Nashville abounds with dining options for its ever-growing demographic. The city offers everything from Michelin-star Italian dining to Cheap Charlie's Taco Shop. Music City has plenty of low-cost choices if you know where to look. Following are some top picks for cheap eats in Nashville.
Nashville abounds with dining options for its ever-growing demographic. The city offers everything from Michelin-star Italian dining to Cheap Charlie's Taco Shop. Music City has plenty of low-cost choices if you know where to look. Following are some top picks for cheap eats in Nashville.
Daddy's Dogs are not only the most delectable in Tennessee but also great for a low-budget lunch. Every dog on their menu is under $10, with the basic dog dubbed "The Lone Wolf'' for only $6. Their signature hotdog is the "Big Daddy." It is grilled over charcoal, thrown onto a toasted bun, then loaded with cream cheese, bacon, pickles, grilled onions, jalapenos, and "Daddy's secret sauwce." Another great dog is the "Mac Daddy:'' a grilled, covered in cheese, mac, and cheese, then more cheddar.
Regarding breakfast and lunch, it is tough to find a better dollar-to-quality ratio than Big Al's. A 4 Stack of fluffy pancakes is $4.75, and a bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit is only three bucks. The menu changes based on what big Al wants to cook. One consistent option is "Big Al's Big Breakfast," which comes with two eggs, crispy hashbrowns, a cathead biscuit (so-called because it is the size of a cat’s head), two pieces of buttery toast, and a grilled sausage patty or bacon, fried to perfection. Call ahead because their hours are approximate, and the restaurant will not open until Big Al shows up.
Daddy's Dogs are not only the most delectable in Tennessee but also great for a low-budget lunch. Every dog on their menu is under $10, with the basic dog dubbed "The Lone Wolf'' for only $6. Their signature hotdog is the "Big Daddy." It is grilled over charcoal, thrown onto a toasted bun, then loaded with cream cheese, bacon, pickles, grilled onions, jalapenos, and "Daddy's secret sauwce." Another great dog is the "Mac Daddy:'' a grilled, covered in cheese, mac, and cheese, then more cheddar.
Regarding breakfast and lunch, it is tough to find a better dollar-to-quality ratio than Big Al's. A 4 Stack of fluffy pancakes is $4.75, and a bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit is only three bucks. The menu changes based on what big Al wants to cook. One consistent option is "Big Al's Big Breakfast," which comes with two eggs, crispy hashbrowns, a cathead biscuit (so-called because it is the size of a cat’s head), two pieces of buttery toast, and a grilled sausage patty or bacon, fried to perfection. Call ahead because their hours are approximate, and the restaurant will not open until Big Al shows up.
Pho often has a higher price point, but that is not the case with VN Pho & Deli. This establishment offers delicious and authentic soup and deli options at a more affordable rate. The basic Pho is $6.50. Banh Mi is a good option for anyone unfamiliar with Korean cuisine. These traditional sandwiches come on house-made baguettes filled with homemade pickled carrots, cucumbers, jalapenos, cilantro, and conventional Vietnamese meats— for only $7.
This bar offers good drinks, lively nights, and some of the most discounted appetizers in the city. And while it may not be fine dining, it is excellent bar fare. The grilled cheese is only $5, and the "Recession Special" is a low $6. This special includes chips, a Moon Pie, a fried bologna sandwich, and a PBR to wash it down.
This old-school burger shack is full of french fries and chill vibes. Hugh-Baby's idea is to offer a simple experience and focus on crafting the small things well. Hence, they have a streamlined menu full of budget-friendly food that has been shown the same dedication as a 5-star steakhouse. The beef is hand-ground, the fries are made from fresh potatoes each morning, and they smoke the BBQ overnight. Everything about Hugh-Baby's is top quality yet frugal. The cheeseburger comes in at $5.29, and the pulled pork sandwich is $4.29. The real low-cost highlight is available on Fridays. The Slugburger is only $2.79, making it the cheapest sandwich in the city.
San Antonio is the quintessential taco shop with low prices, fast service, and great food. All the tacos are in the $2-3 range, from juicy, marinated steak to crispy fried fish or hand-pulled pork. The tortillas are house-made, soft, and fluffy. The enchiladas are another offer. One enchilada, chicken, beef, or cheese, is $2.79. They are covered in sauce and melty cheese and loaded with meat. The enchilada platter is only $8.09 and includes two enchiladas, Spanish rice, and a big scoop of refried beans.
Baja Burrito is a hidden gem for big eats on a small budget. Munch on guacamole, chicken steak, or veggie tacos, among other options. This counter-service Mexican joint also offers burritos for under 7$. Several meat and veggie options, all of which have been marinated and flame-grilled. The trick to a cheap meal at Baja is to load up on the complimentary toppers. Baja offers fresh rice, beans, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and a dozen veggie options.