You can only eat so many burgers.
Okay, so ^ that guy and several others of you may not completely agree. Most of the time it seems like Nashville runs on burgers and barbecue. Don’t get us wrong – we’re aaaaall about it. However, sometimes you need a change. Here are some hidden gems for when you’re feeling exotic and want to get that eclectic food fix!
missing or outdated ad configSitar Indian Restaurant
The Indian Buffet That Lets You Be Adventurous

VIBE:
A classy little Indian restaurant, Sitar boasts an affordable and vast lunch buffet that local businesspeople frequent.
GREAT FOR:
Business lunch, quiet dinner with a pal!
POPULAR DISH:
Chicken Tikka Masala, Garlic Naan
WHERE IS IT:
Elliston Place is a venue gold mine, which means no matter where you go, you’ll probably hear the faint sound of some really awesome local music. There’s a good mix of familiar chains and local shops on this strip, and you’ll find bands gnoshin’ after their gigs, coeds grabbin’ some late night coffee – it’s a party, y’all.
Far East
This Vietnamese Is Pho-nomenal
VIBE:
Modern, clean and trendy industrial. Those who go can’t stop comin’ back for more! Their appetizers are small but super flavorful, and the pho is a local favorite!
GREAT FOR:
A business lunch, lazy Saturday lunch on a late afternoon
POPULAR DISH:
Coconut Curry Chicken, Pho
WHERE IS IT:
East Nasty: a craftsman/woman’s paradise. In this ultra-hip ‘boro, everyone is always creating something, whether it’s delicate jewelry, sturdy oak table, or bluegrass music. You’ll find precious parents taking their kids to the park, people playing fiddles on their porch, and musicians brunching/brainstorming for their new record. Tons of hot spots here!
Salsa Puerto Rican & Latin
Admire Local Art & Eat Cuban Food

VIBE:
Cozy atmosphere with local art hanging everywhere. This place is not Mexican food, it’s authentic Cuban and Puerto Rican. For your exotic mood!
GREAT FOR:
Impressing your date with your exotic culinary tastes.
POPULAR DISH:
Vegetarian Mofongo, Lasagna with Sweet Plantains
WHERE IS IT:
This is another Downtown Nashville spot (it’s near the Demonbreun strip and The Frist). That area is killing it when it comes to eclectic eats, y’all!
Jamaicaway Restaurant
Enjoy Island Flavor In The Deep South
VIBE:
A bit divey with a buffet line, this is one of the only Jamaican restaurants servin’ up Carribbean food in Music City. There are regulars there weekly who can’t get enough of that jerk chicken.
GREAT FOR:
An early dinner with your friend who misses their study abroad trip.
POPULAR DISH:
Spicy Jamaican Beef Patty, Johnny Cakes w/Jerk Chicken
WHERE IS IT:
Seriously, if you thought that Nashville was all chicken strips at honky tonks you were mistaken. This is another downtown Nashville joint, right off of Rosa Parks Blvd.
Epice
Proper Lebanese In The 615

VIBE:
Modern, simple, and sleek, this is exactly the kind of place you would expect to open up in 12 South (in the best way). The patio seating is prime for the weather we’ve been having, too!
GREAT FOR:
A catch-up session with a friend – you can take your time and chill!
POPULAR DISH:
The Epice Salad, Swawarma Wrap, Cilantro Roasted Potatoes
NEIGHBORHOOD:
12 South is a friendly hipster’s paradise. You’ll hear musician dudes talking gear, Etsy store owners taking photos for their blogs, and pass semi-famous people pushing their babies in a stroller whilst enjoying a popsicle. Everyone is pretty much smiling all the time.
There you go, Nashville. A way to change up your eating habits and get some culture right here in Music City! For all your Nashville advneutres (culinary and otherwise), download Wannado (for FREE). We’ve got you covered.