8 Nashville Spots That Still Serve Great Meals Under $20
Finding a great meal in Nashville doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Whether you’re craving comfort food, creative tacos, or a hearty breakfast to start your day, Music City has plenty of budget-friendly spots that deliver on flavor without the hefty price tag.
These eight local favorites prove that eating well for under $20 is not only possible but absolutely delicious.
1. I Dream Of Weenie
Tucked away in Nashville’s Arts District, this quirky hot dog stand has earned a devoted following for good reason. You won’t find boring ballpark franks here—instead, expect inventive toppings that transform a simple dog into something memorable.
Most items on the menu won’t even hit the $10 mark, making it one of the best deals in town. Whether you go classic with mustard and kraut or adventurous with their specialty combinations, every bite delivers satisfying flavor.
The casual, no-frills vibe adds to the charm, and you can grab your meal quickly without sacrificing quality.
2. Sun Diner
Step into Sun Diner and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back to a time when diners were the heart of every neighborhood. This classic Nashville spot serves up exactly what comfort food should be: generous portions, familiar flavors, and prices that won’t shock you when the check arrives.
Breakfast lovers can stack up fluffy pancakes or dig into eggs cooked just right, while lunch brings juicy burgers and satisfying combo plates. Everything stays well under the $20 threshold, leaving room for coffee refills and maybe even dessert.
The atmosphere feels genuine and unpretentious, with friendly service that makes you want to linger a little longer.
3. Varallo’s
Since opening its doors decades ago, Varallo’s has been feeding Nashvillians hearty Southern breakfasts at prices that feel like a throwback. This isn’t just another breakfast spot—it’s a piece of local history where generations have gathered over grits, biscuits, and strong coffee.
The menu features house favorites that have stood the test of time, with generous portions that fill you up without emptying your pockets. You’ll find traditional Southern plates done the way they’re supposed to be, with no shortcuts or fancy twists.
What makes Varallo’s special isn’t just the food; it’s the sense of tradition and community that fills the room. Locals know this is where you go when you want a real Nashville breakfast experience.
4. Assembly Food Hall
Can’t decide what you’re craving? Assembly Food Hall solves that problem beautifully. Located downtown, this bustling marketplace brings together multiple vendors under one roof, offering everything from spicy tacos to comforting noodle bowls and beyond.
The beauty here is flexibility—you can build a complete meal by mixing and matching from different stalls, and still keep your total under $20. Maybe start with dumplings from one vendor, add a side from another, and finish with something sweet.
5. Redheaded Stranger
East Nashville’s Tex-Mex darling brings bold, punchy flavors without the premium price tag. Redheaded Stranger has built a loyal following by serving tacos and plates that taste like someone actually cares about what they’re making.
The menu leans into Tex-Mex classics with enough creativity to keep things interesting, and portions are generous enough to leave you satisfied. You can order a few tacos and a side, or go for a full plate, and either way, your wallet stays happy.
What sets this spot apart is the attention to flavor—spices are balanced, ingredients taste fresh, and nothing feels like it’s been sitting under a heat lamp. The casual vibe makes it easy to drop in anytime, whether you’re meeting friends or just craving something with a little kick.
6. Brown’s Diner
Brown’s Diner doesn’t try to be trendy, and that’s exactly why people love it. This cozy South Nashville institution has been serving up comfort food and diner classics for years, with big portions and small bills that keep regulars coming back week after week.
The menu covers all the bases—sandwiches, burgers, plates that stick to your ribs—all prepared the old-fashioned way. Nothing here is complicated or fussy, just solid food done right at prices that feel refreshingly fair.
Simple, satisfying, and reliably good every single time.
7. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Weekend mornings in Nashville just got better. Snooze brings creative energy to brunch with pancakes that look like art projects and breakfast burritos stuffed with everything you didn’t know you needed in the morning.
The menu goes beyond standard eggs and toast, offering inventive takes on breakfast classics that still feel comforting and filling. Despite the creative flair, prices stay reasonable, and you can enjoy a full brunch experience without watching your budget too closely.
The vibe is upbeat and colorful, matching the food perfectly and making it a fun spot for lazy weekend mornings with friends or family. Service is friendly, portions are generous, and everything tastes as good as it looks. If you’re tired of boring breakfasts but don’t want to spend a fortune, Snooze hits that sweet spot beautifully every time you visit.
8. The Butter Milk Ranch
Charm and affordability come together beautifully at The Butter Milk Ranch. This delightful brunch and lunch spot focuses on fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation, creating dishes that feel special without the upscale price tag that usually comes with them.
The menu features crisp salads, satisfying sandwiches, and bakery goods that taste homemade in the best possible way. Everything feels carefully crafted, like someone put real thought into balancing flavors and textures.
The atmosphere is inviting and relaxed, making it easy to settle in for a leisurely meal with friends or a quiet lunch alone. You’ll leave feeling like you treated yourself to something nice, but your bank account won’t suffer for it.
