Who says you need a passport to taste your way around the world? Tennessee has plenty of restaurants serving dishes that take you far beyond the usual Southern comfort food. And some of the best finds are hiding in places you might drive past without a second glance.
Think juicy Persian kabobs in Nashville, flavorful Senegalese stews in Memphis, handmade Taiwanese dumplings in Knoxville, and hearty German schnitzel in Clarksville. There’s even a Memphis food hall where you can explore several international cuisines without leaving the building.
What makes these spots worth visiting isn’t just the food. It’s the family recipes, unexpected flavor combinations, generous portions, and welcoming atmosphere that keep people coming back.
Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or simply looking for somewhere different to eat, these 12 international restaurants across Tennessee deserve a place on your list before the year ends.
1. House of Kabob, Nashville
Skewers do the heavy lifting at this South Nashville favorite, and they handle the job with style. Chicken, beef, lamb, and fish all take a turn, served with veggies and rice.
House of Kabob is a well-known Persian restaurant with a loyal following. The city’s diverse local community keeps it busy, which tells you plenty before you even read the menu.
The space keeps things simple with counter service. That simplicity puts the spotlight right where you want it, on the plate.
Lamb fans, pay attention. The menu stretches from shish kabob to lamb chops and a slow-cooked lamb shank.
There’s also an okra stew with lamb if you like something hearty and saucy. Cornish game hen shows up too, which is a fun pick when you want something a little different.
Not a meat eater? You’re covered here more than you might expect.
Hummus and a falafel plate both fit a vegan diet. Lentil soup makes a gentle starter on a chilly Tennessee afternoon.
Save room, because the dessert list is a small treasure hunt. Persian ice cream, baklava, and milk cake all make an appearance.
Pair your sweet with a cup of Kurdish hot tea. The tea selection gets real attention here, so this isn’t a throwaway drink order.
Timing matters if you want a calm meal. Sunday afternoons and Saturday evenings tend to get crowded.
Tuesday evening is usually quieter, which makes it a smart choice for a relaxed dinner. Mondays are off the table, since the restaurant is closed that day.
Families will find high chairs and a kids’ menu ready to go. Groups fit in comfortably too, and reservations are accepted.
Takeout, curbside pickup, and delivery give you plenty of ways to get your fix. Still, a seat in the dining room lets you enjoy that rice while it’s fresh and fluffy.
2. Noko, Nashville
Lobster tucked into a soft bao bun sounds like a dare, and the kitchen happily accepts it. Add a wood-fired grill and you’ve got one of East Nashville’s most talked-about tables.
Noko calls itself Asian-inspired, and the menu proves it with creative twists. Tuna crispy rice and those lobster buns are two of the best-known orders.
Start small and share. Truffle oil edamame, crispy Brussels sprouts, and smoked fish dip make a fun opening round.
The salmon carpaccio is another bright, light pick. Then you can move toward bigger flavors like wagyu brisket or East Side Shrimp.
Vegetables get serious love here too. Szechuan green beans and crispy potatoes both happen to be vegan.
Then there are the Hurricane Fries. The name alone makes them hard to skip, and they’re vegan as well.
Planning ahead pays off at this spot. Dinner reservations are recommended, and there’s usually a wait.
Parking can also be a bit tricky to find. Give yourself extra minutes so you don’t arrive flustered and hungry.
The mood works for date night, a birthday, or a group dinner with friends. It feels upscale, yet it still stays casual and relaxed.
Service is a big part of the appeal. Staff here have a strong reputation for being attentive and quick.
Leave room for dessert, which earns plenty of praise. A good tea selection also gives you a sip to finish things off.
3. Global Café, Memphis
Passports are optional, but you might want one anyway for this lunch. Global Café sits inside Crosstown Concourse, a rehabilitated Sears distribution center in Memphis.
The idea is wonderfully simple. Global Café serves dishes from several international cuisines under one roof.
Global Café serves international dishes inspired by cuisines from Venezuela, Sudan, Mexico, Nepal, Somalia, Kenya, and Nicaragua.
Venezuelan fans should look for arepas and pabellon. Wash them down with papelón con limón, a sugar cane lemonade.
Cooler weather calls for something hearty. African peanut soup is vegetarian, and Kenyan chicken curry brings plenty of comfort.
Sambusas make a great snack to share. Chicken shawarma, hummus, and falafel round out the Middle Eastern side.
The menu changes regularly, which keeps repeat visits interesting. You might find a new favorite each time.
Thursdays can be extra fun for torta lovers. Street tacos and quesadillas also appear for anyone craving Mexican flavors.
The setting feels like a cafeteria, so you order at the counter. That makes it easy for a group to split up and grab different dishes.
Outdoor seating lets you watch the action around Crosstown Concourse. Dogs are welcome outside, too.
Free parking options are available, and there’s usually plenty of room. That’s a nice bonus in a busy part of Memphis.
Reservations aren’t accepted, so just show up. Weekend afternoons and Thursday evenings tend to be the busiest.
4. Bala’s Bistro, Memphis
Elvis Presley Boulevard is famous for one very big name, but your stomach may remember another. Bala’s Bistro serves Senegalese-inspired West African food just down the road.
The kitchen adds an American twist to some of its dishes. That mix makes the menu feel welcoming whether you’re new to this cuisine or already a fan.
Chicken yassa is a classic Senegalese dish worth knowing. Red snapper is another popular pick on the menu.
Stew lovers have options. Lamb saka saka and maafe, a rich peanut stew, are both house favorites.
Heads up if you have a peanut allergy. The maafe gets its flavor from peanut butter, so skip it and ask about other choices.
Fufu often comes alongside these stews. It’s soft and a little chewy, perfect for scooping up sauce.
Plant-based diners have a real reason to celebrate here. The menu offers a full vegan lineup, including a vegan curry and a vegan saka saka with spinach. There’s even a vegan quesadilla.
Okra also shows up, giving you another veggie-forward option.
For something handheld, try the beef fatayas or a salmon wrap. Then cool off with a hibiscus drink.
Portions are known for being large. You may want to plan for leftovers or share with a friend.
Lines can stretch out the door at busy times. Weekend afternoons and Friday evenings are often the most crowded. Mornings tend to be calmer, especially early in the week.
5. Yassin’s Falafel House, Knoxville
Falafel is the name on the sign, and the kitchen takes that promise seriously. Crispy, herby, and generous, it’s the reason many people line up.
Lines do happen here at this downtown Knoxville spot. Good news, though, since the wait tends to move quickly.
Ordering happens at the counter, so there’s no table service. Grab your food and find a seat in the airy, low-key dining room.
Start with the falafel plate or a falafel sandwich. You can’t go wrong with either option.
Hummus with pita is a vegan classic. Baba ghanoush, made with smoky eggplant, is another dip fans love.
Meat eaters can turn to the gyro. It comes as a sandwich, a plate, or a salad.
That gyro salad is a smart pick when you want something lighter. It still packs plenty of flavor.
Vegans and vegetarians get real attention on this menu. A veggie sandwich and several plant-based options make it easy to eat well.
Finish with baklava. It’s flaky, sweet, and a nice small treat after a big meal.
The restaurant is also known for being involved in the community. That adds to the friendly feeling around the place.
College students, families, and visitors all stop by. It’s a good fit for a quick lunch or an easy dinner.
Catering is offered too. That makes it a solid choice for office lunches or parties around East Tennessee.
6. Angry Dumplings Tea, Knoxville
Nobody here is actually angry, unless you count the dumplings. The name is playful, and the food backs it up with bold flavor.
This family-owned spot in South Knoxville serves Taiwanese-style dishes. It’s a fun switch from the usual American Chinese takeout.
Dumplings are the stars. You can choose pork, curry chicken, or veggie fillings.
Can’t decide? An assorted dumpling order lets you try a mix.
Noodles deserve your attention too. Grandpa’s Noodles is one of the most popular bowls on the menu.
Curry dishes and noodle soup are also on hand. They’re perfect when the weather turns chilly.
The menu stays fairly short, and that’s a good thing. The kitchen focuses on doing a few things really well.
Then there’s the tea. Artisanal boba tea is a big part of the experience. Thai tea is a favorite for anyone who likes a creamy, sweet sip.
The tea selection overall gets plenty of love.
Vegans and vegetarians aren’t left out. The menu includes full plant-based options.
The interior has creative, cute decor that’s fun to look at. Seating works well for kids, too.
You’ll order at the counter, so no table service. Dogs are allowed, which is a nice perk for pet owners.
Weekend afternoons and weeknight evenings can get busy. Weekday mornings are usually much quieter.
7. Calliope Restaurant & Bar, Chattanooga
Whipped feta, sizzling halloumi, and syrupy knafeh on one table? Calliope turns dinner in Chattanooga into a Levantine feast built for sharing.
The restaurant serves modern Middle Eastern food. Plates are meant to be passed around, so bring people you like.
Low lighting sets a romantic mood. It’s a strong choice for anniversaries, birthdays, or a special night out.
Start with dips. Labneh and creative hummus make great openers with bread. Fried halloumi is salty, golden, and fun to share.
Fattoush salad adds a fresh crunch to the table.
Vegetables shine on this menu. Cauliflower awarma and mushroom couscous are both standouts. Roz hashweh is a spiced rice dish worth trying.
Lamb dishes also appear for heartier appetites.
The menu changes regularly. That means your second visit may look different from your first.
Vegans and vegetarians will find full menus to explore. Falafel is a reliable plant-based pick.
Dessert is a big deal here. Knafeh, a cheese pastry soaked in syrup, is the sweet finale to aim for.
Plan ahead, since dinner reservations are recommended. There’s usually a wait without one.
Outdoor seating gives you another option on nice nights. Street parking is the main choice nearby.
8. Kai Bistro, Chattanooga
Crab rangoon mozzarella sticks might be the most delightful mashup you’ll read about this year. Kai Bistro clearly enjoys playing with your expectations.
This Chattanooga restaurant serves Asian fusion with a sense of humor. Traditional classics get clever makeovers here.
Korean fried chicken is a big draw. Crunchy and saucy, it’s made for sharing with the table.
Mini bao buns and dumplings make easy starters. They’re perfect when you want to taste a little of everything.
Rice lovers have choices. Brisket fried rice and kimchi fried rice both bring bold flavor. Braised short rib is another hearty option.
It’s a smart pick on a cold evening.
Then there’s the Hibachi Burrito. It wraps hibachi-style flavors into a handheld meal.
Soup fans should look for Phozilla. The name hints at something big, so come ready.
The Korean cheese corn skillet is vegetarian and gooey. It’s a fun side to pass around.
Vegan and vegetarian menus are available too. Plant-based diners won’t feel stuck with a single salad.
The space is stylish and trendy, with a fun energy. Service is known for being attentive and quick.
Lunch runs every day from late morning into the afternoon. Dinner picks up again Monday through Saturday.
Outdoor seating is available, and dogs are welcome outside. Curbside pickup and delivery are options too.
9. Philomena Egyptian, Clarksville
Koshari is Egypt’s famous comfort food, and you can find it in a Clarksville shopping center. That alone makes this spot worth a detour.
Philomena Egyptian sits across from Publix on Tiny Town Road. The food is halal, which matters to many diners in the area.
Let’s talk koshari first. It’s a hearty mix built around rice, lentils, and pasta, and it’s vegan here.
Hawawshi is another Egyptian classic on the menu. It’s a stuffed bread that’s great for lunch. Chicken shawarma is a popular choice.
Lamb dishes also bring plenty of flavor to the table.
Falafel is ready for plant-based fans. Homemade grape leaves are vegan too. Craving something crispy?
Vegan onion rings make a fun side.
Dessert gets high marks here. Kunafa and baklava both make sweet endings. Kunafa is a pastry layered with syrup.
Baklava brings flaky layers and nuts.
Hours run long, which is a real bonus. The doors open in the morning most days and stay open late at night.
Both counter service and table service are available. Takeout, curbside pickup, and delivery give you options at home.
Parking is free and usually easy. Catering is also offered for parties and events.
10. Campbell’s Kitchen, Clarksville
Schnitzel and bulgogi on the same menu sounds like a happy accident. At Campbell’s Kitchen, it’s simply how lunch works.
This long-standing Clarksville spot serves casual German food. Korean dishes share the spotlight too.
Schnitzel is the headliner. It comes crispy and golden, with home-style sides.
Jager schnitzel adds a rich mushroom-style gravy. It’s a cozy pick on a cool day. German potato salad is a must-try side.
It’s vegetarian and full of tangy flavor.
Coleslaw often rides along with the schnitzel. Together, they make a classic plate. Craving Korean food instead?
Bulgogi is right there on the menu.
Prices are known for being affordable. Meals also come out fast, which helps on a lunch break.
Drinks deserve a mention. Home-brewed iced tea is a favorite, and the coffee earns praise.
The servers are friendly and quick. The mood stays casual and quiet. Weekday mornings are usually calmer.
That’s a nice time to grab a seat without fuss.
Dine-in and takeout are both available. Delivery isn’t offered, so you’ll need to stop by.
11. Freiberg’s, Johnson City
Some fans drive an hour just to eat here, and the bratwurst platter explains why. Freiberg’s brings classic German comfort food to downtown Johnson City.
The setting has a cozy, historic feel. It’s relaxed, friendly, and easy to settle into for a long meal.
Portions are famously huge. Come ready, or plan to take some home.
Start with soft pretzels and cheese. They’re vegetarian and perfect for sharing.
Sausage fans should try the Bratwurst Platte Sampler. It lets you taste a few styles at once. Cheddar bratwurst is another tasty choice.
It’s a cheesy twist on a classic.
Jaeger schnitzel comes with a rich gravy. Rouladen offers rolled beef for something more traditional.
Boulette Andreas is another house specialty. It’s a great pick if you want to explore beyond schnitzel.
Rotkohl, or red cabbage, makes a classic side. It’s vegan and adds a sweet-tart bite.
Kids aren’t left out. A Kinder pork schnitzel sits on the kids’ menu.
Servers are known for being caring and quick. They’re happy to share recommendations if you feel unsure.
Parking can be tricky downtown. Give yourself a few extra minutes to find a spot.
Reservations are accepted, which helps for groups. The restaurant is open every day of the week.
It’s a fun stop on any trip through East Tennessee. Just remember to bring an appetite and a little patience for parking.
12. Jamaican & African Cuisine, Jackson
Jerk chicken and oxtails headline the menu, and the name on the sign leaves zero mystery. Jamaican & African Cuisine keeps things clear and flavorful in Jackson.
Work travelers have made it a regular stop for years. Some even call it the best food in town.
Jerk chicken is the classic order. It’s seasoned with bold spices and full of flavor.
You can grab a single piece if you just want a taste. It’s a smart way to sample before going bigger.
Oxtails are another top pick. They’re tender and rich, perfect over rice. Curry goat brings a deep, warming spice.
It’s great for anyone who likes hearty dishes.
Seafood fans can try jerk shrimp. Shrimp and broccoli offers a lighter option too.
Beef patties make a handy snack. They’re easy to eat on the go.
Sides keep things interesting. Green beans, white rice, and cornbread all appear on the menu. There’s even Mexican elote-style corn.
It’s a fun surprise next to the Caribbean flavors.
The restaurant is clean and laid-back. Staff are known for being friendly.
Service is fast, which helps on a busy day. Friday and Saturday evenings are usually the most crowded. Mornings and early weekdays are calmer.
Monday evenings also tend to be quiet.
Parking can be a little hard to find at times. Delivery and takeout help if you’d rather feast at home.
It’s a tasty finale for any West Tennessee food trip. Your taste buds will thank you long after the year ends.
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