Fueling Up Before Security
Have you ever arrived at an airport, stomach rumbling, only to be met with the disheartening realization that your only options are overpriced, underwhelming snacks? The search for decent airport food can be a stressful prelude to any trip. Fortunately, if you’re flying through Nashville International Airport (BNA), you’re in for a much more palatable experience. Nashville, known as Music City, is also a city with a thriving culinary scene, and that spirit extends to its airport. This guide is your key to navigating the delicious dining options available at BNA, ensuring you start or end your journey with a tasty taste of Tennessee. Whether you’re craving a taste of Nashville hot chicken, a hearty barbecue meal, or a quick caffeine fix, this guide will help you find the perfect spot to satisfy your appetite.
Often overlooked, the pre-security area of an airport can be a lifesaver for those early morning flights, last-minute farewells, or simply needing a bite before tackling the check-in process. Nashville Airport understands this need and offers a selection of dining options even before you pass through security.
Coffee Corner
For that essential caffeine boost, look no further than Coffee Corner. They offer a wide range of coffee drinks, from classic drip coffee to elaborate lattes. Pastries, muffins, and other baked goods are also available, perfect for a quick breakfast or a mid-morning snack. The price range is budget-friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxed, making it ideal for catching up on emails or simply gathering your thoughts before a flight. Their breakfast sandwiches are particularly popular, offering a savory start to the day. You can find Coffee Corner located near the ticketing counters, and they are open from early morning until late evening.
Quick Bites
If you’re looking for something more substantial, Quick Bites offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and wraps. This is a great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. The prices are reasonable, and the service is fast, making it a convenient choice for travelers on the go. Try their signature club sandwich for a filling and satisfying meal. Quick Bites is located near the entrance to the terminal, easily accessible to both arriving and departing passengers.
Grab and Go Goodies
For those truly pressed for time, Grab and Go Goodies is the perfect solution. This convenience store offers a variety of snacks, drinks, and pre-packaged meals. You can find everything from chips and candy bars to yogurt and fruit cups. The prices are competitive, and the selection is wide, making it easy to find something to satisfy your cravings. This is also a good place to stock up on drinks and snacks for your flight. Grab and Go Goodies is located in the central lobby area, making it a convenient stop for all travelers.
Post-Security Culinary Adventures: Exploring Each Concourse
Once you’ve made it through security, the real culinary adventure begins. Nashville Airport is divided into several concourses, each offering its own unique selection of dining options. Knowing what’s available in each concourse can help you make the most of your time at the airport.
Discover Concourse A Delights
Concourse A is a bustling hub of activity, serving both domestic and international flights. It’s also home to a diverse range of dining options.
A Taste of Tennessee
Indulge in authentic Southern fare at A Taste of Tennessee. This restaurant offers a menu filled with classic dishes like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and collard greens. The prices are moderate, and the atmosphere is casual and welcoming. It’s a great place to get a taste of Southern hospitality before leaving Nashville. Their fried green tomatoes are a must-try appetizer. You can find A Taste of Tennessee near gate A, open for lunch and dinner.
Burgers and Brews
Craving a classic burger and a cold beer? Look no further than Burgers and Brews. This casual eatery offers a variety of burgers, fries, and other comfort food staples. They also have a wide selection of beers on tap, perfect for relaxing before your flight. The prices are affordable, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. Their signature burger is a local favorite, topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, and a special sauce. Burgers and Brews is located near gate A, and they are open from morning until evening.
Savor Concourse B Flavors
Concourse B is another popular area of the airport, serving a mix of domestic flights. It offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes.
Pizza Paradise
Enjoy a slice of freshly made pizza at Pizza Paradise. This restaurant offers a variety of pizzas, from classic pepperoni to more creative toppings. They also have salads and pasta dishes available. The prices are reasonable, and the service is quick, making it a great option for a quick and easy meal. Their Margherita pizza is a simple yet delicious choice. Pizza Paradise is located near gate B, open for lunch and dinner.
Mexican Fiesta
Spice up your travel day at Mexican Fiesta. This restaurant offers a variety of Mexican dishes, from tacos and burritos to enchiladas and fajitas. They also have a selection of margaritas and other cocktails available. The prices are moderate, and the atmosphere is festive and fun. Their chicken fajitas are a popular choice, served with all the fixings. Mexican Fiesta is located near gate B, and they are open from morning until evening.
Concourse C Culinary Experiences
Concourse C is known for its mix of domestic and international flights, and it also boasts a solid selection of dining options.
Asian Fusion Flavors
Embark on a flavorful journey at Asian Fusion Flavors. This restaurant offers a variety of Asian dishes, from sushi and sashimi to stir-fries and noodle soups. The prices are moderate to high, and the atmosphere is elegant and refined. Their sushi rolls are particularly popular, made with fresh ingredients and expert craftsmanship. Asian Fusion Flavors is located near gate C, and they are open for lunch and dinner.
Deli Delights
For a satisfying sandwich or salad, head to Deli Delights. This deli offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups. They also have a selection of pastries and desserts available. The prices are affordable, and the service is friendly and efficient. Their turkey and Swiss sandwich is a classic choice. Deli Delights is located near gate C, and they are open from morning until evening.
Concourse D Dining Destinations
Concourse D is a busy area with numerous domestic flights, and it caters to travelers with a wide array of food choices.
Southern Comfort Kitchen
Experience true Southern hospitality at Southern Comfort Kitchen. This restaurant offers a menu filled with classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, and biscuits and gravy. The prices are moderate, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Their shrimp and grits are a local favorite, creamy and flavorful. Southern Comfort Kitchen is located near gate D, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Sports Bar Grub
Catch the game and enjoy some classic sports bar fare at Sports Bar Grub. This casual eatery offers a variety of burgers, wings, fries, and other pub favorites. They also have a wide selection of beers on tap, and multiple TV screens showing live sporting events. The prices are affordable, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. Their chicken wings are a crowd-pleaser, available in a variety of flavors. Sports Bar Grub is located near gate D, and they are open from morning until late evening.
Spotlight on Local Nashville Favorites
While many chain restaurants can be found in airports, Nashville Airport takes pride in showcasing local establishments, offering travelers a true taste of the city’s culinary scene.
Nashville Hot Chicken Shack
No trip to Nashville is complete without trying Nashville hot chicken. Nashville Hot Chicken Shack brings the heat to the airport with its signature spicy fried chicken sandwiches. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and then fried to crispy perfection. You can choose your heat level, from mild to extra hot. Be warned, the extra hot is not for the faint of heart! The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is casual and lively. This is a must-try for anyone visiting Nashville.
Barbecue Pit Stop
Indulge in authentic Tennessee barbecue at Barbecue Pit Stop. This restaurant offers a variety of smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. They also have a selection of sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, and mac and cheese. The prices are moderate, and the atmosphere is rustic and inviting. Their pulled pork sandwich is a local favorite, tender and flavorful.
Quick and Easy Options for Travelers in a Hurry
For those travelers with limited time, Nashville Airport offers a variety of quick and easy dining options. These spots allow you to grab a bite without missing your flight.
Starbucks
For a quick caffeine fix and a light snack, Starbucks is always a reliable option. They offer a wide range of coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. The prices are consistent, and the service is fast and efficient. This is a great option for a quick breakfast or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. There are multiple Starbucks locations throughout the airport.
Hudson News
Hudson News offers a variety of snacks, drinks, and pre-packaged meals. You can find everything from chips and candy bars to sandwiches and salads. The prices are competitive, and the selection is wide, making it easy to find something to satisfy your cravings. This is also a good place to stock up on drinks and snacks for your flight.
Dining Tips for Nashville Airport (BNA)
To make the most of your dining experience at Nashville Airport, consider these helpful tips:
- Plan Ahead: Check the opening hours of restaurants online before you arrive at the airport. This will help you avoid disappointment if your favorite spot is closed.
- Mobile Ordering: Many restaurants at BNA offer mobile ordering through their websites or apps. This can save you time and allow you to skip the line.
- Dietary Needs: If you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, be sure to check the menus online or ask the staff at the restaurant.
- Peak Travel Periods: Allow extra time for dining during peak travel periods. Restaurants can get crowded, and service may be slower.
- Bring Your Own Snacks: Consider bringing your own snacks to save money. Airport food can be expensive, so packing your own snacks can help you stay within your budget.
Conclusion: A Delicious Journey Through Music City
Nashville Airport (BNA) offers a surprising variety of dining options, catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a taste of authentic Nashville cuisine or a quick and easy meal on the go, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. From local favorites like Nashville hot chicken to international flavors and convenient grab-and-go options, BNA provides a diverse culinary landscape. So, next time you’re flying through Nashville, be sure to explore the food offerings and enjoy a delicious taste of Music City! What are your favorite Nashville Airport dining experiences? Share them in the comments below!
