Embark on a culinary adventure through Tennessee’s heartland, exploring the iconic “meat-and-three” tradition. From bustling cities to quaint towns, these beloved eateries serve up comforting plates that evoke the warmth and nostalgia of home-cooked meals. Join us as we journey to 11 destinations offering a taste of Southern hospitality.
Swett’s – Nashville, Tennessee
Swett’s in Nashville offers a buffet of Southern delights that keep locals coming back for more. Imagine a plate filled with golden fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and collard greens cooked to perfection. The inviting dining room exudes vintage charm, transporting guests to a simpler time.
Family-owned and operated, Swett’s embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality. The staff treats everyone like family, ensuring that each meal is a comforting experience. It’s a place where stories are shared over plates piled high with tradition.
For a genuine taste of Tennessee’s warmest flavors, Swett’s is a must-visit.
Wendell Smith’s Restaurant – Nashville, Tennessee
Wendell Smith’s Restaurant in Nashville is the epitome of a classic diner with a Southern twist. Picture yourself in a booth, surrounded by the clatter of plates and the hum of conversation. Their meat-and-three plates feature favorites like tender pot roast and buttery mashed potatoes.
The nostalgic ambiance makes every meal feel like a step back in time. Locals cherish Wendell Smith’s for its consistency and warmth, where delicious meals are served with a side of Southern charm.
It’s a place where comfort and flavor come together, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
Silver Caboose Restaurant & Soda Fountain – Collierville, Tennessee
The Silver Caboose Restaurant & Soda Fountain in Collierville blends nostalgia with culinary delight. Imagine sipping on a creamy milkshake at the vintage soda fountain, while enjoying a hearty meat-and-three plate.
The charming decor and friendly service evoke the feel of a bygone era. The menu highlights Southern classics like fried catfish, sweet cornbread, and tangy coleslaw.
It’s a favorite spot for locals seeking a taste of tradition, where each visit is a step back into a simpler, more flavorful time.
Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store – Jackson, Tennessee
Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store in Jackson offers a dining experience steeped in history and flavor. Envision a rustic setting, adorned with vintage decor, where the buffet is laden with Southern favorites.
Their meat-and-three plates include succulent fried chicken, buttery corn, and velvety gravy. Guests enjoy the blend of tradition and taste, with each dish crafted to perfection.
A visit to Brooks Shaw’s is like stepping into a Southern dream, where the past and present mingle over a delicious meal. It’s an experience to savor.
Arnold’s Country Kitchen – Nashville, Tennessee
Stepping into Arnold’s Country Kitchen feels like entering a time-honored Southern family reunion. Located in Nashville, this beloved eatery is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering offerings. The signature meat-and-three plates brim with soulful flavors, from savory roast beef to perfectly seasoned greens.
Local patrons and tourists alike gather for a taste of authentic Tennessee comfort food. With decades of culinary excellence, Arnold’s remains a cherished staple in Nashville’s dining scene. The warm smile of the staff and the hearty meals make each visit an unforgettable experience.
Each bite carries the essence of home-cooked nostalgia, drawing you back again and again.
Bell Buckle Cafe – Bell Buckle, Tennessee
In the charming town of Bell Buckle, the Bell Buckle Cafe stands as a beacon of Southern cuisine. Envision a quaint cafe with eclectic decor, where each dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
The meat-and-three plates feature delightful offerings like juicy pork chops and vibrant vegetables, all served with a side of warm hospitality. The cafe’s cozy atmosphere welcomes guests like old friends, creating a sense of belonging.
Dining at Bell Buckle Cafe is more than a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and soul.
Barbara’s Home Cooking – Franklin, Tennessee
Barbara’s Home Cooking in Franklin is a place where comfort and community converge. Imagine a cozy country kitchen, filled with the aroma of freshly baked biscuits and sizzling bacon.
Their meat-and-three plates offer classic Southern comfort, from succulent meatloaf to savory cabbage. Each meal is a testament to Barbara’s dedication to home-cooked goodness.
The homey decor and friendly smiles make guests feel like family, creating an unforgettable dining experience that resonates with warmth and love.
Miller’s Grocery A Country Cafe – Christiana, Tennessee
Miller’s Grocery in Christiana captures the heart of Southern dining in a country cafe setting. Picture an old-fashioned store with quaint decor, where each dish is a tribute to tradition.
Their meat-and-three plates are renowned for flavors like crispy fried chicken and creamy sweet potatoes. The cozy environment invites guests to relax and enjoy a meal steeped in history.
Dining at Miller’s Grocery is akin to visiting a cherished family gathering, where warmth and flavor abound.
Moody’s Diner – Waldoboro, Maine
Moody’s Diner in Waldoboro, Maine, though outside Tennessee, offers a unique stop on a culinary journey. Imagine a retro diner with vintage charm, where guests enjoy a diverse menu.
While not a traditional meat-and-three, Moody’s offers comfort food that resonates with Southern warmth. From homemade pies to hearty breakfasts, the menu delights all who visit.
The classic booths and friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for locals and travelers alike.
Southern Skillet – Hohenwald, Tennessee
Southern Skillet in Hohenwald invites guests to indulge in authentic Southern fare. Envision a rustic setting with charming decor, where every meal is a celebration of tradition.
Their meat-and-three plates are filled with tender meats and flavorful sides, served with a smile. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere makes every visit feel like coming home.
It’s a place where flavor and hospitality unite, offering a truly memorable dining experience in the heart of Tennessee.
Greenback Drugstore and Diner – Greenback, Tennessee
Greenback Drugstore and Diner provides a unique dining experience in Greenback. Imagine a retro diner tucked within a vintage drugstore, where history and flavor intertwine.
Their meat-and-three plates offer a taste of classic Southern dishes, from crispy chicken to creamy mac and cheese. The nostalgic setting and friendly service make each visit special.
A meal at this diner is like stepping back in time, where every bite is a connection to the past and a tribute to timeless Southern traditions.