Murfreesboro Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience

Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Murfreesboro. Your complete guide to dining in Murfreesboro.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Murfreesboro! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Murfreesboro has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Murfreesboro's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Murfreesboro like a true food lover.

Key Takeaways

  • Murfreesboro offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
  • Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
  • Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
  • Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
  • Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere

Must-Try Restaurants

From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Murfreesboro.

The Goat Murfreesboro

Highly rated Restaurant in Murfreesboro with 4.3 stars from 3021 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 2355 Adwell St, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Drake's Murfreesboro

Highly rated American in Murfreesboro with 4.4 stars from 877 reviews.

πŸ“ 2614 Roby Corlew Ln, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

The Alley on Main

Highly rated American in Murfreesboro with 4.6 stars from 2190 reviews.

πŸ“ 223 W Main St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

Primrose Table

Highly rated Restaurant in Murfreesboro with 4.7 stars from 605 reviews.

πŸ“ 1650 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

PennePazze Murfreesboro

Highly rated Restaurant in Murfreesboro with 4.8 stars from 986 reviews.

πŸ“ 1430 Medical Center Pkwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Neighbors Murfreesboro

Highly rated Restaurant in Murfreesboro with 4.6 stars from 485 reviews.

πŸ“ 2512 Roby Corlew Ln, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Murfreesboro Kabob

Highly rated Mediterranean in Murfreesboro with 4.8 stars from 1518 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.

πŸ“ 306 W Vine St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine

Five on Black Kitchen and Spirit House

Highly rated Restaurant in Murfreesboro with 4.6 stars from 211 reviews.

πŸ“ 215 N Church St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Highly rated American in Murfreesboro with 4.3 stars from 1058 reviews.

πŸ“ 2532 Medical Center Pkwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

Jonathan's Grille

Highly rated Pizza in Murfreesboro with 4.5 stars from 3831 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 2911 Medical Center Pkwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Pizza cuisine

The Chop House

Highly rated Steakhouse in Murfreesboro with 4.6 stars from 3883 reviews.

πŸ“ 541 N Thompson Ln, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine

Bar Louie - The Avenue at Murfreesboro

Highly rated Bar in Murfreesboro with 4.6 stars from 4858 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 2615 Medical Center Pkwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Street Food & Food Markets

Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Murfreesboro.

JR's Foodland

Highly rated International in Murfreesboro with 4.5 stars from 894 reviews.

πŸ“ 323 E Main St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Sprouts Farmers Market

Highly rated International in Murfreesboro with 4.5 stars from 1206 reviews.

πŸ“ 143 Wendelwood Dr, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Kim's International Market

Highly rated International in Murfreesboro with 4.9 stars from 588 reviews.

πŸ“ 1118 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Publix Super Market at North Murfreesboro

Highly rated Bakery in Murfreesboro with 4.6 stars from 1451 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.

πŸ“ 3415 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

E & S international market

Highly rated International in Murfreesboro with 4.4 stars from 157 reviews.

πŸ“ 1622 Bradyville Pike, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Main Street Murfreesboro Saturday Market

Highly rated International in Murfreesboro with 4.8 stars from 333 reviews.

πŸ“ 1 S Public Square, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

JOY International Market

Highly rated International in Murfreesboro with 4.9 stars from 27 reviews.

πŸ“ 1520 Memorial Blvd SUITE 101A, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Rutherford County Farmers' Market

Highly rated International in Murfreesboro with 4.7 stars from 353 reviews.

πŸ“ Lane Agri-Park Community Center, 315 John R Rice Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Food Tours & Culinary Experiences

Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Murfreesboro.

Nashville Food Tours

Highly rated International in Murfreesboro with 5 stars from 532 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

A Little Local Flavor - Nashville Food Tours

Highly rated International in Murfreesboro with 5 stars from 1493 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Cafes & Bakeries

Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Murfreesboro.

Just Love Coffee Cafe - Murfreesboro East

Highly rated Cafe in Murfreesboro with 4.8 stars from 2491 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 129 MTCS Rd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Shelli's Coffee + Social

Highly rated Cafe in Murfreesboro with 4.9 stars from 446 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 352 W Northfield Blvd Suite 4b, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Just Love Coffee Cafe - The Fountains at Gateway

Highly rated Cafe in Murfreesboro with 4.8 stars from 921 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 1440 Medical Center Pkwy Suite A, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Bean Loft Coffee Company

Highly rated Cafe in Murfreesboro with 4.8 stars from 415 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 2136 Middle Tennessee Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Brass Horn Coffee Roasters LLC

Highly rated Cafe in Murfreesboro with 4.7 stars from 451 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 410 W Lytle St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Coffee Haus

Highly rated Cafe in Murfreesboro with 5 stars from 112 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 2108 Medical Center Pkwy D, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Dapper Owl

Highly rated Cafe in Murfreesboro with 4.7 stars from 356 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 2412 E Main St, Murfreesboro, TN 37127, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Brunch and Brew cafe (Joe and Dough)

Highly rated Cafe in Murfreesboro with 4.5 stars from 191 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 1220 E Northfield Blvd C, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Local Specialties & Signature Dishes

Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Murfreesboro.

Signature Dish

A must-try Murfreesboro specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Local Delicacy

This beloved Murfreesboro dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Traditional Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of Murfreesboro with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Street Food Favorite

Discover why this Murfreesboro specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Regional Specialty

This iconic Murfreesboro creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Seasonal Treat

A Murfreesboro classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Classic Comfort Food

A must-try Murfreesboro specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Modern Fusion

This beloved Murfreesboro dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Artisanal Product

Experience the authentic taste of Murfreesboro with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Heritage Recipe

Discover why this Murfreesboro specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Bars & Nightlife

Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Murfreesboro.

The Velvet Room Speakeasy

Highly rated Bar in Murfreesboro with 4.8 stars from 177 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.

πŸ“ back alley entrance, 112 S Maple St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Bar Louie - The Avenue at Murfreesboro

Highly rated American in Murfreesboro with 4.6 stars from 4858 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 2615 Medical Center Pkwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

The Goat Murfreesboro

Highly rated Restaurant in Murfreesboro with 4.3 stars from 3021 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 2355 Adwell St, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

One of Nineteen Cocktails and Raw Bar

Highly rated Restaurant in Murfreesboro with 4.8 stars from 98 reviews.

πŸ“ 103 N Maple St Basement, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Hank's Honky Tonk

Highly rated Bar in Murfreesboro with 4.6 stars from 521 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 2341 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Boro Bourbon & Brews

Highly rated Restaurant in Murfreesboro with 4.3 stars from 210 reviews.

πŸ“ 124 N Maple St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices

Essential Tips

  • 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
  • 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
  • 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
  • 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
  • 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
  • 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
  • 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
  • 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
  • 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
  • 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

Murfreesboro's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.

Average Price

Dining costs in Murfreesboro vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Murfreesboro is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.

For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.

Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.

Most restaurants in Murfreesboro offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.

Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Murfreesboro specifically.

Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.

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