Discover the Best Appetizers in Nashville (2025)

Discover the Best Appetizers in Nashville (2025)
Food tour map
Nashville Secret Guide 🤫

Nashville Hot List 🔥

Get our exclusive guide to the top spots in Nashville! This guide includes:

  • Top 7 must-visit culinary destinations
  • Optimized 3-stop food tour route with a map
  • Expert insider tip for each location (when to go/what to order)
  • QR codes for easy navigation
  • More secret spots in your inbox every week

You know, there’s something truly special about the vibrant food scene in Nashville. Each bite feels like a warm welcome, and the appetizers? They’re like little pieces of art that kick off a meal with pizzazz! I’ve rolled up my sleeves and dove into the local culinary landscape, exploring 13 top spots that serve up mouthwatering starters.

With a nose for flavor and a passion for discovering hidden gems, I’ve tasted everything from classic Southern comfort to innovative twists that’ll surprise your palate. Trust me, whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll want to dive into these delicious bites that capture the essence of Music City!


answer. restaurant

answer. restaurant
🗺️ 132 46th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37209
☎️ 615-942-0866
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 4:30–9 PM
Tuesday: 4:30–10 PM
Wednesday: 4:30–10 PM
Thursday: 4:30–10 PM
Friday: 4:30–10 PM
Saturday: 4:30–10 PM
Highlights
Great Experience
Phenomenal Food
Delicious Dessert
Great Drinks
Will Return

Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately drawn in by the inviting ambiance and friendly staff. The atmosphere provided a unique mix of elegance and playfulness, setting the stage for a great evening.

answer. restaurant truly lived up to its reputation of serving phenomenal food. The appetizers were a true standout. From the moment the plates were placed in front of me, my taste buds were dancing with joy. Each bite was an explosion of flavors, leaving me craving for more. The attention to detail and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients truly elevated the dishes to another level.

While the appetizers were undeniably the stars of the show, I couldn't resist indulging in a delicious dessert. The menu offered a tempting selection of sweet treats, and I opted for their signature chocolate lava cake. The combination of warm, gooey chocolate oozing out with a side of velvety vanilla ice cream was a match made in dessert heaven.

To complement the culinary delights, answer. restaurant also boasted a fantastic array of drinks. The bartenders showcased their skills as they carefully crafted unique concoctions that perfectly complemented the flavors of the appetizers.

Overall, my experience at answer. restaurant was a delightful journey of flavors that left me wanting more. The blend of great experience, phenomenal food, delicious dessert, and great drinks made it an exceptional dining experience. I, without a doubt, will eagerly return to this culinary gem in Nashville in search of more delectable delights.

You might also want to check out the best appetizers in Memphis.

Black Rabbit

Black Rabbit
🗺️ 218 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201
☎️ 615-891-2380
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 4–10 PM
Tuesday: 4–10 PM
Wednesday: 4–10 PM
Thursday: 10:30 AM–2 PM
Thursday: 4–11 PM
Friday: 10:30 AM–2 PM
Friday: 4 PM–12 AM
Saturday: 10:30 AM–2 PM
Saturday: 4 PM–12 AM
Highlights
Incredible food
Perfectly cooked ribeye
Delicious cheesecake
Stellar service
Spicy octopus

From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere at Black Rabbit was playful and lively, with a hint of sophistication. As I perused the menu, my excitement grew – there were so many appetizers to choose from!

I started with the spicy octopus and was blown away by the flavors. The octopus was perfectly cooked, tender and succulent, with just the right amount of heat. It was served with a refreshing side of pickled vegetables that balanced out the spice beautifully.

Next, I couldn't resist the incredible food and opted for the ribeye as my main appetizer. It was cooked to perfection, with a beautiful char on the outside and a juicy, pink center. Each bite was a flavor explosion.

But the surprises didn't stop there. For dessert, I couldn't resist the temptation of the delicious cheesecake. It was velvety smooth, with a creamy texture that melted in my mouth. The graham cracker crust added a delightful crunch, and the drizzle of raspberry sauce added a burst of tangy sweetness.

What really stood out at Black Rabbit was the stellar service. The staff was knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. They made great recommendations and took the time to ensure my experience was exceptional.

Overall, my visit to Black Rabbit was a true delight. From the incredible food to the perfectly cooked ribeye and the delicious cheesecake, every bite was a culinary adventure. I highly recommend this restaurant as a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in the best appetizers Nashville has to offer.

You might also want to check out the best brunch in Nashville.

The Mockingbird

The Mockingbird
🗺️ 121 12th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203
☎️ 615-741-9900
Sunday: 10:30 AM–2:30 PM
Sunday: 4–9 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 11 AM–2:30 PM
Wednesday: 4–9 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–2:30 PM
Thursday: 4–9 PM
Friday: 11 AM–2:30 PM
Friday: 4–10 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM–2:30 PM
Saturday: 4–10 PM
Highlights
Fast and attentive service
Delicious food
Memorable dining experience

From the moment I walked into The Mockingbird, I was greeted with fast and attentive service that set the tone for a memorable dining experience. As an appetizer connoisseur, I was excited to sample their offerings, and boy, did they deliver!

The menu at The Mockingbird is a treasure trove of creative and enticing options. One standout appetizer that caught my eye was the Buffalo Cauliflower, a modern twist on a classic favorite. Tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce, the crispy cauliflower bites were the perfect balance of spicy and savory.

Another must-try is their Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders. These mini sandwiches packed a flavorful punch with their perfectly fried chicken, slathered in a fiery hot sauce and topped with pickles and coleslaw. Every bite was an explosion of flavors that made my taste buds dance in delight.

To round off the meal, I couldn't resist ordering their Loaded Tater Tots. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with cheese, bacon, and green onions, these tots were absolute perfection. They were the epitome of comfort food, satisfying both my cravings and my appetite.

The Mockingbird truly exceeded my expectations with their inventive and delicious appetizers. Each dish was carefully crafted with attention to detail, providing a delightful twist on classic favorites. With its fast and attentive service, The Mockingbird is a must-visit for any appetizer enthusiast in Nashville. Don't miss the chance to indulge in their unforgettable creations that will leave you craving for more.

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Nashville.

Husk

Husk
🗺️ 37 Rutledge St, Nashville, TN 37210
☎️ 615-256-6565
🌐 Website
Sunday: 10 AM–2 PM
Sunday: 5–10 PM
Monday: 5–10 PM
Tuesday: 5–10 PM
Wednesday: 5–10 PM
Thursday: 5–10 PM
Friday: 5–10:30 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–2 PM
Saturday: 5–10:30 PM

Husk in Nashville is a delight for the taste buds! The playful yet professional atmosphere adds to the experience. Their creative appetizers are a culinary adventure. Don't miss the deviled ham or the smoked trout dip - they are out of this world!

You might also want to check out the best steak in Nashville.

The Twelve Thirty Club

The Twelve Thirty Club
🗺️ 550 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
☎️ 629-236-0001
🌐 Website
Sunday: 10 AM–11 PM
Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–12 AM
Friday: 11 AM–1 AM
Saturday: 10 AM–1 AM

The Twelve Thirty Club in Nashville is an appetizer haven! This trendy spot offers an array of delectable starters that will blow your taste buds away. From their indulgent truffle fries to their succulent bacon-wrapped dates, each dish is a flavor explosion. Trust me, you'll want to savor every bite at The Twelve Thirty Club.

You might also want to check out the best coffee shops in Nashville.

City Tap House Nashville

City Tap House Nashville
🗺️ 204 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201
☎️ 615-922-4015
🌐 Website
Sunday: 8 AM–9 PM
Monday: 8 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–10 PM
Friday: 8 AM–11 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–11 PM

City Tap House Nashville is a delightful appetizer haven in the heart of Music City. The playful yet professional atmosphere compliments their scrumptious menu. Don't miss their mouthwatering Buffalo Cauliflower or the heavenly Pretzel Bites with beer cheese. Truly a taste explosion!

You might also want to check out the best food in Pigeon Forge.

The Stillery

The Stillery
🗺️ 113 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201
☎️ 615-942-8080
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM

The Stillery in Nashville is a hidden gem when it comes to mouthwatering appetizers. Their menu is bursting with a variety of tasty options that are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. From their crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls to their Loaded Tater Tots, each bite is a flavor explosion. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on their amazing appetizers!

You might also want to check out the best dessert in Nashville.

The Pub - Nashville

The Pub - Nashville
🗺️ 400 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
☎️ 615-678-4840
🌐 Website
Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM
Monday: 10 AM–11 PM
Tuesday: 10 AM–11 PM
Wednesday: 10 AM–11 PM
Thursday: 10 AM–11 PM
Friday: 10 AM–12 AM
Saturday: 10 AM–12 AM

The Pub - Nashville in Nashville is an absolute delight for appetizer enthusiasts! The menu offers a tantalizing array of choices, from crispy calamari to loaded nachos. The beer cheese dip stole the show with its creamy texture and bold flavor. A haven for appetizer aficionados, The Pub - Nashville truly knows how to set the stage for a mouthwatering appetizer experience.

You might also want to check out the best new restaurants in Nashville.

Sedona Taphouse

Sedona Taphouse
🗺️ 1120 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
☎️ 615-933-4260
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
Monday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
Saturday: 11:30 AM–11 PM

I must admit, the appetizers at Sedona Taphouse in Nashville are a playful and professional treat. From their spicy buffalo cauliflower bites to their succulent bacon-wrapped scallops, it's a flavor explosion that will leave you begging for more. Don't miss out on the creamy spinach and artichoke dip and their crispy calamari. Sedona Taphouse truly knows how to wow your taste buds.

You might also want to check out the best donuts in Nashville.

The Countrypolitan Bar & Kitchen

The Countrypolitan Bar & Kitchen
🗺️ 315 Union St, Nashville, TN 37201
☎️ 615-891-6000
Sunday: 7 AM–4 PM
Sunday: 4:30–11 PM
Monday: 6:30 AM–4 PM
Monday: 4:30–11 PM
Tuesday: 6:30 AM–4 PM
Tuesday: 4:30–11 PM
Wednesday: 6:30 AM–4 PM
Wednesday: 4:30–11 PM
Thursday: 6:30 AM–4 PM
Thursday: 4:30–11 PM
Friday: 6:30 AM–4 PM
Friday: 4:30 PM–12 AM
Saturday: 7 AM–4 PM
Saturday: 4:30 PM–12 AM

The Countrypolitan Bar & Kitchen in Nashville is an appetizer lover's paradise! Their menu is a playground of delicious bites and flavorful treats. From the spicy jalapeno poppers to the crispy fried pickles, every dish is a taste explosion. Don't miss out on their tender BBQ sliders and mouthwatering loaded potato skins. Trust me, this place will have you saying, "Yeehaw!"

You might also want to check out the best tacos in Nashville.

Red Phone Booth - Nashville

Red Phone Booth - Nashville
🗺️ 136 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203
☎️ 615-915-3876
🌐 Website
Sunday: 5–10:45 PM
Monday: 4–11:45 PM
Tuesday: 4–11:45 PM
Wednesday: 4–11:45 PM
Thursday: 4 PM–12:45 AM
Friday: 4 PM–1:45 AM
Saturday: 5 PM–1:45 AM

Red Phone Booth - Nashville in Nashville? More like Red Hot Phone Booth! This place is a hidden gem serving up mouthwatering appetizers that will leave you begging for more. From their crispy calamari to their decadent cheese board, each bite is a flavor explosion. It's a must-visit for all appetizer enthusiasts in Nashville!

You might also want to check out the best barbeque in Nashville.

5th & Taylor

5th & Taylor
🗺️ 1411 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
☎️ 615-242-4747
🌐 Website
Sunday: 5–9 PM
Monday: 5–9 PM
Tuesday: 5–9 PM
Wednesday: 5–9 PM
Thursday: 5–9 PM
Friday: 4:45–9:30 PM
Saturday: 4:45–9:30 PM

Oh boy, let me tell you, 5th & Taylor in Nashville is an absolute appetizer paradise! From the mouthwatering Southern fried green tomatoes to the divine smoked trout dip, their menu is a culinary adventure that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Don't skip on their heavenly spicy pimento cheese or the crispy Brussels sprouts that pack a flavorful punch. Trust me when I say, 5th & Taylor deserves a gold star in the appetizer game!

You might also want to check out the best steak in Memphis.

Stock & Barrel

Stock & Barrel
🗺️ 901 Gleaves St, Nashville, TN 37203
☎️ 615-891-3350
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
Friday: 11 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM

During my recent adventure at Stock & Barrel, I was delightfully surprised by their devilish appetizers! The bacon jam and whipped ricotta crostini are absolute must-tries, offering a perfect harmony of flavors that kept me reaching for more. The unique twist on classic nachos with their duck confit adds a gourmet flair that is simply irresistible. Each bite bursts with creativity and care, making it clear that this spot values quality. The lively atmosphere and attentive service only enhance the experience, making Stock & Barrel a standout choice for appetizer connoisseurs in Nashville. Deliciously unforgettable!

You might also want to check out the best sandwiches in Nashville.

Chloe BennettC
WRITTEN BY

Chloe Bennett

Chloe Bennett, a passionate wordsmith based in the heart of Tennessee, weaves tales that capture the spirit of the Volunteer State. With an innate ability to infuse warmth into her writing, Chloe invites readers on a journey through the cultural richness and scenic beauty that define the soul of Tennessee.Read more

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Food tour map
Nashville Secret Guide 🤫

Nashville Hot List 🔥

Get our exclusive guide to the top spots in Nashville! This guide includes:

  • Top 7 must-visit culinary destinations
  • Optimized 3-stop food tour route with a map
  • Expert insider tip for each location (when to go/what to order)
  • QR codes for easy navigation
  • More secret spots in your inbox every week