The Big Three Nashville Staples

The Meat & Three Survival Guide: Nashville’s Most Iconic Lunch Tradition

Learn how to order a meat‑and‑three like a local and find the best five spots in Nashville, from Arnold’s to Puckett’s.

By Published Jan 26, 2026 Updated Jan 26, 2026 2 min read

[Featured Image: TBD — use a CC0 photo of a meat‑and‑three plate; credit photographer if required.]
Alt Text: “Southern meat-and-three plate with fried chicken, mac and cheese, greens”

A meat & three is Nashville’s most honest lunch—one main protein plus three Southern sides. It’s cafeteria‑style, quick, comforting, and delicious. If you’re new to town, this guide will help you order with confidence and point you to the top five spots.

How to Order a Meat & Three

  1. Pick your meat (fried chicken, meatloaf, pork chop, etc.).
  2. Choose three sides (mac & cheese, greens, beans, cornbread, etc.).
  3. Add cornbread or rolls if they’re not already included.

Pro Tip: Ask what’s fresh out of the oven—rotating daily specials are the best reason to go.

Top 5 Meat & Three Spots in Nashville

1) Arnold’s Country Kitchen (The Classic)

  • Why go: The gold standard—crispy chicken, slow‑cooked greens, legendary pies.
  • Must order: Fried chicken + mac & cheese + turnip greens.

2) Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant (The Tourist‑Friendly)

  • Why go: Easy downtown access and a broad menu.
  • Must order: Country fried steak + mashed potatoes + green beans.

3) Monell’s (The Family‑Style Experience)

  • Why go: It’s served family‑style at long communal tables.
  • Must order: Fried chicken + biscuits + seasonal veggies.

4) Swett’s (The Soul Food Institution)

  • Why go: Deep history and big‑flavored sides.
  • Must order: Smoked turkey + candied yams + greens.

5) Bailey & Cato (The Local Favorite)

  • Why go: Fast, friendly, and extremely consistent.
  • Must order: Meatloaf + mashed potatoes + succotash.

Best Sides to Try (If You Can’t Decide)

  • Mac & cheese (creamy, rich, essential)
  • Turnip greens (tangy, slow‑cooked)
  • Fried okra (crunchy, addictive)
  • Cornbread (sweet‑savory balance)

When to Go

  • Weekdays, 11:00–1:00 is peak; lines move quickly.
  • Arrive early for popular meats that can sell out.

FAQs

Do meat & threes serve dinner? Some do, but most focus on lunch.

Is it expensive? Expect $10–$16 for a full plate.

Vegetarian friendly? You can sometimes build a “three sides only” plate.

Bottom Line

If you want the soul of Nashville cooking in one plate, the meat & three is it. Use this guide, go hungry, and don’t skip the cornbread.

Explore More