Tennessee might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Colombian cuisine, but the state has quietly become home to some seriously good spots serving up the warm, bold flavors of Colombia. From crispy empanadas stuffed with seasoned beef to massive bandeja paisa plates piled high with rice, beans, chicharrón, and fried eggs, these restaurants bring authentic taste and heartfelt hospitality to cities across the state.
Whether you’re already familiar with Colombian food or just looking to try something new and comforting, these nine spots will hit the spot every single time.
1. La Cucharita Colombian Restaurant — Nashville
Right in the heart of Nashville, this spot has earned a loyal following for doing Colombian comfort food the right way. La Cucharita doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel—it just serves up the classics with care, consistency, and flavors that remind Colombian expats of home. The kind of place where regulars know the menu by heart and newcomers leave planning their next visit.
Start with empanadas if you want the full experience. Golden, crispy pockets filled with seasoned beef or chicken that come with a tangy aji sauce for dipping. They’re the kind of snack that makes you want to order a second round before your main even arrives.
Bandeja paisa is the move if you’re truly hungry. This isn’t a dish for the faint of heart—it’s a full spread featuring rice, beans, chicharrón, chorizo, fried egg, avocado, arepa, and sweet plantains all on one plate. It’s hearty, it’s filling, and it’s exactly what you need after a long day.
Sancocho is another standout, especially if you’re craving something soupy and soulful. This traditional Colombian stew comes loaded with chicken, yuca, plantains, and corn, simmered until everything is tender and flavorful. Perfect for a chilly Nashville evening.
Don’t skip the sides either. Maduros are caramelized to perfection, yuca frita comes out crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, and the Colombian juices—like lulo or maracuyá—are refreshing and not overly sweet. La Cucharita keeps things simple, authentic, and satisfying every single time you walk through the door.
2. Mi Colombia Restaurant — Nashville
Tucked along Bell Road, Mi Colombia has built a reputation for serving up traditional Colombian plates with a homestyle touch. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot where the staff greets you warmly and the food tastes like it was made in someone’s kitchen—because it basically was. If you want Colombian food that feels genuine and unpretentious, this is your place.
Empanadas here are a must-try. Crispy on the outside, packed with flavorful filling on the inside, and served with a side of tangy aji that brings the whole thing together. They’re perfect as an appetizer or even as a quick snack if you’re just passing through.
Buñuelos are another highlight, especially if you have a sweet tooth or want something a little different. These fried cheese balls are light, slightly sweet, and dangerously addictive. Pair them with a cup of strong Colombian coffee and you’ve got yourself a perfect afternoon treat.
Mojarra in hogao sauce is where things get serious. The whole fried fish is crispy and golden, topped with a rich tomato-and-onion sauce that’s savory, tangy, and full of flavor. It’s a dish that takes a little time to eat, but every bite is worth it.
Carne asada is another solid choice if you’re in the mood for grilled beef. Tender, well-seasoned, and served with rice, beans, and plantains, it’s straightforward but done really well. Mi Colombia doesn’t overcomplicate things—it just delivers honest, flavorful Colombian food that keeps people coming back week after week.
3. Sazon Colombian Street Food — Nashville
Street food has a way of capturing the soul of a cuisine, and Sazon nails that vibe perfectly. This Nashville spot focuses on the handheld, grab-and-go staples that Colombians have been enjoying on street corners for generations. It’s casual, it’s quick, and it’s packed with flavor—exactly what street food should be.
Empanadas are the star of the show here, and Sazon offers several varieties to choose from. Beef-and-potato is the classic—savory, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Chicken-and-potato brings a lighter touch but still delivers on flavor. Cheese empanadas are perfect if you want something simple and comforting.
What makes Sazon stand out is the combo option. Can’t decide between flavors? Get a mix and try a little bit of everything. It’s a smart move, especially if it’s your first visit and you want to explore what Colombian empanadas are all about.
The empanadas come out hot and crispy, with a golden crust that shatters with every bite. Inside, the fillings are well-seasoned and never dry. The aji sauce on the side adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick that ties everything together beautifully.
Sazon keeps things focused and does what it does really well. There’s no massive menu to wade through—just quality street food made fresh and served fast. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a late-night snack, or any time you’re craving something warm and handheld.
If you’ve never tried Colombian empanadas before, this is a great place to start your journey.
4. Delicias Colombianas — Knoxville
Knoxville’s Colombian food scene got a serious boost when Delicias Colombianas opened its doors. This spot brings authentic flavors to East Tennessee, serving up traditional dishes that remind Colombian locals of home and introduce newcomers to a cuisine they won’t soon forget. It’s warm, welcoming, and full of good food.
Arepas are a great way to start your meal here. These thick cornmeal cakes are grilled until slightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They come topped or stuffed with cheese, meat, or beans, depending on what you’re in the mood for.
Simple, satisfying, and totally delicious.
Bandeja paisa is the dish to order if you want the full Colombian experience. It’s a massive platter featuring rice, beans, chicharrón, chorizo, fried egg, avocado, arepa, and plantains. It’s not a meal you finish quickly, but it’s one you’ll remember for a long time.
Sancocho is another standout, especially on cooler days when you want something warm and comforting. This traditional stew is loaded with chicken, yuca, corn, and plantains, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. It’s hearty, nourishing, and the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out.
Don’t leave without trying the jugo de mora. This blackberry juice is sweet, tangy, and incredibly refreshing. It’s the perfect drink to balance out the richness of the food.
5. Mi Tierra Colombian Restaurant — Memphis
Memphis has its fair share of great food, and Mi Tierra adds Colombian flavors to the mix in a big way. This spot has become a go-to for locals craving the bold, comforting tastes of Colombia. The menu is packed with classics, the portions are generous, and the atmosphere is friendly and laid-back.
Empanadas de carne are a solid starting point. These beef-filled pastries are crispy, golden, and packed with seasoned meat that’s savory and satisfying. Dip them in aji sauce and you’ve got yourself a perfect appetizer or snack.
Bandeja paisa makes another appearance here, and Mi Tierra does it justice. The platter is massive, featuring all the traditional components—rice, beans, chicharrón, chorizo, fried egg, avocado, arepa, and plantains. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you full and happy.
Churrasco is another highlight if you’re in the mood for grilled steak. The beef is tender, well-seasoned, and served with chimichurri sauce that adds a bright, herby kick. Pair it with fried yuca or fried plantains and you’ve got a meal that’s simple but incredibly flavorful.
Speaking of sides, the fried plantains here are caramelized and sweet, while the fried yuca is crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Beef tostones are another option—crispy fried green plantains topped with seasoned beef and usually some fresh toppings.
6. El Sabor Latino — Memphis
El Sabor Latino has carved out a niche in Memphis as a spot that serves authentic Colombian food from breakfast through dinner. It’s the kind of place where you can stop in for a morning meal or settle in for a full dinner spread. Either way, you’re getting food that’s made with care and packed with flavor.
Breakfast here is worth waking up for. Traditional Colombian breakfast items like arepas, eggs, chorizo, and beans set the tone for the day. Pair it with a strong cup of Colombian coffee and you’re ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
Bandeja paisa is available all day, which is great news if you’re craving it for lunch or dinner. This iconic dish doesn’t disappoint—it’s hearty, flavorful, and exactly what you want when you’re truly hungry. Every component is cooked well and seasoned just right.
Arroz con pollo is another solid choice if you want something a little lighter but still satisfying. Chicken and rice cooked together with vegetables and spices, it’s comforting and flavorful without being overly heavy. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug.
Sweet plantains are a must-order side. Caramelized and tender, they add a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory dishes perfectly. Wash it all down with a Colombian malt soda—slightly sweet, slightly malty, and totally refreshing.
7. Cafe Latino TN — Clarksville
Clarksville’s Cafe Latino TN takes a broader approach to Latin cuisine, blending Colombian flavors with Puerto Rican, Cuban, and Dominican dishes. It’s a small diner-style spot with a big heart and a menu that lets you explore multiple Latin cultures in one visit. If you’re curious about Colombian food but also want to try other Latin flavors, this is the place.
Colombian dishes here include classics like arepas, empanadas, and rice-and-bean plates that showcase the country’s comfort food roots. The arepas are grilled to order and can be topped or stuffed with your choice of fillings. They’re simple, satisfying, and a great introduction to Colombian cuisine.
What makes Cafe Latino TN unique is the variety. You can order a Cuban sandwich one day, bandeja paisa the next, and Puerto Rican mofongo the day after that. It’s a culinary adventure under one roof, and everything is made fresh and with attention to detail.
The diner vibe adds to the charm. It’s casual, unpretentious, and the kind of place where you can feel comfortable bringing the whole family. The staff is friendly and happy to explain menu items if you’re not familiar with a particular dish.
Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the flavors are authentic. Clarksville doesn’t have a ton of Latin food options, so Cafe Latino TN fills an important gap while also introducing the community to the rich, diverse cuisines of Latin America. It’s a neighborhood gem that deserves more attention.
8. Mi Querida Colombia — Seymour
Nestled near the Smoky Mountains in Seymour, Mi Querida Colombia brings a taste of South America to East Tennessee’s scenic countryside. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but that’s part of the charm. If you’re exploring the Smokies and craving something warm and flavorful, this spot is worth the detour.
Pork belly is a standout here. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, it’s seasoned beautifully and served with traditional sides like rice, beans, and plantains. It’s rich, satisfying, and the kind of dish that sticks with you long after the meal is over.
Choripan is another must-try. This Colombian take on a sausage sandwich features grilled chorizo tucked into a fresh roll and topped with chimichurri and other toppings. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect if you want something handheld and delicious.
Coffee here is serious business. Colombian coffee is known worldwide for its smooth, rich flavor, and Mi Querida Colombia serves it up strong and fresh. Whether you take it black or with a little sugar, it’s the perfect way to start or end your meal.
The setting adds to the experience. Being near the Smokies gives the whole meal a relaxed, scenic vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy good food, good coffee, and good company without feeling rushed.
9. Sabor Latino Restaurante y Pupuseria — Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro’s Sabor Latino Restaurante y Pupuseria offers a unique blend of Colombian and Salvadoran flavors under one roof. The name gives away the specialty—pupusas, the thick Salvadoran corn cakes stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat—but the menu also features plenty of Colombian favorites that are worth your attention. It’s a great spot if you want to explore two distinct Latin cuisines in one visit.
Colombian empanadas here are a solid choice. Crispy, golden, and filled with savory beef or chicken, they’re served with aji sauce that adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick. They’re perfect as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal.
Bandeja paisa makes an appearance on the menu, and it’s done well. The massive platter features all the traditional components—rice, beans, chicharrón, chorizo, fried egg, avocado, arepa, and plantains. It’s hearty, flavorful, and exactly what you want when you’re craving Colombian comfort food.
Sweet plantains are another highlight. Caramelized to perfection, they’re sweet, tender, and the perfect side to balance out savory dishes. Pair them with rice and beans for a simple but satisfying meal.
What sets Sabor Latino apart is the fusion approach. You can start with Colombian empanadas, move on to Salvadoran pupusas, and finish with sweet plantains. It’s a culinary journey that showcases the diversity and richness of Latin American cuisine.
Murfreesboro is lucky to have a spot like this, and it’s quickly becoming a local favorite for anyone craving bold, comforting flavors.