9 Middle Tennessee Restaurants Serving Next-Level Nanner Puddin’

Banana pudding—or nanner puddin’ as locals lovingly call it—is more than just dessert in Middle Tennessee. It’s a creamy, nostalgic tradition served up with pride at restaurants across the region.

Whether you’re craving the classic layers of vanilla wafers and whipped cream or a chef’s creative twist, these nine spots serve up some of the best bowls around.

1. Monell’s (Nashville)

Walking into Monell’s feels like stepping into your grandmother’s dining room, where everyone gathers around big communal tables. Family-style Southern spread where banana pudding is a staple, this beloved spot loads plates with fried chicken, vegetables, and biscuits—but save room for dessert.

Their banana pudding arrives in huge bowls meant for sharing, piled high with fluffy meringue or whipped cream. Each spoonful delivers that perfect balance of creamy custard, sweet bananas, and soft vanilla wafers.

Locals have been coming here for decades, making it a Nashville tradition you don’t want to miss.

2. Loveless Cafe (Nashville)

Tucked along Highway 100, this iconic roadside stop has been feeding hungry travelers since 1951. A classic Nashville pilgrimage spot—and yes, they’re known for banana pudding—the Loveless draws crowds for its scratch-made biscuits and preserves.

But don’t sleep on dessert here. Their banana pudding comes served in individual portions, layered with fresh bananas and topped generously with whipped cream. The recipe stays true to Southern roots, never too sweet but always satisfying.

After a hearty plate of country ham and eggs, this pudding hits just right, leaving you ready to roll out the door happy.

3. Edley’s Bar-B-Que (Nashville)

Barbecue and banana pudding might sound like an odd combo, but once you try it, you’ll understand the magic. Their banana pudding is a house favorite (they’ve even shared the recipe), and fans swear by its creamy texture and bold vanilla flavor.

Edley’s doesn’t mess around—they pile on the Nilla wafers and whipped topping until each cup looks like a work of art. It’s the perfect cool-down after devouring smoky pulled pork or spicy dry-rubbed ribs.

4. Peg Leg Porker (Nashville)

Pitmaster Carey Bringle runs one of Nashville’s most celebrated barbecue joints, and his banana pudding deserves just as much praise as his award-winning ribs. Rich, velvety, and loaded with fresh banana slices, this dessert balances sweetness with a hint of vanilla that lingers on your tongue.

The pudding here comes served cold, offering relief after plates piled with smoky meats and tangy sauces. Locals often order an extra portion to take home because one serving never feels like enough.

If you’re serious about barbecue and banana pudding, Peg Leg Porker checks both boxes beautifully.

5. Hattie B’s Hot Chicken (Nashville)

Known for fiery Nashville hot chicken that’ll make you sweat, Hattie B’s also offers the perfect antidote: cold, creamy banana pudding. After biting into crispy, spice-coated chicken, your taste buds need something soothing, and this dessert delivers exactly that.

Their version stays traditional with layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and smooth custard topped with whipped cream. The contrast between heat and sweet creates a flavor experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

6. Arnold’s Country Kitchen (Nashville)

This meat-and-three institution has been serving honest, home-cooked Southern food since 1982, and their banana pudding tastes like something your aunt would make for Sunday dinner. Arnold’s keeps things simple, focusing on quality ingredients and time-tested recipes that never disappoint.

Served cafeteria-style, the banana pudding sits alongside other classic desserts like chess pie and peach cobbler. But regulars know to grab the pudding first before it runs out during the lunch rush.

Creamy, comforting, and perfectly portioned, it’s the kind of dessert that reminds you why Southern cooking remains unbeatable.

7. Elliston Place Soda Shop (Nashville)

Step back in time at Nashville’s oldest operating soda shop, where red vinyl booths and vintage decor set the stage for classic comfort food. Since 1939, Elliston Place has been slinging burgers, milkshakes, and yes, banana pudding that tastes just like it did decades ago.

Their version comes chilled and simple, with soft vanilla wafers soaking up custard while fresh banana slices add natural sweetness. Grab a booth, order a chocolate shake, and finish with banana pudding for the ultimate nostalgic meal.

8. Jeff’s Family Friendly Restaurant (Murfreesboro)

Just south of Nashville in Murfreesboro, Jeff’s has been feeding families hearty Southern meals since 1989. Their banana pudding earns rave reviews from locals who consider it the best outside of their own kitchens, and that’s high praise in the South.

Made fresh daily, the pudding features thick layers of custard mixed with sliced bananas and plenty of vanilla wafers. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, make sure to leave room for this crowd-pleasing dessert that keeps people coming back.

9. Farmer’s Family Restaurant (Murfreesboro)

Another Murfreesboro gem, Farmer’s Family Restaurant serves up country cooking that feels like eating at a relative’s house—if that relative happened to be an amazing cook. Their banana pudding stays true to tradition, never trying to reinvent what already works perfectly.

Creamy vanilla custard mingles with ripe banana slices while vanilla wafers soften to just the right texture. Each bite brings comfort and satisfaction, the kind that makes you close your eyes and smile.

Regulars often order their meals knowing they’ll finish with banana pudding, planning ahead because skipping it simply isn’t an option here.