5 Best Restaurants in Nashville, Tennessee

Gabby’s is where real people of all sorts go for really good burgers (grass-fed beef or vegan) and addictive sweet potato fries. The ever-present line moves quickly; eat at the tables or small counter overlooking the grill, or grab and go.

If you have a hankering for good burgers and good beer, look no further than the Pharmacy to cure what ails you. The outdoor beer garden is hard to beat for both its size and ambience, and the food itself is fresh, locally sourced, and thoughtfully served. Though burgers are the name of the game, there are vegetarian-friendly options. Be sure to try The Pharmacy's house-made phosphates (sodas) and milk shakes.

For those craving a burger that's a cut above the rest, Burger Republic offers up 15 different variations—like a fancier version of the In-N-Out classic or a Southern-inspired burger with a pimento cheese--stuffed patty—with a focus on locally sourced meats and ingredients. For the full artery-clogging experience, order a handmade shake spiked with your choice of booze.

A comfortable neighborhood hangout (there’s a second location in east Nashville) serving—you guessed it—burgers, as well as soups and salads, Burger Up is popular with all ages, including young families. Beef and other meats are sourced from a local farm and butcher shop; some desserts feature Nashville-made Pied Piper ice cream.

Made-to-order diner classics, some with a Southern twist, are served in a retro-style space at Hugh-Baby’s. Burger patties ground fresh every day are joined by topping-laden hot dogs and barbecue sandwiches on the family-friendly menu.