NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – The city of Nashville is home to some of the best burgers in the south. From classic favorites to unique creations, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or dinner with friends, there are plenty of burger joints.
Nashville's Burger Quest: A Guide to the City's 6 Best Cheeseburgers
Nashville may be the capital of country music and hot chicken, but it also boasts an awe-inspiring burger scene. From classic, old-school diners to modern parlors with gourmet creations, Music City knows how to craft an exceptional cheeseburger. Whether you're looking for a simple, perfectly executed classic or an inventive, piled-high masterpiece, this guide will lead you to some of the best and most beloved burger joints in Nashville.
1. The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden (East Nashville)
- The Burger: The Pharmacy is a Nashville institution, and for good reason. They serve up incredible burgers made with 100% Tennessee-raised beef, perfectly cooked and served on a fresh bun. Their menu features a wide variety of creative burgers, but their classic "Pharmacy Burger" is a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor.
- The Vibe: A fun, casual setting with a beautiful and spacious beer garden and covered patio. True to its soda fountain roots, they serve old-fashioned sodas and ice cream floats alongside an extensive list of German and craft beers.
2. Hugh-Baby's BBQ & Burger Shop (Multiple Locations)
- The Burger: From the mind of acclaimed pitmaster Pat Martin, Hugh-Baby's is a tribute to the classic small-town eateries of the past. Their burgers are simple yet perfectly executed, featuring a crispy-edged patty, melted cheese, and classic toppings. It's a no-fuss, incredibly delicious burger that values quality and nostalgia.
- The Vibe: A bright, retro-style, counter-service spot. It's a family-friendly destination for a quick and satisfying meal, offering excellent BBQ sandwiches and hand-spun milkshakes.
3. Emmy Squared Pizza (The Gulch & Green Hills)
- The Burger: While famous for its incredible Detroit-style pizza, the "Le Big Matt" burger at Emmy Squared is a legend in its own right and a must-try for any burger aficionado. It features two dry-aged beef patties, American cheese, pickles, greens, and their signature "Sammy Sauce" on a pretzel bun.
- The Vibe: A trendy, casual, and cozy restaurant. It's the perfect place to go when you want to pair a world-class burger with some of the best pizza in the city.
4. Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint (Germantown & Edgehill)
- The Burger: Jack Brown's has a simple but effective philosophy: do two things exceptionally well. They serve a fantastic selection of craft beers and a menu of simple, high-quality Wagyu beef burgers. Their classic cheeseburger is fantastic, but be sure not to miss out on their creative daily specials.
- The Vibe: A fun, unpretentious, and often-crowded watering hole with an actual neighborhood bar feel. It's a go-to for beer lovers and burger purists.
5. Gabby's Burgers & Fries (Wedgewood-Houston)
- The Burger: A beloved local favorite, Gabby's is a family-owned spot that focuses on doing the classics right. Their burgers are made with grass-fed, local beef and are known for their incredible flavor. The "Gabby" burger, with two patties, is the way to go for a whole, satisfying experience for the hungry person.
- The Vibe: A casual, friendly, and down-to-earth lunch spot. Be sure to check their hours, as they typically close in the mid-afternoon.
6. 12 South Taproom & Grill (12 South)
- The Burger: Located in the heart of the trendy 12 South District, the 12 South Taproom is a neighborhood institution with a fantastic food and drink menu. Their burgers are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection, with options ranging from classic bacon cheeseburgers to unique, seasonal creations.
- The Vibe: A relaxed and welcoming neighborhood bar with a great patio and an extensive selection of craft beers from local and regional breweries.
From the classic beer garden burgers at The Pharmacy and the nostalgic smash burgers at Hugh-Baby's to the gourmet creation at Emmy Squared, Nashville offers a top-tier cheeseburger experience for every taste. These beloved establishments prove that Music City's culinary talents extend far beyond hot chicken, making it a true destination for any burger lover.