Nestled in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee Rickhouse BNA offers a culinary experience that embodies the rich heritage of Southern flavors while embracing modern dining trends. This vibrant establishment is known not only for its extensive collection of bourbons and whiskeys but also for a carefully curated menu that pairs perfectly with its signature drinks.
Whether you’re a local seeking a comfortable spot to unwind or a visitor eager to explore authentic Tennessee cuisine, the Rickhouse BNA menu delivers a feast for the senses. From hearty appetizers to indulgent desserts, every dish is crafted with a dedication to quality and tradition.
Stepping into Tennessee Rickhouse BNA, guests are welcomed by an atmosphere that balances rustic charm with contemporary elegance. The menu reflects this blend, featuring dishes that showcase local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.
Each menu item is designed to complement the bar’s impressive selection of spirits, making it a destination not just for dining but for a truly immersive experience. Understanding the nuances of the menu can enhance your visit, revealing the thoughtful connections between food, drink, and ambiance.
Whether you’re drawn by the promise of classic Southern comfort food or intrigued by the creative twists on familiar favorites, Tennessee Rickhouse BNA’s menu offers something for every palate. The following sections explore the diverse offerings, highlighting standout dishes, drink pairings, and the philosophy behind the kitchen’s approach to flavor and presentation.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer selection at Tennessee Rickhouse BNA sets the tone for a memorable meal. Designed to be shared or savored solo, these small plates are crafted to introduce diners to the menu’s bold flavors and regional influences.
Each dish balances texture and taste, preparing the palate for the courses to come.
Popular starters include a variety of Southern-inspired bites that make use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From crispy fried green tomatoes to smoky pork belly sliders, the appetizers offer a range of options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
The kitchen’s attention to detail ensures that even the simplest dishes are elevated by expert seasoning and presentation.
Many of the appetizers are designed with drink pairings in mind, enhancing the overall dining experience. For example, the house-made pimento cheese pairs beautifully with a classic bourbon cocktail, while the spicy shrimp hush puppies complement the more robust flavors of a rye whiskey.
These thoughtful combinations highlight the synergy between the kitchen and the bar.
Signature Small Plates
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
- Pulled Pork Sliders: Slow-cooked pork shoulder topped with coleslaw and a smoky barbecue drizzle.
- Spicy Shrimp Hush Puppies: Crispy hush puppies infused with jalapeños and fresh shrimp, served with a cooling aioli.
- Pimento Cheese Dip: Creamy and flavorful, served with toasted bread and pickled vegetables.
“Our appetizers are crafted to awaken the senses and invite guests to explore the rich tapestry of Tennessee’s culinary heritage,” says the head chef.
Entrée Selections
The entrée offerings at Tennessee Rickhouse BNA showcase a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation. Each dish reflects the South’s culinary roots while incorporating contemporary techniques and ingredients.
The menu caters to both meat lovers and those seeking lighter, vegetable-forward options.
Signature dishes often feature locally sourced meats, such as grass-fed beef and heritage pork, prepared to highlight their natural flavors. The chefs take pride in slow-cooking methods, which result in tender, flavorful entrees that resonate with the warmth and heartiness typical of Southern fare.
For guests who prefer something lighter, seasonal salads and seafood options are also prominently featured.
The preparation of each entrée emphasizes freshness and bold seasoning, ensuring that every bite is satisfying. Complementary sides are carefully selected to balance and enhance the main dishes, making for a well-rounded plate that delights the palate.
Popular Entrées
- Smoked Brisket: Slow-smoked for hours, served with a tangy house barbecue sauce and pickled onions.
- Cedar Plank Salmon: Grilled salmon served on a cedar plank with a maple glaze and seasonal vegetables.
- Buttermilk Fried Chicken: Crispy and juicy, paired with mashed potatoes and collard greens.
- Vegetarian Grit Bowl: Creamy stone-ground grits topped with sautéed mushrooms, roasted peppers, and a poached egg.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Cooking Method | Recommended Pairing |
| Smoked Brisket | Beef brisket, barbecue sauce | Slow-smoked | Bourbon Old Fashioned |
| Cedar Plank Salmon | Salmon, maple glaze, seasonal vegetables | Grilled on cedar plank | Dry Riesling |
| Buttermilk Fried Chicken | Chicken, buttermilk, spices | Deep-fried | Craft Lager |
| Vegetarian Grit Bowl | Stone-ground grits, mushrooms, peppers, egg | Sautéed and poached | Herbal Tea |
Craft Cocktails and Spirits
Tennessee Rickhouse BNA boasts an impressive bar program centered around the finest bourbons, whiskeys, and craft cocktails. This section of the menu is a testament to the rich distilling traditions of Tennessee and Kentucky, featuring both classic cocktails and innovative creations.
Expert bartenders use house-made bitters, fresh herbs, and small-batch spirits to craft drinks that complement the bold flavors of the food menu. The cocktail list is regularly updated to feature seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience with each visit.
Whether you prefer a smoky old-fashioned or a refreshing mint julep, the bar caters to every preference.
For those new to whiskey, the knowledgeable staff offer recommendations and tasting flights that allow guests to explore different profiles and brands. This educational aspect enhances the appreciation of the spirit and deepens the connection between drink and dish.
Highlighted Cocktails
- Rickhouse Old Fashioned: A classic blend of rye whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a twist of orange peel.
- Maple Bourbon Smash: Bourbon muddled with fresh mint, lemon, and a touch of maple syrup.
- Smoky Paloma: Mezcal, grapefruit juice, and a salted rim with a hint of smoked sea salt.
- Seasonal Whiskey Flight: A curated tasting of three unique whiskeys selected by the bartenders.
“Our bar is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s where tradition meets creativity in every glass,” notes the head mixologist.
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking lighter meal options, Tennessee Rickhouse BNA offers a thoughtfully crafted selection of salads and small plates designed to refresh and satisfy. These dishes highlight seasonal produce and house-made dressings that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Each salad is a balanced composition of textures and tastes, often incorporating nuts, fruits, or cheeses to add depth. The kitchen pays close attention to sourcing fresh, local vegetables, ensuring vibrant colors and crisp flavors.
These lighter fare options provide a perfect counterpoint to the richer, meat-heavy dishes on the menu.
Many salads and lighter plates can be customized to suit dietary restrictions or preferences, making the menu accessible and inclusive. Guests are encouraged to ask for modifications or suggestions from the attentive staff.
Popular Salads
- Southern Caesar: Romaine lettuce, house-made Caesar dressing, cornbread croutons, and shaved Parmesan.
- Harvest Salad: Mixed greens with roasted butternut squash, pecans, dried cranberries, and a maple vinaigrette.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: Marinated and grilled chicken breast atop mixed greens with tomatoes and cucumbers.
- Quinoa and Kale Bowl: Quinoa, kale, avocado, pickled onions, and lemon tahini dressing.
| Salad | Main Ingredients | Calories | Dressing |
| Southern Caesar | Romaine, Parmesan, cornbread croutons | 350 | House-made Caesar |
| Harvest Salad | Mixed greens, squash, pecans, cranberries | 420 | Maple vinaigrette |
| Grilled Chicken Salad | Chicken, mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers | 500 | Choice of dressing |
| Quinoa and Kale Bowl | Quinoa, kale, avocado, pickled onions | 460 | Lemon tahini |
Desserts and Sweet Treats
The dessert menu at Tennessee Rickhouse BNA is a celebration of Southern sweets with a sophisticated twist. Each dessert is designed to provide a satisfying conclusion to the meal, balancing sweetness with texture and flavor complexity.
Classic favorites like pecan pie and bread pudding are given modern updates through unique ingredients and presentation. The kitchen also offers seasonal desserts that highlight fresh fruit and innovative flavor pairings.
Whether you choose a rich chocolate option or a light fruit tart, these sweets are crafted to delight.
Pairing dessert with a complementary drink, such as a dessert wine or a well-chosen bourbon, enhances the experience. The staff are skilled at recommending the perfect combination to end your meal on a high note.
Noteworthy Desserts
- Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie: A decadent twist on the classic, featuring rich chocolate and toasted pecans.
- Peach Cobbler: Made with fresh Tennessee peaches and a flaky biscuit topping.
- Buttermilk Ice Cream: Creamy and tangy, served with seasonal fruit compote.
- Honey Lavender Crème Brûlée: Silky custard infused with honey and lavender, topped with a caramelized sugar crust.
“Dessert should be the grand finale, a moment of pure indulgence that reflects the soul of Southern hospitality,” the pastry chef explains.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Tennessee Rickhouse BNA is committed to offering inclusive menu choices that accommodate vegetarian and vegan lifestyles without compromising on flavor or creativity. The kitchen ensures that plant-based diners have a variety of thoughtfully prepared dishes to enjoy.
Vegetarian options often feature hearty grains, fresh vegetables, and innovative meat substitutes, while vegan dishes are crafted to be just as satisfying and rich in taste. The use of herbs, spices, and house-made sauces elevates these dishes, making them a highlight rather than an afterthought.
The restaurant welcomes guests to discuss dietary needs with the staff, who are trained to suggest appropriate modifications or menu items. This openness creates a welcoming environment for all diners to explore Tennessee Rickhouse BNA’s culinary offerings.
Plant-Based Highlights
- Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich: Pulled jackfruit in a smoky barbecue sauce, served on a toasted bun with pickles.
- Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: Filled with quinoa, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with vegan cheese.
- Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos: Soft corn tortillas filled with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and avocado salsa.
- Roasted Vegetable Plate: Seasonal vegetables roasted with herbs, served with a side of garlic hummus.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Vegan | Gluten-Free |
| BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich | Jackfruit, barbecue sauce, bun | Yes | No (bun contains gluten) |
| Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms | Quinoa, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, vegan cheese | Yes | Yes |
| Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos | Sweet potatoes, black beans, corn tortillas, avocado salsa | Yes | Yes |
| Roasted Vegetable Plate | Seasonal vegetables, garlic hummus | Yes | Yes |
Seasonal and Chef’s Specials
The seasonal and chef’s specials at Tennessee Rickhouse BNA highlight the creativity and adaptability of the culinary team. Inspired by the best ingredients available each season, these dishes offer unique flavors that change throughout the year.
These specials provide a chance for diners to experience something new and exclusive, often showcasing local farmers and producers. The chef’s specials also allow the kitchen to experiment with bold combinations and presentation styles, keeping the menu vibrant and dynamic.
Guests are encouraged to ask their server about the current specials, which often include limited-time cocktails and desserts as well. This approach ensures that every visit can offer a fresh and exciting culinary discovery.
Current Specials Example
- Spring Ramp Risotto: Creamy risotto with wild ramps, peas, and Parmesan.
- Grilled Duck Breast with Cherry Glaze: Served with roasted root vegetables and a cherry reduction sauce.
- Lavender Lemonade Cocktail: A refreshing mix of vodka, lavender syrup, lemon juice, and soda water.
- Spiced Apple Tart: Flaky pastry filled with cinnamon-spiced apples and served with vanilla ice cream.
“The specials let us express the seasons on a plate, connecting diners to the moment and place,” the executive chef shares.
Exploring the Tennessee Rickhouse BNA menu reveals a dedication to quality, tradition, and innovation. From the carefully crafted appetizers to the indulgent desserts, every dish is a reflection of Southern hospitality elevated to an art form.
The seamless integration of food and drink offerings showcases a deep understanding of flavor harmony and guest experience. Whether savoring a smoky brisket paired with a finely aged bourbon or enjoying a refreshing seasonal salad alongside a craft cocktail, the menu invites guests on a journey through Tennessee’s rich culinary landscape.
Beyond the food itself, the attentive service and welcoming atmosphere make each visit to Tennessee Rickhouse BNA memorable. The kitchen’s commitment to accommodating diverse dietary needs and the bar’s expert mixologists ensure that everyone finds something to delight in.
Seasonal specials and rotating cocktail lists keep the experience fresh and exciting, encouraging repeat visits and exploration.
Ultimately, Tennessee Rickhouse BNA stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Southern cuisine and craftsmanship. It offers a dining experience where every detail, from ingredient sourcing to presentation, is thoughtfully curated.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual evening out, the menu promises a satisfying and enriching encounter with the flavors and culture of Tennessee.
