Middle Tennessee is home to a variety of unique and delicious restaurants that are often overlooked in favor of the more well-known establishments. From Southern-style comfort food to international cuisine, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this post, we'll highlight a few of these lesser-known restaurants and some tasty alternatives to Nashville hot chicken.

First up is the Black Abbey Brewing Company in Nashville. While primarily a brewery, they also offer a small menu of delicious pub fare that pairs perfectly with their craft beers. The menu features items like pretzels with beer cheese, fried Brussels sprouts, and a pulled pork sandwich. For those looking for an alternative to hot chicken, try their spicy fried pickles or the chicken and waffles.

Next, head over to Murfreesboro and check out Demos' Restaurant. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up homestyle Southern cooking since 1989. Their menu features everything from burgers to seafood to steak, but their most popular item is the chicken and rice soup. For something different, try the shrimp and grits or the blackened catfish.

For fans of Mexican food, El Tapatio in Smyrna is a must-visit. This authentic restaurant serves up all your favorites like tacos, burritos, and fajitas, but their standout dish is the molcajete. This dish is served in a volcanic rock bowl and includes grilled steak, chicken, and shrimp, along with queso fresco, avocado, and salsa. It's perfect for sharing with friends or family.

Finally, head out to Franklin and check out Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant. This restaurant is a Southern staple, serving up all the classics like meatloaf, fried catfish, and pulled pork. For an alternative to hot chicken, try their smoked chicken wings or the blackened catfish po' boy.



There you have it, four fantastic restaurants in Middle Tennessee that offer tasty alternatives to Nashville hot chicken. Whether you're in the mood for pub food, Southern cooking, Mexican cuisine, or barbecue, there's something for everyone in this region. So, next time you're looking for a new spot to try, consider one of these hidden gems.