6 Highway Food Stops in Tennessee Worth Exiting For

Tennessee’s highways stretch through scenic landscapes, charming small towns, and some of the most delicious roadside dining experiences in the South. Whether you’re cruising through on a cross-country road trip or exploring the state’s rolling hills, taking an exit for the right food stop can turn an ordinary drive into a memorable adventure.

These six spots offer everything from home-cooked comfort food to mouthwatering BBQ, proving that the journey can be just as satisfying as the destination. Get ready to fuel up with flavor and Southern hospitality at these must-visit highway gems.

1. S&J Roadside Market — Bells, TN

Just off Highway 79 in Bells, Tennessee, S&J Roadside Market is the kind of place that reminds you why small-town stops still matter. It’s casual, welcoming, and clearly run by people who care about feeding you well.

Travelers love it for its hot, made-to-order meals—think grilled chicken, steaks, burgers, and classic Southern plates that actually fill you up. Service is quick but friendly, and it never feels rushed, even if you’re just passing through.

Whether you swing by the drive-through or step inside, S&J feels less like a pit stop and more like a place locals proudly call their own.

2. Tennessean Travel Stop — Cornersville, TN

Most truck stops offer little more than stale coffee and prepackaged sandwiches, but this I-65 landmark completely changes that expectation. Travelers rave about the spotless restrooms, which alone make it worth the exit, but the real star here is the food that tastes like someone’s grandmother just cooked it.

The BBQ menu features tender pulled pork and smoky ribs that rival many sit-down restaurants, while the breakfast offerings include fresh donuts and strong coffee that’ll wake you up better than any energy drink. Home-cooked daily specials rotate throughout the week, giving regulars something new to look forward to and first-timers plenty of delicious options.

Service comes with genuine smiles and helpful recommendations, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a community gathering spot than a highway convenience stop.

3. Roadside Bar & Grill — Old Hickory, TN

When the road starts to blur and fast food just won’t cut it, this local favorite steps in with bold flavors and an easygoing atmosphere that invites you to slow down for a bit. It’s well known in the area for wings that spark friendly debates over the best sauce and burgers piled high with all the right toppings, turning what could be a quick stop into a meal people actually plan around.

The relaxed setting works for just about everyone—solo travelers needing a break, families stretching their legs, or friends meeting up between destinations. Cold drinks are always flowing, and the menu has plenty of options, from familiar appetizers to hearty entrées that leave you comfortably full.

What really makes this spot stand out is the loyalty it’s earned from locals and road trippers alike, thanks to consistent quality and glowing word-of-mouth praise. The staff welcomes everyone like a regular, and the food delivers every time.

4. I-24 Truck and Auto Plaza — Manchester, TN

Long drives call for stops you can count on, and this I-24 plaza has built its reputation by doing the basics really well, every single time. Travelers like knowing what to expect here: clean restrooms, quick food options, and a team that understands you’re just looking to recharge and get back on the road without hassle.

Inside, the convenience store covers all the essentials while also carrying a few local snacks you won’t find at every chain stop. The food counter serves hot, satisfying meals that feel like a real upgrade from typical gas-station fare, and the coffee stays fresh no matter when you roll in. There’s also a solid lineup of grab-and-go options for anyone short on time.

It’s not flashy, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s simply a dependable place to pause, refuel, and hit the road feeling taken care of.

5. Engle’s Roadside Restaurant — Erwin, TN

Nestled in the mountains of East Tennessee, this family-owned restaurant has been feeding hungry travelers and locals for generations with recipes passed down and perfected over time. The menu celebrates Appalachian comfort food traditions, featuring country ham, biscuits made from scratch, and vegetables cooked Southern-style that remind you of Sunday dinners at grandma’s house.

Breakfast draws early morning crowds who swear by the fluffy pancakes and perfectly seasoned hash browns, while lunch and dinner offer plate-filling portions of fried chicken, meatloaf, and other classics. The pies, baked fresh daily, have achieved near-legendary status among regular visitors who plan their trips around saving room for dessert.

Taking the Erwin exit means stepping into a slower pace where good food and genuine hospitality still matter most.

6. Long Road Cafe — Crossville, TN

Sometimes the best road trip finds come from trusting your instincts and taking an exit you weren’t planning on, and this Crossville café rewards that choice in the best way. True to its name, it feels tailor-made for long drives, serving up generous portions, familiar flavors, and prices that won’t make you think twice.

Breakfast is available all day, which is a gift when your internal clock is off after hours on the road, and the lunch specials lean into local ingredients and home-style cooking that turn simple dishes into something memorable. The coffee is always hot, the service is genuinely attentive, and the atmosphere makes it easy to slow down and catch your breath.

Frequent travelers along this route quietly count Long Road Cafe as one of their dependable go-to stops.