Top 10 Hot Chicken Restaurants in Nashville: A Dance Instructor’s Guide
Howdy y’all! This is your friendly New Boots Line Dancing instructor here, and let me tell ya, there ain’t nothin’ like workin' up an appetite after hittin’ the dance floor. In Nashville, hot chicken is as much a part of the culture as music and dancin'. So if you’re ready to spice up your day (or night), here are my personal top 10 hot chicken joints y'all gotta try when you’re in town.
1. Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Famous for: Flavorful spice blends and crispy chicken
As a dance instructor, I see all kinds of heat—on the floor and on the plate. Hattie B’s brings the fire with spice levels from "Southern" (mild) to "Shut the Cluck Up" (seriously hot). Pair your meal with pimento mac and cheese to cool things down just a smidge. After a class at New Boots, this is the perfect spot to refuel.
Locations: Midtown, West Nashville, and more
2. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack
Famous for: Being the original hot chicken joint
Prince’s is where it all began, y’all. This place has been servin’ up authentic hot chicken since the 1930s. If you wanna feel connected to Nashville’s roots, Prince’s is your place. The flavors are bold, and the heat’s as real as a good two-step.
Location: 5814 Nolensville Pike
3. Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish
Famous for: A mix of hot chicken and crispy fish
If variety’s your thing, Bolton’s has got you covered. Their hot chicken is top-notch, but their crispy fish might surprise you. After a night of line dancin', this is where I go to spice things up—literally.
Location: 624 Main Street
4. Party Fowl
Famous for: Creative hot chicken dishes
Y’all, Party Fowl is a whole vibe. From hot chicken poutine to hot chicken and cheddar grits, they’ve got creative takes on the classic dish. Plus, their boozy slushies make this a great spot to kick back after a lesson at New Boots Line Dancing.
Locations: Donelson, Downtown, and more
5. The Row Kitchen & Pub
Famous for: Laid-back vibes and live music
There’s nothin’ better than good music, good food, and good company, and The Row serves all three. Their hot chicken plate is flavorful without knockin’ you off your boots with heat. Perfect for a post-dance hangout.
Location: 110 Lyle Avenue
6. Pepperfire Hot Chicken
Famous for: Unique dishes like the "Tender Royale"
When I’m cravin’ somethin' indulgent, Pepperfire’s "Tender Royale"—hot chicken tenders on a grilled cheese sandwich—hits the spot. It’s messy, sure, but after a good line dance workout, you’ve earned it.
Location: 1000 Gallatin Avenue
7. 400 Degrees Hot Chicken
Famous for: Smoky flavors and serious heat
This spot is not for the faint of heart. The smoky, bold flavors at 400 Degrees are as unforgettable as a perfectly choreographed line dance. Bring your A-game and plenty of sweet tea to handle the heat.
Location: 3704 Clarksville Pike
8. Big Shake’s Hot Chicken & Fish
Famous for: Hot chicken tacos and off-the-chart spice levels
Big Shake’s isn’t in Nashville proper, but it’s worth the short drive to Franklin. Their hot chicken tacos are unique, and their spice levels—like "Executioner"—will leave an impression, just like a bold dance move.
Location: 1203 Murfreesboro Road, Franklin
9. Edley’s Bar-B-Que
Famous for: A top-notch hot chicken sandwich
Edley’s might be known for barbecue, but their hot chicken sandwich is somethin' to write home about. Pair it with a side of cornbread or brisket, and you’ve got yourself a meal worthy of any honky-tonk hero.
Locations: 12South, East Nashville, and more
10. Smokin Thighs
Famous for: Chicken thighs and moonshine cocktails
If you’re lookin’ for a twist on the traditional, Smokin Thighs serves up juicy chicken thighs instead of the usual wings or breasts. Pair it with a moonshine cocktail for the full Southern experience.
Location: 611 Wedgewood Avenue
Why Hot Chicken and Line Dancing Go Hand in Hand
Hot chicken and line dancing have somethin’ in common: they bring people together. At New Boots Line Dancing, we see it all the time. Folks from all over, different backgrounds and all, come to learn a new step or two, then head out to share a meal. And in Nashville, hot chicken is the dish that’ll have y’all talkin’, laughin’, and maybe even sheddin’ a few spicy tears together.
So, after your next lesson at New Boots, why not hit up one of these spots? Trust me, nothin’ wraps up a night of dancin' better than a plate of Nashville’s finest hot chicken.
Pro Tips for Hot Chicken Newbies
Start Low: If you’re new to hot chicken, ease into the heat. Start mild and work your way up.
Cool Off: Keep some coleslaw or pickles on hand to balance out the spice.
Stay Hydrated: Sweet tea isn’t just a drink—it’s a lifesaver.
Mix It Up: Every restaurant has its own take, so don’t be shy about tryin’ a few.
From legendary spots like Prince’s to modern marvels like Hattie B’s, Nashville’s hot chicken scene has somethin’ for everyone. And as your line dancing instructor, let me just say—if you’re dancin’ through Music City, you’d best make time for some of the best hot chicken in town. Trust me, your taste buds (and your boots) will thank ya!