Nashville, Tennessee, known globally as Music City, has long been celebrated for its vibrant music scene and lively honky-tonks. But beyond the melodies and rhythms, a delicious culinary revolution is taking place. Nashville’s food scene is booming, and with that growth comes an increasing demand for diverse dietary options, including flavorful and satisfying vegan fare. Gone are the days when finding plant-based cuisine meant settling for a side salad. Nashville has fully embraced the vegan movement, offering an impressive array of delicious and creative plant-based options to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a curious vegetarian, or simply looking to explore some meat-free meals, Nashville has something to offer your palate.
This guide dives into the exciting world of vegan food Nashville has to offer, from plant-based versions of Southern comfort food staples to internationally inspired dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Southern Comfort, Vegan Style
The heart of Southern cuisine lies in its comforting, soul-satisfying flavors. Fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, smoky barbecue – these are the dishes that define Southern culinary heritage. But what about vegans? Can they partake in the joys of Southern comfort food? Absolutely! Talented chefs in Nashville are reimagining these classics, using plant-based ingredients to recreate the beloved tastes and textures without compromising on flavor.
One shining example is The Southern V, a local favorite specializing in veganized Southern staples. Their star attraction is undoubtedly their vegan fried “chicken,” made with perfectly seasoned and breaded seitan that rivals the real deal. Paired with their creamy mac and cheese (made with a cashew-based sauce that will fool even the most discerning cheese lover) and smoky collard greens, a meal here is a truly authentic Southern experience, completely plant-based. The Southern V is located on Gallatin Pike and is a bustling spot with a casual, friendly atmosphere. Be prepared for a possible wait – it’s that popular! Prices range from around fifteen to twenty five dollars per person.
Then there’s Graze Nashville, nestled in East Nashville. Graze is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Their menu rotates seasonally, showcasing the best of what local farms have to offer. While not entirely vegan, Graze offers a substantial and well-labeled vegan menu section. Their smoked jackfruit BBQ sandwich is a must-try, offering a sweet and savory experience that perfectly captures the essence of Southern barbecue. They also boast an impressive selection of vegan sides, including roasted sweet potatoes and crispy Brussels sprouts. Graze has a hip, modern atmosphere and is perfect for a date night or a special occasion. Expect to pay a bit more here, in the twenty to thirty five dollar range per person.
For a more casual, quick-bite option, check out Sunflower Bakehouse. Although known for its delicious baked goods, Sunflower also features several savory items like vegan BBQ and jackfruit tacos and sandwiches. What makes Sunflower Bakehouse special is that their location on Sharondale Dr brings great vegan food to all those that might be working and living nearby.
The creativity and innovation behind these vegan Southern dishes are truly impressive. Chefs are using ingredients like jackfruit, seitan, tofu, and cashews to mimic the textures and flavors of meat and dairy, proving that vegan food can be just as satisfying and indulgent as its non-vegan counterparts.
Exploring International Flavors, Plant-Based Style
Nashville’s culinary scene isn’t limited to Southern fare. The city boasts a diverse range of international restaurants, and many are embracing the growing demand for vegan options. This means you can enjoy authentic flavors from around the world without compromising your plant-based lifestyle.
For a taste of Ethiopia, look no further than Awash Ethiopian Restaurant. Ethiopian cuisine is naturally vegan-friendly, with many dishes centered around flavorful vegetable stews and lentil dishes served on injera, a spongy flatbread used to scoop up the food. Awash offers a variety of vegan options, clearly labeled on their menu. Their misir wot (red lentil stew) and gomen (collard greens) are particularly delicious and bursting with authentic Ethiopian spices. Awash has a welcoming atmosphere and is a great place to share a meal with friends. With multiple locations, Awash Ethiopian Restaurant is a wonderful choice for all locals and tourists alike.
Craving something Japanese? While traditional sushi often contains fish, several restaurants in Nashville offer creative and delicious vegan sushi options. A popular choice is Wild Cow, which has been a staple of the vegan food Nashville scene for years. Wild Cow offers an inventive selection of vegan sushi rolls, featuring ingredients like avocado, cucumber, carrots, and marinated tofu. The Wild Thai rolls are a favorite, filled with rice noodles, avocado, cucumber, and a peanut sauce. This lively East Nashville spot is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Wild Cow now offers multiple locations, with the newest being in the Berry Hill area.
Thai food is another cuisine that lends itself well to vegan adaptations. Many Thai curries can be easily made vegan by substituting tofu or vegetables for meat and using coconut milk instead of dairy. Siam Cuisine Thai Restaurant on Charlotte Avenue is a great choice for traditional flavors. While most restaurants have plenty of vegan options, it is always best to call ahead to confirm.
These international restaurants prove that vegan food doesn’t have to be boring. By embracing diverse culinary traditions, Nashville’s vegan scene offers a world of flavor to explore.
Casual Vegan Eats and Quick Bites on the Go
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy vegan meal. Thankfully, Nashville offers a growing number of casual vegan eateries and grab-and-go options.
For a refreshing and healthy option, check out E+Rose Wellness Cafe. E+Rose offers a wide selection of smoothies, juices, salads, and bowls, with plenty of vegan options clearly marked on the menu. Their avocado toast is a popular choice, and their green smoothies are packed with nutrients. E+Rose is a great place to grab a quick and healthy breakfast or lunch. E+Rose has multiple locations throughout Nashville.
For a delicious and convenient vegan sandwich, head to the aforementioned Sunflower Bakehouse. In addition to their baked goods, they offer a variety of vegan sandwiches, including tempeh BLTs, grilled veggie wraps, and jackfruit barbecue sandwiches. Their food truck is a familiar sight at local events, making it easy to grab a vegan bite on the go.
For those wanting to do their own cooking, Nashville also offers plenty of grocery stores carrying plenty of vegan products. Whole Foods Market boasts a huge variety of vegan products including frozen meals, snacks, and ingredients for cooking at home. With multiple locations, Whole Foods market is a popular stop for vegan food Nashville enthusiasts.
These casual vegan eateries and food trucks make it easy to enjoy delicious and convenient plant-based meals without sacrificing taste or quality.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth: Vegan Desserts in Music City
No meal is complete without dessert, and vegans deserve to indulge their sweet tooth just as much as anyone else. Fortunately, Nashville has a growing number of bakeries and cafes offering delectable vegan desserts.
Again, Wild Cow also provides a wide selection of vegan desserts. Their chocolate cake is a crowd favorite, and their vegan ice cream is a perfect treat on a hot Nashville day.
For a taste of classic bakery treats, check out East Park Donuts & Coffee, which offers a selection of delicious vegan donuts. With traditional flavors and specialty options, you will definitely find a new favorite.
These bakeries and cafes prove that vegan desserts can be just as decadent and satisfying as their non-vegan counterparts.
Tips for Navigating the Vegan Food Scene in Nashville
Finding vegan food in Nashville is becoming increasingly easier, but here are a few tips to help you navigate the culinary landscape:
- Utilize Online Resources: Apps like HappyCow and Yelp are invaluable for finding vegan restaurants and options in Nashville. These apps allow you to search for vegan-friendly establishments, read reviews, and view menus.
- Look for Clearly Marked Vegan Options: Many restaurants in Nashville are starting to clearly label their vegan options on their menus. Look for the “V” symbol or other designations that indicate a dish is plant-based.
- Don’t Hesitate to Ask: If you’re unsure whether a dish is vegan, don’t be afraid to ask your server. Most restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and can often modify dishes to be vegan-friendly.
- Connect with the Local Vegan Community: Join local vegan groups on social media or attend vegan events. This is a great way to discover new restaurants and get recommendations from fellow plant-based eaters.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Plant-Based Revolution in Music City
Nashville has truly blossomed into a welcoming destination for vegans and those interested in exploring plant-based cuisine. From reimagined Southern classics to globally inspired dishes and delectable desserts, the city offers a diverse and delicious array of vegan options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply curious about trying some meat-free meals, Nashville’s vibrant food scene is sure to impress. So, pack your bags, tune your taste buds, and get ready to experience the plant-based revolution in Music City! Nashville’s vegan food Nashville scene continues to expand, making it easier than ever to find delicious and satisfying plant-based meals.
