Looking for a tasty, local lunch spot that doesn’t break the bank? We’re here for you, Nashville. Check out this list of 10+ places where a lunch for one costs $10 or less — excluding tax and tip.
We know cravings are key when it comes to a midday meal, so we’ve broken up these spots into their respective food groups. Think fast and casual and vegetarian options.
Soup and salad
The Food Company, 2211 Bandywood Dr.
Order a Pick 2 for choice of half sandwich (chicken, tuna, or egg salad) or a salad + a side. Even on a summer day, we’ll never pass up a cup of piping hot tomato basil soup.
Athens Family Restaurant, 2017 Belmont Blvd.
A mini Greek salad and a cup of avgolemono soup (chicken broth, egg yolks, and lemon juice) with pita bread will set you back $10.
Meatless meals
Calypso Cafe, 700 Thompson Ln.
Calypso Cafe’s beans and three meal comes with Cuban black beans and choice of three side items. Think: Coconut corn muffins, citrus salad, callaloo, fresh fruit, and spiced sweet potatoes.
Radish Kitchen, Various locations
For $10, you can build-your-own salad, grain bowl, or wrap without protein and load up with toppings like crunchy chickpeas, lentils, cotija cheese, hot sauce, and more. It’s hot out there — splurge a little with a cup of frozen yogurt for $4.50.
Italian
Five Points Pizza, Various locations
This NY-style pizza joint has lunch specials that get you two large slices and a fountain drink for $11. If you find yourself catching up with friends midday (say, 2 p.m.), take advantage of the weekday happy hour special — any slice + any draft for $8.
DeSano Pizzeria, Various locations
Authentic Neapolitan pizza? Don’t mind if we dough. This pizzeria offers a 9” marinara for $10 until 3 p.m. We’re personally eyeing the 3 for $10 meatballs with marinara, pecorino romano, focaccia, and fresh shredded basil.
Pizza Perfect, Various locations
This Nashville staple of 40 years serves up a variety of pasta dishes, salads, subs, and slices under $10. Try This: Hot Capi sub with a side of chips for $8.75.
Nicoletto’s Italian Kitchen, Various locations
Build-your-own pasta bowl for $9.95 with choice of sauce and fresh-cut pasta — radiatori, farfalle, and creste di gallo to name a few.
Sandwiches
MacHenry’s Meat and Three, 581 Murfreesboro Pk.
Seasoned chicken tenders packed between two pieces of perfectly-toasted bread? Sign us up. This $10 combo meal also comes with homemade chips + a drink. Pro tip: If you need seconds or thirds try the catfish or meatloaf sandwich combos.
H & T’s, 2264 Murfreesboro Pk.
Take a trip back in time with the $5.99 grilled cheese, or stick to the classics by ordering a cheeseburger or patty melt — both ringing slightly over budget at $10.99. Bonus: All three options are served with a side of fries.
Otaku Ramen, Various locations
Enjoy a hot chicken bun made with Otaku’s hot spice and Kewpie mayo slaw for just $6. Mid heat is also available + happy hour is daily from 4-6 p.m. (if you want a late lunch) with $2 off seasonal cocktails.
Tacos
Taqueria La Juquilita, 803 Dickerson Pk.
Tacos, quesadillas, and enchiladas (all under $10) oh my! Stick to tried-and-true tacos with cilantro, onions and guacamole salad on the side for $2, or switch it up and get shrimp tacos for $3. Feeling extra hungry? Order a quesadilla for $8 or an enchilada for $10.
San Antonio Taco Company, 416 21st Ave. S.
Al la carte tacos ring in at $3 or less and additional taco toppings like beans, tomato, or guacamole can be added for 25 cents. Everything on the Tex-Mex menu is made from scratch daily and we recommend the pulled pork fajita with a side of chips + guacamole.
Oscar’s Taco Shop, Various locations
Find the plant-based or omnivorous tacos of your dreams for under $10. Did you know? You can make anything a combo with beans, rice, and a drink for an additional $3.75.
