One of my favorite ways to explore a new city is through its food scene. And luckily there’s no shortage of restaurants in Clarksville, Tennessee where you can get a taste of this community. From Southern staples and fantastic fusion foods to cozy coffee shops and innovative alcohol producers, this burgeoning culinary destination is worth exploring.
Located just 45 minutes northwest of Nashville, Clarksville makes for a fantastic getaway, whether it’s for a weekend or an afternoon. While there are lots of great things to do in this area, the ample food scene really makes this city shine.
The next time you’re in the area, be sure to check out one of these 13 great restaurants in Clarksville, Tennessee.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Visit Clarksville. However, all opinions are my own.
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Restaurants in Clarksville, Tennessee
The Mailroom
A visit to The Mailroom is a treat for the senses because of its location alone. Housed in the city’s former United States Post Office and Federal Building, this beautifully renovated space is a historic jewel located just off the Downtown Commons. Built in 1935, the building served as Clarksville’s post office until the 1960s when it became federal office space.
Today, it’s been transformed into a made-from-scratch eatery that pays homage to the city’s rich history.
During my visit, I enjoyed dinner at The Mailroom though I’ve also heard incredible things about their brunch offerings. I ordered the Skirt Steam Chimi, which features skirt steak and grilled vegetables prepared on the restaurant’s authentic Argentinian wood-fired grill drizzled with chimichurri sauce over hand-cut fries. After recommendations from locals, I also couldn’t pass on dessert and enjoyed the decadent Warm Red Velvet Bread Pudding.
If you choose to imbibe, The Mailroom has an equally enticing cocktail menu with a mix of draft and craft drinks. You’ll even find locally-made spirits from Old Glory Distilling Co. and fresh house-pressed sugar cane juice on the menu here.
While it was still a bit too cold to dine al fresco during my visit, The Mailroom has a beautiful outdoor space that includes a large patio complete with ample seating, fire pits and separate bar.
The Mailroom, 116 N. 2nd Street in Clarksville, Tennessee
Miss Lucille’s Café
After exploring more than 52,000 square feet of antiques, vintage and more at Miss Lucille’s Marketplace, you’ll probably have worked up an appetite. I know that I did! Thankfully, Miss Lucille’s Café is located inside this incredible complex and offers a wide variety of snacks as well as more filling menu options.
With ample indoor and outdoor seating, this is the perfect spot to recharge after a few hours of shopping. During my visit, I ordered the Yummy Yummy Bowl, which includes jasmine rice, grilled chicken, a variety of veggies and a delicious mix of sweet and savory sauces. Plus, if you need a sweet treat or quick hit of caffeine, you’ll find Miss Lucille’s Coffee right outside the café entrance.
Miss Lucille’s Café, 2231 Madison Street, Suite L, in Clarksville, Tennessee
Old Glory Restaurant & Silo Park
Old Glory Distilling Co. has been a local staple since opening in 2016. Now, the distillery also boasts one of the newest restaurants in Clarksville, Tennessee. The sprawling Old Glory Restaurant & Silo Park opened in early 2024 and features a made-from-scratch, spirit-inspired menu as well as a beautiful outdoor space perfect for families and large groups.
Whether you’ve just finished a tour of the distillery or are just looking for a quick bite to eat, this eatery in an excellent choice. You’ll also find a cocktail menu that, of course, prominently features the distillery’s spirits.
When I enjoyed dinner at the Old Glory Restaurant, I couldn’t resist ordering the Duck Fat Fries along with the Grilled Smoked Salmon. Both were exceptional and I’m still dreaming about the Bourbon BBQ Sauce that came alongside the fries. It also felt essential to try one of the restaurant’s house cocktails so I chose the Sweet Southern Sipper, which uses Old Glory Distilling Co.’s Tennessee Vodka.
If you’re short on time, this is definitely one of the must-visit restaurants in Clarksville, Tennessee.
Old Glory Restaurant & Silo Park, 451 Alfred Thun Road in Clarksville, Tennessee
Silke’s Old World Breads
If you’re looking for unbelievable homemade breads, Silke’s Old World Breads is the place to stop. This Clarksville bakery has been in business for more than 20 years and is consistently voted one of the best in the area for its impeccable loaves and other treats. Plus, this spot has a full-service cafe that serves sandwiches, handmade pizzas and more.
Silke’s Old World Breads, 1214 A College Street in Clarksville, Tennessee
Strawberry Alley Ale Works
It’s no secret that I love a craft brewery, and Strawberry Alley Ale Works is an awesome option in downtown Clarksville. With a menu that ranges from traditional pub fare to Southern favorites, you’re sure to find something delicious to enjoy here. Plus, their house brews change seasonally so there’s always something new to look forward to trying. During my visit, I ordered the Avocado Turkey Sandwich alongside a seasonal beer and really enjoyed my time sitting at the bar.
Strawberry Alley Ale Works, 103 Strawberry Alley in Clarksville, Tennessee
Other Notable Clarksville Restaurants & Eateries
Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to make it to all of the incredible restaurants in Clarksville, Tennessee on this trip. But I thought it was important to pass along recommendations of notable local eateries from fellow travelers and Clarksville locals alike:
- Blackhorse Pub & Brewery (132 Franklin Street in Clarksville, TN): Quality craft beers paired with delicious pub fare plus a special weekend brunch menu.
- Cafe 931 (2551 Madison Street in Clarksville, TN): Tempting tacos and delicious açaí bowls? What more could you want!
- The Mad Herbalist (1601 Madison Street in Clarksville, TN): This cozy combination tea room, eatery and blending lab is located in a historic cabin and offers delicious lunch and brunch options.
- Trazo Meadery (116 Franklin Street in Clarksville, TN): In Clarksville you’ll find local wine, beer, spirits and even the state’s first mead. Stop in to sample some mead and snack on a charcuterie board.
- Yada on Franklin (111 Franklin Street in Clarksville, TN): Dine at Clarksville’s only cicchetti-style restaurant and enjoy Italian-inspired small plates, brunch offerings and more.
Must-Visit Coffee Shops in Clarksville, Tennessee
The Amsterdam
Walking into The Amsterdam feels like stepping into a best friend’s cozy living room. The decor is eclectic and mismatched in a way that is still cohesive. The bright colors and warm finishes pair perfectly with the shop’s offerings, which include a wide variety of coffees as well as freshly made breakfast and lunch options. I recommend the European Breakfast Plate with a soft-boiled egg.
You’ll also find a variety of grab-and-go snacks here from pastries and loaves of bread to locally-made products and bouquets of flowers.
The Amsterdam, 518 Madison Street in Clarksville, Tennessee
La Costa Cafe and Lounge
If you sample the restaurants in Clarksville, Tennessee without stopping at La Costa Cafe and Lounge, you’ve made a mistake. This cozy downtown shop serves authentic Puerto Rican coffee alongside traditional pastries like pastelillos and mallorcas.
Fun fact: They also host salsa dancing classes in the evenings!
La Costa Cafe and Lounge,137 Franklin Street, Suite 1, in Clarksville, Tennessee
Sanctuary on Main
Housed in a beautiful historic building, Sanctuary on Main is more than a coffee shop. This cozy cafe also happens to be home to a yoga studio and community gathering space. Grab a drink and a light bite to eat before attending a class or visiting one of the wellness professionals that share this space.
Sanctuary on Main, 334 Main Street in Clarksville, Tennessee
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I would love to hear from you! Where are your favorite restaurants in Clarksville, Tennessee?
