Batter up, foodies! Heading to a Nashville Sounds game at First Horizon Park? Don’t strike out on dinner! Catching a game is an electric experience, but before you settle into your seat, you’ll want to fuel up for all the cheering and excitement. Luckily, the area surrounding the stadium is a veritable smorgasbord of delicious dining options, from quick bites to savor before the first pitch to leisurely meals perfect for celebrating a Sounds victory. This guide is your insider’s look at the best restaurants near First Horizon Park, ensuring your game day is a grand slam both on and off the field. Forget bland ballpark food; we’re diving into a culinary landscape that showcases Nashville’s vibrant food scene, all while supporting local businesses and making your evening truly memorable.
Home Run Bites: Quick & Casual Restaurants
Sometimes, you just need something fast and satisfying to keep you energized for all nine innings (or more, if it’s an extra-inning thriller!). Thankfully, the area around First Horizon Park offers plenty of quick and casual options that will have you back in your seat before you can say “play ball.”
First up is TailGate Brewery East Nashville. Located a short drive from the stadium, TailGate Brewery isn’t just about the craft beer. It’s a community hub, offering delicious pizza, sandwiches, and other pub fare perfect for a pre-game meal. Their pizza is legendary, with creative toppings and perfectly crisp crusts. If you’re looking for something lighter, the salads are fresh and flavorful. The atmosphere is always buzzing with energy, making it a great place to soak in the pre-game excitement. The food is priced reasonably, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Next, let’s talk about Five Points Pizza. Just a bit further away but still easily accessible, Five Points Pizza is a Nashville institution. Serving up New York-style slices that are legendary for their size and flavor. Their classic cheese slice is always a winner, but don’t be afraid to get adventurous with their specialty pies. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal before the game. You can grab a slice or order a whole pie to share with your group.
Finally, for a taste of Nashville flavor with a quick turnaround, check out Hattie B’s Hot Chicken. While there are several locations, the one closest to downtown offers a fiery kick for those who like some spice. Hattie B’s serves up Nashville hot chicken done right, with varying levels of heat to suit every palate. From the mild “Southern” to the blazing “Shut the Cluck Up!!!”, there’s a heat level for everyone. Sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans complete the experience. It’s a Nashville staple and a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Be prepared for a line, especially on game days, but it’s worth the wait.
Stepping Up to the Plate: Sit-Down Dining Experiences
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and refined dining experience, the restaurants near First Horizon Park have you covered. These establishments offer a chance to savor delicious food in a comfortable setting, making them perfect for a pre-game celebration or a post-game debrief.
Let’s start with The 404 Kitchen. This is a stylish and sophisticated restaurant offering a modern American menu with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The ambiance is upscale yet inviting, making it perfect for a special occasion or a memorable pre-game meal. The menu changes regularly, but you can always expect creative and beautifully presented dishes. Their cocktail menu is equally impressive, with expertly crafted drinks to complement your meal. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on game days. The price range is higher than the casual options, but the quality of the food and service is well worth it.
Another fantastic option is Butchertown Hall. This German-inspired beer hall and restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on wood-fired meats and craft beers. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with a communal seating arrangement that encourages socializing. Their menu features a variety of smoked meats, sausages, and other German specialties, all cooked to perfection. They also have an extensive beer list, with a wide selection of local and international brews. Butchertown Hall is a great place to gather with friends and enjoy a hearty meal before or after a Sounds game.
For something a bit different, consider Folk. This is an Italian-inspired restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients and wood-fired cooking. The atmosphere is rustic and charming, with a cozy and inviting vibe. Their menu features a variety of pizzas, pastas, and other Italian specialties, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. They also have a great wine list, with a selection of Italian and domestic wines to complement your meal. Folk is a great place to enjoy a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends.
Knock It Out of the Park: Bars and Breweries with Food
Sometimes, all you need is a cold beer and some tasty bar food to get you in the game day spirit. The area around First Horizon Park is home to several excellent bars and breweries that offer both.
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen is a fantastic choice. Situated near the stadium, this establishment is a sprawling beer garden featuring a wide array of craft beers on tap, alongside an impressive menu of German-inspired fare. Their sausages are a must-try, and their giant pretzels are perfect for sharing. The atmosphere is lively and festive, making it a great place to soak in the pre-game excitement. They often have live music, adding to the overall experience. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
Another great option is Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint. If you are looking for a place to satisfy your burger cravings with a wide variety of craft beers. Known for its juicy burgers and extensive beer selection, Jack Brown’s is a haven for beer lovers and burger enthusiasts alike. Their burgers are cooked to perfection and topped with creative combinations of ingredients. They also have a great selection of craft beers on tap, with something to suit every palate. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, making it a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy a pre-game meal.
Rounding the Bases: Diverse Flavors near the Stadium
Nashville’s culinary scene is incredibly diverse, and the area around First Horizon Park reflects that. If you’re looking for something beyond the usual American fare, you’ll find plenty of international options to choose from.
Silvia’s Mexican Restaurant is a solid choice. Located close to the stadium, Silvia’s serves up authentic Mexican cuisine. Their menu features all the classics, from tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and burritos. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.
For a taste of Asian cuisine, consider Bakersfield. While primarily known for its tacos and tequila, Bakersfield also offers a selection of Asian-inspired dishes that are worth exploring. Their menu features creative combinations of flavors and ingredients, making for a unique and satisfying dining experience.
Game Day Grub: Tips for a Smooth Dining Experience
To make the most of your dining experience near First Horizon Park, keep these tips in mind:
Make reservations: Popular restaurants fill up quickly on game days, so it’s always a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially if you have a large group. This will save you from long waits and ensure that you can get a table at your preferred restaurant.
Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to get to the restaurant, park, and enjoy your meal before the game starts. The area around the stadium can get crowded on game days, so it’s best to avoid the last-minute rush.
Check restaurant hours and menus online: Before heading out, check the restaurant’s website or social media pages to confirm their hours of operation and view their menu. This will help you avoid any surprises and ensure that they have something that you’ll enjoy.
Explore alternative transportation options: Parking near the stadium can be challenging and expensive. Consider using ride-sharing services, public transportation, or even walking if you’re staying nearby. This will save you time, money, and stress.
Be mindful of game schedules: Be sure to check the game schedule and allow yourself enough time to enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. You don’t want to miss the first pitch!
Check for game day specials: Many restaurants near the stadium offer special discounts or promotions on game days. Be sure to ask about these deals when you arrive, or check their social media pages for announcements.
Conclusion
From quick bites to elegant sit-down restaurants, the area surrounding First Horizon Park offers a diverse and delicious array of dining options. Whether you’re craving a classic ballpark snack, a hearty German meal, or a taste of international cuisine, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. Choosing a local restaurant not only provides a convenient and delicious pre-game meal but also supports the vibrant Nashville community. So, next time you’re heading to a Sounds game, take some time to explore the culinary landscape near the stadium and elevate your game day experience to a whole new level. Step away from standard stadium fare, and discover a world of flavor right around First Horizon Park! Enjoy the game and bon appétit!
