Yelp’s Top 100 Just Dropped—4 Nashville Restaurants Made the Cut

Nashville just earned major bragging rights on Yelp’s Top 100 list this year.

Four local restaurants made the cut, proving that Music City’s food scene is just as legendary as its tunes. From authentic Japanese flavors to classic Southern comfort food, these spots have won over diners with unforgettable meals and top-notch service.

1. Noko (No. 24)

Ranked at an impressive No. 24 on Yelp’s Top 100, Noko has captured hearts with its authentic Japanese cuisine and intimate dining atmosphere. Chef Dung Vo brings decades of experience to this cozy spot, creating dishes that transport you straight to Tokyo. Every plate tells a story of tradition, precision, and passion for the craft.

The omakase experience here is what really sets Noko apart from other sushi restaurants in town. Guests sit at the counter and watch as the chef carefully prepares each course using the freshest fish available. It’s not just dinner—it’s a performance that engages all your senses.

Reservations fill up weeks in advance, so planning ahead is absolutely essential if you want to snag a seat. The menu changes based on seasonal ingredients, meaning every visit offers something new to discover. Regulars rave about the toro, the uni, and the perfectly seasoned rice that forms the foundation of every bite.

What makes Noko truly special is the personal touch Chef Vo brings to each interaction. He remembers guests’ preferences and tailors the experience to individual tastes. This level of care and attention has earned Noko a devoted following and a well-deserved spot among the nation’s best restaurants.

2. Degthai (No. 28)

Sitting pretty at No. 28 on the national list, Degthai has become Nashville’s go-to destination for authentic Thai flavors that pack serious heat. Owner Deg Sornsuttikul grew up cooking alongside her grandmother in Thailand, and those family recipes shine through in every dish. The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere matches the bold, colorful food that comes out of the kitchen.

Spice lovers rejoice—Degthai doesn’t hold back on the chili peppers. The menu offers heat levels ranging from mild to “Thai hot,” and the staff actually means it when they warn you about the spiciest options. Popular dishes include the khao soi, a rich coconut curry noodle soup, and the crispy pork belly that practically melts in your mouth.

The restaurant operates in a casual, counter-service style where you order at the front and grab a seat. Don’t let the laid-back vibe fool you—the flavors here rival any high-end Thai restaurant you’ll find. Fresh herbs, house-made curry pastes, and traditional cooking techniques make all the difference.

Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty of options too, with tofu and vegetable dishes that are just as flavorful as the meat versions. Degthai proves that authentic ethnic cuisine can thrive in Nashville, earning respect from both Thai food experts and curious newcomers alike.

3. Monell’s (No. 84)

There’s something magical about sitting down at a big table with strangers and passing around bowls of home-cooked Southern food. That’s exactly what happens at Monell’s, which landed at No. 84 on Yelp’s prestigious list. This Nashville institution has been serving family-style meals since 1995, turning first-time visitors into lifelong fans with every serving of fried chicken and cornbread.

The dining experience here feels like Sunday dinner at your grandmother’s house, minus the awkward family conversations. Servers bring out endless platters of fried chicken, pot roast, green beans, mashed potatoes, and biscuits that you share with everyone at your table. You’ll definitely leave with a full belly and probably a few new friends too.

Breakfast is equally legendary, with options like fluffy pancakes, country ham, and eggs cooked just right. The restaurant operates in a historic Victorian house, adding to the homey, nostalgic atmosphere. Lines can get long, especially on weekends, but most folks agree the wait is worth it.

What keeps people coming back isn’t just the food—it’s the sense of community and tradition that Monell’s represents. In a world of fast-casual chains and trendy fusion restaurants, this place reminds us why simple, well-executed comfort food will never go out of style.

4. The Butter Milk Ranch (No. 93)

Rounding out Nashville’s Yelp Top 100 appearances at No. 93, The Butter Milk Ranch has quickly become a local favorite for elevated comfort food with a modern twist. Chef Julia Sullivan’s approach combines Southern traditions with seasonal ingredients and creative techniques that surprise and delight. The restaurant’s warm, welcoming space makes you feel right at home from the moment you walk through the door.

The menu changes regularly based on what’s fresh and available, but certain favorites make frequent appearances. The buttermilk fried chicken lives up to the restaurant’s name, with a perfectly crispy coating and juicy meat inside. Vegetable dishes get star treatment here too, with roasted carrots, charred broccolini, and heirloom tomatoes prepared in ways that make you actually crave your greens.

Brunch draws big crowds on weekends, featuring items like fluffy biscuits with sausage gravy and creative takes on classic egg dishes. The cocktail program deserves special mention, with bartenders crafting drinks that complement the food beautifully. From bourbon-based classics to refreshing seasonal concoctions, there’s something for every taste.

You’ll recognize the soul of Southern cooking in every bite, but the presentation and flavor combinations feel fresh and exciting. It’s this perfect blend that earned the restaurant its spot among America’s best.