Summer in Tennessee means longer days, warmer weather, and plenty of reasons to enjoy a great meal with friends and family. From Memphis to the Smoky Mountains, the state’s dining scene is heating up with exciting new spots that offer everything from rooftop views to handmade dumplings.
Whether you’re craving Italian classics, Southern comfort food, or waterfront dining, these ten newcomers are serving up fresh flavors and memorable experiences that make them ideal destinations for your next summer outing.
1. Josephine Estelle — Germantown
Germantown’s dining landscape just got a major upgrade with the arrival of Josephine Estelle, a restaurant that brings refined flavors and a welcoming atmosphere to one of Memphis’ most charming neighborhoods. The space feels polished without being stuffy, making it equally suitable for date nights and family celebrations.
Warm lighting and thoughtful design details create an inviting environment that encourages guests to settle in and savor their meals.
The menu leans toward contemporary American cuisine with influences from across the culinary spectrum, showcasing seasonal ingredients and creative preparations. Dishes are crafted with attention to detail, balancing familiar comfort with unexpected twists that keep things interesting.
Fresh salads, expertly prepared proteins, and shareable appetizers give diners plenty of options to explore.
What makes this spot particularly appealing for summer dining is its ability to feel special without requiring a major time commitment or formal dress code. The pacing is relaxed, the service is attentive, and the overall vibe strikes that perfect balance between elevated and approachable.
It’s the kind of place where you can celebrate a milestone or simply enjoy a Tuesday evening out.
Germantown residents have been quick to embrace Josephine Estelle as a neighborhood staple, and word is spreading beyond the immediate area. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and consistent execution has earned it a loyal following in just a short time.
For those exploring Memphis’ evolving food scene, this newcomer represents the city’s growing appetite for sophisticated yet accessible dining experiences. It’s proof that you don’t have to head downtown to find restaurant-quality meals worth writing home about.
2. MingXia Dumplings — Cordova
Cordova’s dining options just expanded in the most delicious direction with MingXia Dumplings, a restaurant specializing in Northeastern Chinese cuisine that’s unlike anything else in the Memphis area. Handmade dumplings take center stage here, crafted fresh daily with thin, delicate wrappers and flavorful fillings that range from classic pork and cabbage to more adventurous options.
Each bite delivers that satisfying combination of tender dough and savory filling that makes dumplings so universally beloved.
Beyond the namesake dumplings, the menu ventures into territory rarely explored in Tennessee restaurants. Spicy hot pot soup arrives bubbling at your table, loaded with vegetables, noodles, and your choice of proteins swimming in a rich, aromatic broth.
Lamb skewers come off the grill with a perfect char and seasoning that showcases the meat’s natural flavor. These dishes transport diners straight to the street food stalls of China’s northeastern provinces.
The casual atmosphere encourages experimentation and sharing, making it an ideal spot for groups who want to sample multiple dishes. Don’t shy away from items that seem unfamiliar—the menu descriptions help guide newcomers through the offerings, and the staff is happy to offer recommendations.
Summer evenings call for lighter fare, and the cold noodle dishes provide refreshing relief from the heat while delivering bold flavors.
MingXia fills a significant gap in Memphis’ culinary landscape by offering authentic regional Chinese food that goes beyond the usual American-Chinese restaurant standards. Food enthusiasts and curious eaters have been making the trip to Cordova specifically for these distinctive flavors.
The restaurant proves that suburban locations can be destinations in their own right when the food is special enough.
3. Vicari Italian Grill — Jackson
Jackson’s hospitality scene welcomed a sophisticated new dining option with the opening of Vicari Italian Grill inside the Hyatt Place. This isn’t your typical hotel restaurant—it’s a full-fledged Italian establishment that could stand on its own merits anywhere in the state.
The polished interior and professional service set expectations high, and the kitchen consistently delivers on that promise with carefully prepared dishes that honor Italian culinary traditions.
Pasta lovers will find plenty to celebrate here, from classic preparations like carbonara and marinara to more elaborate cream-based sauces and seafood combinations. Each dish showcases quality ingredients and proper technique, resulting in pasta that’s cooked to the right texture and sauced with restraint.
The steaks deserve equal attention, arriving perfectly seared with sides that complement rather than compete with the main attraction.
Seafood selections rotate based on availability, ensuring freshness while giving regular guests new options to explore. The wine list includes Italian varietals alongside domestic options, providing pairings that enhance the meal without overwhelming the palate.
For summer dining, the lighter seafood and pasta dishes feel particularly appropriate, though the heartier offerings certainly have their fans year-round.
West Tennessee hasn’t always had an abundance of upscale dining choices, which makes Vicari’s arrival particularly significant for the region. Business travelers staying at the hotel have discovered they don’t need to venture far for a quality meal, while local residents are embracing it as a go-to spot for special occasions.
The convenient location near major highways makes it accessible for diners coming from surrounding communities.
The restaurant demonstrates that Italian cuisine translates beautifully to Tennessee’s culinary landscape when executed with skill and attention to detail. It’s raising the bar for what hotel dining can be while giving Jackson a restaurant worthy of its growing reputation as a West Tennessee hub.
4. Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop — Cornersville
Cornersville now boasts one of Tennessee’s most talked-about roadside destinations thanks to Dolly Parton’s new travel stop, which includes a full-service restaurant serving up Southern comfort food with a generous helping of hospitality. This isn’t just a quick-stop cafeteria—it’s a genuine dining experience that pays tribute to Tennessee’s culinary heritage while providing the convenience travelers need.
The space captures that warm, welcoming feeling that Dolly herself embodies, with thoughtful touches that make guests feel right at home.
The menu reads like a love letter to Southern cooking, featuring all the classics done right. Fried chicken arrives crispy and juicy, biscuits come out fluffy and buttery, and the sides include everything from creamy mac and cheese to green beans cooked low and slow.
Breakfast offerings run all day, because sometimes you need pancakes at 2 PM, and nobody here is going to judge you for that choice.
What sets this travel stop apart is the variety of dining options under one roof. Beyond the main restaurant, there’s a dedicated coffee shop for caffeine fixes, a barbecue counter serving smoked meats, and grab-and-go options for those who can’t linger.
This multi-concept approach means everyone in your travel party can find something that hits the spot, whether they want a sit-down meal or a quick snack.
The location along a major corridor makes it a natural stopping point for road trips, and the Dolly Parton connection certainly doesn’t hurt its appeal. Fans make pilgrimages specifically to visit, while regular travelers appreciate having a quality dining option that’s a cut above typical highway fare.
Summer road-trippers have been building their routes around stops here, turning necessary breaks into memorable experiences.
5. Pelato — Franklin
Franklin’s Cool Springs area added serious Italian energy with Pelato, a Brooklyn-inspired restaurant that brings big-city vibes to suburban Tennessee. The atmosphere buzzes with conversation and clinking glasses, creating that energetic dining environment where you can feel the room’s excitement.
Exposed brick, industrial lighting, and an open kitchen design give the space an urban edge while maintaining enough warmth to feel inviting rather than cold.
The menu embraces red-sauce Italian-American cooking in all its glory, serving up the kind of hearty, flavorful dishes that make you want to order another bottle of wine and settle in for the evening. Shareable plates dominate the offerings, encouraging groups to pass dishes around and sample widely.
Meatballs in marinara, eggplant parmesan, and pasta with Sunday gravy deliver comfort and satisfaction in equal measure.
Portion sizes lean generous, making this an excellent value for the quality you’re getting. The kitchen doesn’t try to reinvent Italian-American classics—instead, it focuses on executing them really well with quality ingredients and proper technique.
That approach resonates with diners who want familiar favorites done right rather than deconstructed versions that sacrifice flavor for novelty.
Summer evenings find the restaurant packed with families, couples, and friend groups taking advantage of the lively atmosphere and crowd-pleasing menu. The noise level runs high during peak hours, which adds to the energetic vibe but might not suit those seeking intimate conversation.
For most guests, though, that bustling environment is part of the appeal—it feels like you’re part of something fun rather than just eating dinner.
Cool Springs continues to evolve as a dining destination, and Pelato represents the area’s shift toward more distinctive restaurant concepts. It’s giving Franklin residents a reason to stay local for dinner instead of heading into Nashville, while also drawing visitors from across the region who’ve heard about the lively atmosphere and satisfying Italian fare.
6. Suite Twelve25 — Nashville
Nashville’s skyline gained a stunning new vantage point with Suite Twelve25, a rooftop destination perched 25 floors above downtown that’s redefining elevated dining in Music City. The views alone justify the visit—panoramic scenes stretch across the Cumberland River, the Titans stadium, and the glittering downtown core.
As the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle, the atmosphere transforms into something truly magical, especially on the open-air patio where summer breezes provide natural air conditioning.
Artisan pizza takes center stage on the menu, with thin crusts that emerge from the oven with perfectly charred edges and creative topping combinations that go beyond the ordinary. The wine program emphasizes approachable selections that pair beautifully with the food without requiring a sommelier’s knowledge to navigate.
Small plates and appetizers round out the offerings, giving groups plenty of options for sharing while they take in the scenery.
The space strikes a sophisticated balance between special-occasion destination and casual hangout spot. You can dress up for a romantic date or show up in nice jeans with friends—both feel appropriate depending on your mood and plans.
The staff understands that people come as much for the views as the food, so service paces itself to let guests linger and enjoy the experience rather than rushing them through courses.
Summer evenings represent peak time at Suite Twelve25, when the outdoor seating becomes Nashville’s most coveted real estate. Reservations are strongly recommended, though the bar area accepts walk-ins if you’re willing to be flexible about seating.
For visitors and locals alike, this rooftop spot offers a fresh perspective on Nashville—literally and figuratively. It’s giving the city another reason to look up and appreciate how much its dining scene has grown in recent years.
7. Iris Rooftop Bar — Chattanooga
Chattanooga reached new heights—literally—with the opening of Iris Rooftop Bar on the 11th floor of The Waymark Hotel. This airy space claims the title of the city’s highest rooftop bar, offering unobstructed views that showcase Chattanooga’s unique geography where mountains meet urban development.
The perspective from up here reveals why this city has become such a beloved destination, with Lookout Mountain providing a dramatic backdrop to the downtown scene below.
The cocktail program demonstrates serious creativity, moving beyond standard mixed drinks to offer seasonal concoctions that incorporate local ingredients and unexpected flavor combinations. Bartenders clearly take pride in their craft, paying attention to presentation and balance in ways that elevate the drinking experience.
Small plates provide the necessary foundation for an evening of cocktails, with options that range from light and refreshing to more substantial bites.
Weekend brunch service adds another dimension to Iris, transforming the space from nighttime destination to daytime gathering spot. Morning light hits the mountains differently, and sipping coffee or mimosas while watching the city wake up offers its own kind of appeal.
Summer weather makes the outdoor sections of the rooftop particularly appealing, though Tennessee heat means the covered areas with fans get plenty of use during peak afternoon hours. Evening visits tend to be more comfortable temperature-wise, and that’s when the space really comes alive with Chattanooga’s young professionals and visitors unwinding after a day of exploring.
Chattanooga’s transformation into a major tourism destination continues with additions like Iris that give both visitors and residents compelling reasons to explore the city’s evolving hospitality scene. It’s proof that smaller cities can compete with major metros when it comes to creating memorable dining and drinking experiences.
8. Riverdance — Guild
Just outside Chattanooga in the small community of Guild, Riverdance opened its doors with the kind of scenic setting that makes diners reach for their phones to capture the view before their food even arrives. Positioned near the Tennessee River, this upscale newcomer takes full advantage of its natural surroundings with large windows and outdoor seating that put the waterfront front and center.
The building itself feels modern and thoughtfully designed, creating an elegant environment that enhances rather than competes with the landscape.
Modern Southern cuisine guides the menu, with dishes that honor regional traditions while incorporating contemporary techniques and presentations. Local ingredients feature prominently when available, connecting diners to the surrounding area through flavors that reflect the season and the region.
The kitchen demonstrates ambition in its preparations, creating plates that look restaurant-magazine worthy while still delivering on taste and substance.
The craft cocktail program matches the food in creativity and execution, offering drinks that showcase premium spirits and house-made components. Bartenders clearly understand flavor profiles and balance, resulting in cocktails that feel special without being overly complicated or sweet.
The wine and beer selections complement the food menu with thoughtful pairings that enhance the overall dining experience.
What makes Riverdance particularly noteworthy is its willingness to establish itself outside the main tourist corridors, betting that quality and setting will draw diners willing to make a short drive from downtown Chattanooga. That gamble appears to be paying off, as word spreads about the impressive food and stunning location.
Summer evenings find the restaurant busy with couples celebrating anniversaries, friend groups marking special occasions, and out-of-town visitors who’ve done their research and know this spot is worth the trip.
The restaurant raises the bar for what’s possible in smaller Tennessee communities, proving that sophisticated dining isn’t limited to major cities. It’s giving the Chattanooga area another compelling reason to be considered a serious food destination.
9. Earl’s — Knoxville
Knoxville’s South Waterfront district gained a major amenity with Earl’s, a new restaurant that’s become the social hub of the growing South Banks development. The location capitalizes on prime riverfront real estate, offering diners the chance to watch boats pass by while enjoying casual meals and cold drinks.
Large outdoor spaces take advantage of Tennessee’s long warm-weather season, and summer evenings find every table occupied with people soaking up the waterside atmosphere.
The menu keeps things approachable and crowd-pleasing, focusing on the kind of food that pairs well with outdoor dining and casual gatherings. Burgers, sandwiches, salads, and shareable appetizers dominate the offerings, executed well without pretension or unnecessary complexity.
The emphasis is clearly on creating a relaxed environment where the food supports the social experience rather than demanding all the attention. Drink options include local craft beers, wine, and cocktails designed for easy sipping in the sunshine.
What Earl’s brings to Knoxville is less about groundbreaking cuisine and more about creating a gathering place that gives residents a reason to spend time in the redeveloping South Knoxville area. The restaurant functions as an anchor for the broader South Banks project, drawing people to a part of the city that’s been overlooked for years.
Families come for early dinners, young professionals meet up for after-work drinks, and weekend crowds gather to watch games on the outdoor screens.
The development of South Banks represents one of Knoxville’s most ambitious urban renewal projects, and Earl’s plays a crucial role in making that area feel activated and welcoming. Summer months showcase the space at its best, when the weather cooperates and the outdoor sections buzz with activity.
For Knoxville residents, Earl’s represents the city’s continued growth and the successful transformation of underutilized waterfront property into vibrant public spaces where people actually want to spend time.
10. Roma Table — Sevierville
Sevierville’s dining landscape expanded with Roma Table, an Italian-focused restaurant that’s giving Smoky Mountain visitors a welcome alternative to the area’s usual lineup of pancake houses and barbecue joints. The timing couldn’t be better—tourists have been asking for more diverse dining options, and Roma Table delivers exactly that with a menu centered on pasta, pizza, and other Italian classics.
The atmosphere leans casual and family-friendly, recognizing that most guests are on vacation and want good food without formality or fuss.
Pizza comes out with crispy crusts and generous toppings, satisfying families who need to please multiple palates at once. Pasta dishes range from simple marinara preparations to more elaborate cream sauces and seafood combinations, giving diners options whether they’re in the mood for light or hearty.
Portion sizes acknowledge that guests have likely spent the day hiking or exploring attractions, arriving at dinner with substantial appetites to satisfy.
The location in Sevierville positions Roma Table as a convenient stop for visitors staying in the area or passing through on their way to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Summer vacation season brings steady crowds of families, couples, and friend groups looking for dinner options that feel a step above fast food without requiring reservations weeks in advance.
The restaurant fills that middle ground nicely, offering quality food at reasonable prices in a comfortable setting.
What makes this addition particularly valuable is its contribution to diversifying the Smoky Mountain area’s culinary offerings. While the region has plenty of Southern cooking and tourist-oriented restaurants, options for Italian cuisine have been limited.
For the Sevierville area, Roma Table represents continued growth and maturation of the local dining scene, proving that tourist destinations can support quality restaurants beyond the expected categories.