Nashville, Tennessee, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene, also harbors some hidden gems in its food landscape. Tucked away from the bustling main streets, three unassuming restaurants offer a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Each one, with its own distinct flavor and charm, promises to delight food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through these three ‘hole-in-the-wall’ spots in Nashville that are too good to miss. Prepare to be surprised and satiated in equal measure, as we explore the hidden culinary treasures of Music City.
Milk and Honey Nashville
Milk and Honey Nashville in Nashville offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for both early risers and those looking to continue the party from the night before. Despite its popularity, which often leads to a waiting line, especially on weekends, guests can expect prompt seating on quieter days. The restaurant boasts both cozy indoor and comfortable outdoor seating areas, catering to a variety of preferences.
Food Highlights:
- Lavender Honey Latte: A well-balanced and not overly sweet drink, embodying the essence of the restaurant’s name.
- Big Kid Breakfast: This playful dish includes scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, sourdough toast, home fries, and berries.
- Hodgepodge Hash: A mix of sweet and regular potatoes, paired with sausages, aioli, and complemented by a hot honey sauce.
The service at Milk and Honey Nashville is commendable, with attentive and accommodating staff. They are quick to rectify any issues, like ensuring the bacon is served crispy as requested. The waitstaff also provides excellent recommendations, such as the lavender and honey latte, and shows kindness by offering extras like the hot honey sauce to take home.
The bar area also adds to the charm, serving delightful cocktails and breakfast shots, with the bonus of potentially dining at the bar if tables are full. Portion sizes are generous, ensuring a satisfying meal. The atmosphere is convivial, making it a must-visit for a pleasant dining experience in Nashville.
214 11th Ave S Nashville, TN 37203
Frida’s Oaxacan Cuisine
Frida’s Oaxacan Cuisine in Nashville is like stumbling upon a hidden treasure on Nolensville Pike, cleverly tucked inside an ice cream shop. Here, Oaxacan flavors come to life, serving up a delightful mix of traditional and unique dishes that’ll have you questioning your loyalty to your usual taco joint.
Food Highlights:
- Mole: A rich, complex flavor with just the right touch of chocolate.
- Tacos: The Pastor taco, a standout with its impeccable taste.
- Grasshopper Taco: Surprisingly scrumptious, blending creamy guacamole with the satisfying crunch of grasshoppers.
- Tacos Dorados de Barbacoa: A flavor explosion with barbacoa, lettuce, queso fresco, pico de gallo, and refried beans.
- Memelitas Especiales: A culinary adventure with a choice of chicken, chorizo, or al pastor on a thick corn tortilla with black bean paste and delightful green and red salsas.
Atmosphere:
Frida’s boasts an eclectic interior, a kaleidoscope of colors and various table types creating a vibrant, inviting atmosphere. The service, while sometimes slow, is attentive and friendly, making sure you’re well-taken care of. Whether you’re popping in for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Frida’s adapts to your pace. Plus, the convenience of eat-in and take-out options caters to everyone’s needs.
Now, about the parking – it’s a bit of a squeeze, so plan ahead. But hey, consider it a small price to pay for a culinary journey to Oaxaca without leaving Nashville.
From the unexpected joy of grasshopper tacos to the familiar comfort of barbacoa, every bite is a fiesta of flavors. Don’t just take my word for it; go see for yourself why Frida’s Oaxacan Cuisine is the talk of the town!
Red Headed Stranger
Redheaded Stranger, a charming eatery in Nashville, has quickly become a favorite for its mouthwatering Mexican cuisine. Tucked away on a street corner, it’s easy to find parking nearby. Though the restaurant might be small, it boasts a cozy, diner-like ambiance with a welcoming vibe. The place can get busy, especially during lunch, so a short wait might be expected.
Food Highlights:
- Guacamole: Fresh and flavorful, a perfect start to the meal.
- Pork Green Chili Crunch Wrap: Packed with taste, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite.
- Tater Tots: Exceptionally tasty, rivaling some of the best offerings in California.
- Chili Burger: A hearty option that promises to delight burger enthusiasts.
- Burrito: A filling choice featuring scrambled eggs, chorizo, tater tots, hatch green chili sauce, and cheese wrapped in a freshly made, soft tortilla.
- Tacos: An array of about nine choices, each packed with unique flavors and fresh ingredients.
- Special Double Decker Taco: A standout offering that leaves a lasting impression.
- Homemade Tortillas: Used instead of chips, these tortillas are a delicious and unique touch to the dining experience.
- Margarita: A homemade concoction that perfectly complements the meal.
Atmosphere:
Redheaded Stranger exudes a laid-back, diner-style atmosphere, with a decor that’s both inviting and rustic. The compact size adds to its charm, creating an intimate dining experience. The staff are known for their friendly service and good humor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh ingredients, like their homemade tortillas, adds an authentic touch that’s hard to miss. Whether it’s for a quick lunch stop or a leisurely meal, Redheaded Stranger stands out as a must-visit spot in Nashville for Mexican food lovers.
As our journey through Nashville’s hidden dining spots concludes, it’s clear that these three restaurants offer more than just food; they provide a memorable experience. Each location, with its distinct ambiance and flavors, captures the essence of the city’s diverse and rich food scene. These hidden gems remind us that sometimes, the most extraordinary meals are found in the most unexpected places. Next time you’re in Nashville, make sure to step off the beaten path and into these delightful eateries.
