Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Donelson

American lunch spots

A midday break deserves a reliable meal that fits into a busy schedule.

Based on 579 Opinions
+576
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Krustaceans Seafood image 1
Krustaceans Seafood image 2
Krustaceans Seafood image 3
View all
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with festive music and multiple TVs showing games. The space is stylish and spotless, creating a clean and inviting vibe. Guests enjoy signature frozen cocktails alongside some of the best seafood boils and crabs around.

Crispy, seasoned Cajun fries stand out with addictive flavor. The menu blends Cajun and Soul food well, featuring dishes like fish with fries and a shrimp boil.

Lunch offers unbeatable prices and fresh seafood options. Service stays attentive and friendly during midday hours.

People are saying

"The seafood here is seasoned perfectly and served hot."

"This lunch spot has amazing seafood, I couldn't stop eating it."

"The American food here, especially the fish and shrimp, is cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Live DJ music is featured on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.

3

The lunch menu is available only on weekdays from 11am to 2pm.

02
Hella Hot Chicken Donelson image 1

Small, clean restaurant offers fresh, perfectly seasoned hot chicken with generous portions and a chill, inviting atmosphere. Music adds to the welcoming vibe while the space remains quiet and humble.

Nashville hot chicken stands out with bold flavor and tender meat. The Sweet Chili Chicken Wings come perfectly cooked and coated in a tasty sauce. Fried chicken sandwiches also deliver solid, satisfying taste.

A small, hole in the wall spot with food ready on arrival makes it a quick choice for lunch. Early lunch visits show it works well for a casual midday meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really delicious."

"The American food here is hot, crispy, and juicy."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken is fresh, seasoned perfectly, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait for the freshest chicken.

2

The restaurant offers a special of ten drums for $10.

3

Portions are large, providing good value for the price.

03
Cheba Hut "Toasted" Subs image 1

Sandwich shop with toasted subs and a quirky, fun vibe filled with eclectic music and marijuana-themed decor. Dog-friendly patio offers a relaxing outdoor space while TVs show video games, sports, and cartoons. Bar serves cold beer and local cider, complementing the lively atmosphere.

Nachos come highly rated with a perfect score. The club sandwich stands out as a flavorful choice.

Lunch offers a healthy-sized, juicy, and flavorful sandwich that satisfies hunger with half a portion. This spot serves an elevated lunch experience worth returning to regularly.

People are saying

"I had the best sandwich I ever had in my entire life here."

"The American Food subs here are packed and healthy-sized."

"The bread at this Lunch Spot is perfectly crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $1 off drafts every Monday through Friday.

2

Karaoke nights are hosted every Tuesday starting at 8pm.

3

Live music events occur on weekends; check the schedule for details.

04
Paula Deen's Family Kitchen image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Large dining space replicates a home kitchen with big windows overlooking the river and an elegant appearance. Bright, family-friendly atmosphere fills the room with lively energy, especially from children. A cute gift shop and play area add charm and entertainment while waiting.

Ribs come tender and flavorful. Fried chicken offers crispy skin, well-seasoned meat, and choices of white or dark cuts.

Lunch offers a variety of meats and sides with biscuits and dessert all for under $20. Service is prompt with attentive refills, making it suitable for family gatherings or casual meals.

People are saying

"The family-style meals here are all-you-can-eat."

"The American food here is unlimited, family-style, and so comforting."

"This lunch spot serves amazing family-style Southern food."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant does not allow customers to take leftovers home, only desserts.

3

All meals are served in family-sized portions, making it difficult for solo diners.

05
Publix Super Market at The Crossings image 1

Wide aisles and bright lighting create an open, clean environment with unique cartoon art on the walls. The atmosphere feels lively and well-managed, with plenty of parking and easy self-checkout enhancing convenience. Seating inside and outside the deli adds to a relaxed shopping experience.

Spicy non-breaded chicken wings and fried chicken stand out here. Fried chicken often requires a wait, sometimes around 20 minutes, and is popular enough that several people wait for it at once.

Deli subs and salads serve as quick lunch options here. Many choose to stop by before work or during lunch breaks for a grab-and-go meal without using online pick-up.

People are saying

"The grocery store staff are always willing to help you find products."

"I loved the fried chicken; it's classic American food."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

The store is very clean and well stocked.

2

Parking is easy and convenient.

3

The deli counter may be empty during peak lunch hours.

06
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Casual restaurant with a relaxing atmosphere and inviting patio seating offers a comfortable spot for meals and drinks. Bartenders create a good vibe with skillful drink preparation and friendly energy. Menu features notable wings and burgers, alongside some mixed food reviews.

Chicken wings come in satisfying portions with good flavor. The menu includes Cajun pasta, Surf and Turf, and a brisket quesadilla priced at $12.99.

Lunch offers great value with $10 specials and combos under $20. Service is fast and attentive, with staff anticipating needs and helping choose meals.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the wings."

"The service at this lunch spot was amazing and attentive."

"The American Food here has satisfying chicken wings."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant opens at 11:00 AM, not 10:30 AM as listed online.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but some gift cards may not work.

07
Bar-B-Cutie SmokeHouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic setup with country decor and license plates on walls creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a backyard BBQ. Spacious dining room features large TVs for sports viewing and tables resembling home dining. Friendly, cozy vibe encourages relaxed, family-style gatherings.

Pulled pork, smoked turkey, brisket, and ribs offer a solid range of smoky flavors. Cornbread comes pancake-style and arrives warm and buttery within minutes.

Lunch offers great service and a welcoming atmosphere. Visits often happen on special days or weekends like Sunday.

People are saying

"The BBQ service here is amazing and the staff are so sweet."

"The American Food here, especially the ribs and brisket, is really good."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was delicious, full of Southern love."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and free at this location.

2

Drive-thru service is available for quick takeout.

3

Expect large portion sizes for your meals.

Discover more

Donelson, Nashville

Area guide
Loading Map...