When most people think of Nashville's food landscape, their minds immediately jump to scorching hot chicken, towering biscuits, and classic meat-and-three diners. I love those southern staples as much as anyone, but there is a totally different, incredibly vibrant movement happening in Music City right now. Tucked away in some of our most creative neighborhoods, a wave of bright, fresh Mediterranean cooking has firmly taken root, trading heavy fryers for wood-fired hearths, herbaceous salads, and vibrant spices.
Over the past couple of years, I’ve found myself repeatedly ditching the heavy comfort plates for sprawling mezze spreads, impossibly airy pitas, and perfectly charred meats. The true beauty of Nashville’s Mediterranean scene is its impressive range. We have high-end stunners that feel like you’ve been transported to a lush Aegean patio, right alongside cozy, unassuming spots serving up the kind of marinated skewers you’ll crave for lunch every single day.
If you are looking to swap your fried chicken for fantastic falafel, here are my absolute favorite places to grab Mediterranean food in town right now.
Butcher & Bee
Located in the heart of East Nashville on Main Street, Butcher & Bee has evolved into an absolute local institution. What I appreciate most about this spot is how seamlessly they blend Middle Eastern traditions with local Southern ingredients. They rack up incredibly high praise—sitting at a solid 4.5 rating from well over 2,700 reviews—and honestly, they earn every bit of it. You simply cannot come here without ordering their famous whipped feta; it comes drizzled with fermented honey and black pepper, served alongside pita that is baked fresh in-house. The space is industrial but warm, making it my go-to recommendation for Sunday brunch or a laid-back dinner with friends.
Aba Nashville
If I want to impress a date or celebrate a milestone, I am heading straight to Aba in the Wedgewood-Houston district. Boasting an ultra-impressive 4.9 rating from thousands of visitors, this place feels like stepping into an indoor-outdoor oasis. The dining room is draped in climbing greenery and glowing lantern light, setting a flawless mood. Aba's menu leans heavily into Israeli, Lebanese, and Greek influences, and the execution is stunning. The smoky garlic hummus is incredibly rich, while the muhammara offers a perfect, slightly sweet tang. Their cocktail program also incorporates Mediterranean herbs and spices, making the drinks just as memorable as the food.
Only Chicken Mediterranean Restaurant
Don't let the straightforward name fool you—this low-key spot in Hillsboro Village is one of Nashville's best-kept secrets. It holds an astonishing 4.9 rating from locals who swear by its authenticity. While the trendier spots lean into modern fusions, Only Chicken focuses deeply on traditional Turkish-style preparations. The chicken shawarma here is phenomenally tender, deeply marinated, and shaved right off the spit. I frequently stop by here for lunch when I need something fast, fresh, and deeply satisfying. It's the kind of neighborhood joint where the staff remembers your face, making you feel instantly at home.
SADIE'S NASHVILLE
Tucked into the Edgehill neighborhood on Villa Place, Sadie’s is my absolute favorite spot for a lively, sun-drenched meal. The aesthetic here is bright and airy, and the menu feels incredibly approachable. Scoring a 4.5 from almost 800 happy diners, Sadie's excels at the kind of food you want to eat on a lazy weekend. I am obsessed with their roasted eggplant and the halloumi cheese. It’s perfect for a lingering afternoon; you can order a massive spread of dips to share, sip on a spritz, and just watch the neighborhood go by from their gorgeous patio.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
When to Go: Nashville's weather shines brightest in the spring and fall, which is the perfect time to take advantage of the spectacular patios at Aba and Sadie's. If you are aiming for Butcher & Bee, their weekend brunch is legendary, though a Tuesday night dinner offers a much quieter, intimate vibe.
Reservations: Do not leave your dinner plans to chance! For Aba and Butcher & Bee, reservations are absolutely essential, often booking out a week or two in advance for prime weekend slots. Only Chicken Mediterranean is wonderfully casual, so you can easily drop in for a quick counter-service lunch without calling ahead.
What to Expect to Spend: The dining scene here spans the entire budget spectrum. Aba and Butcher & Bee sit firmly in the premium category—expect to spend a bit more, especially once you start exploring their stellar cocktail menus. Sadie's offers a comfortable mid-range price point, while Only Chicken Mediterranean provides incredible value for highly affordable, generously portioned meals.
Whether you are a Nashville native looking to shake up your weekly dinner rotation or a visitor needing a break from heavy Southern fare, our Mediterranean scene has so much to offer. Grab a warm pita, order an extra side of hummus, and start exploring these neighborhood gems. I'd love to know which spot becomes your new favorite!
