The best restaurants in Rutherford County

Homey chain restaurant serving American comfort food, with an on-site general store.

New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.

Fast-food chain specializing in fried chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries & Texas toast.

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

Blue Coast Burrito keeps Smyrna happily fed with fresh, West Coast-style Mexican made your way, from customizable burritos and nachos to their Baja-style fish tacos. Quick lunch, post-practice fuel, or easy catering for the crew, it’s the kind of spot you’ll crave again tomorrow.

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 28, 2026

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

Laid-back chain known for slow-cooked BBQ & cheese biscuits, plus burgers, salads & classic sides.

A Rutherford County family tradition since 1985, Toot's Smyrna turns out crowd-pleasing wings, big burgers, ribs and seafood with that lively, game-day energy everyone here secretly loves. When you want no-fuss comfort food, cold drinks, and a spot that feels like half your neighborhood, this is the move.

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 25, 2026

Penn Station Sandwiches is the spot for grilled subs on hearth-baked bread with USDA Choice steak, crisp fresh-cut fries cooked in cholesterol-free peanut oil, and hand-squeezed lemonade made daily.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 2, 2026

Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.

Margarita House LaVergne keeps it relaxed and festive with Mexican standards that hit the spot, from quesadillas to burritos, plus potent margaritas. When you need an easy weeknight plan or a laid-back catch-up spot close to Smyrna, this is the kind of no-fuss, full-flavor standby your group can agree on.

From the La Vergne newsletter, August 31, 2026

Outlet of a BBQ chain serving wood-smoked meats & sides in an American West-themed space.

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

Health-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.

Beane Brothers Texas Style BBQ & Catering is that no-frills spot turning Smyrna’s Depot District into a little slice of Texas, with barky brisket, jalapeño-cheese sausage, and guilty-pleasure hits like the BrisketMac Sandwich and Mac & Cheese Boat.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 11, 2026

Champy's Smyrna nails the Southern greatest hits, from famous fried chicken and catfish to Mississippi Delta hot tamales, jalapeño hushpuppies, and gumbo. Bring friends, argue over sauces at the hot sauce wall, then surrender to legendary sides and a poboy or two.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 17, 2026

Cozumel is that unfussy, homey strip-mall Mexican spot locals rely on for the classics, from saucy enchiladas and crunchy tacos to a glorious chimichanga situation. Great for midweek cravings, and yes, you can order online when the couch is non-negotiable.

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 14, 2026

Golden Bowl Mongolian Grill is the kind of Smyrna spot where you pile a bowl with veggies, noodles, and your favorite proteins, then watch it get cooked to order. Go classic with orange chicken or build-your-own, and don't skip a bubble tea for the drive home.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 10, 2026

Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.

Fast-food burger & fries joint with an old-school feel, including retro drive-in service.

Fast-food chain serving chicken sandwiches & nuggets along with salads & sides.

When you want a low-key spot that nails the classics, Margarita House Smyrna hits the table with sizzling fajitas, packed burritos, and a family-friendly vibe that makes dinner easy. Reliable, local, and not trying too hard, it’s the kind of place you keep in your regular rotation.

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 21, 2026

Rancho Cantina 2 nails the Smyrna cravings with tacos, sizzling fajitas, and all the Mexican comfort hits in a lively, music-filled room that never feels stale. Grab friends, order a round of margaritas, and let the live tunes turn your midweek into an easy little celebration.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 18, 2026

Upbeat, unassuming restaurant providing classic Mexican eats along with beer & margaritas.

Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.

Low-key restaurant serving a selection of Mexican fare including tacos and birria.

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

Thida Thai Restaurant & Sushi Bar keeps Smyrna locals happy with classic Thai comfort like pad kee mao, tom kha, and curry fried rice, plus a legit sushi bar when you're craving rolls. Fresh ingredients, a lively exhibition kitchen, and friendly, quick service make it an easy weeknight go-to.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 3, 2026

Whether it's a weeknight craving or game-day spread, Salvo's Pizza keeps Smyrna fed with hand-tossed, thin-crust New York-style pies made fresh daily, plus classic pastas like lasagna and chicken parmigiana. Family-owned, friendly, and clutch for catering when the whole crew shows up hungry.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 22, 2026

Chago's in Smyrna is run by a young crew big on fresh food, fresh drinks, and the kind of service that treats regulars like family. Order online when the week’s busy, or let their catering bring the fiesta home for your next backyard hang.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 12, 2026

When both chopsticks and showtime are calling, Samurai's Cuisine hits the spot with fresh rolls, sizzling hibachi, teriyaki favorites, and even ramen. Easy pick for a low-key dinner or a small celebration right here in Murfreesboro, no overthinking required.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 9, 2026

Whether it's a quick online order or a sit-down with the family, Ninja Sushi leans into fresh, carefully chosen ingredients and a lighter touch that actually tastes like it. Expect sushi rolls alongside popular Asian dishes and drinks in a modern, family-friendly vibe locals keep in the rotation.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 3, 2026

Whether you're craving sizzling hibachi or sushi rolls, Xiaos' Hibachi and Sushi is a Murfreesboro spot that keeps it casual and delicious, no fuss required. Order online for a smooth pickup, then kick back with chopsticks and the smug satisfaction of not cooking.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 4, 2026

Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.

El Pueblo keeps weeknights easy with generously stuffed burritos and sizzling fajitas that actually deliver on the name. It’s an easy go-to over in Smyrna when you want that no-fuss Mexican comfort, plus you can order online when the couch has claimed you for the evening.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 19, 2026

Whether you want a quick roll fix or a full hibachi dinner, Wasabi Japanese Steak House keeps Murfreesboro fed with fresh sushi, sashimi, sushi bar starters, and comforting rice and noodle bowls. Solid go-to when weeknights need soy sauce, a little sizzle, and zero fuss.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 17, 2026

Giorgio's Pizza is that Smyrna go-to when you want real-deal New York style by the slice or a whole pie, with crust options from thin to thick, fun specialties like Mike’s Favorite with pesto and sun-dried tomato, plus calzones, wings, penne alla vodka, lasagna and sweet finishes.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 16, 2026

Craving a midweek pick-me-up that actually hits? Mi Cancun Mexican Restaurant has been serving classic Mexican comfort since 2013, and their shrimp fajitas are the star... sizzling, flavorful, and exactly what this week needs.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 5, 2026

Magic Way Steak & Gyro in Smyrna pulls off the best kind of menu chaos, from Build Your Own and Gyro Pizzas to wings, Philly steak subs, loaded fries, shawarma plates, seafood, and baklava. Perfect when your crew can't agree on dinner, let the mango tea and slushies seal the deal.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 8, 2026

Craving something beyond pepperoni this week? Roma Pizza & Pasta cranks out creative pies like Pepperoni Suicide, 7 Cheese, Alfredo Cajun Chicken, and even a jalapeño-kissed Jamaican pie, plus wings and pasta to round it out. Perfect for those nights when cooking feels...

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 30, 2026

Angelo's Picnic Pizza brings old-world Italian craft to hand-tossed or Sicilian crusts, with everything made from scratch daily. Load up on pizza, calzones, stromboli, and desserts, then start the very important debate about which crust carries you through the week.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 1, 2026

Parthenon Grille does Certified Angus steaks with house‑made butter torched tableside and finished with smoked or truffle sea salt, plus Greek-with-a-twist hits like whipped feta, Oysters Rockefeller, and a legit gyro. Treat yourself this week… you’ve earned a night that tastes like victory.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 27, 2026

Marina's on the Square has been serving Murfreesboro since 1998 with traditional Italian plates and a few fun house creations, plus the pizzas and calzones they’re proud of. Grab a friend and settle in for hearty pastas, saucy slices, and a dessert you definitely said you wouldn’t share.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 25, 2026

When that guac-and-queso voice starts calling this week, Nacho's Mexican Restaurant - Murfreesboro delivers with fresh-every-day tacos, big-as-your-plate burritos, sizzling fajitas, and a full bar stacked with margaritas and more. Pro tip, gather the crew for a molcajete feast or let them cater your next get-together.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 26, 2026

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

Craving something better than your usual scramble? Tony's Cafe is turning mornings into an event with breakfast and brunch built around homemade tortillas, a signature chilaquiles situation, and a rich mole plate that hits just right. Make this the week you treat yourself to flavor.

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 29, 2026

Pad Thai Cafe keeps Murfreesboro happily fed with scratch-made Thai favorites and five spice levels that range from friendly to fearless. Go classic with pad thai or tom kha, or lean bold with Thai Dynamite, spicy lemongrass, and Lao-style papaya salad. Fresh daily, seriously flavorful.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 18, 2026

Let the grill do the entertaining at Tokyo Japanese Steak House, where lively hibachi meets fresh sushi, sashimi, noodles, and vegetarian options alongside sake, beer, wine, and cocktails. Perfect for birthdays or easy group nights this week, with catering and online ordering when staying in wins.

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 27, 2026

Miss B's Thai and Sushi hits that sweet spot when someone wants bold Thai and the rest of the group is eyeing sushi. Think Tom Kha, Drunken Noodles, and the Dream Dream roll, plus the crispy B egg roll, all made with fresh ingredients. Easy online pickup seals it.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 9, 2026

Goodness Gracious Restaurant and Catering turns breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch into a modern take on classic Southern comfort, with a family-run touch that feels, well, gracious. Expect creative twists, grab-and-go options for busy days, and catering that makes work events and celebrations taste like home.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 7, 2026

Whitt's Barbecue keeps Murfreesboro fed the old-school Tennessee way with hickory-smoked pulled pork, ribs, and meats by the pound, plus homemade sides like their tangy vinegar-based slaw and banana pudding; grab a family pack, call catering for your next get-together, or just swing by for a low-key counter-service…

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 10, 2026

Burgers are the main attraction at this casual, kid-friendly, rock-themed joint with a bar.

Chain restaurant serving steaks, seafood & cocktails in an upscale lodgelike setting.

Certified Hereford Beef from rancher-owned Tennessee and Kentucky farms, all natural and USA-proud, then you can trick it out in, no joke, 2,000 combinations. Burger Bar sits inside the DoubleTree and keeps it easy with beer, wine, and cocktails when you need a low-stress bite.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 5, 2026

When the craving hits for something warm, relaxed, and seriously tasty, King Noodles Thai Rest. comes through with comforting curries, loaded rice bowls, and slurpable noodle dishes cooked from the heart. Easy online ordering makes busy Murfreesboro evenings smoother, and the flavors hit like a well-timed high five.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 22, 2026

When that smoky, sticky craving hits, Slick Pig BBQ comes through with hickory-smoked wings, pile-it-on BBQ sandwiches, and creamy mac 'n' cheese in a no-frills, country-style setup. Easy online ordering and solid catering make it a clutch move for weeknights, office lunches, or game-day spreads.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 16, 2026

PennePazze Murfreesboro brings a Nashville-born, farm-to-table, open-kitchen concept to the 'Boro with authentic Italian flavors, from pizzas that vanish fast to tiramisu you may refuse to share. Keep an eye on their app and socials for updates, then claim a front-row seat to the cooking show.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 12, 2026

Single Tree BBQ is serving hickory smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork and wings alongside fun curveballs like bologna burnt ends, a Boro Brisket Melt, and even deep fried potato salad. Hungry crew this week? Share a sampler or let their catering team roll in The Judge and feed the whole block.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 11, 2026

When you want a proper, perfectly seared steak without driving to Nashville, Steakhouse Five brings the upscale vibes, a serious wine list, and well-made cocktails. Ideal for celebrating big wins or just treating Tuesday like a holiday, this is where Murfreesboro goes when it wants to feel fancy.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 12, 2026

Casual sports-pub chain with basics from bar snacks to steaks & a large selection of tap beers.

Vui's Kitchen - Murfreesboro keeps dinner easy with made-from-scratch Vietnamese favorites like pho, noodle bowls, and rice plates plus craveable wings, tacos, and vibrant salads, all MSG-free with real, whole ingredients and plenty of herbs.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 2, 2026

DosBros Fresh Mexican Grill keeps Murfreesboro dinners easy with customizable, fresh meals locals swear by. The grilled chicken gets repeat shoutouts, you can skip the line with online ordering or get delivery, and when the office needs feeding their individually packaged catering is clutch without the chaos.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 2, 2026

Since 1973, Buster's Place has been the no-fuss hangout locals swear by for juicy Buster burgers, smoked wings, and other classics, voted one of the ’Boro’s best, plus a full bar. Try the Frito Pie Burger, Pork Chop Sandwich, or Hamburger Steak, then thank yourself later.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 24, 2026

Sami's Brick Oven Pizzeria & Buffet is cranking out brick-oven classics and Sicilian pies, stuffed pizzas that take 25 minutes to cook, and a legit gluten-free cauliflower crust, plus slices, calzones, stromboli, salads and garlic rolls. Slide it into your dinner plans this week, Murfreesboro.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 3, 2026

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

Tucked in the heart of Murfreesboro, One of Nineteen Cocktails and Small Plates pairs vintage charm with modern polish, pouring handcrafted classics and inventive signatures alongside shareable small plates.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 11, 2026

Champy's Murfreesboro keeps it classic in the best way with crispy, famous fried chicken, Mississippi Delta hot tamales, and Cajun comfort like chicken, sausage and shrimp gumbo or creamy crawfish etouffee. Add legendary sides and you’ve got weeknight dinner, game-day family meals, and zero regrets.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 18, 2026

Hip counter-serve pizzeria dishing up crispy, thin-crust pies made with creative toppings & sauces.

Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.

Serving up home-style, scratch-made breakfast and lunch, Twin Yolk nails the classics like fluffy omelets and pancake platters while keeping it fresh enough to feel like your favorite neighbor’s kitchen. Family-owned by Ron and Anna, it’s a warm spot locals can count on for feel-good plates and carryout.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 19, 2026

From spaghetti with their meat sauce to hand-cut steaks and their signature bread, Demos' Restaurant nails the made-from-scratch, generous-portions vibe Murfreesboro lives on. Friendly, no-fuss service, recipes with real family history, and a famous baked chicken and rice soup make it a reliable weeknight go-to.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 6, 2026

Bar chain serving creative burgers & a lengthy list of beers in a casual, funky space.

Blue Coast Burrito nails that fresh, West Coast style with build-your-own burritos, legit Baja-style fish tacos, and crisp salads made your way. Perfect for a quick weeknight fix or feeding the crew with catering, it’s the kind of spot you’ll accidentally make your go-to.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 12, 2026

When you want true comfort without the dishes, Farmers Family Restaurant keeps Murfreesboro fed with a hot, always-stocked buffet, hand-breaded fried chicken, fresh-cooked veggies, and legit desserts, plus Friday-Saturday seafood spreads and weekend crab legs, all served with that treat-you-like-family hospitality…

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 6, 2026

Five on Black Kitchen and Spirit House keeps things local-friendly with dinner and Date Night menus, proper cocktails, beer and wine, plus a brunch that pairs dangerously well with sleeping in. Reserve a table or order online, and if you're planning a crowd, they handle private events too.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 21, 2026

From the Nashville Hot Pizza with spicy fried chicken, jalapeños and pickles to the cheekily named Pepperoni Suicide piled high with, yes, pepperoni, Love's Pizza nails bold flavors without pretending to be fancy. Also try the Honey Jalapeno Pepperoni or a build-your-own calzone when weeknights need saving.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 11, 2026

When the pad thai craving hits on a Tuesday or you need a green curry reset after a long week, Ginger Thai Bistro quietly delivers the goods, with balanced heat, bright herbs, and wok-kissed noodles that make perfect leftovers... if you somehow have any.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 8, 2026

When only a sizzling cut will do, The Chop House in Murfreesboro delivers as an award-winning spot for Choice and Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and craft cocktails with a legit wine list, plus homemade ice cream for the victory lap. Easy pick for date night, client lunches, or group dinners.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 8, 2026

The Taco Shop keeps it friendly and focused on what Murfreesboro cares about most... good tacos, from the classics to that birria everyone’s buzzing about. It’s the kind of spot you swing by when dinner needs to be fast, flavorful, and a little addictive.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 5, 2026

Luca's Pizzeria nails the weeknight crave with hand-tossed pies, hearty Sicilian squares, and legit calzones from a family-run crew. The lineup runs from Pesto Pizza and Nick's Spicy Pizza to a cheeky Nutella pizza for dessert, plus garlic rolls you will absolutely overeat.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 9, 2026

Whether you’re rallying for a game night or just dodging the dishes, Sam's Place serves the greatest hits, from saucy wings and stacked burgers to BBQ and classic pub grub, all in a friendly sports-bar vibe. Solid, local, and reliably satisfying... the kind of spot you end up calling your regular.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 3, 2026

Craving a spot that doesn’t make you choose? Drake's Murfreesboro is the neighborhood hang where burgers and sushi share the menu, with rotating picks like Burger of the Month, Sushi of the Month, Beer of the Month and seasonal cocktails plus zero-proof options… rally the crew and make a weeknight feel like Friday.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 1, 2026

Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.

Boro Bourbon & Brews nails the local hangout sweet spot with an upscale whiskey list, legit burgers, wings, and creamy mac, plus daily live music and wall-to-wall game action. Weekday happy hour, poker and trivia, and easy online ordering make it an easy yes for after-work or weekend plans.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 14, 2026

Casual cafe serving biscuit sandwiches & Southern sides for breakfast & lunch.

Whether it's a low-key dinner or a proper date this week, La Cucina Italiana leans into traditional, flavor-packed Italian dishes and a lineup of specials that hit the spot. Book a table, order online for couch mode, or loop them in for your next gathering with catering and let them handle the feast.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, October 10, 2026

Casual chain featuring BBQ & classic sides, plus memorabilia honoring soldiers & first responders.

Boisterous Australian-themed chain serving steaks, seafood & other hearty steakhouse fare.

Toot's Broad Street has been a Rutherford County staple since 1985, serving festive plates of crispy wings, smoky ribs, burgers, and seafood that hit the comfort-food spot. Perfect for weeknights with friends or post-practice refuels, when you want a no-fuss, sauce-on-your-sleeve kind of dinner.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 7, 2026

Mexico Tipico turns homestyle cravings into a happy-food coma, from birria tacos with consomé to menudo, caldo de gallina, tacos al carbón and even a torta de tamal. Started as a 2017 Nashville food truck, they keep it fresh with quality ingredients and that straight-from-home flavor locals love.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 8, 2026

If your week needs a little edible hug, Primrose Table delivers chef-driven, scratch-made comfort food with neighborly polish. Think Duroc pork chop with Amish apple butter, proper fish and chips, and a drinks list that treats beer, cocktails, and wine like equal citizens.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 28, 2026

Nashville hot chicken spot for spicy fried-chicken sandwiches and chicken tenders, as well as wings and waffle fries.

Brunch and Brew Cafe in Murfreesboro does more than drip coffee. Think house-made lattes and mocktails, handmade donuts worth planning around, all-day breakfast, savory paninis, loaded bowls, even vegan options, all in a cozy hangout you'll end up calling your new regular.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 5, 2026

Casual buffet eatery and grocery store dishing up southern dishes and live music performances.

Local diner chain serving classic American breakfast & lunch fare in a warm atmosphere.

Laid-back chain known for slow-cooked BBQ & cheese biscuits, plus burgers, salads & classic sides.

The Alley on Main does the Murfreesboro trifecta: scratch-made steaks, seafood, and pasta with rotating daily specials, a full bar heavy on top-shelf bourbon and seasonal cocktails, and desserts made in-house.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 6, 2026

Chain eatery & bar serving a diverse menu of classic Italian fare in a family-friendly setting.

When only shatteringly crispy, double-fried chicken will do, Bonchon Murfreesboro - Memorial Blvd delivers the goods with signature sauces and that can’t-stop-picking-at-it crunch. Mix it up with the K-Chicken Sandwich, Bulgogi Fries, bao buns, or a bibimbap fix, then call it a very good day, Murfreesboro.

From the Murfreesboro newsletter, September 10, 2026

Classic burger chain serving customizable burgers, hand-cut fries & shakes.

Customers can build their own pizzas & salads, assembly-line style, at this family-friendly chain.

Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.