Shortlist: 8 Restaurants In Clarksville (TN) That Locals Love!

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Last updated on December 2, 2022 by Wandering our World

Despite being a large city, Clarksville still has a small-town charm that can convince anyone to move and settle down here. And among the many things we love about this city is its bustling food scene, with dozens of classy restaurants and cozy cafes to satisfy your culinary cravings.

So we’ve shortlisted some of the best locally-owned restaurants in Clarksville, TN, just for you – experience everything from comforting southern food and laid-back sandwiches to cuisines from across the globe, including Korean and German food! 

So here’s our top eight restaurants in Clarksville below. Bon appetit!

Chef cooking in kitchen
Photo for illustrative purposes only: Unsplash+

Our Top Eight Best Restaurants In Clarksville, TN: Food Worth Waiting For!

1. Edward’s Steakhouse

Fancy steaks served in a brick-walled and dimly-lit ambiance with live piano on Saturdays

What used to be known as Benne’s Steakhouse was revived by Gary and Linda Shephard, who breathed life into the place when they turned it into Edward’s Steakhouse back in 2009.

Today, it stands as one of the most popular restaurants in downtown Clarksville, with a rustic, fine dining atmosphere that’s still relaxed enough for you to feel comfortable in.

Exposed brick walls and dimly lit light fixtures keep it all looking cozy and romantic, while seasonal festive decor keeps the vibe casual and fun at the same time. A few steps upstairs and you’ll come across a small but beautiful bar area with a piano, which is played live on Saturday nights.

With a menu entirely focused on quality cuts of meat, this place can impress the snobbiest of steak snobs. Start with their appetizers, such as the oysters Rockefellers or the refreshing shrimp cocktail, then turn your attention to the stunning mains. Whether you pick the ribeye, filet mignon, NY strip, or a simple sirloin, you’ll be blown away by the perfectly seasoned juiciness of it.

Everything is grilled precisely to the temperature you request – their chefs really know their way about grilling meat! Pair it with a side of their loaded baked potatoes and some stellar house cocktails, and you’ll be left with a satisfied and happy belly.

Reservations are almost always necessary if you want to dine here, although you can certainly snag a seat at the first come first serve bar when one becomes available. Find them open between Wednesday-Saturday from 4.30 pm onwards.

Address: 107 Franklin St, Clarksville, TN 

beef steak display
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/lisovskaya

2. Catfish House 

Quaint restaurant near the Cumberland River serving Southern style seafood in a country setting

For over 40 years now, Catfish House has been Clarksville’s worst-kept secret, feeding the locals with some of the best seafood anywhere in town.

Dining here not only brings you southern cooking at its best but also offers an escape from the busy downtown life into a peaceful countryside-like landscape. Thanks to its location right off Cumberland river, the restaurant is surrounded by green grounds and trees, with a long narrow pathway that leads up to the storefront. It’s like discovering a hidden cabin in the woods!

Meanwhile, the inside is pretty quaint and homey, with a family-friendly atmosphere offering southern hospitality at its best. You’re also more than welcome to relax on the rocking chairs on their huge porch post-dinner!

Indulge in some of their phenomenal complimentary fried okra as you browse through their fried food heaven of a menu. Entrees include some perfectly seasoned fried catfish (cajun or regular – your pick) that’s tender on the inside and beautifully crisp on the outside. Jumbo shrimps, scallops, crab cakes, and oysters also grace the menu, served with hushpuppies, slaw, and beans. Everything is lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, leaving guests delighted.

For folks not so keen on seafood, they’ve got juicy steaks with hearty southern sides like white beans, corn on the cob, and loaded baked potatoes. 

Find this family-owned, charming little restaurant open Tuesday-Saturday from 4 pm onwards, and 11.30 am onwards on Sundays. It’s kind of the perfect pit stop to grab a hot and satisfying meal post-fishing on the river! 

Address: 1461 Zinc Plant Road Clarksville, TN

3. Kohana Sushi and Ramen

Flavorful ramen and creative sushi served in a sleek and modern setting 

Not everyone can serve the perfect ramen broth and expertly rolled sushi – unless you’re at Kohana of course, which has mastered these Japanese delicacies.

As a result, the restaurant quickly garnered a city-wide following when it first opened in 2007, and manages to wow guests to this day with its impressive service.

Even their ambiance is excellent, with an elegant and modern look that’s very relaxing to dine in. Chic decor in a somewhat minimalist dining room with booths and tables makes for an ultra-sleek setting, although the atmosphere is casual. So you can walk in with comfy clothes and relax in the beautiful room over a bowl of piping hot ramen – sounds kind of perfect, doesn’t it?

Although they serve lots of small plates of Gyoza, spring rolls, and Japanese-style calamari, the main stars of the menu are their sushi, ramen, and noodles. There’s an exhaustive list of rolls, so you’ll have something new and interesting to try every time you come here.

We recommend trying their ever-so-popular ‘super bowl’ sushi with tempura shrimp and deep-fried asparagus, and the crunchy ‘101st’ with snow crab and crawfish.

The ramen, on the other hand, is served in five different flavors, including a vegan version. The noodles are springy, the broth is rich and packed with flavor, and the toppings are fresh and generous.

Their spicy seafood udon noodle bowl is pretty good too, especially if you pair it with some of the premium Sake they serve. Everything is artfully presented and reasonably priced, so it’s no wonder why Kohana is at the top of its game!

They’re open Tuesday-Friday, 11 am onwards and noon onwards on weekends. 

Address: 120 Corporate Dr, Clarksville, TN 

Sushi platter arrangement
Photo for illustrative purposes only (iStock.com/AtlasStudio)

4. Liberty Park Grill

American favorites and beers served in a dimly-lit, spacious dining area and a large patio with a view of the marina

Located at Clarksville Marina, Liberty Park Grill serves up gourmet burgers and American entrees with a side of sweeping views of the Cumberland River.

It’s a spacious venue doused in warm colors and dim lighting, so you can kick back and relax over drinks and some hearty fare. There’s a separate bar area too, with shelves stocked up with liquor, a TV screen, and a cozy, warm vibe.

But nothing comes close to the outdoor dining experience here, where you can settle on shaded tables and watch boats sail in and out of view at the marina. The surrounding greenery of the park adds to the scenic view, and what’s better than sipping cocktails in such a naturally beautiful setting?

With a laidback menu of American favorites done right, you’re in for a satisfying meal when you dine here. Start with fried pickles or BBQ nachos as appetizers, and order some of the draft beers or their signature cocktails to go along the way.

Move on to either their juicy burgers grilled to order or some of the refreshing seafood entrees such as the salmon in blackjack bourbon sauce or the grilled cilantro-lime shrimps.

The dinner menu has additional stuff like slow-cooked baby back ribs, steaks, and some southern fried chicken that’s bound to make your mouth water. The pasta is pretty good too, as is the salmon avocado salad drizzled with homemade vinaigrette. 

Liberty Park Grill is open every day from 11 am onwards, and although they get pretty busy on weekends as they’re one of the most popular restaurants in Clarksville, TN, you don’t really need a reservation – just walk in and the hospitable staff will take care of you! 

Address: 125 Marina Way, Clarksville, TN 

Assorted dishes top view pork ribs, beef steak, salmon steak, chicken wings, Burger with meat, squid Rings
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Maksim Krisanov

5. Silke’s Old World Breads

Family-owned cafe and bakery with German comfort food and artisan breads served in a comfy and homey setting

One doesn’t come across German food in this town very often, so you’ll find yourself utterly delighted if you happen to dine at Silke’s Old World Breads.

It’s a part bakery and part cafe in the heart of Clarksville, TN, where you’re greeted with the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries when you step in.

Family-owned and operated, this place has been around since 2000, with a passion for creating scratch-made artisan breads and healthy, homemade food made with fresh ingredients.

Their counter-serve venue is casual and family-friendly, with a kids’ play area, lovely and helpful staff, and a homey neighborhood cafe vibe. There’s also some seating available on the shaded porch when the weather is nice and sunny.

Served all day long, the German breakfast platters here are the best way to start the day. Indulge in German meats, a variety of premium cheese slices, and brötchens (German bread rolls) served on one big appetizing platter or the traditional Leberkase with eggs and buns.

Lunch comes with plenty of options, which include a Schnitzel sandwich, Bratwurst brötchen (German sausage on a roll), and some delectable artisan pizzas baked on a stone hearth. They cater to all sorts of dietary restrictions too, so almost everything can be made 100% vegan (with vegan bread and cheese), vegetarian, and/or gluten-free, including the pizzas!

Every dish is scratch-made, made to order, and served with/on fresh bread, and the German delicacies are like a slice of Germany right here in the States – you have to try it to believe it! 

They’re open every day from 9.30 am onwards, except for the bakery that remains closed on Sunday. Don’t forget to grab a loaf of your favorite bread or a slice of their heavenly german chocolate cake on your way out! 

Address: 1214 A, College St, Clarksville, TN 

Fried pork chop with French fries and fresh vegetable salad on wooden table
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/gbh007

6. Naru Korean BBQ

Casual Korean restaurant with unlimited Korean BBQ on cook-it-yourself grill tables

If you’re up for trying out Korean food, Naru Korean BBQ is a great place to dip your toes into this cuisine. They’re arguably the most popular Korean restaurant in Clarksville, TN, with the most authentic Korean food anywhere in town.

At first sight, it looks pretty unassuming from the outside, and the atmosphere inside is quaint with humble furnishings, but the experience and the food are straight up 5 stars.

When you come in, you’re greeted by the most hospitable and wonderful staff, who then seat you on either one of the regular tables or the roomy, semi-private grilling booths where you can grill your own meat. There are call buttons on the tables in case you need help with anything, but you likely won’t need it – the attentive staff checks in on you quite often.

As for the menu, rest assured it fulfils all your Korean food cravings – vibrant bibimbap, flavorful bulgogi and pork belly on rice, spicy ramen, and even spicier stews. It’s all fantastic!

The BBQ side of the menu is even more exciting, where you can avail the all-you-can-eat BBQ offer and devour Korean brisket, spicy pork belly, chicken, and more alongside lots of unlimited sides. Grilling the meat yourself is an experience you don’t want to miss out on, so if you’ve got time on your hands, definitely go for it and be the grill master!

They’ve also got lunch boxes with your favorite meats alongside salad/rice and side dishes, and it’s quite a steal considering the generous amount of stuff they serve. Get some Sake to go along the way, and you’re all set for an unforgettable satisfying meal.

They’re open Wednesday-Monday, 11 am onwards (12 pm on Sundays). Mind you, lunchtime is pretty busy here as they’re easily one of the most popular restaurants in Clarksville, TN – they’re just that good! 

Address: B, 2088 Lowes Dr a, Clarksville, TN 

assortment of asian dishes on a table
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/thesomegirl

7. Yada on Franklin 

Italian restaurant offering small plates and cocktails in an upscale environment with a spacious bar and live music 

Yada on Franklin used to be a small and lovable coffee shop, but three years ago the owners expanded the space and turned it into a full-fledged restaurant featuring Cicchetti – the Italian word for small plates.

Now, people come here for their delectable Italian food – it’s a place perfect for gathering with family and friends to share good food over laughs and a glass (or two) of fine wine.

The venue itself feels very welcoming and comfortable despite having an upscale vibe. Gorgeous chandeliers hang over velvet chairs, exposed brick walls surround the guests, and a long and beautiful marble-top bar acts as the main draw of the room. Top that with the live music they’ve got going on every other day, and you’ve got yourself a 5-star experience! 

They still serve the same wonderful coffee and buttery croissants, scones, and quiches they started out with for breakfast (Tuesday-Friday 9 am), and you can also get lots of breakfast items to-go.

And on weekends, you can come here for ‘Brunchetti’ for small plates of biscuit and gravy, blue polenta and shrimps, benedict over fried eggplant, and such to be shared with your pals over some stellar mimosas.

Their lunch menu is pretty light and breezy, offering plenty of gourmet sandwiches and salads for the most part.

But dinner is where the real magic happens, though, when you get to experience Chef Aaron’s version of traditional Italian favorites like carbonara pasta, fried cheese ravioli, eggplant parmesan, and more. And let’s not forget their authentic Neapolitan pizzas made with scratch-made dough and baked in an Italian wood-fired oven – they’re quite the popular item on the menu.

Don’t forget to pair your meals with some of their creative cocktails and fine wines. Drop by between Tuesday-Sunday from 9 am onwards (9.30 am on weekends), and do get a reservation in case you’re planning to come for dinner! 

Address: 111 Franklin St, Clarksville, TN 

Italian pastas with different kinds of sauce
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Roxiller

8. Thai Bowl 

Locally-owned restaurant serving authentic Thai and Lao cuisine in a casual and cheery venue 

Authentic Thai food wasn’t exactly available in abundance in Clarksville, TN until three years ago when Benz Paneboun and his wife opened up Thai Bowl.

The restaurant brings intensely-flavored curries and spicy noodles in a small and comfortable dining room, where colorful lights set the mood and the wall decor pays homage to Thai culture. It’s exactly what one wants from a satisfying Thai meal – simple surroundings, fresh food, and a casual atmosphere. 

With a sprawling list of appetizers and entrees, the menu here spoils you for choice, with lots of gluten-free as well as vegetarian picks for the meat-averse crowd.

Everything is made from scratch and to order, right down to the Lao beef jerky – an all-time favorite appetizer. Entrees feature Thai and Lao noodles like Pad Thai, Lad Na, and drunken noodles alongside stir-fried specialties like seafood basil, spicy lemongrass chicken, and sizzling beef.

The curries are excellent as well, especially if you pair them with a side of sticky rice. Adjust the spice from levels 1-5 (we suggest 4 or 5 if you like things with an extra kick), and try some of their imported Asian beers or boba tea to finish off the meal.

Find them open Tuesday-Saturday, 11 am onwards, and 3 pm onwards on Sundays. As one of the best restaurants in Clarksville they’re quite busy on weekends, but service remains fast and smooth. 

Address: 1761 Tiny Town Rd Suite E, Clarksville, TN 

beef pad thai and chicken satay dinner viewed from above
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/rez-art

The Best Restaurants In Clarksville, TN: Final Thoughts 

Save yourself the hassle of looking up the tons of restaurants in Clarksville, TN – we’ve got the best ones listed right here. Try them and find out what’s all the rage about. Enjoy!

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.