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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Nashville

Authentic spots

There is a specific comfort in finding a place that stays true to its roots without trying to impress anyone.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Jerusalem Reebar Restaurant image 1
Jerusalem Reebar Restaurant image 2
Jerusalem Reebar Restaurant image 3
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Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant shines with authentic Arabic dishes and Middle Eastern decor featuring Palestinian colors. Spacious, well-lit space offers seamless team service and music that invites guests to relax. Perfect blend of taste and atmosphere.

Arabic dishes deliver a truly authentic taste with flavors matching those found in Detroit and the Middle East. The restaurant offers an authentic Middle Eastern ambience that complements the Palestinian and Lebanese cuisine served.

People are saying

"The food here is ridiculously delicious and flavorful."

"I found the falafel here to be the best I ever tasted."

"I found the hummus to be truly authentic, silky, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.

2

Prices are considered great for the quality and quantity of food.

3

The restaurant is located behind U-Haul and is not easily visible.

02
SHAOKAO - Chinese Street Food image 1

Small dining room offers authentic Chinese barbecue with hearty skewers. Playful decorations and adorable outdoor tents create a calming vibe. Lively yet peaceful atmosphere welcomes a diverse crowd with culturally authentic hospitality.

Skewers and roasted dishes deliver authentic Chinese street food flavors with hearty barbecue. Servers bring culturally authentic hospitality that feels like walking the streets of China.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese barbecue here to be very authentic."

"I thought the assorted dumplings were fantastic and flavorful."

"The outdoor space here is really cute and has a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a paid lot, which is common in that part of downtown Nashville.

2

The prices are generally great, with some items being a bit pricey.

3

The restaurant is clean and family-friendly, with clean bathrooms.

03
Middle Eatz image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Low floor cushions and intricate Middle Eastern decor create a cozy, family-friendly space. Dishes like Chicken Mendi offer authentic Yemeni and Saudi flavors. Warm lighting and a dedicated prayer area make it welcoming and culturally respectful.

Food offers authentic Yemeni and Saudi flavors with dishes like Chicken Mendi and lentil soup standing out. Seating reflects a Middle Eastern style, enhancing the genuine dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is absolutely delicious."

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the lamb kebab, is tender and bursting with flavor."

"I found the food to be authentic and packed with delicious flavors."

Good to know

1

Middle Eatz offers a unique culinary experience with authentic Yemeni flavors.

2

The restaurant charges a premium for smaller serving sizes.

04
Tio Fun! image 1
Restaurant

Colorful decor and a fun bar create a vibrant atmosphere. Patio seating offers a relaxed neighborhood feel. Authentic Mexican dishes like chorizo tacos and frozen margaritas make it a lively spot.

Authentic Mexican food shines with chorizo and delicious tacos. The place offers authentic quality in a fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be great."

"The house-made flour tortillas were amazing and delicious."

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be out of this world."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6 PM Wednesday through Saturday with great drink deals.

2

Parking is limited near the restaurant; consider street parking a block away.

3

The menu includes vegan and vegetarian options for diverse dietary needs.

05
Back to Cuba Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Vibrant decor and traditional Cuban music create a warm vibe. Food serves authentic Cuban flavors with generous portions. Spacious setting with authentic artwork and a family atmosphere makes guests feel at home.

Food offers authentic Cuban flavors with generous portions. Decor includes Cuban music and dominos, creating a genuine ambiance.

People are saying

"I finally found authentic Cuban food that's tender and packed with flavor."

"I thought the coffee was delicious and amazing."

"The pastelitos and flan for desserts were amazing!"

Good to know

1

They now accept card payments, but cash is still recommended.

2

The establishment recently opened and is currently cash-only.

3

Every Thursday evening, they host Mama Mia’s menu.

06
Paradiz African restaurant image 1
African restaurant

Cozy space offers a welcoming atmosphere with authentic African setting. Menu features authentic dishes like homemade fufu that deliver a true home cooked experience. Generous servings use fresh, high-quality ingredients in a neat environment.

Menu features a variety of authentic African dishes. Fufu tastes very authentic, similar to homemade versions. Food offers a true home cooked experience.

People are saying

"I tried the fufu and peanut butter soup; it was delicious."

"I found the food here to be truly authentic, just like homemade."

"This egusi soup is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during dinner hours.

2

Parking can be challenging due to the restaurant's busy location.

3

Ordering ahead is advised to ensure your meal is ready upon arrival.

07
Birrieria Cielito Lindo Nashville image 1

Small Mexican spot offers authentic birria with handmade corn tortillas in a family-friendly setting. Bright, clean space serves fresh, gluten-free options at fair prices. Quiet atmosphere makes it perfect for relaxed meals.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors that stand out from typical Mexican restaurants. Dishes deliver real, traditional tastes with consistently amazing quality.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The tortillas here are so fresh and handmade."

"I found the birria pizza to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant accepts cash only, so plan accordingly.

3

Menu items are highly customizable to suit various dietary preferences.

08
Emanuel Restaurante Latino image 1

Rustic space with authentic Central American decor offers genuine Latin flavors in a quiet, welcoming vibe. Family-owned feel shines through friendly service and fresh, handmade dishes without alcohol. Smiles and laughter fill the homey atmosphere.

Food offers authentic Guatemalan and Mexican flavors with genuine preparation. Decor and atmosphere reflect a family-owned, authentic vibe with friendly service.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and delicious, it feels like home."

"The thick, homemade corn tortillas were awesome."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have an alcohol license, so no cold beers are available.

2

Emanuel Restaurante Latino offers authentic Guatemalan and El Salvadorian dishes.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it an affordable dining option.

09
Mama Yang and Daughter image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small, clean spot serves scratch-made dumplings with true Taiwanese flavor. Family-run vibe feels warm and welcoming. Shelf of table games adds fun to the simple, aesthetically pleasing space.

Scratch-made dumplings capture the true Taiwanese flavor here. The food tastes like Asian home cooking and feels like an authentic hole-in-the-wall spot.

People are saying

"I found the dumplings here to be very authentic."

"The bao buns here are delicious with a really great filling."

"I found the dumplings and Taiwanese flavors to be so authentic."

Good to know

1

They offer 60-minute parking validation in the paid lot.

2

Consider finding street parking instead of using the parking lot.

3

Many menu items may be unavailable, so call ahead for orders.

10
Kardes Turkish Grill & Bar image 1
Turkish restaurant

Open, airy space feels like a shared home kitchen with a family-friendly layout. Chefs prepare authentic Turkish dishes using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients right before your eyes. Guests bring their own drinks, adding to the relaxed, intimate vibe.

Turkish cuisine here shows authentic ingredients and cooking done right in front of you. The brothers behind the grill focus on delivering a genuinely authentic taste that stands out in the area.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"I found the food here to be genuinely authentic Turkish cuisine."

"The Turkish Coffee here is amazing, even better than in Turkey."

Good to know

1

The restaurant allows customers to bring their own beverages.

2

Chef Selim trained under a 3-star Michelin chef from Chicago.

3

The menu changes with the seasons and uses fresh ingredients sourced from local farms.

11
The Salty Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with outdoor seating and wooden beams creates a lively, family-friendly vibe. Authentic Southern California style shines in tacos and burritos that capture true Cali flavors. A complimentary salsa bar adds a distinctive touch, though the dining room can be loud.

Authentic Southern California style Mexican food shines here with tacos and burritos that capture true Cali flavors. The vibe matches the food, offering a genuine Cali-style Mexican experience.

People are saying

"The food here is great and served quickly."

"This Mexican food is delicious with great portions."

"I found authentic Southern California Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday is a popular event at the restaurant.

2

The pricing is around $10 for a meal and drink.

3

Parking in the area is paid parking.

12
Robert's Western World image 1

Honky-tonk bar offers authentic country music with live bands that keep the vibe lively and genuine. Walls showcase memorabilia under neon lights, creating a nostalgic feel. Crowd mixes locals and tourists enjoying affordable drinks in a historic setting.

An authentic honky tonk with classic country music and great live bands that feel genuine and not commercial. It welcomes a working class vibe where locals and tourists mix comfortably.

People are saying

"You have to try the fried bologna sandwich; it's delicious."

"The live music here is great and world-class."

"I experienced great authentic country music with an excellent band."

Good to know

1

Robert's Western World serves a recession special: a beer and a full meal for $6.

2

Live music starts at 6:30 PM, featuring traditional country acts.

3

The venue hosts a band every hour, with a tip bucket for donations.

13
Edessa Restaurant Kurdish Turkish Cuisine image 1

Ornate interior with Middle Eastern style creates a lively, family-friendly vibe. Food offers authentic Turkish flavors with high-quality ingredients. Nostalgic music adds to the immersive cultural experience.

Food captures authentic Turkish and Kurdish flavors with high-quality ingredients. Dishes taste just like they do in Turkiye, offering a genuine Middle Eastern experience.

People are saying

"The Turkish food here is authentic and incredibly flavorful."

"The kebab here is the best I've had in the USA."

"I experienced authentic Turkish and Kurdish food with delicious, fresh flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9 PM and stops accepting guests at that time.

2

The Kabob Festival offers a large spread ideal for groups.

3

Reservations are recommended for the Kabob Festival due to high demand.

14
Pie Town Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot with authentic tacos and a hole in the wall vibe. Offers generous portions and a quiet patio for calm or lively meals. Perfect for real Mexican street food lovers.

Tacos here have authentic Mexican flavor and come in generous portions. The spot serves real Mexican street tacos with no chain food influence.

People are saying

"I found the tacos to be amazing and authentic."

"I thought the queso here was maybe the best I've ever had."

"I loved the authentic flavor of the tacos."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and easy near the restaurant.

2

Expect quick service; food is ready in under three minutes.

3

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos.

15
OSH Restaurant & Grill image 1
Halal restaurant

Elegant interior with Uzbek cultural decor sets a cozy mood. Guests enjoy authentic Uzbek dishes with warm hospitality. Private rooms offer space for large groups and special events.

Warm hospitality greets guests alongside the comforting aroma of authentic Uzbek cuisine. The menu features traditional dishes that deliver a genuine taste of Uzbekistan.

People are saying

"The Uzbek bread here is a must-try and really yummy."

"I found the Turkish coffee here to be strong and satisfying."

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a service charge during special events like Valentine's Day.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy nights.

3

The portions may be smaller than expected for the price.

16
The Authentique Wine Bar & Crêperie image 1

Small, Parisian-style wine bar offers an authentic French atmosphere with 1920s decor and live jazz music. Cozy tables create an intimate setting perfect for a refined, relaxed experience. Service complements the genuine vibe, making it a true culinary journey.

The spot offers a fantastic culinary journey with an authentic feel that transports you to a Parisian wine bar. Service matches the genuine atmosphere perfectly.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the fantastic wine tasting experience."

"You have to try their delicious French crepes, especially the citron."

"I felt transported straight to Paris inside this authentic French wine bar."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

Parking is limited near the establishment.

3

The wine bar hosts jazz nights on Friday and Saturday.

17
Villa Castrioti image 1
Restaurant

Offers authentic Italian dishes with large portions in a romantic, candlelit atmosphere. Live piano and acoustic music create a quiet, upscale vibe perfect for relaxed evenings. Modern design includes a secret dining room and street-side booths with views.

Italian dishes deliver an authentic taste of Italy with large portion sizes. The food feels both elevated and comforting, fitting for a casual or quiet date night.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, truly a life-changing dining experience."

"The food at these date spots is outstanding and out of this world."

"I found the Italian food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Monday at 8pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties or special events.

3

The restaurant sanitizes menus after each use for cleanliness.

18
Gio's Chicago Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Ghost kitchen offers a laid-back, takeout-only vibe with a confusing kitchen-like entrance. Chicago-style deep dish pizza shines with biscuit-like crust and cornmeal bottom, delivering authentic southern flavor that lasts hours. High-quality ingredients make every bite stand out.

Crust has a biscuit-like texture with cornmeal on the bottom, capturing the essence of Chicago tavern-style pizza. Flavor stays close to authentic southern Chicago style, even hours after baking.

People are saying

"I highly recommend their great deep dish pizza."

"I found the Italian beef sandwich delicious."

"I found the authentic tavern-style pizza crust to be biscuit-like."

Good to know

1

Gio's Chicago Pizza does not have a dining room; it's takeout only.

2

Gio's changed their Sunday hours to 11 am to 3 pm.

3

The pizza is priced at $22, which is reasonable for its size.

19
Grill Master image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Halal Mediterranean food truck serves authentic Middle Eastern flavors with exceptional shawarma and falafel. Friendly atmosphere and aromatic scents create a welcoming vibe. High-quality ingredients and reasonable prices make it a great spot for hearty meals.

Food features authentic Middle Eastern flavors served hot and hearty. Dishes use traditional recipes from Jordan and the Mediterranean, offering a taste close to the original cuisine.

People are saying

"The shawarma here is the best I've tried in Nashville."

"I found the food here to be perfectly authentic and delicious."

"I thought the falafel here was incredible and really good."

Good to know

1

The food truck maintains high cleanliness standards with a perfect score.

2

All food served is halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

3

Prices are reasonable, offering good value for the quantity of food.

20
Chez Lama Haitian Cuisine image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Pickup point offers authentic Haitian flavors with fresh Creole dishes. Vending lockers and a large window create a casual, functional atmosphere. Space feels warm and inviting despite no dine-in seating.

Food features authentic Haitian flavors with perfect seasoning and fresh Creole dishes. Every meal delivers a genuine taste true to Haitian cuisine.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the food here to be truly authentic and delicious."

"I was still thinking about the Tasso Béf with Rice and Red Beans."

Good to know

1

Come on Saturdays for the stew.

2

You should not expect to dine in because it is solely a pickup place.

3

Be prepared that you may lose money or receive the wrong order.

21
Nova Market and Café image 1
Kosher grocery store

Kosher grocery store and café offers authentic Israeli street food with fully loaded cheese Bourekas. Warm, welcoming atmosphere feels like a home away from home with a family vibe among staff. Clean, modern space includes unique touches like kids grocery carts.

Authentic Israeli street food shines here with genuine Israeli products and fully loaded cheese Bourekas made to perfection. The food and staff maintain a high quality authentic experience throughout.

People are saying

"I found the best kosher food here, especially the bourekas."

"This cafe's food is fresh, tasty, and truly amazing."

"I found the authentic Israeli food and products here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Nova Market and Café is the only kosher café in Nashville.

2

The market has a large selection of kosher products not found easily elsewhere.

3

Expect a family-friendly environment with a variety of fresh food options.

22
Maiz De La Vida Tortilla Shop image 1

Mexican spot shines with authentic Sonora tortillas and genuine Oaxacan flavors. It offers a family-oriented vibe in a laid-back yet upscale setting. Focus on fresh, high-quality tacos makes it a top take-out choice.

Flour tortillas show authentic Sonora style with genuine Oaxacan flavors on other plates. The spot feels family-oriented and serves legit authentic Mexican food.

People are saying

"You have to try the chicken burrito; it's a weekly staple."

"These homemade tortillas are fresh, thin, and delicious."

"I found the food here to be the most authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

It is take out only, as there is no room to sit.

2

Taking out food is easy and quick.

3

Prices are very reasonable with good portion sizes.

23
One Love Jamaica Food &catering Llc image 1

Food truck serves authentic Jamaican cuisine with bold jerk chicken and fall-off-the-bone oxtails. Atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for those craving real Jamaican flavors. Portions are generous and prices are great.

Authentic Jamaican cuisine shines through with real flavors and traditional presentation. The dishes capture the taste of home cooking and bring genuine Jamaican food to the table.

People are saying

"The jerk chicken here is tender, falling off the bone with a bold, spicy kick."

"The Rasta pasta is creamy and spicy."

"I found the authentic Jamaican food's flavors and presentation amazing."

Good to know

1

The food truck offers generous portion sizes that can serve two or three meals.

2

Prices are considered great for the amount of food provided.

3

The food truck is located on Murfreesboro Road and is open for takeout.

24
Mehfil Biryani’s image 1

Small kitchen inside a food market serves authentic Hyderabadi biryani with generous portions in a clean, cozy atmosphere. Open late, it draws those craving rich, aromatic flavors and well-spiced Indian comfort food.

Rich, aromatic, and well-spiced flavors define the authentic Hyderabadi biryani here. Generous portions of flavorful appetizers and biryani deliver a genuine and satisfying taste experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"This place is a great late night spot, open when others are closed."

"I found the authentic Hyderabadi biryani to be rich and aromatic."

Good to know

1

Mehfil Biryani’s is a Halal restaurant that is open late at night.

2

The restaurant operates more like a takeout kitchen than a traditional restaurant.

3

The portion size of the biryani is generous and satisfying.

25
Ajora Ethiopian Kitchen image 1
Ethiopian restaurant

Ethiopian restaurant offers bold flavors like tikel gomen and lamb tibs in a calm atmosphere with authentic decor. Family-owned warmth makes dining inviting and peaceful. Fresh ingredients ensure truly authentic cuisine.

Bold, rich flavors define the dishes like tikel gomen, shiro wot, and lamb tibs. Fresh ingredients combine to deliver truly authentic Ethiopian cuisine made with care.

People are saying

"The vegetarian meals here are delicious and perfectly spiced."

"The Ethiopian food here is so delicious and packed with authentic flavor."

"The food here is so authentic and packed with bold flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

2

Expect generous portion sizes; one plate can easily feed two people.

3

Vegetarian options are available alongside traditional meat dishes.

26
Ruchi Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian takeaway

Ghost kitchen offers authentic South Indian Thali with fresh, flavorful dishes like dosa and biryani. Focus on takeaway and delivery suits late-night cravings. Atmosphere feels refreshing and genuine, attracting families and vegetarians alike.

South Indian dishes here taste authentic and fresh. The South Indian Thali offers a very tasty and genuine experience.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, fresh, and full of flavor."

"I loved the biryani; it was so tasty and flavorful."

"The South Indian food here tastes authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant operates as a ghost kitchen, focusing on take-away and delivery.

2

The restaurant is open late at night for convenient late dining options.

3

Delivery and pick-up options are available for all menu items.

27
So Gong Dong Tofu House image 1
Korean restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall spot offers authentic Korean flavors with fresh ingredients. Cozy, traditional wooden tables create a genuine, mom-and-pop vibe. Quiet music shows on TV keep the atmosphere relaxing and calm for easy conversation.

Food features authentic Korean flavors with fresh, original ingredients. The atmosphere feels traditional and genuine, matching the authentic taste of the soups and stews.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious and authentic tofu soup."

"The Korean Food kalbi is tender, flavorful, and perfectly grilled."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The spicy pork lunch special is very reasonably priced.

2

Customers are required to tip.

3

The portions are fulfilling.

28
Fired Up LLC image 1
Cajun restaurant

Food stand serves authentic Creole flavors with generous free samples that draw a crowd. Dishes like brisket gumbo and dirty rice offer rich, genuine taste. Atmosphere feels like a casual gathering despite busy food court setting.

Samples at the kiosk deliver authentic Creole flavors. Gumbo and other dishes show perfect seasoning and true New Orleans cuisine taste.

People are saying

"This gumbo is authentic, dark, and flavorful."

"The food here is authentic New Orleans comfort food."

"I found the gumbo and Cajun food to be the real deal."

Good to know

1

Fired Up LLC offers authentic Cajun and Creole food at the Farmers Market.

2

Expect to arrive early as they often run out of popular dishes.

3

Gluten-free options are available, making it celiac safe.

29
Music City Modern image 1
Furniture store

Showroom features authentic mid-century furniture with pristine restoration and expert craftsmanship. Space is compact but offers unique vintage finds at fair prices. Atmosphere reflects passion for genuine design and quality.

Offers a great selection of authentic mid-century furniture with many pieces freshly restored. The dresser stands out as a clear example of genuine mid-century design.

People are saying

"I found the furniture at this Furniture Store to be beautiful and authentic."

"Brian truly cares about his customers and their Modern pieces."

"It's the place for authentic mid-century modern furniture."

Good to know

1

Prices for vintage furniture are reasonable and fair.

2

The quality of the furniture is consistently high.

3

The purchase and delivery process is straightforward.

30
Shermay Tacos image 1
Fast food restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a covered garage and a cute patio with careful setup. Food features hand-made corn tortillas and authentic Mexican flavors with fresh, hot tacos. Enjoy meals with Mexican Coke in glass bottles for a genuine touch.

Tacos come with homemade tortillas and authentic Mexican flavors. Meals include Mexican Coke in glass bottles, adding to the genuine experience.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here delicious and fresh."

"The al pastor tacos here are incredible."

"I loved the authentic tacos, especially the homemade tortillas."

Good to know

1

The prices at Shermay Tacos are very affordable.

2

I needed to bring cash to pay.

3

The food truck is spotlessly clean.

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