Thanksgiving week in Tennessee brings more than family reunions—it delivers steaming plates of comfort and tradition. From Nashville’s iconic institutions to Memphis’ grand hotels, chefs are crafting seasonal menus that feel both nostalgic and new. Whether you crave smoked turkey, buttermilk biscuits, or a lavish carving station, these spots promise warmth with every bite. Read on to discover eight can’t-miss restaurants serving the flavors that define the Volunteer State’s holiday spirit.
Loveless Cafe — Nashville
Loveless Cafe turns Thanksgiving week into a celebration of Southern heritage, complete with flaky biscuits and slow-cooked comfort. Expect plates loaded with herb-roasted turkey, cornbread dressing, and silky giblet gravy, alongside tangy cranberry relish. Sides like creamed corn, skillet green beans, and sweet potato casserole deliver cozy, farmhouse flavors. Don’t skip banana pudding or chess pie for a nostalgic finish. With a charming roadside setting and friendly service, Loveless makes holiday dining feel like home. Their takeaway family packs are a lifesaver for busy hosts, while dine-in brings the glow of tradition to every table.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken – Nashville – Lower Broadway
Hattie B’s on Lower Broadway spices up Thanksgiving week with heat, crunch, and seasonal sides that soothe. Choose your preferred fire level—from mild to Shut the Cluck Up—then balance it with tangy pickles and white bread. Specials often include autumn slaw, mac and cheese, and collards simmered low and slow. For a festive twist, pair hot tenders with honey-butter biscuits and bourbon pecan pie. The energetic, neon-lit space buzzes with downtown excitement, perfect before a honky-tonk stroll. Quick counter service keeps lines moving, while crispy, juicy chicken steals the show and warms chilly evenings.
The Hermitage Hotel — Downtown Nashville
The Hermitage Hotel elevates Thanksgiving with a grand-lobby buffet and elegant prix-fixe seatings. Imagine carving stations with herb-brined turkey, prime rib, and glazed ham, plus oysters, artisan cheeses, and composed salads. Seasonal sides—truffle potato purée, roasted Brussels sprouts, and cornbread-sage dressing—shine alongside cranberry-orange compote. Desserts bring pecan tartlets, pumpkin custards, and chocolate decadence. The Beaux-Arts setting glows under chandeliers, with polished service and live piano drifting through. Perfect for families and special occasions, reservations are essential. Expect thoughtful wine pairings, kid-friendly options, and a sophisticated, celebratory atmosphere that turns the week into a memory.
Puckett’s Restaurant-Nashville
Puckett’s delivers down-home, music-loving warmth with a Thanksgiving twist. Hickory-smoked turkey and pulled pork share the stage with skillet cornbread, collard greens, and brown sugar sweet potatoes. Expect hearty portions, live tunes, and a friendly staff who treat everyone like regulars. Seasonal pies—pecan and apple—pair nicely with local brews and hot cider. Family-style platters make group dining easy, while takeout packs keep hosting simple. The rustic, Americana vibe welcomes out-of-towners and locals alike. Come for the comfort classics; stay for the toe-tapping ambiance and steady, satisfying flavors that define Nashville hospitality.
Peg Leg Porker — Nashville
Peg Leg Porker brings pitmaster soul to Thanksgiving week with smoke-kissed turkey, ribs, and pulled pork. The signature dry rub and house sauces create layers of heat and sweetness, perfect with creamy mac and cheese and tangy slaw. Cornbread and pit beans round out plates built for chilly days. Order a sampler to explore textures—from bark to silky shreds. Casual counter service keeps things relaxed, while the aroma of hickory drifts through the room. Don’t miss banana pudding or bourbon-laced treats. It’s a celebration of Tennessee barbecue traditions, tailored for holiday cravings and hearty appetites.
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar — Knoxville
Tupelo Honey in Knoxville crafts a modern Southern Thanksgiving with scratch-made flair. Expect brined turkey, honey-dusted fried chicken, and Appalachian-inspired sides like goat cheese grits, Brussels with bacon, and whipped sweet potatoes. House biscuits with blueberry jam add a festive touch, while creative cocktails highlight bourbon, cinnamon, and citrus. Gluten-free and vegetarian options keep groups happy. Desserts feature pumpkin crème brûlée or pecan pie with salted caramel. The bright, contemporary dining room feels celebratory yet relaxed. Reserve early for prime times, and consider family bundles for convenient take-home feasts during the busy holiday week.
Guest House at Graceland – Memphis
At the Guest House at Graceland, Thanksgiving week blends Memphis hospitality with a touch of rock ’n’ roll glam. Seasonal menus spotlight roast turkey with sage dressing, sweet potato mash, and Delta-inspired sides. Look for maple-glazed carrots, braised greens, and warm rolls with whipped butter. The property’s stylish interiors nod to Elvis, making holiday photos extra memorable. Families appreciate kid-friendly choices and spacious seating. Desserts lean classic—pecan pie, pumpkin cheesecake, and chocolate mousse. With convenient parking and nearby attractions, it’s an easy choice for visitors. Expect polished service and a festive, family-forward vibe.
The Peabody Memphis — Memphis
The Peabody Memphis stages a grand Thanksgiving experience beneath gilded ceilings and holiday florals. Expect a lavish buffet or prix-fixe with carved turkey, prime rib, seafood towers, and refined Southern sides. Pastry displays dazzle with pumpkin tarts, pecan pie, and chocolate creations. The famous Peabody Ducks add whimsy for families, while attentive staff orchestrate a seamless feast. Wine pairings and elegant cocktails elevate the occasion. Reserve early—holiday seatings sell out quickly. With timeless hospitality and a storied setting, The Peabody transforms Thanksgiving week into a glittering celebration of Memphis tradition and culinary craft.