From BBQ to Biscuits – Must-Try Foods in Tennessee

Tennessee is the home of country music, whiskey, and delicious culinary offerings. From smoky barbecue to fluffy biscuits, the Volunteer State serves up a range of dishes that are both soul-satisfying and steeped in tradition. If you’re planning a trip to Tennessee, sampling its iconic foods is a must.

When visiting Tennessee, it’s normal to have your sights set on visiting multiple eateries and culinary experiences! So planning your trip and finding the right accommodation and flights through comparison sites such as Skyscanner is key to making the most of your trip. Once those elements are arranged, you can start exploring the most delicious dishes in Tennessee and start planning your eatery itinerary!

Tennessee Barbecue

When you think of Tennessee, barbecue is likely one of the first foods that comes to mind. Unlike the tangy vinegar-based sauces of North Carolina or the sweet tomato sauces of Kansas City, Tennessee barbecue—especially in Memphis—is all about the dry rub. This style relies on a blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne, which is massaged into the meat before slow-cooking it over hickory wood.

Memphis, often hailed as the barbecue capital of the world, offers a plethora of spots where you can sink your teeth into smoky ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and brisket. Central BBQ, a local favorite, is known for its perfectly seasoned ribs that fall right off the bone.

Nashville Hot Chicken

For those who crave heat, Nashville Hot Chicken is a culinary experience that should top your list. This fiery dish originated in the Music City and has become a sensation across the United States. The chicken is marinated in a spicy seasoning mix, deep-fried to crispy perfection, and then slathered with a cayenne pepper-based paste.

The original hot chicken can be found at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, the birthplace of this dish, where they serve varying levels of heat from “mild” to “extra hot”—with each level bringing a different experience. Another popular spot, Hattie B’s, has expanded the reach of hot chicken with its juicy, crunchy, and devilishly spicy offerings. Pair it with cooling sides like coleslaw or potato salad to balance the heat.

Biscuits and Gravy

Biscuits and gravy are a staple of Southern comfort food, and Tennessee does it justice with some of the fluffiest biscuits and richest gravies you’ll find anywhere. The dish typically features soft, buttery biscuits smothered in a creamy sausage gravy. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.

In Nashville, Biscuit Love is a must-try for biscuit aficionados. They serve freshly baked biscuits with a variety of toppings, but their biscuits and gravy, made with sausage from local farms, are a standout. Meanwhile, in East Tennessee, Tupelo Honey Cafe offers a twist on the classic with a biscuit served with fried chicken and milk gravy—combining two Southern favorites into one unforgettable dish.

Catfish

Catfish is another Southern delicacy that has a special place in Tennessee’s culinary landscape. Fried catfish, in particular, is a beloved dish, often served with sides like hush puppies, coleslaw, and fries. The fish is usually coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter before being fried to a golden crisp.

Uncle Bud’s Catfish Shack in Franklin is a great place to try this dish, offering both farm-raised and wild-caught catfish that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Boyette’s Dining Room near Reelfoot Lake is another excellent option, where you can enjoy your catfish with a side of breathtaking lake views.

Tennessee Whiskey

No trip to Tennessee would be complete without a taste of its legendary whiskey. The state is home to some of the most famous whiskey distilleries in the world, including Jack Daniel’s in Lynchburg and George Dickel in Tullahoma.

Visitors can tour the historic Jack Daniel’s Distillery, where they can learn about the whiskey-making process and sample different varieties. Meanwhile, the George Dickel Distillery offers a more intimate experience, with tastings that include their premium and limited-edition offerings.

Goo Goo Clusters

For those with a sweet tooth, Tennessee’s Goo Goo Cluster is a must-try confection. Invented in Nashville in 1912, it’s considered America’s first combination candy bar. Goo Goo Clusters are made of a delightful mix of caramel, marshmallow nougat, fresh roasted peanuts, and milk chocolate—a combination that’s both nostalgic and delicious.

You can visit the Goo Goo Shop & Dessert Bar in downtown Nashville to indulge in these sweet treats. They even offer interactive classes where you can create your own version of this classic candy.

Fried Pickles

An unexpected delight in Tennessee’s food scene is the fried pickle. Originally a bar snack, fried pickles have become a beloved staple across the South. The pickles are sliced, battered, and deep-fried to a crispy golden brown, creating a perfect blend of tangy and crunchy.

Many eateries across Tennessee serve fried pickles, but B.B. King’s Blues Club in Memphis offers a particularly tasty version, served with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.

Chess Pie

Chess pie, a simple yet decadent dessert, is a true Southern classic that you must try while in Tennessee. This pie has a rich, custard-like filling with a slightly crispy top – it’s sweet, creamy, and perfect for a cozy evening.

The Loveless Cafe in Nashville is famed for its homemade pies, and its chess pie is a standout. The cafe has been serving this sweet treat for decades, and it’s a perfect way to round off a meal of fried chicken or barbecue.

Country Ham

Country ham is another classic Southern delicacy deep-rooted in Tennessee’s food culture. This salt-cured, slow-smoked ham is often served thinly sliced and is known for its intense, savory flavor. It’s often enjoyed with a side of red-eye gravy, made from ham drippings and coffee, creating a unique and rich sauce.

One of the best places to try country ham in Tennessee is at The Hermitage House Smorgasbord in Nashville. Here, you can enjoy a traditional Southern buffet that features tender, flavourful slices of country ham, perfect for pairing with buttery biscuits or creamy grits.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Memphis, the music-filled avenues of Nashville, or the scenic beauty of East Tennessee, you’re sure to find a dish that captures the essence of this remarkable state. What are you looking forward to discovering first?