Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
About
City Cafe East
Welcome to City Cafe East, a gem nestled in the heart of Nashville's culinary scene. Located at 1455 Lebanon Pike, this warm and inviting eatery has quickly become a local favorite, endearing itself to patrons with its Southern comfort food and genuine hospitality. When you step through the doors, you're greeted not just by the aroma of freshly cooked meals but also by the welcoming smiles of owners George and Anne, who are known for sharing their stories and genuine love for food with every guest.
Customer reviews highlight the consistent quality of the food, making City Cafe East a must-visit for both locals and travelers alike. One enthusiastic diner, Alan Edwards, affectionately refers to it as the best lunch spot in the South, praising the robust flavors packed into every dish. Whether you're indulging in their renowned Hamburg steak on Tuesdays or savoring fried pork chops on Mondays, each plate showcases ingredients sourced from local markets, elevating each meal to an unforgettable experience.
In addition to the hearty entrees, the cafe also excels in providing delightful soups, fresh breads, and mouthwatering desserts that are sure to satisfy any craving. Barry Swanson found the offerings well-prepared and consistently delicious, emphasizing that "you can’t go wrong with anything." Visitors can expect comforting portions that promise both nourishment and satisfaction.
Moreover, the atmosphere is as comforting as the food itself. It combines the best aspects of cafeteria-style service with personalized attention that leaves you feeling appreciated and at home. As noted by Penny Price, the friendly guidance on food choices adds an extra layer of warmth, ensuring that every guest leaves not just with a full stomach, but a happy heart. The park can sometimes be tricky during peak hours, but the effort is well worth the delicious payoff!
If you're searching for a place that serves authentic Southern cuisine with a side of genuine warmth, City Cafe East is your destination. With each visit, you’ll not only enjoy the food crafted with love but also become a part of the family that thrives on the joy of sharing good meals and great stories. Don’t miss out on this delightful spot; once you try it, you'll understand why it's a staple of the Nashville dining scene.
Book a table
Make A Reservation
“ A BIG SHOUT OUT TO GEORGE, AMY and the entire team at City Cafe East!!! Each one of you did a fabulous job from the welcome at the door to the lovely guidance on food choices and sharing your life stories with my husband and I. Our first visit definitely won't be our last. One thing is for sure we know we like Tuesday's menu :-) We look forward to seeing you again. ”
“ Very good locally owned meat vegetables. Soups, breads and desserts! You can’t go wrong with anything. Parking may be difficult at busy times. The owners are super nice people. ”
“ Welcome to the best lunch spot in the South! I travel to Nashville every 6 months or so for work. This place is a must-do on every trip. The food is Southern comfort and packed with flavor. You can tell love went to this cooking! On top of that, I always share a conversation about life with either George or Anne - the owners. Don't miss this place - you leave with a full stomach and a happy heart. ”
“ The best Hamburg steak I have ever had. Hamburg steaks are only on Tuesday. Monday the fried pork chops are good as well. All the sides are great as well. Staff very friendly and inviting. ”
“ Great food. Nice choices. Cafeteria style service. Friendly staff. Good portions. ”
“ What an incredible gem! Visiting from out of town with a group of friends from across the world, I wanted to give them an example of great Southern fare and boy, did they deliver! Crowd favorites were the chicken and dumplings, Mac and cheese, and cabbage. Being a southern boy I loved every single bit of it, and I was so happy to share this. ”
“ I travel for work and this restaurant is why I love coming to Nashville. I've had just about every plate and side here and am always blown away. If you want good, wholesome food come here. This place rocks. ”
“ Feb 18, 2022: Had lunch at City Cafe East in Nashville...some of the BEST Meat & Three and soups you’ll find in Middle Tennessee! But once a month George does some brisket smoking and every once in awhile some smoked bologna. So today lunch was some chicken and dumplings with mashed potatoes and Mac & Cheese...and it was delicious. But for take-out...some of George’s awesome brisket and smoked bologna! Well worth a visit to the South side of Nashville for some incredible food. 2016: City Cafe East - Awesome Catering by George – Nashville. This place is INCREDIBLE. I have been enjoying George’s brisket for a few months but have not have the opportunity to actually eat there. BIG MISTAKE!!! Went with my buddy and I chose the smoked/BBQ Bologna, Sweet Potatoe Casserole, Mac & Cheese, and Red Beans & Rice. It was very difficult to drive back to Murfreesboro as I was in a food coma. Bottom line...you’ve gotta eat here if you are looking for an excellent Meat & Three where emphasis is placed on quality and served with a smile. Was also a pleasure to meet George and Amy while I was there plus take home some brisket and a couple of extra slabs of the bologna. One of the best Meat & Three places I have been to in a long time. ”