Tennessee is a culinary treasure trove, boasting a diverse range of flavors that reflect its rich cultural heritage. From mouthwatering barbecue to indulgent comfort food, the Volunteer State has something for every palate. Who better to guide us through Tennessee’s most delectable eateries than Guy Fieri, the charismatic host of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives? Known for his epic food adventures, Guy has uncovered some of the state’s most irresistible dining spots.
In this article, we bring you the best Tennessee Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives spots according to Guy Fieri himself. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and satiate your hunger for great food!
Graze
Graze, located at 1888 Eastland Ave, Nashville, is a must-visit for plant-based food enthusiasts and fans of Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. This family-owned, vegan restaurant is known for its innovative brunch and dinner menus, featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Their Chicken Bacon Ranch Club, highlighted on season 34 of the show, is a standout dish that has garnered rave reviews. Graze offers a delightful dining experience that pairs delicious plant-based dishes with a curated drink menu.
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Fattoush Cafe
Fattoush Cafe, situated at 1716 Charlotte Avenue in Nashville, is a hidden gem for lovers of Mediterranean cuisine. Known for their authentic halal dishes, Fattoush Cafe specializes in classics like salad, falafel, gyros, and baklava. Their Lamb Shanks with Biryani Rice, featured on season 34 of Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, is particularly noteworthy. Using olive oil, grains, and fresh vegetables, this family-owned spot brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to Tennessee.
Nicky’s Coal Fired
Nicky’s Coal Fired, located at 5026 Centennial Blvd., Nashville, is known for its mouth-watering Italian cuisine cooked in a unique coal-fired oven. This spot features delicious offerings like pizza, pasta, and their specialty meatballs, all made with locally sourced ingredients. As highlighted on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, Nicky’s brings a fresh twist to traditional Italian dishes. With its innovative cooking methods and flavorful menu, it’s a must-visit for food enthusiasts exploring Tennessee.
Riddim N Spice
Riddim N Spice, located at 2116 Meharry Blvd., Nashville, is a culinary gem founded by Jamaican brothers Kamal Kalokoh and Rashean Conaway. Inspired by their love for Caribbean cuisine, they serve up dishes like barbeque jerk jackfruit, snapper, and peas and rice. Featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, this restaurant is a must-visit for those craving a taste of the islands. Their unique flavors and authentic recipes have quickly earned them a loyal following.
Soy Bistro
Soy Bistro, located at 5008 Maryland Way in Brentwood, TN, is a family-owned restaurant specializing in authentic Korean cuisine. Famous for dishes like Bibimbap, Gochujang Chicken, and Spicy Pork Bulgogi, this eatery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Co-owner Kenji Ichikawa, a former patron, is dedicated to maintaining the high standards of their flavorful and thoughtfully prepared dishes. Fans of Diners, Drive-ins and Dives will appreciate the attention to detail and commitment to quality at Soy Bistro.
Mas Tacos por Favor
Mas Tacos por Favor, located at 732 McFerrin Ave in Nashville, began in a 1974 Winnebago and has grown into a beloved local eatery. Known for their scratch-made Mexican cuisine, they serve standout dishes like holiday tamales and quinoa tacos. Featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, Guy Fieri was particularly impressed by their pozole verde soup, praising the “ridiculous depth of the broth.” This restaurant’s unique origins and exceptional flavors make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Center Point Pit Barbecue
Center Point Pit Barbecue, located at 1212 W Main St in Hendersonville, is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts. Owned by Robert Duke, the restaurant is famous for smoking pork until it turns “black as night,” but it was their holiday ham that caught the attention of Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. This unique dish undergoes a four-day brine and six-hour smoke before being sprinkled with sugar and torched to create a delightful “ham brittle.” With its distinctive flavors and meticulous preparation, Center Point Pit Barbecue offers a memorable dining experience.
The Grilled Cheeserie
The Grilled Cheeserie, a roaming food truck in Nashville, is famous for its gourmet take on comfort food, particularly the Pimento Mac & Chee sandwich. This best-seller, which had Guy Fieri dreaming of childhood, features pimento cheese, cheddar, macaroni, bacon bits, and sliced tomato on country white bread, served with a side of roasted red pepper tomato soup. Despite the long lines, regulars insist it’s worth the wait. Fans of Diners, Drive-ins and Dives will appreciate the creative and nostalgic flavors offered by this beloved food truck.
Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint
Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, located at 7238 Nolensville Rd in Nolensville, is renowned for its authentic whole hog barbecue. Owner Pat Martin roasts 200-pound hogs in their entirety, seasoning them with a signature blend of spices and cooking them over hickory wood for 24 hours. Michael Symon praised the results as “the perfect bite of pork,” and Guy Fieri couldn’t get enough of the juicy, flavorful meat used in the sliders. Popular dishes include the whole hog platter, bacon-studded broccoli salad, and onion-flecked hushpuppies.
Marlowe’s Ribs
You might not see locals at Graceland, but you’ll definitely find them at Marlowe’s Ribs, located at 4381 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis, TN. This hotspot is famous for its Elvis favorite: ribs drenched in Marlowe’s signature tangy barbecue sauce. Fans of Diner’s, Drive-ins and Dives will relish the free pink-limo ride offered to the restaurant, just like Guy Fieri did. With special dishes like BBQ Dry Rub, Black Magic, and Baby Back Ribs, it’s no wonder this place is beloved by many.
Alcenia’s
Alcenia’s, found at 317 N Main St. in Memphis, TN, is renowned for serving up authentic Memphis culinary delights. This beloved eatery, spotlighted on Diner’s, Drive-ins and Dives, wins hearts with its “Cha Cha” cabbage relish and sweet potato cobbler. Guy Fieri praised the restaurant by simply saying, “Mmm, that’s good.” Specialties like Egg Custard Pie, Salmon Croquettes, Fried Chicken, and Ham and Cheese Omelette make Alcenia’s a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Southern flavor.
Phat Bites
Phat Bites, situated at 2730 b. Lebanon Pike in Donelson, TN, is celebrated for its innovative and healthy dishes. This local gem caught the eye of Diner’s, Drive-ins and Dives, especially with their Long Life Salad, featuring a nutritious mix of kale, beans, nuts, and fruits topped with a citrus vinaigrette. Guy Fieri gave it his seal of approval. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, the Big Jerk sandwich with jerk pork, cheese, and onions won’t disappoint. Phat Bites is the go-to spot for unique and flavorful eats.
55 South
55 South, situated at 403 Main St., Franklin, TN, is a hotspot for authentic Southern cuisine and stellar seafood. Featured on Diner’s, Drive-ins and Dives, Guy Fieri raved about their char-grilled oysters with garlic-lemon butter and Parmesan, praising the distinctive “wood smoke component.” Diners can also enjoy Southern staples like Nashville Hot Chicken and Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya. Whether you’re craving seafood or comfort food, 55 South delivers a taste of the South like no other.
Caffe Nonna
Caffe Nonna, found at 4427 Murphy Rd. in Nashville, TN, is renowned for its authentic and rustic Italian dishes. As seen on Diner’s, Drive-ins and Dives, Guy Fieri couldn’t resist their famous Lasagna Nonna, an eight-layer delight featuring butternut squash, spinach, pasta, ricotta, and Swiss chard, all smothered in two savory sauces and melted cheese. For a true taste of Italy in Tennessee, Caffe Nonna is the place to be.
Rizzo’s Diner
Rizzo’s Diner, situated at 106 E GE Patterson Ave. in Memphis, TN, is famed for its innovative approach to Southern comfort food. Highlighted on Diner’s, Drive-ins and Dives, Guy Fieri couldn’t resist the savory chorizo meatloaf with tangy green tomato gravy or the delicate lobster pronto pups. Under the creative direction of Chef Michael Patrick, this upscale diner offers a refreshing twist on traditional favorites. It’s the perfect spot for foodies looking to experience something extraordinary.