Nashville, Tennessee, a city synonymous with country music, vibrant nightlife, and a growing reputation as a culinary hotspot, also offers an incredibly diverse and delicious food scene that won't break the bank. Beyond the famous hot chicken joints and upscale dining, Music City's neighborhoods are packed with unique local eateries serving up fantastic, budget-friendly bites. We've combed through beloved institutions and hidden gems, along with customer reviews, to bring you a curated list of 10 must-try dishes, all for under $10, that will satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the authentic, soulful flavors of Nashville.

1. Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich (Mild) from Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish

  • Restaurant: Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish

  • Description: A classic Nashville hot chicken sandwich (mild spice level) featuring a crispy, tender fried chicken breast, served on white bread with pickles.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Bolton's is one of Nashville's original hot chicken purveyors, offering an authentic, no-frills experience. Yelp reviewers consistently praise its "authentic flavor" and often mention it's "worth the wait." Many consider their mild option to still pack a good punch of flavor without being overwhelming, making it an essential and affordable taste of Nashville's most iconic dish.

  • Price: ~$8-$9

  • Location: 624 Main St, Nashville, TN 37206

2. Meat & Three (Small Plate) from Swett's

  • Restaurant: Swett's

  • Description: A small plate featuring your choice of one meat (like fried chicken or baked chicken) and three classic Southern sides (e.g., collard greens, mac & cheese, cornbread).

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Swett's is a true Nashville institution, serving up traditional cafeteria-style soul food since the 1950s. Yelp reviewers consistently laud the "delicious comfort food" and "authentic Southern cooking." Many appreciate the "generous portions" and the feeling of a "true Nashville experience." A small plate often falls just under $10, offering a hearty and authentic taste of Southern hospitality.

  • Price: ~$9-$10 (for a small/one-meat plate)

  • Location: 2242 Clifton Ave, Nashville, TN 37209

3. Taco from Mas Tacos Por Favor

  • Restaurant: Mas Tacos Por Favor

  • Description: A single, authentic Mexican street-style taco with flavorful fillings like al pastor, carnitas, or pollo, topped with fresh cilantro and onions on a soft corn tortilla.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Mas Tacos Por Favor is a beloved East Nashville institution, famous for its no-frills setting and incredibly delicious, authentic tacos. Yelp reviewers consistently crown them as serving "the best tacos in Nashville," praising the "fresh ingredients" and "vibrant flavors." Ordering two or three tacos makes for a perfect, affordable, and incredibly satisfying meal.

  • Price: ~$3-$4 per taco

  • Location: 732 McFerrin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206

4. Biscuit from Loveless Cafe

  • Restaurant: Loveless Cafe

  • Description: One of their legendary, fluffy, buttermilk biscuits, baked fresh and served with homemade preserves.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: The Loveless Cafe is an iconic Nashville landmark, renowned nationwide for its Southern cooking, especially its biscuits. While a full meal can be pricier, indulging in a single biscuit (or two) is a truly affordable must-do. Yelp reviewers consistently rave about the "flaky texture" and "buttery goodness," with many calling them "the best biscuits ever." It's a sweet and simple taste of Nashville's heritage.

  • Price: ~$2-$3 per biscuit

  • Location: 8400 Hwy 100, Nashville, TN 37221

5. Slice of Pizza from Slim & Husky's Pizza Beeria

  • Restaurant: Slim & Husky's Pizza Beeria

  • Description: A large, flavorful slice of their artisanal pizza, known for creative toppings and a delicious crust.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Slim & Husky's is a Nashville-born pizza joint celebrated for its creative approach to pizzas and community focus. While they are known for whole pies, individual slices (often available at lunch or from their grab-and-go case) are a fantastic and affordable option. Yelp reviewers praise the "unique topping combinations" and "great crust." It's a taste of a rapidly growing local success story.

  • Price: ~$4-$6 per slice (check for specific offerings)

  • Location: Multiple locations in Nashville (e.g., 501 11th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203)

6. Hot Fish Sandwich (Small/Snack) from Hattie B's Hot Chicken

  • Restaurant: Hattie B's Hot Chicken

  • Description: A small portion of Hattie B's famous hot fried catfish, served on white bread with pickles (similar to their chicken, but with fish).

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: While Hattie B's is globally famous for its hot chicken, their hot fish is an often-overlooked and equally delicious alternative that's typically more affordable for a snack size. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the "crispy exterior and juicy interior" of their fried items, with the fish being a flavorful option for those who prefer it. It's a chance to experience a piece of Nashville's culinary fame without breaking the bank.

  • Price: ~$7-$9 (for a small hot fish "snack" or single piece)

  • Location: Multiple locations in Nashville (e.g., 112 19th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203)

7. Doughnut from Five Daughters Bakery

  • Restaurant: Five Daughters Bakery

  • Description: A single "100-layer doughnut," a hybrid of a croissant and a donut, featuring a light, flaky texture and unique glazes/toppings.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Five Daughters Bakery is a local sensation known for its exquisite, multi-layered doughnuts. Yelp reviewers are enchanted by the "flaky layers" and "decadent flavors." Many consider it a must-try for any sweet tooth visiting Nashville, despite the slightly higher price point for a single donut. It's a gourmet experience in a single bite.

  • Price: ~$5-$6 per doughnut

  • Location: Multiple locations in Nashville (e.g., 1900 Eastland Ave, Nashville, TN 37206)

8. Drip Coffee from Frothy Monkey

  • Restaurant: Frothy Monkey

  • Description: A freshly brewed cup of their high-quality drip coffee, sourced with care and brewed to perfection.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Frothy Monkey is a popular local coffee shop and cafe with a comfortable atmosphere, known for its excellent coffee and community vibe. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the "delicious coffee" and the "cozy ambiance" that makes it a great spot for work or relaxation. It's a reliable and affordable option for a quality caffeine fix in a welcoming local setting.

  • Price: ~$3.50-$4.50 (for a regular drip coffee)

  • Location: Multiple locations in Nashville (e.g., 2511 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204)

9. Single Scoop Ice Cream from Mike's Ice Cream & Coffee Bar

  • Restaurant: Mike's Ice Cream & Coffee Bar

  • Description: A single scoop of their handcrafted, homemade ice cream in a wide array of classic and creative flavors.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Mike's Ice Cream & Coffee Bar is a highly rated local favorite for its delicious homemade ice cream and friendly service. Yelp reviewers consistently rave about the "creamy texture" and the "great variety of unique flavors." It's a perfect, sweet, and affordable treat to cool down on a warm Nashville day, providing a comforting taste of local craftsmanship.

  • Price: ~$5-$6

  • Location: 121 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201

10. Sausage Biscuit from Merridee's Breadbasket

  • Restaurant: Merridee's Breadbasket

  • Description: A classic Southern sausage patty served inside a freshly baked, fluffy biscuit.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: While technically in Franklin (a short drive from Nashville), Merridee's Breadbasket is a legendary bakery and eatery often considered a Nashville-area must-visit. Yelp reviewers heap praise on their "amazing biscuits" and "delicious breakfast options." The simple sausage biscuit offers an incredibly satisfying and authentic taste of Southern breakfast tradition at an unbeatable price, making the short trip worthwhile.

  • Price: ~$4-$5

  • Location: 110 4th Ave S, Franklin, TN 37064

Nashville's dynamic food scene proves that incredible flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag, especially when you explore its amazing local establishments. From iconic hot chicken and soulful meat & threes to authentic tacos and gourmet doughnuts, these ten dishes under $10 offer a fantastic way to explore the city's diverse and locally-driven culinary landscape. So, whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, make sure to savor these delicious and affordable bites that showcase Nashville's unique charm!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price (Approx.) Location
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich (Mild) Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish $8-$9 624 Main St, Nashville, TN 37206
Meat & Three (Small Plate) Swett's $9-$10 2242 Clifton Ave, Nashville, TN 37209
Taco Mas Tacos Por Favor $3-$4 per 732 McFerrin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Biscuit Loveless Cafe $2-$3 per 8400 Hwy 100, Nashville, TN 37221
Slice of Pizza Slim & Husky's Pizza Beeria $4-$6 per Multiple locations in Nashville
Hot Fish Sandwich (Small/Snack) Hattie B's Hot Chicken $7-$9 Multiple locations in Nashville
Doughnut Five Daughters Bakery $5-$6 per Multiple locations in Nashville
Drip Coffee Frothy Monkey $3.50-$4.50 Multiple locations in Nashville
Single Scoop Ice Cream Mike's Ice Cream & Coffee Bar $5-$6 121 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201
Sausage Biscuit Merridee's Breadbasket $4-$5 110 4th Ave S, Franklin, TN 37064