20 Best Restaurants in Hendersonville, TN
This article was written by local contributor Alana Lindsey & edited by the Travel Lens team.
As someone who has spent a significant amount of time in Hendersonville, TN, I've had the pleasure of experiencing the amazing food scene that this vibrant city has to offer.
Over time, I've discovered some hidden gems and established favorites that I can't wait to share with you.
In this article, I'll introduce you to the best restaurants in Hendersonville, from cozy cafes to mouthwatering BBQ joints.
So, get ready to embark on a culinary journey through this charming city that will leave your taste buds craving for more!
Pita Pocket
Oh my goodness!
Let me tell you about my recent visit to Pita Pocket.
This place is an absolute gem in our town.
I don't usually rave about restaurants, but this one is worth the hype.
The customer service was beyond amazing, and the food was just out of this world.
I decided to try the chicken plate, which was so well-seasoned and cooked to perfection.
My friend went for the gyro pocket, and we both shared a plate of homemade hummus.
I couldn't believe how delicious everything was!
The prices were fantastic as well, making it an affordable option for a weekday dinner or a special occasion.
But wait, there's more!
We couldn't leave without trying their most amazing dessert – chocolate baklava cheesecake!
I mean, who would have thought that combination could work?
But it was absolutely divine.
I'm not kidding, you need to run (not walk) to this fabulous restaurant and try it for yourself!
On my next visit, I'm planning to try their falafel sandwich with fries, which I've heard is incredible as well.
I also appreciate how they accommodate special requests to keep their food more authentic, like their juicy and flavorful lamb and gyro with garlic sauce.
So, if you're in town, make sure to support this eatery and enjoy a fantastic meal at Pita Pocket!
Main Street Pub & Eatery
I recently decided to check out Main Street Pub & Eatery after hearing so many good things about it.
I can say, without a doubt, that the place lived up to the hype!
I went there on a trivia night and even though it was packed, the food and service were exceptional.
The pizza was mouthwatering and easily one of the best I've had in a long time.
I also tried the dry rub ribs and loaded fries, and they were equally delicious.
The beer selection was impressive, with several options on tap and a great assortment of craft beers and seltzers in cans.
I appreciated that there was no hard liquor, which kept the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable.
The bar had a cozy, hometown vibe, with nine seats at the bar and additional high-top seating for about 50, plus a spacious side room with even more seating.
I had the wings and a Chicago dog, which were both delightful.
I couldn't help but notice the fantastic-looking pizza on other tables as well.
What stood out the most was the warm and welcoming service.
The bartenders were friendly and attentive, making me feel right at home from the moment I walked in.
I've been living in Hendersonville for a few months now, and I'm glad to say that I've discovered my go-to spot for drinks and delicious food.
I highly recommend Main Street Pub & Eatery to anyone looking for a great night out with friends or family.
Don Miguel Juicery + Rustic Kitchen
I've been visiting Don Miguel Juicery + Rustic Kitchen for quite some time now, and let me tell you, it has quickly become my go-to place for a healthy and delicious meal.
I usually grab my lunch here 2-3 times a week, and I just can't get enough of their Nutty smoothie bowls or their amazing chipotle steak and chicken sandwiches.
On Saturdays, I make it a point to treat myself to their mouth-watering Tri Tip meal, which comes with corn on the cob, potatoes, and mind-blowing cornbread.
I've already ordered it three times in the past five weeks!
The staff is incredibly friendly, and the atmosphere gives off those cool San Diego vibes that I absolutely love.
I've also tried their breakfast burritos, which are quite different from the ones I had in California, but still very good.
What sets this place apart is the freshness and quality of their ingredients, making every meal a delightful experience.
I highly recommend trying out Don Miguel Juicery + Rustic Kitchen if you're ever in Hendersonville.
Teriyaki Madness
One of my go-to spots for a quick and tasty meal is Teriyaki Madness in Hendersonville.
I find myself coming back every week or two, and I can always expect consistently good food and friendly service.
With so many lunch options in the area, this cheery counter-serve branch has become one of my top choices.
I love that there's a variety of options for all types of eaters, including plenty of vegan selections.
The Spicy Chicken is absolutely sublime—I can't get enough of it!
I've also tried the Teriyaki Chicken, and it was equally amazing.
The rice and noodle bowls with Asian-style proteins and veggies never disappoint.
If you haven't given Teriyaki Madness a try yet, I highly recommend it.
I'm sure you'll walk away satisfied, just like I always do.
Jumbo & Delicious
I've been to Jumbo & Delicious a few times now and I can confidently say that their burgers are absolutely amazing!
They're not only huge, but also packed with flavor.
I remember the first time I tried their mushroom swiss burger, I was blown away by how tasty it was.
The place may not have the best atmosphere, but it doesn't matter when the food is this good.
One time, my friends and I went there and ordered different sandwiches so we could taste and share.
We all enjoyed our meals, except for the Prime Rib sandwich, which didn't quite meet our expectations.
However, their fries and onion rings are always on point.
The only downside might be the wait time, as I've experienced a 40-minute wait for my order once.
But it seems that they, like many other restaurants, are short-staffed.
That being said, the staff that were there worked really hard, and I truly appreciate their effort.
Next time you're in the mood for a hearty burger, I highly recommend checking out Jumbo & Delicious.
Just come hungry and be prepared to wait a bit, but trust me, it's worth it.
Gyros King 2
I recently visited Gyros King 2 for a weekday lunch and I must say the experience was amazing.
The restaurant is located conveniently in the Glenbrook area and offers plenty of parking.
The place was clean and inviting, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walked in.
The food at Gyros King 2 was fresh and full of flavor.
With a wide variety of options on their menu, I decided to go with their gyro plate, and I was not disappointed.
The portion sizes were generous, and the quality of the meat was outstanding.
The owners/operators were friendly and served with a smile, making the experience even more enjoyable.
During my visit, I also noticed that Gyros King 2 offers a variety of soft drinks and Gold Peak tea as their drink options.
I will definitely be visiting this place again and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a delicious gyro meal in the area.
Music City Diner
Last weekend, my friends and I decided to have brunch at Music City Diner, and I must say, it was one of the best choices we've made in a while.
As we made our way inside, we were greeted with the warm, lively atmosphere that makes this place so popular among the locals.
I ordered the hot chicken skillet, and it was absolute### A Delicious Brunch at Music City Diner
As someone who lives in the area, I've had the pleasure of dining at Music City Diner multiple times, and I must say, it's hands down one of my favorite spots for a hearty brunch.
I've tried several items on their menu, but the mini lumberjack meal with blueberry pancakes is an all-time favorite.
The generous portions and mouth-watering flavors keep me coming back for more.
One of the things I adore about this diner is the fast and friendly service.
The staff always greets me with a smile, and I never find myself waiting too long for my food to arrive.
The cozy atmosphere of the diner, coupled with the outdoor seating, makes it a delightful spot to enjoy a meal and soak up the local vibes.
Aside from my go-to meal, I've also tried the hot chicken skillet, which is absolutely fantastic.
The combination of flavors and textures in this dish had me savoring every bite.
If you have a sweet tooth, I highly recommend the Oreo and s'mores pancakes - they are truly a scrumptious treat.
So, if you find yourself in the area, don't miss out on the opportunity to grab a delicious bite at Music City Diner.
Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
Lyncoya Cafe
One of the best parts of living in this area is discovering hidden gems like Lyncoya Cafe.
I recently visited the cafe with my family, and we were more than impressed with the entire experience.
The moment we walked in, we were greeted by the cozy interior and a beautiful view of the river/lake through the large windows.
The food was nothing short of amazing, with each dish being both fresh and full of flavor.
I remember my wife raving about the shrimp and grits, while I couldn't get enough of the Reuben sandwich.
The servers were extremely friendly, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
We found this lovely spot through a Google Maps search, and we're grateful we did!
Even if it's a bit out of the way, I highly recommend giving Lyncoya Cafe a try – it's worth the drive, and I'm sure my family and I will be returning soon.
Main Street Bistro
I simply can't get enough of Main Street Bistro in town.
My friends and I visit the place quite often for brunch and it never fails to satisfy.
The staff always makes us feel welcome and the food is incredible.
One time, they even recommended we try the honey butter croissants and since then, it has become a regular starter for us.
The omelets, French toast, and potatoes are also phenomenal, and their hibiscus tea and cucumber lime aid are just the perfect refreshing accompaniments.
Recently, I decided to try their lunch menu and was pleasantly surprised by the variety of options.
One of my favorites was The Volunteer Pizza on a cauliflower crust.
The presentation was beautiful, making me think of Fall with the dark colors of the olives, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.
The flavors were a delightful combination of salty, sharp, and bright, and I couldn't even tell it was cauliflower crust – it tasted that good!
Next time you're in town, make sure to stop by Main Street Bistro – you won't be disappointed!
Rosie Food & Wine
I finally had the chance to dine at Rosie Food & Wine with a group of friends, and I must say, it did not disappoint!
From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by an incredibly friendly hostess who managed to find us a table quickly despite not having a reservation.
As we waited, we were even offered wine service, which was a lovely touch.
The smoked trout dip we started with was absolutely exceptional, and the salads we shared were delicious and fresh.
As for the entrees, the salmon, quail, red grouper, blueberry lasagna, and spicy rigatoni were all fantastic choices.
Each dish was cooked to perfection with bold, unique flavors that truly showcased the high quality of the ingredients.
We couldn't resist trying a few desserts, and the lemon dessert, rice pudding, and dark chocolate mousse were the perfect sweet endings to our night.
The wine selection at Rosie Food & Wine was extensive and offered something for everyone at the table, but I must admit, I would've loved to see a few more non-alcoholic mocktail options for those who prefer not to drink.
One small downside to our experience was the noise level, as the space could benefit from some acoustic dampening.
However, overall, the ambiance, lighting, and service were top-notch, making for a truly memorable night.
I will definitely be returning to Rosie Food & Wine, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a delicious meal in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Slow Burn Hot Chicken
I must say that I'm quite obsessed with hot chicken, and I've tried quite a few spots around Nashville.
But the one place that I keep coming back to is Slow Burn Hot Chicken in Hendersonville.
It's a bright, casual counter-serve space where they serve southern-style spicy fried chicken, seafood, and some delicious sides.
The hot chicken here is exceptional - it easily takes the #1 spot for me.
The chicken is moist, juicy, and extremely crispy - I think it's the crispiest chicken I've ever had!
And the seasoning is just perfect, with so much flavor infused in the breading.
I usually go for the Slow Burn level (their "hot" spice level), but I might try a level or two higher next time since I can handle a bit more heat.
I've tried their half chicken option, which is an insane amount of chicken for just $10, and their hot chicken burrito.
While the burrito is really good, I personally think the half chicken itself is much better!
The only downside is that it can be quite a long wait for the food, even when there's no line.
I've waited about 35-40 minutes when I was one of only two groups in the restaurant.
But trust me, the wait is totally worth it.
And I must mention Joyce, who's always fantastic and personable.
The house-made ranch and the fried okra are absolutely delicious.
I've also tried their tenders, which were perfectly seasoned and spicy.
The coleslaw was a bit too mayonnaise-based for my liking, but still not bad at all.
For a 3 tender combo with a drink and 2 sides, my total was just $12.
So, in my opinion, Slow Burn Hot Chicken will remain my go-to spot whenever I'm in the area.
California Tacos Taqueria
I've been to California Tacos Taqueria a few times now.
The first time I visited, I was quite impressed with the street tacos and the California burrito.
They were delicious, and I couldn't even finish the burrito in one sitting!
It was just as good when I warmed it up the next day.
However, my second visit was a bit disappointing.
The burrito wasn't as good as the first time, and I felt the prices were too high, considering it cost me in gas to drive all the way from Gallatin.
But, I have to say, their orchata water is very good, and I might give them another shot in the future.
Overall, my experiences at California Tacos Taqueria have been mixed, but I'm willing to give them another chance to see if they can consistently deliver delicious food at a reasonable price.
Sanders Ferry Pizza & Pub
Ever since I first visited Sanders Ferry Pizza & Pub, it's become my go-to spot for amazing pizza in town.
I remember stumbling upon this gem while exploring the neighborhood one day, and I've been hooked ever since.
The variety of pizzas offered here is astonishing, with unique and inventive flavors like Nashville Hot Chicken and Pretty Fly for a White Pie.
And for a pizza lover like me, there's always something new and exciting to try.
Even my friends with dietary restrictions can enjoy the deliciousness, as they offer gluten-free and vegan options as well.
I can't help but rave about the Gone Hog Wild pizza - it is, hands down, my favorite!
It's packed with mouthwatering toppings and perfectly balanced flavors.
Coupled with the friendly service and cozy atmosphere, it's no wonder I keep coming back for more.
Don't even get me started on the prices - they're incredibly reasonable for the quality of food you get.
I love treating myself to a meal at Sanders Ferry Pizza & Pub, and if you're ever in the area, I highly recommend giving it a try.
Red Rooster Cafe
One of the best parts about living in Hendersonville, TN is the variety of delicious local eateries, and Red Rooster Cafe has always been one of my favorites.
Every visit to this cozy diner is a delightful experience, and I make it a point to take my out-of-town guests here to give them a taste of our community's excellent local cuisine.
The cafe has a casual vibe and offers a wide range of menu options, making it easy to find something delicious to suit everyone's tastes.
As a regular, I've tried various dishes over time, but I must say the BLT with home fries is a winner.
I took a friend for breakfast once, and she couldn't stop raving about her cheese omelet and hash browns.
Their staff is friendly and attentive, and I particularly appreciate how knowledgeable they are about the menu.
When I visit with my husband, he usually goes for their Red Rooster Special, which consists of a generous serving of eggs, hash browns, ham, biscuits and gravy, and a pancake.
On the other hand, the Early Bird Special is perfect for me - it's a hearty breakfast platter with eggs, bacon, sausage or city ham, and biscuits and gravy.
If you're ever in the area, don't miss out on this hidden gem - the Red Rooster Cafe is truly the best-kept secret in Hendersonville, TN.
Cafe Rakka
I finally decided to try out Cafe Rakka after hearing rave reviews from friends and family, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations!
The moment I entered the cozy, casual spot, I was greeted with warm smiles from the staff.
They were more than willing to answer all of my questions regarding their delicious menu full of homestyle Mediterranean dishes.
I chose to dine al fresco on their seasonal outdoor patio, which created a perfect atmosphere for a relaxing meal.
The food was incredibly tasty - I especially enjoyed the falafel, which was some of the best I've ever had.
Their hummus was amazing as well, and I couldn't resist trying the tandoori chicken hummus, which turned out to be a fantastic choice.
I opted for the Chicken and Cream rice bowl, and my dining partner had the Lamb Biryani.
Both entrees were perfectly cooked, flavorful, and the portion sizes were generous enough that we had leftovers for the next day.
To top it all off, the owner kindly brought us a scrumptious dessert, which was a lovely touch and an excellent way to end our meal at Cafe Rakka.
The prices at Cafe Rakka are quite fair for the quality of the food, and the overall experience was definitely one that I will remember.
I highly recommend Cafe Rakka to those looking for a delicious, unassuming, and fast Mediterranean dining experience.
Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
Eating Thai
One day, I decided to give Eating Thai a try, and I must say, I had a mixed experience.
On the one hand, the green curry had the perfect heat level, and the Thai iced coffee was an excellent way to finish my meal, reminding me of my travels to Southeast Asia.
I was excited to have found such an authentic Thai place in my neighborhood.
However, I also had an encounter with a staff member who seemed to have an attitude when I questioned the pricing of my order.
Upon checking the menu, I realized I was overcharged.
Additionally, I was disappointed with the portion size of the chicken satay and the side of rice.
I also recall a previous visit when the waitress threw trash on my plate while I was eating from it.
Despite the issues I faced, I can't deny that the place has some good food.
I'm willing to give it another chance, hoping that my future visits will be better, and I can continue enjoying the delicious Thai dishes they serve.
Jake's Place
I recently decided to visit Jake's Place after hearing about it from a friend.
It's a bit off the beaten path, but I'm glad I made the effort to check it out.
As soon as I walked in, I was welcomed by the friendly staff and the cozy atmosphere.
The background music from the 50's and 60's added a nice touch to the overall experience.
I was pleasantly surprised by the large portions and the delicious food.
I ordered the pulled pork plate, which was mouthwateringly good and more than enough for one meal.
The meat was tender and flavorful, and I ended up taking half of it home with me.
I also tried their pretzel and beer cheese appetizer, which came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint.
One thing that really stood out to me was how family-friendly the restaurant was.
I noticed several groups of families enjoying their meals together, and the staff was more than accommodating to everyone's needs.
I can't wait to go back to Jake's Place and try more of their menu, including their famous "Death by Chocolate" dessert.
I'm so glad I found this hidden gem in Hendersonville.
Garcia's Taqueria Grill
As someone who lives nearby, I have to say that Garcia's Taqueria Grill has become my go-to spot for the best Mexican food in the south.
The moment I first walked in, I was instantly drawn to the delicious aroma and the friendly atmosphere in this small, unassuming eatery.
As a regular, I am never disappointed by the quality of their food and service.
I always make sure to order their homemade guacamole and green "house" hot sauce, which adds just the right amount of kick to any dish.
I find that the extensive menu can sometimes be overwhelming, so it's a good idea to take a look at it online before visiting.
That being said, the knowledgeable servers are more than happy to make recommendations based on your preferences.
Weekdays are usually my preferred time to visit, as I can easily get a table right away and enjoy prompt, attentive service with a warm smile.
The food is consistently fresh, fast, and packed with robust flavors, making Garcia's Taqueria Grill my favorite dine-in Mexican restaurant in the area.
TailGate Brewery
I've been a loyal TailGate customer since 2016, and I was thrilled to hear that they were opening a location in Hendersonville!
Let me tell you, this place has not disappointed.
The service at TailGate Brewery Hendersonville is better than most large restaurants I've been to, and the food is just fantastic.
Not to mention, they have a rotating beer menu that always keeps things fresh and interesting.
I recently attended their first trivia night, and it was such a blast.
It's a great spot to bring the kids and enjoy one of the best breweries in Tennessee, down by the water in Hendersonville.
I had lunch here on a Tuesday, and they offer some great deals with lunch items for just $7.
99, along with their full menu available.
There's something for everyone – gluten-free crust, salads, sandwiches, and of course, their amazing pizzas.
The service was quick, and the atmosphere was so enjoyable that I can't wait to eat here again.
My wife, who is a pizza connoisseur, claims that TailGate has the best pizza in town by far.
The location is great, with lots of TVs for sports fans and even outdoor seating.
Plus, it's dog friendly!
The staff is awesome, setting TailGate apart from other breweries in town.
I'm excited to see them grow even larger, as the building has more space for expansion.
If you haven't checked out TailGate Brewery Hendersonville yet, you really should – you won't be disappointed.
J Street Korean Grill & Bar
I recently discovered J Street Korean Grill & Bar and I was amazed by the sleek fusion of traditional Korean barbecue and modern Korean-American aesthetics.
The interior is beautiful and clean, and the food is fresh and spiced perfectly; not too spicy, not too bland.
Generous portions of protein and excellent choice of sides are available in their all-you-can-eat option.
The ribeyes were so tender and juicy, it's worth every visit!
The fried rice is probably the best I've had anywhere in the past.
The bartender, Andrew, is an upbeat, funny, and friendly character, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The service is exceptional.
The servers are friendly, knowledgeable on the menu items, and make sure you always have enough meats and sides.
If you overcook something or just don't like something, you can order something else since it's all you can eat.
I am excited to return once their bar is fully loaded.
One thing that could be improved is the menu layout; I think it could do with a bit more specificity.
But overall, J Street Korean Grill & Bar offers a great dining experience that's worth the price.
I will certainly be going back and highly recommend it to others.
Final Thoughts
In summary, living in Hendersonville has truly been a culinary delight.
From the delicious gyros at Gyros King 2 to the satisfying Jumbo & Delicious burgers, there's something for every craving.
I've loved spending my weekends trying out new eateries like the mouthwatering tacos at California Tacos Taqueria and indulging in some good ol' Southern comfort food at Red Rooster Cafe.
And let's not forget the exquisite selection at Rosie Food & Wine - a perfect spot for a romantic date night.
The vibrant food scene in Hendersonville has not only never left me hungry, but it's also given me some unforgettable memories with friends and family.
So if you find yourself in our charming town, don't hesitate to explore our diverse and delicious dining options - I guarantee you won't be disappointed!
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