Tennessee is an excellent destination for food lovers planning a memorable Christmas holiday in 2026. From Nashville’s famous hot chicken and Memphis-style barbecue to juicy steaks, Southern fried chicken, fresh seafood, and traditional American comfort food, the state offers plenty of delicious options for non-vegetarian travelers. Whether you are spending Christmas in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, or Pigeon Forge, you can explore restaurants that make your winter vacation even more enjoyable.
If you are searching for the best non-veg food places in Tennessee for Christmas Holiday, this guide highlights popular restaurants worth considering for a festive lunch, a family dinner, or a special holiday meal. Before visiting on December 24 or 25, check each restaurant’s holiday hours and reservation policy, as Christmas schedules may differ from regular opening hours.
Top 10 Non-Veg Food Places in Tennessee for Christmas Holiday 2026
1. Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint
Nashville · Southern barbecue
Martin’s is a great choice for travelers who want to experience authentic Tennessee barbecue. Its menu features slow-smoked meats, ribs, pulled pork, and classic Southern sides. It is a welcoming option for a casual meal with family or friends during a Christmas trip.
2. Hattie B’s Hot Chicken – Nashville – Midtown
Nashville · Hot chicken
Hattie B’s is one of Nashville’s best-known destinations for spicy fried chicken. Visitors can choose different heat levels and enjoy chicken tenders, Southern sides, and comforting homemade-style dishes. It is ideal for travelers seeking a casual lunch before exploring Nashville’s Christmas attractions.
3. Peg Leg Porker BBQ
Nashville · Smoked ribs and pork
Peg Leg Porker is worth considering for its Memphis-style barbecue and smoky flavors. Ribs, pulled pork, and traditional barbecue accompaniments make it an appealing stop for meat lovers. Its relaxed atmosphere suits a laid-back holiday lunch or dinner.
4. Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse – Nashville
Nashville · Luxury steakhouse
For a special Christmas celebration, Jeff Ruby’s offers an upscale dining experience featuring premium steaks, seafood, and elegant sides. It is a suitable option for couples, families, and groups planning a memorable festive dinner. Smart-casual or formal attire is a good choice for the occasion.
5. Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina
Nashville · Premium steaks and seafood
Bourbon Steak is an excellent candidate for travelers seeking a refined holiday dining experience. The restaurant serves upscale steakhouse cuisine with prime cuts of beef, seafood, and carefully prepared side dishes. Its elevated setting makes it appealing for a Christmas Eve dinner or a New Year celebration.
6. Fogo de Chão
Nashville · Brazilian grilled meats
Fogo de Chão is a strong choice for guests who enjoy a variety of grilled meats. Its Brazilian churrasco experience features fire-roasted beef, lamb, chicken, and accompanying sides. The restaurant’s published holiday information lists service on Christmas Day, making it particularly useful for travelers looking for a festive meal on December 25. Confirm the current details before booking.
7. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
Nashville · Seafood and steak
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood is a good option for visitors who prefer seafood over traditional barbecue. Its menu features seafood specialties, fish, and steakhouse dishes in an upscale setting. Consider it for a romantic Christmas dinner or a celebratory meal with family.
8. The Optimist
Nashville · Coastal-inspired seafood
The Optimist brings a seafood-focused dining experience to Nashville. Travelers can look forward to seafood dishes and a restaurant atmosphere suited to a relaxed evening out. It is a useful choice for visitors who want something different from Tennessee’s famous barbecue and fried chicken.
9. Morton’s The Steakhouse
Downtown Nashville · Steakhouse dining
Morton’s is a worthwhile option for travelers who enjoy classic steakhouse meals, prime-aged beef, seafood, and indulgent desserts. Its downtown location is convenient for visitors exploring the city’s entertainment district. The restaurant lists Christmas Day hours of noon to 9 p.m. for December 25, 2026, and Christmas Eve hours of 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; verify these details when making a reservation.
10. Sperry’s Restaurant
Belle Meade · Classic steakhouse
Sperry’s is an appealing choice for guests looking for a traditional, comfortable steakhouse atmosphere. Its menu offers meat-focused dishes and classic dinner options suitable for a special family meal. The restaurant’s published holiday schedule lists Christmas Day service from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., although travelers should confirm the schedule directly before visiting.
Best Non-Veg Food Experiences Across Tennessee
Although Nashville has a strong selection of restaurants, other parts of Tennessee also offer memorable dining experiences. Consider these regional specialties when planning your Christmas holiday.
Memphis: Famous barbecue
Memphis is known for slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, and distinctive barbecue sauces. It is an excellent destination for travelers who want to explore traditional Tennessee meat dishes.
Knoxville offers steakhouses and casual restaurants serving grilled chicken, burgers, and hearty American meals. Fleming’s in the Knoxville area is one option for upscale steakhouse dining, though its published schedule lists Christmas Day as closed.
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge: Mountain dining
After enjoying the winter scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains, look for restaurants serving steaks, barbecue, fried chicken, and Southern comfort food. Confirm Christmas Day opening hours before choosing a restaurant.
What to Eat in Tennessee During Christmas 2026
If you want to explore local specialties during your trip, add these non-vegetarian dishes to your food itinerary.
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Tennessee hot chicken: Crispy fried chicken coated with spicy seasoning, commonly served with bread and pickles.
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Memphis-style barbecue ribs: Slow-smoked pork ribs with a dry rub or barbecue sauce.
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Pulled pork sandwiches: Tender smoked pork served in a sandwich with barbecue sauce and optional coleslaw.
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Southern fried chicken: Golden, crispy chicken served with traditional Southern sides.
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Grilled steak: A popular choice for upscale Christmas dinners and special celebrations.
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Seafood platters: Fish, shrimp, oysters, and other seafood dishes for visitors seeking an alternative to barbecue.
Tips for Choosing Non-Veg Restaurants During the Christmas Holiday
Christmas is a busy travel period, so a little preparation can make your dining experience easier.
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Check Christmas Day hours. Restaurants may close or operate with special holiday menus on December 25.
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Book your table early. Upscale steakhouses and popular downtown restaurants may have limited seating.
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Check holiday menus. Some locations offer prix-fixe meals or special Christmas menus instead of their regular selections.
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Confirm dietary requirements. Ask about ingredients, allergens, cross-contact, and preparation methods when needed.
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Plan around attractions. Choose a restaurant close to your hotel or planned Christmas activities to reduce winter travel time.
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Consider takeout. If you are staying in an Airbnb or holiday cabin, barbecue takeout or catered meals may be convenient for a festive dinner.
Conclusion
Tennessee offers plenty of appealing options for travelers searching for the best non-veg food places in Tennessee for Christmas Holiday 2026. Nashville is a strong choice for hot chicken, premium steaks, and seafood, while Memphis is famous for its barbecue culture. Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge also provide opportunities to enjoy hearty American meals during a winter getaway.
For an upscale celebration, consider Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, Bourbon Steak, or Morton’s. For a more casual meal, Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, Peg Leg Porker, and Hattie B’s are worth exploring. If you plan to dine on Christmas Day, prioritize restaurants that publish holiday hours and confirm your reservation directly.
With the right restaurant choices, your Tennessee Christmas vacation can include memorable food, festive attractions, and a delicious taste of Southern hospitality.
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