Are you craving authentic Chinese cuisine in Nashville? While the city may not have a Chinatown of its own, there are several restaurants that can satisfy your hankering for hot pot, stir-fries, noodles, and dumplings. Whether you’re looking for a trendy dining experience or a quick takeout option, Nashville has it all. In this article, we’ll explore ten of the best Chinese restaurants in the city, each offering its own unique flavors and culinary delights.
1. China Cottage
Located in Madison, China Cottage is a popular spot for Nashvillians seeking classic Chinese dishes. From bubbling hot pots to crispy beef, this restaurant offers a wide range of options to satisfy your cravings. Don’t miss their General Tso’s tofu, crab Rangoon, and seafood hot pot. China Cottage is a go-to destination for authentic Chinese flavors.
- Address: 1795 Gallatin Pike N, Madison, TN 37115
- Contact: (615) 865-6854
- Visit Website
2. TKO
TKO is a must-visit restaurant in East Nashville, known for its inventive take on Chinese cuisine with a Southern twist. Their menu features dishes like chicken fat fried rice, chiu-chow home fries, and fiery Chile Noodz. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, TKO has plenty of options to cater to various dietary preferences.
- Address: 4204 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216
- Contact: (615) 915-3102
- Visit Websit
3. Xiao Bao
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, make sure to visit Xiao Bao. This Charleston import in East Nashville combines Chinese cuisine with a retro ’50s diner vibe and natural wine bar. Their menu includes smacked cucumber, hand-pulled biang biang noodles, and Sichuan la zi cauliflower stir-fry. Xiao Bao is a popular spot, so be prepared for a potential wait as they don’t take reservations.
- Address: 830 Meridian St, Nashville, TN 37207
- Contact: (615) 239-5553
- Visit Website
4. Steam Boys
Steam Boys is a local fast-casual chain that specializes in fluffy bao and dumplings. With multiple locations in Nashville, including Germantown and Broadway’s Assembly Food Hall, you can enjoy their delicious offerings wherever you are. Aside from their signature bao and dumplings, Steam Boys also serves noodle soups and liters of Thai boba tea to satisfy your cravings.
- Address: 1200 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
- Contact: (615) 678-6336
- Visit Website
5. Tánsuŏ
Tánsuŏ, located in the Gulch, offers a swanky dining experience with contemporary Chinese dishes. Created by celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan, this restaurant is known for its General Tso’s Brussels sprouts, Nashville hot chicken lo mein, and bananas Foster wontons. The elegant lanterns and cozy private banquettes add to the ambiance of this upscale Chinese restaurant.
- Address: 121B 12th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203
- Contact: (615) 782-6786
- Visit Website
6. Lucky Bamboo China Bistro
For a local favorite, head to Lucky Bamboo China Bistro in Charlotte Pike. This strip mall restaurant has been serving generous portions of Chinese American staples since 1999. Try their cold Sichuan appetizers, rice rolls, and mapo tofu. General Tso’s and bourbon chicken are also popular choices at this beloved Nashville spot.
- Address: 5855 Charlotte Pike Ste B, Nashville, TN 37209
- Contact: (615) 760-5930
- Visit Website
7. Meet Noodles
Meet Noodles, a Brooklyn transplant near Vanderbilt University, specializes in spicy Chongqing noodles, also known as xiao mian. Customize your noodle bowl with Sichuan pepper and your choice of meats and vegetables. Don’t forget to try their sesame seed balls, dumplings, and takoyaki for a complete culinary experience.
- Address: 2121 Belcourt Ave, Nashville, TN 37212
- Contact: (615) 679-9941
- Visit Website
8. Sichuan Hot Pot & Asian Cuisine
As the name suggests, Sichuan Hot Pot & Asian Cuisine is a hot pot-focused restaurant on Nolensville Pike. Here, you can choose from a variety of broths and ingredients to create your own hot pot experience. They also offer a wide range of other Sichuan dishes like chow rice cakes, chow mei fun, and crab boils.
- Address: 5680 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211
- Contact: (615) 750-2582
- Visit Website
9. China Spring
China Spring has been a go-to spot for Chinese American staples for over two decades. Located on Charlotte Pike, this restaurant offers Cantonese-style dishes like lo mein, moo shu, fried rice, and more. Their generous portions and flavorful options, including General Tso’s and bourbon chicken, have made China Spring a local favorite.
- Address: 8165 TN-100, Nashville, TN 37221
- Contact: (615) 662-3883
- Visit Website
10. Corner Asian Cafe
Situated in Brentwood, Corner Asian Cafe is a casual yet family-friendly restaurant known for its Sichuan cuisine. Indulge in crispy scallion pancakes, salt pepper spare ribs, and chile oil-coated crispy frog legs. This strip mall gem offers a variety of spicy and flavorful dishes that will satisfy your cravings.
- Address: 10656 Concord Rd, Brentwood, TN 37027
- Contact: (615) 941-7204
- Visit Website
Now that you know the top Chinese restaurants in Nashville, it’s time to embark on a culinary adventure. Whether you’re in the mood for hot pot, noodles, or dumplings, these ten establishments have got you covered. Enjoy the delicious flavors and diverse culinary experiences that Nashville’s Chinese food scene has to offer.
Note: Please check the respective websites or contact the restaurants for the most up-to-date hours and availability.
Conclusion
Nashville may not have a dedicated Chinatown, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find incredible Chinese cuisine in the city. From trendy restaurants to casual spots, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a fan of hot pot, noodles, or dumplings, the ten Chinese restaurants listed above are sure to impress with their authentic flavors and diverse menu offerings. So, the next time you’re in Nashville and craving Chinese food, be sure to check out one of these fantastic establishments.