There’s nothing fancy about it—and that’s exactly why people can’t get enough. Tennessee’s old-fashioned buffets are having a moment. The kind where fried chicken glistens under golden lights, mashed potatoes come with a lake of gravy, and banana pudding disappears faster than you can say “seconds.” These are the spots where recipes haven’t changed in decades, where locals pile their plates high and swear nobody cooks like Grandma anymore—except maybe here.
From smoky barbecue spreads to Sunday roast feasts, these Tennessee buffets remind everyone that comfort food doesn’t need reinvention. It just needs love, butter, and a little country soul.
Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store
Imagine stepping into a time machine that transports you to a turn-of-the-century general store. Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store in Jackson offers just that, with its antique-lined rooms and an atmosphere steeped in nostalgia.
The buffet is a highlight, featuring skillet-fried chicken and slow-smoked ribs that transport your taste buds to simpler times. The dessert bar is irresistible, capping off a comforting meal with sweet Southern treats.
Located in Casey Jones Village, it’s a place that captures the spirit of traditional Southern hospitality, making every visit feel like a step back in time.
Monell’s Dining & Catering
Picture communal tables where Southern platters are shared among friends and strangers alike. Monell’s in Nashville brings this vision to life with its family-style dining experience.
Skillet-fried chicken, cheese grits, and fluffy biscuits are staples, served in a warm and friendly Germantown ambiance. The rotating daily menus add a touch of excitement to each visit.
Locals and visitors alike cherish the historic charm and social atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking true Southern tradition. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an event.
The Loveless Cafe
Famous for its world-renowned biscuits, The Loveless Cafe stands as a Tennessee landmark. The buttermilk biscuits here are legendary, often paired with country ham or apple butter.
In addition to biscuits, the cafe offers fried chicken and red-eye gravy, providing a comforting taste of the old South. The house-baked breads and historic recipes make dining here a nostalgic experience.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the combination of Southern precision and country charm makes Loveless Cafe an essential stop in Nashville.
Mama’s Farmhouse
Nestled in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Mama’s Farmhouse offers a dining experience that feels like visiting grandma’s kitchen. The family-style service means no buffet lines but plenty of ample, home-cooked portions.
Fried chicken and honey-glazed ham headline the menu, accompanied by scratch-made sides. The warm hospitality and inviting Smoky Mountains setting make every meal comforting and familiar.
Folks love the nonstop refills and the down-home charm that transports you back to simpler times. Reservations are a good idea during peak times to ensure a spot at the table.
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Pigeon Forge is part comfort kitchen, part culinary showpiece. The family-style Southern plates are passed around in a warm, themed dining environment.
Fried chicken, pot roast, and mac-and-cheese are among the favorites, with classic Deen recipes providing a hearty, nostalgic meal. The accompanying souvenir shop adds to the experience.
Tourists and locals alike are drawn to the consistent portions and old-fashioned comfort food. Generous desserts like banana pudding make it a sweet ending to any meal.
Farmer’s Family Restaurant
In Murfreesboro, Farmer’s Family Restaurant is a local favorite known for its hearty lunch buffet filled with Southern staples. Fried chicken, meatloaf, and macaroni and cheese are just a few of the offerings.
The rotating dessert selections keep guests coming back, while the senior-friendly pricing makes it accessible for everyone. Families, church groups, and weekend travelers find it a welcoming spot.
The buffet is replenished regularly, ensuring fresh and hot meals for all. It’s a place where strong value and great food come together in a roomy dining area.
Adele’s
Adele’s in Nashville offers a weekend brunch buffet that’s been generating buzz for its unique blend of farm-to-table dishes and Southern comfort food.
From biscuits to smoked salmon and roasted mains, the variety is impressive. The trendy atmosphere of The Gulch adds an urban twist to this culinary experience.
Long lines form on weekends, a testament to the chef-driven sides and seasonal offerings. It’s a blend of tradition and innovation that makes each visit exciting and memorable.
The Old Mill Restaurant
Housed in a historic gristmill, The Old Mill Restaurant in Pigeon Forge offers a dining experience rooted in tradition. Family-style meals feature Southern classics like chicken and dumplings.
Country-fried steak and fresh cornmeal-fried sides are served in generous portions, creating a sense of abundance. The riverside setting adds to the scenic charm, making it a visual and culinary delight.
With a bakery and creamery on site, it’s a full Smoky Mountains experience that attracts families and visitors alike. It’s where history and hospitality meet on a plate.
Shoney’s
Shoney’s is a regional chain that has carved out a niche with its All-You-Care-to-Eat Fresh Food Bar. The offerings include Southern staples like fried chicken and fresh vegetables.
With numerous locations across Tennessee, it provides a consistent and affordable family dining experience. Classic desserts and breakfast offerings recall old-school diner buffets.
Group-friendly seating and senior discounts make it a popular choice for families and retirees. It’s a place where comfort food is always on the menu, and nostalgia is served daily.
Golden Corral
Golden Corral offers a smorgasbord of Southern comfort foods across its many Tennessee locations. From fried chicken to pot roast, the endless buffet options satisfy diverse tastes.
Carve stations add an extra touch, while seasonal barbecue or seafood nights keep things exciting. The extensive dessert station is a favorite, offering a sweet finale to any meal.
Known for dependable portions and strong value, Golden Corral attracts mixed groups seeking classic country-style flavors. It’s a place where abundance and variety are always on the menu.