Craving a delicious Nashville meal but dreading the thought of cooking or navigating crowded restaurants? You’re not alone! Whether you’re a busy local or a visitor wanting to experience the city’s vibrant culinary scene from the comfort of your hotel room, Nashville’s takeout scene offers an incredible array of options to satisfy any craving. Forget the dishes and the reservations – just delicious food, ready to go.
Nashville has exploded onto the national culinary map, and for good reason. It’s a city where classic Southern flavors meet innovative techniques, resulting in a dining landscape that’s both comforting and exciting. While Nashville is rightly famous for its live music and honky-tonks, its food scene deserves just as much attention. And thankfully, you don’t have to dine in to experience the best of it. This guide is your passport to the most diverse and delicious takeout options in Nashville, tailored to different tastes, budgets, and dietary needs. From iconic hot chicken to globally-inspired dishes and decadent desserts, prepare to embark on a takeout adventure that showcases the best of Nashville’s culinary prowess. Recent trends have seen a surge in innovative takeout packaging and expanded delivery zones, making it easier than ever to enjoy Nashville’s culinary delights wherever you are.
The Reign of Hot Chicken
No exploration of Nashville’s food scene, takeout or otherwise, would be complete without a deep dive into hot chicken. This fiery, flavorful fried chicken is a true Nashville original, and it’s become synonymous with the city’s culinary identity. The story goes that it was created as revenge on a philandering partner, but the result was far more delicious than spiteful. If you’re a newcomer to Nashville, preparing yourself for the experience is vital. It involves cayenne pepper and various other spices, creating a heat that ranges from mild to dangerously intense. It is advisable to know your tolerance before you embark on the journey of this Nashville food.
Fortunately, many of Nashville’s top hot chicken joints offer convenient takeout options, allowing you to experience the burn in the comfort of your own space. Here are a few essential stops on your hot chicken takeout tour:
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
A modern icon, Hattie B’s has become a go-to for both locals and tourists. Their chicken is consistently crispy, and their spice levels are clearly defined, allowing you to choose your preferred level of inferno. Their sides, from mac and cheese to creamy coleslaw, provide a welcome respite from the heat. Order online through their website or use a delivery app.
Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack
The OG. Prince’s is where it all began. Be prepared for a wait (even for takeout), but trust that the experience is well worth it. Their hot chicken is legendary, and the heat is no joke. Order by phone and pick up your order to experience a piece of Nashville history.
Party Fowl
If you’re looking for generous portions and a creative twist on hot chicken, Party Fowl is your spot. They offer a variety of hot chicken dishes, including hot chicken and waffles and hot chicken nachos. Their takeout menu is extensive, and they offer online ordering.
When ordering hot chicken, it’s crucial to consider your spice tolerance. Start with a lower heat level if you’re unsure, and always have a cold drink on hand. Pair your hot chicken with classic Southern sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, potato salad, or greens to cool your tongue and complete the meal.
Beyond the Burn: A World of Takeout Delights
While hot chicken may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Nashville cuisine, the city’s takeout scene extends far beyond fiery poultry. Nashville boasts a diverse and vibrant culinary landscape, offering everything from comforting Southern classics to globally-inspired dishes. Let’s explore some of the incredible takeout options awaiting you:
Southern Comfort, Delivered
For those craving a taste of traditional Southern hospitality, Nashville’s comfort food restaurants offer a wide range of takeout options guaranteed to warm your soul.
Arnold’s Country Kitchen
A true Nashville institution, Arnold’s is a meat-and-three cafeteria-style restaurant that has been serving up Southern classics for decades. Their menu changes daily, but you can always expect to find favorites like fried chicken, roast beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread. Takeout is available by phone or in person. The speed and value are excellent, and the food is consistently great.
Biscuit Love
If you’re a fan of biscuits, you absolutely must try Biscuit Love. This popular spot offers a variety of creative biscuit-based dishes, from sweet to savory. Their East Nasty (a biscuit sandwich with fried chicken, cheddar, and gravy) is a must-try. Order online for convenient pickup.
Don’t forget the sides! Many Southern restaurants offer takeout of their beloved sides, like mac and cheese, collard greens, sweet potato casserole, and cornbread. These dishes are the perfect complement to any takeout meal.
A Culinary Journey Around the World
Nashville’s diverse population has contributed to a thriving international food scene, and many of these restaurants offer convenient takeout options.
Thai (Smiling Elephant)
For authentic Thai flavors, Smiling Elephant is a local favorite. Their curries, noodles, and stir-fries are all made with fresh ingredients and bold spices. Order online for quick and easy takeout.
Italian (Coco’s Italian Market & Cafe)
Experience a slice of Italy without leaving Nashville. Coco’s offers classic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and sandwiches, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their takeout options are perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
Mexican/Latin American (Mas Tacos Por Favor)
This low-key taco joint serves up authentic and delicious tacos at affordable prices. Their menu features a variety of meats, including carnitas, barbacoa, and pescado. Takeout is available in person or by phone.
Mediterranean (Epice)
A Lebanon-born chef offers a refined twist on regional classics from the Middle East and India. Epice offers a variety of flavorful dishes.
These restaurants stand out for their authenticity, unique dishes, and commitment to quality ingredients. They provide a delicious and convenient way to explore different cultures through food.
Fuel Your Body: Healthy and Vegetarian Options
Nashville’s takeout scene also caters to those seeking healthier or vegetarian options. There’s a growing number of restaurants dedicated to providing delicious and nutritious meals.
The Wild Cow
A vegetarian/vegan comfort food haven, The Wild Cow offers a menu packed with flavorful and satisfying dishes. Their menu includes tempeh ribs, cashew mac and cheese, and vegan quesadillas. Order online for convenient takeout.
Avo
This plant-based restaurant serves up creative and healthy dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu includes salads, bowls, and entrees, all packed with nutrients and flavor. Avo is known for using local ingredients and preparing flavorful dishes.
These restaurants focus on fresh ingredients, healthy preparations, and innovative flavor combinations, making healthy eating both convenient and enjoyable.
Elevated Experiences, Delivered Home
For a special occasion or a truly memorable meal, Nashville’s fine dining restaurants are increasingly offering takeout options, allowing you to enjoy an elevated culinary experience in the comfort of your own home.
The Four Hundred Four Kitchen
This upscale American restaurant offers a refined and seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Their takeout menu often includes signature dishes and tasting menus, providing a taste of their fine dining experience at home.
Etch
Known for its global-inspired cuisine and creative flavor combinations, Etch offers a sophisticated takeout experience. Their menu may include dishes like roasted duck breast, seared scallops, and inventive vegetarian options.
These restaurants offer special menus, wine pairings (when available), and careful attention to presentation, creating a memorable takeout experience. Keep in mind that these options will typically be pricier than casual takeout.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
No takeout meal is truly complete without a sweet treat. Nashville boasts a fantastic array of bakeries and dessert shops offering irresistible goodies.
Five Daughters Bakery
Famous for their “cronuts” (a croissant-donut hybrid), Five Daughters Bakery is a must-visit for dessert lovers. Their pastries are flaky, buttery, and incredibly delicious.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Jeni’s is known for its unique and inventive ice cream flavors, using high-quality ingredients and creative techniques.
Las Paletas
Offering a variety of Mexican ice pops, Las Paletas is an excellent option for a refreshing dessert.
Be sure to check for seasonal items and unique offerings at these dessert destinations.
Navigating Nashville Takeout: Essential Tips
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable takeout experience in Nashville, keep these tips in mind:
- Ordering Methods: Most restaurants offer online ordering through their websites, as well as phone orders. Popular delivery apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub are also widely used.
- Delivery vs. Pickup: Decide whether you prefer delivery or pickup. Curbside pickup is often available for a quick and convenient option.
- Peak Hours: Be aware of peak lunch and dinner hours, especially on weekends. Consider ordering early to avoid long wait times.
- Specials and Promotions: Check restaurant websites and social media pages for special deals and promotions.
- Support Local: Whenever possible, choose local restaurants over national chains. By supporting local businesses, you’re contributing to Nashville’s vibrant culinary community.
Your Nashville Takeout Adventure Awaits
Nashville’s takeout scene offers a wealth of culinary treasures waiting to be discovered. From the fiery kick of hot chicken to the comforting flavors of Southern classics and the exotic tastes of international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every craving. So, next time you’re looking for a delicious and convenient meal, skip the cooking and explore the diverse takeout options Nashville has to offer. There’s a culinary adventure waiting just around the corner. Embrace the ease, savor the flavors, and experience the best of Nashville, one takeout order at a time. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, Nashville’s takeout is ready to surprise you and leave you wanting more. Go explore!
