Casual Bites and Quick Eats Close to Cheekwood
Cheekwood Botanical Garden & Museum of Art is a Nashville treasure, a stunning escape into the world of art and nature. But all that beauty, exploration, and fresh air can certainly work up an appetite! Wandering through the meticulously landscaped gardens, admiring the art installations, or attending a seasonal event can leave you craving a delicious and satisfying meal. After your visit to this cultural gem, you’ll undoubtedly be looking for a great place to eat, a place where you can relax, refuel, and reflect on the beauty you’ve just experienced. Luckily, there are a myriad of excellent restaurants and eateries near Cheekwood, offering a diverse range of cuisines and atmospheres to cater to every taste and preference. This article highlights some of the best dining options in the vicinity, ensuring that your culinary experience is just as memorable as your visit to Cheekwood. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, an upscale dining experience, or a family-friendly atmosphere, you will find it all near Cheekwood.
Sometimes, after a fulfilling day at Cheekwood, all you crave is a quick, easy, and delicious meal. You want something that’s not going to break the bank or require a lengthy wait, but still satisfies your hunger and provides a pleasant dining experience. The area near Cheekwood offers several excellent options for casual bites and quick eats, perfect for a relaxed and convenient meal.
One fantastic option is The Picnic Cafe. This delightful cafe is known for its fresh and flavorful sandwiches, salads, and soups, all made with high-quality ingredients. It’s a great place to grab a quick lunch or a light dinner after exploring the gardens. What makes it particularly appealing to Cheekwood visitors is its relaxed atmosphere and convenient location. Just a short drive away, you can easily swing by for a quick and tasty meal. Be sure to try their signature chicken salad sandwich, a local favorite. Its combination of tender chicken, crisp celery, and a creamy dressing is an absolute delight. You can find The Picnic Cafe on Harding Pike.
Another excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal is Pancho & Lefty’s. If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, this is the place to go. They offer a wide array of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites, all made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Their vibrant atmosphere is perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. What’s great about Pancho & Lefty’s is that it’s incredibly fast and efficient, allowing you to get your food quickly and get back to exploring Nashville. The shrimp tacos, bursting with flavor and freshness, are a must-try. Located on Charlotte Avenue, it’s a convenient and delicious option for food near Cheekwood.
For pizza lovers, Five Points Pizza West is a must-visit. Their New York-style pizzas are made with fresh dough, high-quality ingredients, and a whole lot of love. Whether you prefer a classic pepperoni pizza or something more adventurous, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. Five Points Pizza West is perfect for Cheekwood visitors because it’s a casual and fun place to grab a quick and satisfying meal. You can either dine in or take your pizza to go and enjoy it at your hotel or a nearby park. Try their famous garlic knots and a slice of their specialty pizza. It’s located conveniently on Old Harding Pike, making it a great choice for food near Cheekwood.
Upscale Dining Experiences Near Cheekwood
For those seeking a more sophisticated and memorable dining experience after their visit to Cheekwood, the area boasts several upscale restaurants that offer impeccable service, elegant ambiance, and exquisite cuisine. These establishments are perfect for celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic dinner, or simply indulging in a refined culinary experience.
Belle Meade Brasserie is a sophisticated dining destination known for its classic French cuisine and elegant atmosphere. This charming brasserie offers a menu featuring traditional French dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. From escargots to steak frites, every dish is a work of art. Belle Meade Brasserie is an excellent choice for Cheekwood visitors because it provides a luxurious and refined dining experience. It’s the perfect place to unwind and savor a delicious meal after a day of exploring the gardens and art exhibits. Their extensive wine list complements the cuisine perfectly, offering a wide selection of French and international wines. A must-try is their coq au vin, a classic French dish made with chicken braised in red wine. You can find this culinary gem on Harding Pike.
Another exceptional choice for upscale dining is Harding House. This restaurant is renowned for its innovative American cuisine and its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, reflecting the freshest produce and flavors of the region. Harding House offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a special occasion or a memorable dinner. Its focus on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes makes it a standout dining experience near Cheekwood. The restaurant is particularly dedicated to using produce from local farms which means the menu is often changing with the season. If you can, try the chef’s tasting menu as it gives you a great introduction to the breadth of what they have to offer. You will find them on Harding Road.
Family Friendly Options for Post Cheekwood Fun
When visiting Cheekwood with family, finding a restaurant that caters to both adults and children can be a challenge. Fortunately, the area near Cheekwood offers several family-friendly options that provide a welcoming atmosphere, kid-friendly menus, and delicious food for everyone to enjoy.
Noshville Delicatessen is a New York-style deli that offers a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, soups, and breakfast items. It’s a great place to take the whole family since it can satisfy a number of appetites. They have a number of kid friendly options that the adults can enjoy too. The portions are large and it’s a great place to grab a filling meal. Make sure you try the reuben sandwich and the french fries! They have a variety of cakes and cookies that are great for dessert as well. Noshville is on Harding Pike.
Mojo Cookie Creamery is the perfect restaurant for a sweet treat. They feature a wide variety of ice cream and cookies. Build your own ice cream sandwiches or sundaes with all sorts of different combinations. Let your imagination run wild and craft the perfect ice cream cookie dessert. The environment is bright and fun which will be perfect for the whole family! They have another location on 12 South but the one we recommend is on Charlotte Avenue.
International Flavors Near Cheekwood
Nashville’s diverse culinary scene extends to the area near Cheekwood, offering a variety of international flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to different corners of the world. Whether you’re craving Italian pasta, Asian cuisine, or Middle Eastern delicacies, you’ll find it all just a short drive away.
Le Sel is a contemporary French brasserie located in Nashville. They serve up classic french dishes in a very stylish environment. The restaurant is designed to give a classic french feel and you’ll feel as though you stepped into Paris. The restaurant is open for brunch, lunch and dinner. While they do a number of things very well, their seafood is exceptional so try anything from that part of the menu. The mussels and scallops are especially notable. You can find Le Sel on 12 Avenue South.
Hidden Gems for the Adventurous Eater
Beyond the well-known restaurants, the area near Cheekwood is also home to several hidden gems that offer unique and authentic culinary experiences. These establishments are often small, family-owned businesses that are passionate about their food and committed to providing exceptional service.
The Mediterranean Cuisine This restaurant serves a wide variety of dishes ranging from gyros to wraps to kebabs. It’s a perfect fast casual spot for a delicious and filling meal. It’s nothing fancy but the food is what really shines at this little gem. It’s a great way to experience mediterranean cooking at its finest. It’s a fantastic restaurant to stop at after visiting Cheekwood. Their baklava is an awesome way to end the meal! They are on White Bridge Pike.
Important Considerations for Choosing the Perfect Restaurant
When selecting a restaurant near Cheekwood, it’s essential to consider your dietary restrictions, preferred price range, and the time of day you’ll be dining. Many restaurants in the area offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It is always a good idea to check their menus online or call ahead to inquire about specific dietary accommodations.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season. Calling ahead to secure a table will save you time and ensure a smooth dining experience.
Parking can be limited in some areas, so it’s a good idea to research parking options before you arrive at the restaurant. Some establishments offer valet parking, while others have nearby parking garages or street parking available.
The time of day will also influence your restaurant choice. Some restaurants offer brunch menus on weekends, while others have lunch specials or happy hour deals.
Consider your budget when choosing a restaurant. The restaurants listed here range in price from casual and affordable to upscale and expensive.
Alternative Options
When you’re looking for a fast and cheap option, consider visiting a food truck. While there aren’t any right in front of Cheekwood, there are often a number of food trucks in the general area if you are willing to look. Another option would be to simply grab a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing meal at the gardens!
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of great food options near Cheekwood. After your visit to Cheekwood, be sure to explore these delicious dining options and make your day in Nashville even more memorable! Nashville offers the perfect blend of art, nature, and delicious cuisine, making it a truly unforgettable destination. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, take the time to savor the flavors of Nashville and create lasting memories with your friends and family.
