this sweet, tiny spot - plus their beer will get dad to come and the milkshakes will keep the kids hyper.
- Bell’s Drive In - Henderson
Bell’s - Facebook We love the old-school drive-in. Bell’s in Henderson is consistently packed with Tennesseans jonesing for the delicious food and great hometown service. This is a spot that loves what they do and they do it well.
- City Café Diner - Chattanooga
City Cafe - Facebook There’s nothing like a classic diner feel at the City Café Diner in Chattanooga. Modeled after that classic Americana feel, it’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You’ll forever get your french fry fix here!
- Soda Pop Junction - Lynnville
Soda Pop Junction - Facebook Located in historic Lynnville, Soda Pop Junction is a straight shot to the past. It’s been around for years and is reminiscent of the old pharmacy counters of years gone by. Their menu is varied and delicious, and the staff earns rave reviews from locals and tourists alike. This is definitely on our list!
- Beacon Light Tea Room - Bon Aqua
Beacon Light Tea Room - Facebook Established in 1936, the Beacon Light Tea Room is celebrating 75 years of great service and delicious menu offerings. They’re open for lunch and dinner and serve the kind of southern food that sticks. This is a great local treasure!
- Chow Wagon - Milan
Chow Wagon - Facebook Great burgers, great shakes, and a whole lot of hometown flavor. Chow Wagon may sling fast food, but it’s the best you’ll ever have. Plus, the community rallies around this sweet spot and makes us want to move to Milan. Those are good people.
- Parsons Dairy Bar - Parsons
Parsons - Facebook This spot is a Tennessee tradition, with scads of locals in love with Parsons Dairy Bar, attributing the solid spot to their childhoods. It’s the place to be in the heat of summer, and we’ll never turn down their reams of ice cream options. Perfect place for a low-key date, too - don’t you think?
- Pizza Palace - Knoxville
Pizza Palace - Facebook We can’t have a list of awesome restaurants and not mention Pizza Palace. An ode to the family-owned Italian restaurant, their pizza is to die for and the locals would probably actually do just that. You won’t be able to stop with a single slice.
- The Grease Rack - Newport
The Grease Rack - Facebook They claim the best steaks in East Tennessee, and we have to say - they’re probably right. It’s a no-frills, get what you get kind of place that makes for a great night on the town. The Grease Rack has a solid local following, and whether you’re from the area or not you need to make some time to head out there!
Thoughts? Which one would you hit up first? Plus, check out this neat Tennessee restaurant road trip – we even have the map for you!
Bea’s - Chattanooga
If you’re looking for family style southern comfort food (and who isn’t?) Bea’s in Chattanooga is the answer. This humble eatery is a Tennessee staple, one that feeds a contemporary crowd with the fantastic, calorie-laden fare of the past. It’s a true experience!
Rotier’s- Facebook
Known for their hamburgers on french rolls, Rotier’s is a modest Nashville restaurant that boasts a past steeped in Tennessee history. The burgers are consistently rated as some of the best in Nashville, and the vibe is old school class.
Burger Barn - Facebook
You’re served delicious fast-food through a window with a side of southern character at Burger Barn. Jackson has a cult following in this sweet, tiny spot - plus their beer will get dad to come and the milkshakes will keep the kids hyper.
Bell’s - Facebook
We love the old-school drive-in. Bell’s in Henderson is consistently packed with Tennesseans jonesing for the delicious food and great hometown service. This is a spot that loves what they do and they do it well.
City Cafe - Facebook
There’s nothing like a classic diner feel at the City Café Diner in Chattanooga. Modeled after that classic Americana feel, it’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You’ll forever get your french fry fix here!
Soda Pop Junction - Facebook
Located in historic Lynnville, Soda Pop Junction is a straight shot to the past. It’s been around for years and is reminiscent of the old pharmacy counters of years gone by. Their menu is varied and delicious, and the staff earns rave reviews from locals and tourists alike. This is definitely on our list!
Beacon Light Tea Room - Facebook
Established in 1936, the Beacon Light Tea Room is celebrating 75 years of great service and delicious menu offerings. They’re open for lunch and dinner and serve the kind of southern food that sticks. This is a great local treasure!
Chow Wagon - Facebook
Great burgers, great shakes, and a whole lot of hometown flavor. Chow Wagon may sling fast food, but it’s the best you’ll ever have. Plus, the community rallies around this sweet spot and makes us want to move to Milan. Those are good people.
Parsons - Facebook
This spot is a Tennessee tradition, with scads of locals in love with Parsons Dairy Bar, attributing the solid spot to their childhoods. It’s the place to be in the heat of summer, and we’ll never turn down their reams of ice cream options. Perfect place for a low-key date, too - don’t you think?
Pizza Palace - Facebook
We can’t have a list of awesome restaurants and not mention Pizza Palace. An ode to the family-owned Italian restaurant, their pizza is to die for and the locals would probably actually do just that. You won’t be able to stop with a single slice.
The Grease Rack - Facebook
They claim the best steaks in East Tennessee, and we have to say - they’re probably right. It’s a no-frills, get what you get kind of place that makes for a great night on the town. The Grease Rack has a solid local following, and whether you’re from the area or not you need to make some time to head out there!
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