The best restaurants in Cookeville

40 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Restaurants · 40 places · showing the latest additions first

1091 Rooftop

Restaurants

If your week’s dragging, 1091 Rooftop is a dependable mood lift with a breezy dining room and patio, a legit dinner lineup, and cocktails…

1091 S Willow Ave

If your week’s dragging, 1091 Rooftop is a dependable mood lift with a breezy dining room and patio, a legit dinner lineup, and cocktails plus craft beer that actually taste like a night off. Pro move, circle back for the breakfast buffet when morning sneaks up.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 21, 2026

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The Slice Pizza and Games is Cookeville’s go-to for scratch-made pies and over 20 arcade games, so you can chase high scores between…

408 W Jackson St · ✓ checked Jul 27

The Slice Pizza and Games is Cookeville’s go-to for scratch-made pies and over 20 arcade games, so you can chase high scores between slices. House-made dough and sauce, freshly grated mozzarella, easy dine-in, takeout, or delivery, plus party-friendly vibes make it a midweek hero.

From the Cookeville newsletter, August 3, 2026

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Family-run Big Tony's Pizzeria turns out New York-style pies from a century-old family recipe, thin crust with a touch of sweetness and…

866 E 10th St

Family-run Big Tony's Pizzeria turns out New York-style pies from a century-old family recipe, thin crust with a touch of sweetness and dough made fresh daily. Add their meatballs and strombolis, and you’ve got an easy local go-to when only legit pizza will do.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 2, 2026

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Irrationale Kitchen+Taps nails scratch-made American comfort with fun twists, the kind you start craving around lunch on Tuesday. Think…

1227 N Washington Ave Ste 100

Irrationale Kitchen+Taps nails scratch-made American comfort with fun twists, the kind you start craving around lunch on Tuesday.

From the Cookeville newsletter, August 31, 2026

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If your week needs a reset, check out Super Hibachi Buffet & Grill for Chinese, Japanese, and sushi favorites like savory lo mein, crispy…

791 S Jefferson Ave #4028

If your week needs a reset, check out Super Hibachi Buffet & Grill for Chinese, Japanese, and sushi favorites like savory lo mein, crispy egg rolls, succulent sweet & sour chicken, and expertly crafted sushi rolls. Go delivery or takeout this week, then mix a little of everything and call it dinner.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 20, 2026

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A Cookeville favorite since 2012, Hooligans Half Irish Pub is locally owned and the easy choice when you want friendly faces, every big…

586 S Jefferson Ave

A Cookeville favorite since 2012, Hooligans Half Irish Pub is locally owned and the easy choice when you want friendly faces, every big game, and plates built for real appetites. Think nine-ounce signature burgers, crispy wings, and a mighty Reuben, plus online ordering when you need your pub fix to-go.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 2, 2026

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Chestnut Oaks Farm Store and Kitchen is the kind of laid-back spot you hit when you want smoked brisket, honest burgers, and grilled…

7355 Burgess Falls Rd (Sparta) · ✓ checked Aug 19

Chestnut Oaks Farm Store and Kitchen is the kind of laid-back spot you hit when you want smoked brisket, honest burgers, and grilled favorites, then cap it with hand-scooped ice cream. Plus a cozy gift shop with local finds, because errands deserve snacks.

From the Cookeville newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.

1385 Interstate Dr

Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.

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Midtown Social

Restaurants

Midtown Social is a laid-back kitchen and tap where scratch-made burgers, hot chicken sandwiches, and cheese curds meet karaoke and game…

565 S Jefferson Ave Ste A

Midtown Social is a laid-back kitchen and tap where scratch-made burgers, hot chicken sandwiches, and cheese curds meet karaoke and game nights. Order online when couch mode calls, or round up friends for private parties and catering that actually feels like a treat.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 7, 2026

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A Taste of Tad, LLC is Cookeville’s new food truck serving crave-worthy, cooked-to-order wings in classic and specialty flavors, plus…

500 S Walnut Ave

A Taste of Tad, LLC is Cookeville’s new food truck serving crave-worthy, cooked-to-order wings in classic and specialty flavors, plus seasoned fries made fresh every batch. Follow their socials to see where they’ll be serving next, or hit them up for catering when you want the crew happily sauced.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 2, 2026

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Pizza Hut

Restaurants

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

641 N Willow Ave

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

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37 Cedar Restaurant and Bar nails the Cookeville sweet spot with creatively tweaked classics, from flatbreads and sandwiches to weekend…

37 N Cedar Ave

37 Cedar Restaurant and Bar nails the Cookeville sweet spot with creatively tweaked classics, from flatbreads and sandwiches to weekend brunch, plus cocktails that rotate enough to keep regulars curious. Go for the lively vibe and live music, stay for the burger, salmon, or a dangerously good whiskey fondue.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 6, 2026

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Waffle House

Restaurants

Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.

1079 S Willow Ave

Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.

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Whether you're plotting a low-key dinner or feeding the whole crew, Mamma Rosa's Italian Restaurant turns out fresh-dough pies and cozy…

200 S Lowe Ave

Whether you're plotting a low-key dinner or feeding the whole crew, Mamma Rosa's Italian Restaurant turns out fresh-dough pies and cozy Italian classics that taste like weeknight sanity. Expect bubbly cheese, twirlable pasta, and that straight-from-the-oven smell your kitchen can take credit for later.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 13, 2026

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Fazoli's

Restaurants

Fast-food chain doling out baked pastas, subs, pizza & other casual Italian fare plus custom combos.

1063 S Walnut Ave

Fast-food chain doling out baked pastas, subs, pizza & other casual Italian fare plus custom combos.

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Bobby Q's

Restaurants

Bobby Q's has been a Tennessee tradition since 1985, serving ribs, brisket, and pulled pork sandwiches for pure Cookeville comfort.…

428 E Broad St

Bobby Q's has been a Tennessee tradition since 1985, serving ribs, brisket, and pulled pork sandwiches for pure Cookeville comfort. Historic downtown vibes, comfort casual plates, and easy catering when you want the barbecue without the mess.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 13, 2026

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Rib City - Cookeville is all about award-winning baby back ribs smoked on site, plus a huge menu for when your crew wants options. Grab it…

1431 Interstate Dr

Rib City - Cookeville is all about award-winning baby back ribs smoked on site, plus a huge menu for when your crew wants options. Grab it for carryout or settle in and savor, and if you’ve got an event, their BBQ catering handles food, setup, and cleanup at select locations.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 19, 2026

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If you’re craving tender brisket, smoked ribs, and pulled pork that doesn’t need a speech to be convincing, Hardwoods Smokehouse and…

851-A S Willow Ave

If you’re craving tender brisket, smoked ribs, and pulled pork that doesn’t need a speech to be convincing, Hardwoods Smokehouse and Catering nails the classics. They run a mobile food truck too, so you can bring those slow-smoked victories to your backyard, office, or Friday night plans.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 4, 2026

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Cook Out

Restaurants

Branch of a fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & over 40 milkshake flavors.

869 S Jefferson Ave

Branch of a fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & over 40 milkshake flavors.

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Drake's

Restaurants

When the craving hits five ways at once, Drake's in Cookeville nails it with big burgers, over 20 craft beers on tap, and sushi that…

1010 S Walnut Ave

When the craving hits five ways at once, Drake's in Cookeville nails it with big burgers, over 20 craft beers on tap, and sushi that actually holds its own. Weekend brunch-y specials and a rotating Burger of the Month keep regulars guessing, then coming back.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 1, 2026

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Crawdaddy's

Restaurants

Crawdaddy's serves up NOLA-inspired comfort like crawfish étouffée, shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and pan-seared scallops, with a…

53 W Broad St

Crawdaddy's serves up NOLA-inspired comfort like crawfish étouffée, shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and pan-seared scallops, with a full bar mixing those made-to-order Long Island teas. When your week needs a little Cajun kick, this spot delivers flavor and fun.

From the Cookeville newsletter, August 29, 2026

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Five Guys

Restaurants

Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.

1265 Interstate Dr #211

Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.

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Cookeville Pizza & Pub keeps it simple in the best way, with crisp pies loaded how you like them, wings, salads, and a cold craft beer to…

707 Mahler Ave

Cookeville Pizza & Pub keeps it simple in the best way, with crisp pies loaded how you like them, wings, salads, and a cold craft beer to match. Vegetarian options are legit, so your group chat can finally agree on where to land this week.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 5, 2026

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Waffle House

Restaurants

Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.

1121 S Jefferson Ave

Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.

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When you want eggs at noon and a legit gyro at two, Bravo Cafe & Grill nails it with real Greek favorites, American diner classics, and…

514 N Willow Ave

When you want eggs at noon and a legit gyro at two, Bravo Cafe & Grill nails it with real Greek favorites, American diner classics, and portions that actually fill you up. Homemade desserts, daily lunch specials, and service with a smile make it an easy local go-to. Check it out.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 14, 2026

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CH Steak Lounge

Restaurants

Craving a low-key night with big flavor? CH Steak Lounge keeps it classic with legit steaks, famous smoked wings, Pizza Rockafella, and…

14 S Washington Ave

Craving a low-key night with big flavor? CH Steak Lounge keeps it classic with legit steaks, famous smoked wings, Pizza Rockafella, and spicy Rattlesnake Pasta, plus cold drinks and live music that actually slaps. Put it on your weeknight rotation this week, Cookeville.

From the Cookeville newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Skip the grocery rut, grab dinner at Taverna on the Green, Cookeville's family-run spot blending sun-kissed Mediterranean flavors with…

1500 Country Club Rd

Skip the grocery rut, grab dinner at Taverna on the Green, Cookeville's family-run spot blending sun-kissed Mediterranean flavors with Tennessee hospitality. Flaming cheese, crab-stuffed salmon, and baklava hit that comfort-plus-vacation vibe, perfect for a midweek pick-me-up.

From the Cookeville newsletter, August 28, 2026

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Wingstop

Restaurants

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

1265 Interstate Dr Ste 201A

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

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Whether you want dine-in, drive-through, or delivery, Stroud's Barbeque keeps weeknights easy with tender pork, ham, or chicken piled high…

1201 E Spring St

Whether you want dine-in, drive-through, or delivery, Stroud's Barbeque keeps weeknights easy with tender pork, ham, or chicken piled high and sides that actually hit. Try the Barbeque Nachos or a Barbeque Baked Potato, and keep them in mind for catering your next get-together.

From the Cookeville newsletter, August 26, 2026

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Whether you’re craving crisp, colorful rolls or the sizzle of the grill, Fuji Hibachi & Sushi nails the Japanese comfort-to-celebration…

864 S Jefferson Ave

Whether you’re craving crisp, colorful rolls or the sizzle of the grill, Fuji Hibachi & Sushi nails the Japanese comfort-to-celebration spectrum. Make it your midweek reward this week, grab a couple of rolls, watch hibachi magic happen, and leave feeling like you just leveled up dinner.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 18, 2026

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Pizza Hut

Restaurants

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

470 Neal St B

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

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Steak 'n Shake

Restaurants

Chain known for steakburgers & milkshakes offering a dinerlike space with retro flair.

1125 Interstate Dr

Chain known for steakburgers & milkshakes offering a dinerlike space with retro flair.

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Longhorn Coffee Bar is a family-owned spot born from a mobile trailer, pouring handcrafted espresso, fun plant-based energy drinks, and…

801 S Jefferson Ave

Longhorn Coffee Bar is a family-owned spot born from a mobile trailer, pouring handcrafted espresso, fun plant-based energy drinks, and those Jaxx'd Red Bull mixes when you need the turbo.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 3, 2026

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Kid-friendly chain known for its pizzas & oversized sandwiches served in modest surroundings.

377 W Jackson St Ste 1F

Kid-friendly chain known for its pizzas & oversized sandwiches served in modest surroundings.

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Whether you’re craving sizzling hibachi chicken, teriyaki, or a solid fried rice situation, Sakura Hibachi Express nails the quick,…

220 S Willow Ave

Whether you’re craving sizzling hibachi chicken, teriyaki, or a solid fried rice situation, Sakura Hibachi Express nails the quick, flavorful takeout vibe. Toss in yaki soba, a couple spring rolls, maybe zucchini and onions, and you’ve got a weeknight win without dirtying a single pan.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 16, 2026

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The Putnam Room

Restaurants

The Putnam Room serves Cookeville a chef-led lineup of perfectly cooked steaks, classic mains, and shareable small plates, plus cocktails…

319 E Spring St

The Putnam Room serves Cookeville a chef-led lineup of perfectly cooked steaks, classic mains, and shareable small plates, plus cocktails like a spicy margarita and a legit wine wall. Line up a date night or drinks with friends this week and thank yourself later.

From the Cookeville newsletter, August 30, 2026

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Fire & Vine

Restaurants

Whether you want stone-fired pies with friends or a reason to actually dress for brunch, Fire & Vine delivers farm-to-table flavors above…

115 W 1st St

Whether you want stone-fired pies with friends or a reason to actually dress for brunch, Fire & Vine delivers farm-to-table flavors above downtown on a year-round rooftop. The vibe is polished without being stuffy, and they make group events easy to pull off when you need something special.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 12, 2026

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When you want a night that feels familiar in the best way, Nick's Restaurant & Lounge delivers with hand-cut steaks, in-house ground beef,…

895 S Jefferson Ave

When you want a night that feels familiar in the best way, Nick's Restaurant & Lounge delivers with hand-cut steaks, in-house ground beef, house-made sauces and dressings, and coffee they grind themselves. Cozy booths, solid plates, zero nonsense... it’s the local go-to for an easy win this week.

From the Cookeville newsletter, August 24, 2026

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Savor

Restaurants

If your week needs crispy, cozy, and a cold one, Savor nails it with brick-lined charm, comfort food with a Southern twist, and a full bar…

35 W Broad St · ✓ checked Sep 3

If your week needs crispy, cozy, and a cold one, Savor nails it with brick-lined charm, comfort food with a Southern twist, and a full bar with beer on tap. Easy spot for laid-back dinners, date-night without the fuss, or lingering over that second round.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 11, 2026

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Cookeville’s first food truck park, Trackside Food Truck Park keeps the West Side lively with a rotating lineup of trucks, live music, and…

172 W Broad St

Cookeville’s first food truck park, Trackside Food Truck Park keeps the West Side lively with a rotating lineup of trucks, live music, and the kind of open-air hangout that makes dinner feel like an event. Grab friends, browse pop-up vendors, and let someone else handle the cooking this week.

From the Cookeville newsletter, September 17, 2026

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