Culinary Road Trip: 4 Tennessee Towns for Food Lovers
From soulful BBQ to inventive eats and a scenic wine trail, this culinary road trip is packed with flavor, history, and local charm. Explore retro diners, craft cocktails, and handcrafted wines — Tennessee serves it all. Image: Visit Brownsville TN
Tennessee is a state built on flavor, from down-home Southern comfort to inventive twists on classic dishes. On this culinary road trip, discover legendary barbecue and retro diners, savor inventive eats and craft drinks, and sip your way along the Tennessee Wine Trail. Pack your appetite — these destinations serve up heart, history, and plenty of flavor.
Brownsville
Welcome to Brownsville — known as Soul Town, Tennessee — where flavor runs deep and every meal tells a story. In the heart of Tennessee’s Delta, you’ll find that soul is more than just a music genre; it’s a way of life. That spirit lives on in the town’s residents and rich culinary traditions.
Step into the past at Livingston’s Soda Fountain & Grill, a retro treasure housed in a restored 1930s post office. Featuring shiny chrome, milkshakes with names like “Muddy Hatchie River” and “Nutbush City Limits,” and old-school burgers sizzling on the grill, this spot hums with hometown pride and vintage soul.
Mr. Baby Back Restaurant brings the heat with deep-fried ribs, crispy catfish, and wings locals swear by. Served with Southern staples like creamy mac and cheese, slow-cooked green beans, and homemade pies, every meal feels like a family reunion.
Brownsville’s barbecue scene is a destination in itself. Raisin’ Cain BBQ is a family-run favorite where brisket and BBQ nachos are smoked low, slow, and with love. At Backyard Bar-Be-Cue, the scent of hickory smoke is your welcome mat. Its famous one-pound loaded baked potato, topped with pulled pork or smoked chicken, is a must-try.
Tucked away in Stanton, Suga’s Diner offers hearty, made-to-order classics like oversized cheeseburgers, crispy whole wings, fried catfish, and rich hamburger steak. And don’t miss The Cannery Café in historic Stanton, where you’ll find from-scratch comfort food like meatloaf, fried pies, and chicken and dressing.
In Brownsville, meals are made with heart, shared with love, and seasoned with soul. Come hungry!
Rutherford County
In Rutherford County, every meal tells a story — one seasoned with Southern hospitality, global influences, and the unmistakable charm of Tennessee living.
Kickstart your morning at Bella Vista Coffee Shop & Latin Brunch, where rich, aromatic coffee meets Latin-inspired breakfast favorites in a cozy, inviting space. From hearty arepas to perfectly brewed lattes, it’s a warm welcome to the day.
When lunchtime rolls around, make your way to The Alley on Main in Murfreesboro, a true local institution. Hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and scratch-made sides are served in generous portions, with a side of that genuine, friendly service Rutherford County is known for.
For a dinner that blends bold flavors with a creative twist, Five on Black Kitchen & Spirit House serves elevated comfort food alongside inventive craft cocktails. The stylish patio is a hidden gem, perfect for savoring both the menu and the atmosphere.
Wine enthusiasts will love Hemispheres Wine Bar, where expertly curated wines and craft beers pair perfectly with gourmet small plates, an ideal choice for date night, a girls’ evening, or a laid-back night out.
When the craving for something sweet hits, Janarty’s Homemade Ice Cream is the place to be. This small-batch shop churns out both classic flavors and unique seasonal creations, making it a treat for all ages.
Round out your culinary tour with a trip to Eagleville’s Grindstone Cowboy, a coffeehouse and live music venue owned by country music star Craig Campbell and his wife Mindy. Here, craft coffee, scratch-made bites, and emerging musical talent combine for a taste of true Tennessee culture.
From sunrise sips to late-night bites, Rutherford County is a delicious stop on any Tennessee culinary road trip.
Tennessee Wine Trail
The Tennessee Wine Trail connects more than 40 wineries across the state, inviting travelers to enjoy locally crafted wines and the distinctive culinary experiences that complement them. Each stop offers a glimpse into Tennessee’s agricultural roots and the passionate people keeping those traditions alive.
Begin your journey in Sevierville at Apple Barn Winery, a charming orchard destination where the air is sweet with the scent of ripened fruit. Here, you can sample award-winning apple and fruit wines — from crisp and refreshing to sweet and spiced — all made on-site.
Next, wander next door to the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant & Grill, a beloved gathering spot where guests are greeted with complimentary apple fritters, apple butter, and the restaurant’s signature Apple Julep. Hearty Southern classics like fried chicken and country ham complete your quintessential Smoky Mountain meal.
Continue west to the historic Century Farm Winery, where Tennessee-grown grapes become expressive estate wines. Pair your tasting with a curated charcuterie board brimming with local cheeses and preserves, or stop by during a free Voices in the Vineyard concert night. From live music to food trucks and picnic tables under the stars, it’s a laid-back farm experience that perfectly captures Tennessee hospitality.
Finally, make your way to the Cumberland Plateau, home to Tennessee’s oldest winery, Highland Manor. Enjoy a glass on the patio alongside a deluxe charcuterie pack, then stroll to the adjoining Sawbriar Brewing for wood-fired pizza, wings, and a local pint.
Whether you’re traveling the trail for a weekend getaway or enjoying a leisurely road trip, the Tennessee Wine Trail pairs scenic beauty with authentic flavors.
Lawrenceburg BBQ Trail
Take a flavorful journey to Lawrenceburg, where small-town charm, outdoor adventure, and Amish heritage meet smoky, savory eats. Nestled in southern Middle Tennessee near the Alabama border, Lawrenceburg is easily reached from Nashville, Huntsville, and Florence, making it a top destination for travelers seeking authentic Southern barbecue and a taste of local culture.
A must-visit is Shaffer Farms Texas Bar-B-Que, located off Highway 43 near Summertown. Known for its tender, smoky brisket and oversized portions, Shaffer Farms also serves its favorites at The Cantina, which also offers light bar service to complement the hearty fare.
For rib enthusiasts, Hinie’s BBQ is a standout stop, renowned for its pit-smoked ribs, which are juicy, flavorful, and packed with smoky goodness.
Rick’s Barbecue, with locations in Lawrenceburg and nearby Loretto, offers classic smoked meats in generous portions that locals and visitors alike swear by, making it a reliable favorite.
At Amish Country Smoke House, hearty plates and freshly made sides reflect the region’s rich heritage, while Legends Steakhouse rounds out your experience with smoked specialties to satisfy every craving.
After indulging in delicious fare, visitors can explore historic downtown Lawrenceburg, enjoy the natural beauty of David Crockett State Park, or immerse themselves in the area’s Amish heritage, complete with handcrafted goods and traditional recipes.
Whether you’re a barbecue connoisseur or a casual traveler, the Lawrenceburg BBQ Trail promises a journey full of bold flavors, local culture, and unmistakable Tennessee hospitality that will leave your taste buds (and your heart!) satisfied.
This article is sponsored by Visit Brownsville TN, Visit Rutherford County, the Tennessee Farm Winegrowers Alliance, Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce, and TN Tourism.
