The food scene in East Nashville is full of flavor and always ready to surprise you. No matter how long you’re in town, it won’t take long to find a favorite spot. Here’s a local-approved list of spots that will keep you coming back for more!
Noko
Noko brings a fresh take on wood-fired cooking with a Japanese twist. From smoky fish dip to wagyu brisket dusted with togarashi, and half a perfectly roasted chicken, each dish is made to share (or keep all to yourself). The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual and elevated, ideal for date nights or catching up with friends. Tucked near the restrooms is a small Japanese Zen garden — a quiet, thoughtful detail that rounds out the experience.
Kase
Right next door to Noko, Kase is a newer, separate restaurant concept from the same team behind Noko, offering an intimate neighborhood omakase experience. This smaller, refined spot focuses on quality and attention to detail with a carefully curated 14-course menu featuring beautifully crafted sushi, torch-seared salmon, custardy uni, and A5 wagyu with foie gras. With only 14 seats, reservations require advance planning, opening six weeks ahead at midnight. While you wait for your table, you can relax at Tennessee’s tiniest bar—a cozy four-seat spot serving Japanese whiskey and creative cocktails. It’s the kind of place where dinner becomes a focused, memorable culinary event.
Five Points Pizza
Five Points Pizza has built a solid reputation for classic, no-frills New York-style slices with a great crust and fresh toppings. Dave Portnoy of Barstool Sports gave it a 7.5/10 in his pizza review, calling it a “very good classic football pizza” — solidifying its status as a go-to spot in East Nashville. The lunch special, which includes two slices and a drink for under $10, is a local favorite and perfect for a quick meal. Whether you eat in or take your pizza to go, it’s consistently reliable and satisfying.
Redheaded Stranger
For casual Tex-Mex done right, Redheaded Stranger draws steady crowds for good reason. Their crunchwraps and tacos come loaded with sauces that pack plenty of punch without overwhelming the food. Grab a margarita, claim a seat on the patio, and settle into a spot that feels like a laid-back neighborhood favorite.
Folk
If you’re craving pizza but want to mix things up, Folk serves sourdough pies with a Spanish twist. Their littleneck clam pizza topped with bonito and lemon is a standout, showcasing how bright, fresh ingredients can transform a classic. The wine list leans into Spanish varieties, including manzanilla sherry that pairs effortlessly with the food. The vibe is easygoing and relaxed — you can show up in sneakers or something nicer, and either way, you’ll be right at home.
Smith Lentz & Brewing
Smith & Lentz Brewing combines a brewery atmosphere with solid food options, including some of the best sourdough pizzas in town. Their crust is bubbly and crisp, topped with fresh mozzarella and thoughtfully chosen toppings like cacio e pepe. The spacious interior was rebuilt after the 2020 tornado and features plenty of picnic tables—for groups or anyone looking to unwind after a busy day or weekend outing.
Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse
Originally from New Orleans, Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse has brought its signature sandwiches to East Nashville. The line can get long, but the saucy collard melt or the fried bologna sandwich is worth the wait. The menu has a playful touch, including a “cold sandwiches” section that’s actually just a list of beers. Grab a table outside, order a sandwich and a beer, and prepare for a lunch that doesn’t take itself too seriously but delivers on flavor.
Butterlamp Bread & Beverage
Butterlamp is both a wine bar and bakery, offering a well-curated list of wines alongside dishes that show off their “Flaky Salt On Everything” philosophy. From deviled eggs to their famously light chocolate gateau, everything is thoughtfully prepared. Don’t miss taking home one of their sourdough loaves—especially the kombu sourdough, which has a subtle seaweed tang. There’s even a walk-up window if you’re in a hurry.
Fancypants
Fancypants takes a mostly vegetarian approach with dishes that are creative and deeply satisfying—think crispy turnip lasagna, chicken-fried cauliflower in coconut gravy, and miso butter mafaldine. The dining room leans into a playful circus theme, perfectly in line with the restaurant’s mission to “make fine dining a little less serious and a lot more fun.” It’s a great pick when you want a flavorful, interesting meal that doesn’t rely on meat—and a dining experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Bolton’s Famous Hot Chicken & Fish
Bolton’s is a longtime staple in Nashville’s hot chicken scene, known for delivering some of the spiciest, crispiest chicken and fish sandwiches around. The small, cozy bungalow can fill up quickly, so many opt to take their food to the outdoor patio. It’s a no-nonsense spot where the heat level is serious but the vibe stays friendly and welcoming.
Brave Idiot
Hidden behind the No Quarter and Hubba Hubba bar, Brave Idiot is a no-frills food truck serving hot chicken with perfectly crisp, golden skin. The spice hits hard but doesn’t overpower — you can still taste each individual flavor. The owner is known for being friendly, and there’s a fun bonus: show a photo of your cat and get a discount. It’s a great spot to grab a casual bite that’s packed with Nashville’s famous heat and heart.
Audrey
Audrey, helmed by renowned chef Sean Brock, is a tribute to Appalachian ingredients and flavors. Expect dishes that highlight indigenous produce and traditional methods, presented with a modern, thoughtful approach. The restaurant has a calm, refined atmosphere that makes it suited for celebrating milestones or marking special occasions without feeling stuffy. If you want a dinner that’s both comforting and a little elevated, Audrey fits the bill.
Peninsula
Peninsula offers seasonal small plates inspired by Spain and France, focusing on local, sustainable ingredients. The intimate space and well-curated wine list make it an excellent choice for a date night or a relaxed dinner that still feels thoughtful. It’s the kind of place where you can try a variety of flavors and savor a slow evening.
Hearts
Hearts brings a bit of Aussie charm to Nashville with its relaxed vibe and standout breakfast menu. The twice-baked French toast is a must-try — soft, indulgent, and just the right amount of sweet. Pair it with a flat white or cold brew, and it’s the kind of spot that turns a slow morning into the highlight of your day.
3 East Nashville Stays Near It All
After a day of good eats and local exploring, there’s nothing better than having a comfortable home base to return to—and East Nashville has no shortage of that, either. These three GoodNight Stay homes blend convenience, style, and neighborhood charm, making it easy to settle in and experience the area like a local.
Trinity Beats
With a rooftop deck that rivals some of the city’s best patios, Trinity Beats delivers skyline views and plenty of room to unwind. The four-bedroom, multi-level home is just 7 minutes from Noko, 6 minutes from Audrey, and only 5 minutes from Brave Idiot—making it a prime location for hitting up some of the neighborhood’s most talked-about restaurants. Inside, you’ll find sleek design, multiple gathering spaces, and all the room you need to spread out after a busy day.
Gallatin Retreat
If your perfect day includes pastries in the morning, tacos in the afternoon, and a laid-back brewery night, Gallatin Retreat puts you right in the mix. Located just 7 minutes from Butterlamp Bread & Beverage, 7 minutes from Peninsula, and 8 minutes from Smith & Lentz Brewing, this home blends convenience with calm. With three en-suite bedrooms, a private balcony, and access to a shared rooftop patio complete with a fire pit and cornhole, it’s a great option for travelers who want to explore without giving up space or comfort. Bonus: there’s even an on-site gym for those early risers or post-doughnut workouts.
Sunspire
Prefer something a little more tucked away? Sunspire offers a serene escape just five minutes from some of East Nashville’s most creative kitchens, including Hearts, Folk, and Fancypants. Inside, the home feels peaceful and modern—perfect for unwinding after a long day of eating, shopping, or exploring. The private deck is ideal for slow mornings or quiet nights in, and the location strikes that sweet spot between convenience and calm. If you’re looking for a relaxing place to land without missing out on the action, Sunspire makes it easy.
With so many incredible places to eat, drink, and explore, East Nashville is the kind of neighborhood you’ll want to settle into—and our homes put you right in the heart of it all. Each stay offers comfort, style, and easy access to the local spots that make this area so memorable. Book now and get 10% off on select homes through August 31 with code HELLOTNSUMMER. Summer’s better when you’ve got great food on your plate—and a great place to come home to.
