Do you love to explore new places and discover hidden gems along the way? If so, you’ll be sure to enjoy uncovering some of the local favorites in Franklin, TN, twenty minutes south of Nashville. From hole-in-the-wall joints that serve up hearty home cooking dishes, to chic rooftop bars with unique craft cocktails, there’s a little something for everyone, Come journey through this historic town with us as we provide insights on where to eat in Franklin, Tennessee, while enjoying the best views and delightful drinks.
Merridee’s Breadbasket
Get ready for a town gem like no other at Merridee’s Breadbasket, named Best Bakery in Williamson County, Tennessee. Merridee’s takes pride in their traditional approach, making everything from scratch, “the old-fashioned way”, including the mouthwatering pastries and breads that are perfect for breakfast.
You won’t want to miss out on their lunch options either. Thursday to Saturday dinners are the perfect way to end your week. But wait, there’s more!
Merridee’s Breadbasket also has a beer garden that serves locally crafted beers and live music from talented local musicians. Swing on by and experience the magic of Merridee’s.
Biscuit Love
Biscuit Love began as a popular Airstream food truck and has now transformed into a beloved brunch destination in Franklin, Tennessee. This charming spot, nestled in a restored historic mansion, serves up delicious Southern classics with an imaginative twist, all made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients.
Biscuit Love’s menu offers mouth-watering options, including “with a biscuit” dishes like the Wash Park (2 burger patties, pimento cheese, bacon jam, and a fried egg) and “without a biscuit” plates like the Colfax (cheese grits topped with tomatillo braised beef with two eggs).
But what makes Biscuit Love truly special is its dedication to nourishing the soul, not just the stomach. Karl & Sarah Worley and their team at Biscuit Love put their heart and soul into every dish, creating an unforgettable dining experience for their guests.
Ruby Sunshine
Get ready to brunch like you’ve never brunched before at Ruby Sunshine! The New Orleans originated cafe is now open in downtown Franklin, serving up made-to-order brunch dishes made with fresh, local ingredients in their scratch kitchen.
Their menu boasts an impressive selection of mouth-watering specialties like catfish & grits and bacon praline pancakes (you’ll thank me later!) that make it nearly impossible to just choose one dish. But don’t worry, they also have lighter options and incredible “eye-opening” cocktails to help wash it all down.
Get ready to elevate your brunch game at Ruby Sunshine!
Mojo’s Tacos
Get ready for a taco experience like no other! Step inside Mojo’s Tacos, a taco shop with a Tennessee twist, named after a 2,000-pound pet bull owned by one of the co-owners.
Here, handmade corn and flour tortillas are filled with slow-smoked meats and seafood, and sauces made from scratch daily. But it doesn’t stop there. The menu is always evolving, and alongside tacos, you’ll also find nachos and quesadillas.
One taco that stands out from the rest is the Hot Chicken, a Tennessee twist that features a hand-breaded chicken tender with chipotle slaw and poblano sauce.
And let’s not forget about the drinks! Mojo’s bar menu is just as impressive as the food menu with creative cocktails like a Tequila Old Fashioned and a Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita.
Keep in mind that Mojo’s Tacos is a fast-casual, quick-serve restaurant that doesn’t take reservations. But trust us, the tacos and experience are well worth the wait.
Leiper’s Fork Distillery
Experience the magic of Tennessee whiskey tradition at Leiper’s Fork Distillery! Nestled on 27 acres of stunning land, owner Lee Kennedy’s dream has come true with the distillery. A 200-year-old cabin, originally built by one of the first settlers in the area, now stands as the focal point of the property.
With a 5,000-square foot, timber-frame still house using local grains and limestone-filtered water, their premium whiskeys, made with local grains and pure limestone-filtered water, have become a staple of the local community.
Enjoy live-music events at The Still House Sessions, it’s the perfect place to visit for a tour and tasting.
1892 Restaurant
Step back in time to experience an intimate dining atmosphere at 1892 Restaurant in Leiper’s Fork. Housed in a charming 1892-built home, the restaurant’s decor will transport you to a different era. Low lighting, comfortable spacing, and dark green wallpaper create an ambiance that’s both warm and inviting.
This farm-to-table establishment specializes in seasonal dishes rooted in culinary traditions of the past. From starters and small plates to entrees, the menu presents plenty of options to please any palate. And while you can bring your own wine or spirit, local beers are also available.
Come for lunch or dinner (reservations are suggested) to indulge in a dining experience unlike any other.
Don’t Miss Visiting Franklin
It is easy for neighboring towns to be lost in the shadows of Music City USA, but Franklin has forged its way to the forefront.
Do not skip the chance to visit Franklin when traveling through Middle Tennessee!
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Article written by Francesca Mazurkiewicz.
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