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Local picks

Authentic lunch spots in South Nashville

Made for those who seek out unvarnished, real-deal meals during their midday break.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Latino Finest Deli image 1
Latino Finest Deli image 2
Latino Finest Deli image 3
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Family-owned deli showcases authentic Latin flavors with fresh ingredients displayed in the window. Menu offers large portions for under $20, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians. Atmosphere feels clean and vibrant, with a variety of Latin snacks and beverages available.

Authentic Latin flavors shine through with homemade-tasting food made carefully. Service matches the quality, delivering a truly authentic taste experience.

Lunch options come ready to go, making it easy to grab a meal during a break. The food stays delicious whether eaten in or taken out.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's food and service were indescribable."

"I found the authentic Latin flavors here to be homemade-tasting and made with care."

Good to know

1

The menu offers options for both meat lovers and vegetarians.

2

Portion sizes are large for under $20.

3

Pricing is reasonable for the quality offered.

02
Ingrassia & Sons Italian Deli image 1

Small deli space offers an effortlessly inviting atmosphere with a free jukebox playing nostalgic tunes. Friendly, lively energy fills the room, creating a festive and collaborative vibe. Curated dry goods selection adds charm and distinguishes it from typical sandwich shops.

Sandwiches feature authentic Italian and Sicilian flavors with high-quality ingredients. Espresso comes hot and genuine, and the deli stocks traditional Italian ingredients and kitchen items.

Offers quick lunch options with delicious Italian deli fare. Lunch prices run around $35.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken cutlet sandwich was perfect from top to bottom."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches have amazing, balanced flavors."

"I tried the authentic porchetta sandwich, it was the best."

Good to know

1

Lunch costs around $35, which may be considered pricey for a sandwich.

2

They stop making fresh sandwiches after lunch hours.

3

After lunch, only two pre-made sandwiches are available for takeout.

03
Gordo's Taqueria image 1
Taco restaurant

Bright space with original handmade tiles and colorful wall art creates a comfortable, fun atmosphere. Outdoor seating adds to the casual vibe. Known for large portions and classic Bay Area Mexican food, it draws a steady crowd seeking hearty burritos and tacos.

Authentic Mexican flavors shine through in the Chile Verde and protein selections. Burritos come with an amazing tortilla that stands out.

A solid choice for lunch or dinner with consistent visits making it a regular spot. The place earns a reputation as a favorite lunch spot for many.

People are saying

"I thought their burrito was the best I had in Nashville."

"I considered this my new favorite lunch spot."

"I found the authentic flavors and ingredients truly respected Mexican food."

Good to know

1

The prices at Gordo's Taqueria are affordable.

2

The portions at Gordo's Taqueria are large.

3

Parking is easy at Gordo's Taqueria.

04
The Sicilian Butcher image 1
Sicilian restaurant

Sicilian restaurant blends old-world charm with modern style in a beautiful, spotless setting. Atmosphere carries piazza energy with lively, engaging vibes. Unique features include a meatball ferris wheel and a comfortable patio with heating.

Food tastes truly authentic Italian with a focus on Siciliano flavors. Desserts like the Napoleon and Italian rainbow cookie also keep it real.

Lunch offers a fantastic and fabulous experience with options suitable for celebrations and working meals. Seating at the bar supports casual, productive lunches and happy hours.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious, especially the homemade pastas."

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

"Our server Raja was friendly and made great recommendations."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street from the restaurant.

2

Happy hour runs all day at the bar with great options.

3

A bottle of wine and bruschetta board costs $19 during happy hour.

05
The Lost Paddy Irish Pub and Restaurant image 1

Irish pub with old thick wood and a sports-themed bar featuring multiple screens showing soccer and other sports. Atmosphere is cozy and lively with live music every night, creating an energetic vibe. Known for authentic Irish food and proper Guinness pours.

Authentic Irish pub atmosphere shines through with traditional Irish food and classic drinks like Guinness and Smithwicks. The vibe matches pubs found in Ireland, offering a welcoming and genuine experience.

Lunch offers excellent food in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. It suits family gatherings well.

People are saying

"This Irish pub has amazing food, especially the fish and chips."

"I found authentic Irish pub food and a great atmosphere here."

"The fish and chips here are excellent and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

A 20% automatic gratuity is added to all bills without prior notice.

2

Free parking is available, which is rare downtown.

3

The kitchen stays open late, even during dinner hours.

06
Sankalp Nashville image 1

Restaurant offers live Bollywood music that creates a friendly, inviting atmosphere with a charming Indian aesthetic. The vibe is warm and welcoming, enhanced by classic live performances on weekends.

Food features authentic Indian flavors with dishes like Tika Masala, Goat Curry, and vada pav that capture traditional tastes and spice balances. Chaat also offers a genuine, delicious experience.

Lunch features Onion Rava Masala Dosa with a distinct taste. The setting includes an Indian aesthetic that adds to the midday meal experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and tasty."

"The Indian flavors here taste so authentic, like a true taste of India."

"This lunch spot's chicken tikki was some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Live Indian music happens every Friday night.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of North and South Indian dishes.

3

There are great vegetarian options available on the menu.

07
Baja Burrito image 1
Burrito restaurant

Small shack packed with patrons creates a loud, bustling atmosphere that feels like a well-loved hometown spot. Colorful, fun interior contrasts with tight, cramped seating, while plentiful outdoor seating offers a quieter option near traffic. A self-serve salsa bar adds to the casual, trendy vibe.

Proprietary recipes deliver authentic flavor without using iceberg lettuce, staying true to Mexican taco and burrito traditions. Fresh ingredients create a genuine, local burrito experience.

Lunch offers real meals under $10 with fast, efficient service even during busy times. Staff handle orders carefully despite the midday rush and long lines.

People are saying

"This burrito spot is reliably fantastic and has been for years."

"This is a great lunch spot for fantastic burritos."

"I loved the authentic flavor from their proprietary recipes."

Good to know

1

You cannot order online or call in your order.

2

The parking lot is challenging to find parking in.

3

Street parking nearby is available as an alternative.

08
Madina restaurant image 1
East African restaurant

Renovated space offers a laid-back, inviting atmosphere with warm smiles and a large screen TV for football. Guests find authentic East African food with standout dishes like tender goat stew and aromatic rice served in generous portions. A dedicated prayer area adds to the welcoming environment.

Freshly prepared dishes showcase authentic East African flavors. The menu offers authentic Somali cuisine with a focus on healthy food options.

Offers lunch options alongside breakfast and dinner. Serves Somali food familiar to those who know the cuisine. Frequent spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"The soup here is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying."

"The authentic Somali cuisine here is amazing and bursting with rich flavors."

"This lunch spot has delicious East African food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes at reasonable prices.

2

Complimentary orange juice and soup are served with meals.

3

Parking can be difficult to find near the restaurant.

09
El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant image 1

Vibrant, colorful decor creates an authentic Mexican atmosphere with upbeat music and a casual, relaxed vibe. Outdoor seating includes a covered patio with fans for comfort. The place welcomes large groups and offers a family-friendly environment.

Vibrant atmosphere matches the authentic Mexican cuisine served here. Tacos stand out as flavorful and carefully made, reflecting true Mexican food traditions.

Lunch offers affordable specials like chicken fajitas and steak with flour tortillas. Meals come in generous portions and suit both quick stops and relaxed gatherings with friends.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and bursting with bold, traditional flavors."

"This lunch spot has a casual atmosphere and friendly staff."

"I found the food to be authentic, rich with bold, traditional flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accommodates large groups, making it suitable for gatherings.

2

Vegetarian options are available, catering to different dietary preferences.

3

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

10
Mofongo Cafe image 1
Dominican restaurant

Balcony and covered patio offer options to dine outdoors with views and a treehouse vibe. Walls display Dominican art and masks, creating a home-like atmosphere that feels like being on the island. The place welcomes newcomers to Latin food with an approachable, nostalgic energy.

Authentic Caribbean and Latin American dishes shine with real Dominican and Puerto Rican flavors. Food comes with flavorful, satisfying quality and a sense of warmth.

Lunch offers delicious meals that appeal to groups and offices. Teams often choose this spot for group lunches and work gatherings.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"This lunch spot's food is authentic, flavorful, and satisfying."

"I found the food to be authentic Latin American."

Good to know

1

Expect about a 15-minute wait for your food when ordering from the menu.

2

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Latin Caribbean dishes.

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South Nashville, Nashville

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