It’s no secret that good food is one of the quickest ways to our team members’ hearts.
Lucky for us we’re based out of Franklin, Tennessee, a growing community just south of Nashville. With a charming downtown and a beautiful historic district, there are an abundance of dining options to explore.
From cozy coffee houses perfect for afternoons spent working remotely, to historic spaces revived with modern menus and fresh, fast-casual options, Franklin has it all.
Check out our team’s top picks below:
#1. Merridee’s Breadbasket
110 Fourth Avenue South, Franklin, TN 37064
As we compiled this list, Merridee’s was a clear favorite among the croux. Karen, Lauren, and Stefan all mentioned the local bakery that conveniently serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Citing pot roast, curry chicken salad, homemade soups, and a ham and egg breakfast biscuit that sells out quickly, the team appreciates this classic spot for a cozy meal, a sweet treat, or a drink from the espresso bar.
“My first Franklin love. It was the first place I went when I got off the plane to move here in 1999—I fell in love with the place.” – Stefan
#2. Puckett’s Boat House
94 East Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064
The Boat House was mentioned by Lauren and Karen as a go-to for seafood and classic Southern fare.
The restaurant has two bars—one for wine and one for oysters—and their mission is downhome dishes with a seafood spin.
For Lauren, it was the site of her first taste of fish chili (gumbo), a momentous occasion.
#3. O’ Be Joyful (OBJ)
328 Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064
Stefan brought OBJ to our attention, calling it his new favorite and praising the burgers and bourbon (only on a late lunch, of course).
The name itself is enough to create intrigue. O’ Be Joyful or OBJ is a slang term from the Civil War, referring to an intoxicating drink or homemade brew.
#4 Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe
428 Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064
Sure, it’s a chain, but Taziki’s Franklin location is in the heart of downtown and feels just as charming as some of its local counterparts.
Whether you’re looking to pop in for a quick meal or want to take advantage of their delivery service (we do this a lot—it’s remarkably fast!), Taziki’s is a fantastic lunch option.
Shayna says she craved their Greek Lemon Chicken Soup nearly every day during her pregnancy.
“Now when I go, I change it up a lot, but I always order an extra side of Taziki sauce. Always.” – Shayna
#5. McCreary’s Irish Pub
414 Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064
While you might not peg an Irish pub as a hotspot for an American bar favorite like wings, Shayna claims it’s the place to go.
Less surprisingly, their Shepherd’s Pie and Bangers and Mash are the perfect choice if you’re looking for a taste of the Emerald Isle in the heart of Tennessee.
And beyond the traditional Irish fare, McCreary’s offers a wide variety of sandwiches and burgers to satisfy your midday hunger.
#6. Frothy Monkey
125 Fifth Avenue South, Franklin, TN 37064
If the name isn’t enough to draw you in, Lianna says Frothy Monkey’s rosemary honey latte will do the trick.
With four other locations in Tennessee, you could call Frothy a chain. However, we think that would be a disservice to its charm. Think old hardwoods, exposed brick, and a crisp, minimalist color scheme.
Beyond the aesthetic, the coffeehouse serves delicious espresso drinks, as well as carefully crafted breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. Frothy also serves craft beer and wine, with happy hour from 4-6 p.m. on weekdays.
TIP: Frother also offers a wide variety of gluten-free options.
#7. GRAY’S on Main
332 Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064
GRAY’S on Main marries the best of historic Franklin architecture with stunning Southern flavor. The building itself dates back to 1876 and served as Gray Drug Co. for nearly a century.
The restaurant, restored and reimagined in 2013, brings three stories together with dining on the first level, music and a bar on the second floor, and an elegant supper club on the top floor.
The menu varies widely featuring creative sandwiches and salads, perfect for a weekday lunch.
Lianna recommends the Burrata and Honey Roasted Delicata Squash Salad.
Whether you’re local to Franklin or happen to be passing through, we’d love to hear your take on the city’s dining! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.