Introduction
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, a stunning botanical garden and art museum nestled in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. With its sprawling gardens, captivating art exhibitions, and historic mansion, Cheekwood offers a day of beauty, culture, and relaxation. But after a delightful day of exploring the blooms and admiring the art, one thing is certain: visitors get hungry. Fortunately, the area surrounding Cheekwood boasts a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, offering a wide array of dining options to satisfy every palate and budget. This guide aims to be your trusted companion, providing a curated list of the best restaurants near Cheekwood, ensuring that your post-Cheekwood meal is as memorable as your visit. From casual eateries serving up Southern comfort food to upscale dining experiences perfect for a special occasion, we’ll explore the gastronomic delights that await just a stone’s throw from this Nashville treasure. So, put on your foodie hat and get ready to discover the delicious destinations surrounding Cheekwood!
Casual Dining Delights Close to Cheekwood
Sometimes, after a day of wandering through gardens and admiring art, you just crave a relaxed and informal dining experience. Fortunately, there are several excellent casual restaurants near Cheekwood that offer delicious food in a comfortable setting.
Savor Local Flavors at Proper Bagel
For a taste of authentic New York-style bagels right here in Nashville, Proper Bagel is a must-visit. This charming eatery is known for its freshly baked bagels, made with traditional methods and topped with a variety of delectable spreads, from classic cream cheese to creative savory combinations. They also offer a selection of sandwiches, salads, and soups, making it a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying lunch or a leisurely brunch. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a friendly staff and a relaxed vibe. Price-wise, Proper Bagel is very budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone looking for a delicious and affordable meal. You can find Proper Bagel a short drive from Cheekwood, easily accessible with plenty of parking. And with options to dine in or grab food to-go, Proper Bagel makes for the perfect stop.
Enjoy Southern Hospitality at The Loveless Cafe
Although located a bit further than others, a true Nashville staple and easily reached is the Loveless Cafe. An icon of Southern hospitality, this legendary eatery has been serving up classic Southern comfort food since It’s a bit of a drive from Cheekwood, but it’s well worth the trip for a taste of authentic Southern cuisine. Known for their biscuits, country ham, and fried chicken, the Loveless Cafe offers a truly authentic Southern dining experience. The atmosphere is rustic and charming, with live music on select evenings. Price ranges are reasonable, and they offer both indoor and outdoor seating.
Taste Authentic Italian Pizza at Bella Napoli Pizzeria
If you’re craving pizza, Bella Napoli Pizzeria is your next best choice. This local pizzeria serves authentic Italian pies in a casual, friendly setting. Expect thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas with fresh, high-quality ingredients. They also have a selection of pastas, salads, and sandwiches.
Mid-Range Marvels: Restaurants That Blend Quality and Value
For those seeking a more elevated dining experience without breaking the bank, the area near Cheekwood offers a delightful selection of mid-range restaurants that strike the perfect balance between quality and value.
Relish Elevated Cuisine at Coco’s Italian Market
Coco’s Italian Market and Cafe offers something for everyone. A great lunch or dinner is available at this classic Italian market. Enjoy pasta, sandwiches, and other classic Italian dishes for a dining experience that is truly unique.
Experience Farm-to-Table Freshness at Josephine
For a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience, Josephine is a fantastic choice. This restaurant is known for its commitment to farm-to-table cuisine, sourcing fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farmers and producers. The menu changes regularly to reflect the availability of the freshest ingredients, ensuring that every dish is bursting with flavor. The atmosphere is modern and elegant, with a warm and inviting ambiance. Josephine is a popular spot, so reservations are highly recommended.
Savor Modern American Cuisine at BrickTop’s
BrickTop’s is a very popular choice among locals and tourists alike. A full service American cuisine restaurant, BrickTop’s boasts a comprehensive and tasty menu to choose from. From salads to steak to pasta, it’s a one-stop-shop.
Upscale Elegance: Fine Dining Experiences Near Cheekwood
For a truly special occasion or a memorable culinary indulgence, the area surrounding Cheekwood offers a few exceptional upscale dining establishments that promise an unforgettable experience.
Indulge in Refined American Dining at The 404 Kitchen
While a bit further of a drive, The 404 Kitchen offers innovative dishes and an elevated dining experience. It’s perfect for a celebratory dinner or a special night out. It is a modern American cuisine restaurant, with upscale entrees. Reservations are recommended.
Quick Bites and Coffee Shops: Perfect for a Refuel
Sometimes, all you need is a quick bite or a caffeine boost to keep you going. Fortunately, the area near Cheekwood has several excellent coffee shops and quick-bite options that are perfect for a refuel.
Start Your Day at Frothy Monkey
Frothy Monkey is a popular local chain known for its excellent coffee, delicious pastries, and savory breakfast and lunch options. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick coffee and a pastry before heading to Cheekwood, or to recharge after a day of exploring the gardens. They also offer a selection of sandwiches, salads, and soups, making it a great option for a light meal.
Grab a Sandwich at Panera Bread
A classic restaurant that is known for delivering quick, tasty food in a pinch, Panera Bread is a great choice to grab something to eat close to Cheekwood. Enjoy a pastry, soup, sandwich, or more!
Important Considerations When Choosing a Restaurant Near Cheekwood
When selecting a restaurant near Cheekwood, there are several factors to consider to ensure a pleasant and convenient dining experience.
Dietary Needs
If you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, be sure to check the restaurant’s menu online or call ahead to inquire about their offerings. Many restaurants near Cheekwood are accommodating and offer a variety of options to suit different dietary needs.
Family Friendliness
If you’re traveling with children, look for restaurants that are family-friendly and offer a kids’ menu. High chairs and booster seats are also a plus. Many casual restaurants near Cheekwood are well-suited for families.
Outdoor Seating
After spending time in the beautiful gardens of Cheekwood, you may want to continue enjoying the outdoors while you dine. Look for restaurants with outdoor seating options, such as patios or terraces.
Proximity to Cheekwood
Consider the proximity of the restaurant to Cheekwood and factor in travel time, especially if you’re visiting during peak season when traffic can be heavy. Some restaurants are within walking distance of Cheekwood, while others require a short drive.
Reservations
For popular restaurants, especially during weekend evenings, reservations are highly recommended. Check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to make a reservation.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits Near Cheekwood
From casual eateries to upscale dining experiences, the area surrounding Cheekwood offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene that is sure to delight every visitor. Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food, authentic Italian cuisine, or innovative farm-to-table dishes, you’ll find a restaurant near Cheekwood to satisfy your cravings. So, don’t let hunger get in the way of your Cheekwood experience. Explore the gastronomic delights that await just a stone’s throw from this Nashville treasure and create a memorable dining experience to complement your visit. With so many delicious options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to fuel up after a day of exploring the blooms and admiring the art. What are you waiting for? Venture off to these top spots! Share your favorite Cheekwood dining spots in the comments below! We’d love to hear about your culinary adventures.
