Unearth The Voyage
Tennessee might be famous for its whiskey and barbecue, but the Volunteer State also serves up some seriously impressive steaks. From Nashville’s glitzy dining rooms to Memphis’ classic establishments, steak lovers across Tennessee have passionate opinions about where to find the perfect cut. These eight legendary steakhouses have earned their reputations through decades of excellence, prime cuts, and that special Southern hospitality that keeps locals coming back for more.
1. Kayne Prime (Nashville)
Nestled in Nashville’s trendy Gulch neighborhood, Kayne Prime elevates the traditional steakhouse experience with modern flair. The restaurant’s signature starter—housemade bacon topped with maple cotton candy—perfectly signals the creative culinary journey ahead. Farm-to-table devotion shines through each perfectly-seared prime cut, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame the bustling cityscape outside. The warm brick walls and leather booths create an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and welcoming. Nashville natives reserve tables weeks in advance, especially for special occasions. Their extensive wine list, curated to complement those melt-in-your-mouth filets and ribeyes, rounds out what many consider the ultimate Nashville steak experience.
2. Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina (Nashville)
Perched 34 stories above Nashville, Bourbon Steak isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city skyline that transforms from sunset gold to twinkling night lights as your meal progresses. Celebrity chef Michael Mina’s menu features butter-poached steaks finished over wood flame, creating a distinctive crust that locals rave about. Their A5 wagyu, imported directly from Japan, practically melts on your tongue. The tableside presentations add theatrical flair to an already impressive dining experience. Even native Nashvillians who’ve seen it all admit that bringing out-of-town guests here guarantees an unforgettable evening of skyline views and exceptional cuts.
3. Sperry’s (Belle Meade & Cool Springs – Nashville area)
Walking into Sperry’s feels like stepping back in time. The dark wood paneling, green leather booths, and brass accents haven’t changed much since 1974—and that’s exactly how Nashville locals like it. This Belle Meade institution introduced the city’s first salad bar, still proudly featured today. Generations of Nashville families have celebrated milestones over their famous prime rib, cut tableside with ceremonial flair. The servers—many who’ve worked there for decades—greet regulars by name and remember their usual orders. What makes Sperry’s special isn’t trendy techniques or celebrity chefs. It’s the comforting reliability of perfectly aged steaks served exactly as they were when your grandparents dined there, creating a time-capsule dining experience that’s increasingly rare.
4. Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse (Nashville)
Glamour takes center stage at Jeff Ruby’s, where dining becomes theater. Crystal chandeliers sparkle above red velvet booths while live piano music fills the art deco-inspired space. This isn’t just dinner—it’s a production. Since arriving in Nashville in 2016, Jeff Ruby’s has quickly become the celebration spot where locals mark life’s biggest moments. The dramatic presentation of their dry-aged tomahawk steaks—often arriving with sparklers—guarantees gasps from nearby tables. Beyond the spectacle, serious steak aficionados appreciate the precision cooking and exceptional quality. The sushi menu offers unexpected variety, while the tableside-prepared bananas foster provides a fiery finale. For Nashvillians seeking both substance and style, Jeff Ruby’s delivers both in abundance.
5. Folk’s Folly Prime Steak House (Memphis)
“Come on in and get comfortable” might as well be Folk’s Folly’s unofficial motto. Since 1977, this Memphis institution has maintained its reputation through simple perfection: impeccably cooked prime steaks served in a labyrinth of intimate dining rooms that feel more like someone’s elegant home than a restaurant. Originally a single-family house, the converted space retains its residential charm. Each room has its own personality, making regulars fiercely loyal to “their” specific table. The complimentary cheese-and-crackers starter—unchanged for decades—signals the beginning of a meal steeped in tradition. Memphis locals particularly treasure the Southern-influenced sides like bourbon-glazed sweet potatoes alongside their buttery filets. Three generations of Memphis families have marked anniversaries and birthdays in these wood-paneled rooms.
6. Porch & Parlor Prime Steakhouse (Memphis)
The newest star in Memphis’ steak constellation, Porch & Parlor blends contemporary Southern elegance with steakhouse tradition. Located in vibrant Overton Square, the restaurant’s name reflects its dual personality: refined dining room meets relaxed front porch vibe. Brass fixtures and marble tabletops create an upscale atmosphere without stuffiness. The menu showcases USDA Prime and American Wagyu cuts, often enhanced with distinctly Southern touches like bourbon-pecan butter or Memphis dry rub seasoning. Theater-goers and date-night couples particularly appreciate the attentive yet unobtrusive service. While relatively new to the Memphis scene, locals have quickly embraced Porch & Parlor as their go-to for pre-show dinners and special occasions, praising both the perfectly executed steaks and the sophisticated cocktail program.
7. Ye Olde Steak House (Knoxville)
Nothing fancy here—just honest, hand-cut steaks that have satisfied hungry Knoxvillians since 1968. This family-owned landmark sits in a rustic log cabin on the outskirts of town, walls covered with University of Tennessee memorabilia collected over decades of feeding hungry Vols fans. The Hicks family still runs the place, greeting regulars and cutting steaks daily. Game days bring crowds of orange-clad supporters who consider a pre-game meal here part of their UT tradition. The loaded baked potatoes arrive almost comically overstuffed. What makes this East Tennessee institution special isn’t innovation but consistency—the ribeyes taste the same as they did when your parents brought you here as a kid. For many Knoxville families, the first place they take returning college students isn’t home, but straight to Ye Olde for a welcome-back steak.
8. Hennen’s (Chattanooga)
The 2,400-bottle wine cellar takes center stage at Hennen’s, visible through glass walls that serve as the restaurant’s dramatic focal point. Situated steps from the Tennessee Aquarium, this Chattanooga favorite balances sophisticated dining with unpretentious Southern hospitality. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of the Tennessee River, particularly stunning at sunset when golden light washes over the dining room. The Certified Angus steaks arrive with perfect temperature-specific char marks and minimal fuss—no overpowering sauces to mask the quality. Locals particularly appreciate the seamless service style: attentive without hovering, knowledgeable without lecturing. After outdoor adventures on Lookout Mountain or along the Riverwalk, Chattanoogans head to Hennen’s to refuel with perfectly aged ribeyes and surprisingly affordable wine pairings from that impressive cellar.
