CheapoTrav
Call

Cheap eats in Nashville

The best places to eat well in Nashville without blowing the trip budget — meals under $15, food halls, and lunch specials.

Nashville, TN, USA· Airport: BNA
Nashville — Cheap eats | CheapoTrav travel guide

Skip the search — let a CheapoTrav expert do it for you.

Phone-only fares for Nashville, 24/7.

Call (815) 991-4848

Key facts

  • Look for 'meat-and-three' diners around Nashville for filling, affordable Southern meals, often served cafeteria-style.
  • The Nashville Farmers' Market near downtown offers diverse food stalls and fresh produce, ideal for budget-friendly lunches or picnic supplies.
  • East Nashville and The Nations are neighborhoods known for independent, more affordable eateries catering to local residents.
  • Food trucks are prevalent throughout Nashville, particularly during lunch hours and at events, offering quick and inexpensive meals.
  • Many local eateries offer daily specials or happy hour menus that include discounted appetizers and lighter fare.
  • Consider breakfast or brunch options at local cafes; they can be a more affordable way to experience popular Nashville spots.
  • Tap water in Nashville is safe to drink, helping to save money on bottled beverages during your visit.

Nashville, often associated with its vibrant music scene, also offers a wide array of affordable dining options if you know where to look. Moving beyond the well-known, pricier establishments, you can discover local favorites that serve up hearty meals without breaking the bank. Many of these spots are deeply rooted in the city's culinary history, providing a taste of authentic Nashville without a hefty price tag.

Exploring neighborhoods outside the immediate downtown core, such as The Nations or East Nashville, often reveals a higher concentration of budget-friendly eateries. These areas are popular with locals and tend to have more competitive pricing for everything from casual lunches to satisfying dinners. Look for smaller, independent restaurants rather than large chains, as they frequently offer better value and a more unique dining experience.

To maximize your food budget in Nashville, consider sampling the lunch menus, which are often significantly less expensive than dinner options for similar dishes. Food trucks are another excellent resource, particularly for diverse and flavorful meals that are typically quick and affordable. Farmers' markets, especially the Nashville Farmers' Market, can also be a goldmine for prepared foods and fresh ingredients if you're planning a picnic or cooking your own meals.

Don't overlook the classic meat-and-three diners, a staple of Southern cuisine, where you can get a filling meal of a main dish and three sides for a very reasonable cost. These establishments are usually cash-friendly and offer a genuine taste of Southern hospitality. By being strategic in your choices and open to venturing a bit off the main tourist paths, eating well in Nashville on a budget is entirely achievable. If you need help tailoring an itinerary to include these spots, consider reaching out to a travel agent for personalized advice.

In this guide

  • Food halls in Nashville
  • Lunch specials
  • Street food
  • Local-favorite cheap eats
  • Tips to eat well for less

Frequently asked questions

What's the best way to find cheap places to eat in Nashville?
To find affordable eats in Nashville, focus on areas outside the immediate tourist core, like East Nashville or The Nations. Websites and apps that feature local reviews, like Yelp or Google Maps, can help identify highly-rated, budget-friendly establishments. Look for 'meat-and-three' restaurants, which are local institutions offering substantial meals at a low price. Additionally, consider food trucks and the Nashville Farmers' Market for diverse and cost-effective options. Lunch specials often provide better value than dinner menus for the same dishes.
Are there good food trucks for cheap eats in Nashville?
Yes, Nashville has a thriving food truck scene that's excellent for cheap eats. You can find a variety of cuisines, from hot chicken and BBQ to global street food, often at prices well below traditional restaurants. Popular spots to find food trucks include downtown near office buildings during lunch, at local parks, and often at weekend markets or festivals. Checking social media or dedicated food truck tracking apps can help you locate specific trucks and their schedules around Nashville.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Where can I find affordable Nashville hot chicken?
For affordable Nashville hot chicken, venture beyond the most famous, often pricier, establishments. Local spots like Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish or Prince's Hot Chicken Shack (the original) offer authentic, fiery chicken at reasonable prices. Many casual restaurants and even some gas station delis in areas outside downtown will have their own versions that are both flavorful and budget-friendly. Portion sizes are usually generous, making it a filling and inexpensive meal.
Can I eat cheaply around the Ryman Auditorium or Broadway area?
While the Ryman Auditorium and Broadway area are prime tourist spots, finding truly cheap eats can be challenging. Your best bet is to look for lunch specials at the more casual restaurants slightly off the main strip or to grab quick bites from delis or sandwich shops. Walking a few blocks north or south of Broadway can often lead to slightly less expensive options. The Nashville Farmers' Market, a short walk from downtown, is also a great option for an affordable and varied meal.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
What are 'meat-and-three' restaurants and are they good for a budget?
Meat-and-three restaurants are a Southern dining staple, very good for budget-conscious travelers in Nashville. They offer a fixed price for a choice of one main meat dish (like fried chicken, meatloaf, or pork chops) and three side vegetables (such as collard greens, mac and cheese, or mashed potatoes). These establishments typically serve generous portions of home-style cooking in a cafeteria-like setting, providing a filling and affordable meal that reflects local culinary traditions.
Are there any grocery stores in Nashville that are good for picnic supplies?
Absolutely. Major grocery chains like Kroger, Publix, and ALDI are readily available throughout Nashville and are excellent for stocking up on picnic supplies or ingredients for simple meals. For a more local experience, check out Turnip Truck Urban Fare in East Nashville or The Gulch for organic and prepared options, though prices might be slightly higher there. These stores offer everything from deli sandwiches and salads to fresh produce, ideal for assembling an inexpensive meal to enjoy at a park or by the Cumberland River.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares

More for travelers visiting Nashville

Nearby destinations