TENNESSEE - Nashville's culinary scene is hotter than a honky-tonk on a Saturday night! From Southern comfort food to international flavors, there's something to satisfy every craving. Here are five must-try dishes that will have you saying "yee-haw!" this week:
1. Hot Chicken at Prince's: No trip to Nashville is complete without experiencing the city's iconic hot chicken. Head to Prince's Hot Chicken Shack, the legendary birthplace of this fiery dish, and prepare for a flavor explosion. Choose your spice level wisely—from mild to "Hot"—and enjoy the crispy, juicy chicken with classic Southern sides like collard greens and mac and cheese.
2. The "El Jefe" Burger at The Row Kitchen & Pub: This Midtown gem serves some of the best burgers in town. The "El Jefe" stands out, featuring a juicy beef patty topped with chorizo, pepper jack cheese, a fried egg, and a smoky chipotle aioli. It's a messy, delicious masterpiece that will have you returning for more.
3. Buttermilk Pancakes at Pancake Pantry: Start your day with a stack of fluffy buttermilk pancakes from Pancake Pantry in Hillsboro Village. This Nashville institution has been serving breakfast classics since 1961, and their pancakes are legendary. With a variety of toppings to choose from, you can customize your stack to your liking.
4. Nashville Hot Shrimp at The 404 Kitchen: Try the Nashville Hot Shrimp at The 404 Kitchen in Gulch for a modern twist on the Nashville hot chicken trend. These crispy, flavorful shrimp are tossed in a fiery hot sauce and served with creamy Alabama white sauce for dipping. It's a delicious and unique appetizer that's perfect for sharing (or not!).
5. Authentic Ramen at Otaku Ramen: Take a break from Southern fare and slurp down some delicious ramen at Otaku Ramen. With locations in Gulch and East Nashville, this popular spot offers a variety of ramen styles, from classic tonkatsu to spicy miso. Don't forget to add an order of their crispy gyoza for a truly satisfying meal.
Bonus: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of artisan ice cream from Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams. With unique flavors like Brambleberry Crisp and Brown Butter Almond Brittle, you're sure to find a new favorite.
Nashville's food scene is constantly evolving, so get out there and explore! You'll indeed discover some hidden gems and delicious surprises along the way.