If you're planning a trip to Music City, there's one meal that deserves a spot on your itinerary—Hattie B's Nashville Hot Chicken.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning fan, Hattie B's has become one of Nashville's most iconic restaurants, serving crispy fried chicken with just the right amount of Southern hospitality.
From choosing the perfect heat level to knowing what sides to order, here's everything you need to know before visiting Hattie B's.
What Is Hattie B's?
Hattie B's is a family-owned restaurant that opened in Nashville in 2012. Founded by father-and-son team Nick Bishop Sr. and Nick Bishop Jr., the restaurant was created to bring authentic Nashville hot chicken to more people while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere of a neighborhood chicken shack. Today, Hattie B's has expanded to multiple states while staying true to its Nashville roots.
While Prince's Hot Chicken is widely credited with inventing Nashville hot chicken, Hattie B's has helped introduce the spicy Southern specialty to visitors from around the world.
One of my all-time favorite things to do is to seek out iconic restaurants and sample the food. One day while I was out looking at the murals in Nashville, my best friend, my daughter, and I decided to look for somewhere to eat after shopping. You can find all my favorite Nashville restaurants in this post.
It was then that I remembered Hattie B's was close and I have always wanted to try their hot chicken, so we set out on an adventure.
When we arrived, Hattie B's had only been open for just a little bit so we only had to wait about 10 minutes to order. Normally there is a line wrapped around the building with people waiting — and by the time we left, that is exactly what was going on.
What Makes Hattie B's Nashville Hot Chicken Special?
Unlike traditional fried chicken, Nashville hot chicken is coated with a spicy cayenne-infused oil immediately after frying. The result is crispy, juicy chicken with layers of smoky, spicy flavor.
Traditionally, it's served with:
- White bread
- Dill pickle chips
- Southern-style sides
Don't be fooled by the simple presentation—the heat can be intense!
Choosing Your Heat Level
One of the best things about Hattie B's is that everyone can find a spice level they enjoy.
Their heat scale includes:
- Southern – No heat at all
- Mild – Just a touch of spice
- Medium – Flavorful with a noticeable kick
- Hot – For serious spice lovers
- Damn Hot! – Extremely spicy
- Shut the Cluck Up!!! – Made with ghost peppers and not for the faint of heart
First-Time Visitor Tip
If you've never tried Nashville hot chicken before, order Medium.
You'll experience the signature flavor without overwhelming your taste buds. Many local guides recommend Medium as the perfect introduction.
What Should You Order?
Although the chicken is the star of the show, don't skip the sides.
Hot Chicken Plate
The classic choice includes:
- Bone-in chicken or tenders
- White bread
- Pickles
- Two Southern sides
Fan-Favorite Sides
Some of the most popular sides include:
- Pimento Mac & Cheese
- Crinkle Fries
- Southern Greens
- Black-Eyed Pea Salad
- Creamy Coleslaw
- Baked Beans
Save Room for Dessert
The banana pudding has developed an almost legendary reputation and is one of the restaurant's most recommended menu items
Expect a Line
Hattie B's is one of the busiest restaurants in Nashville.
Especially at the original Midtown location, it's common to see lines stretching outside the building during lunch and dinner.
The good news?
The line usually moves faster than expected because the ordering process is efficient.
Best Times to Visit
If you'd like to avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting:
- Before 11:30 AM
- Between 2:00–4:00 PM
- On weekdays instead of weekends
Which Nashville Location Should You Visit?
Nashville has several Hattie B's locations.
Popular choices include:
- Midtown (the original location)
- West Nashville
- Melrose
- Lower Broadway
If you're staying downtown and exploring Broadway, the Lower Broadway location is convenient.
If you're driving, the West Nashville location often offers easier parking and shorter waits.
Is It Worth the Hype?
For many visitors, absolutely.
Locals may debate which restaurant serves the “best” hot chicken—Prince's, Bolton's, Red's, and others all have devoted followings—but Hattie B's consistently earns praise for:
- Consistent quality
- Friendly service
- Multiple spice options
- Excellent Southern side dishes
It's often recommended as one of the easiest and most approachable places for first-time visitors to experience authentic Nashville hot chicken.
Tips for Your Visit
Here are a few tips that can make your meal even better:
- Start with Medium if you're unsure about spice.
- Keep extra napkins nearby—things can get messy!
- Pair spicy chicken with sweet tea or lemonade.
- Don't skip the banana pudding.
- If you're dining with a group, order different spice levels so everyone can sample.
Nearby Things to Do
One of the best parts about visiting Hattie B's is how close it is to many of Nashville's top attractions.
After your meal, consider visiting:
- Broadway's famous honky-tonks
- Centennial Park
- The Parthenon
- The Country Music Hall of Fame
- Music Row
It's an easy stop to include during a day of sightseeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hattie B's extremely spicy?
It can be, depending on what you order. Southern has no heat, while “Shut the Cluck Up!!!” is extremely hot.
Is Hattie B's kid-friendly?
Yes. Since there are non-spicy chicken options and classic Southern sides, families can comfortably dine together.
Can you order online?
Yes. Ordering ahead can save time, especially during busy periods.
Is it worth waiting in line?
Most visitors say yes. The food is consistently excellent, and the experience has become something of a Nashville tradition.
Hattie B's has several locations in Nashville, and they also have locations in Memphis and Birmingham, Alabama. They have a patio area so if you want to bring your fur friend along you can. Check out all the pet-friendly things to do in Nashville.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Hattie B's is more than just lunch—it's a Nashville experience. Whether you're craving mild Southern fried chicken or daring enough to tackle the hottest spice level, you'll enjoy one of the city's most famous culinary traditions.
Pair your meal with creamy mac and cheese, cool banana pudding, and plenty of sweet tea, and you'll quickly understand why Hattie B's has become one of the most talked-about restaurants in Music City.