CMA Fest is one of my favorite weeks every year in Nashville. The first weekend of June (Thursday–Sunday), over 300 artists gather (essentially every country music artist you’ve ever heard on the radio and then some up-and-comers), donating their time to perform so that a portion of ticket proceeds can directly benefit music programs across the United States through the nonprofit, the CMA Foundation. For four days, from 10:00 a.m. to midnight, you can catch your favorite artists across 11 different stages in the heart of downtown (5 of which are free). Not only does the event call the best of the best back home to country music, it’s also arguably the festival with the best food.
If you’re going to maximize every bit of the week, it’s important to stay hydrated and refuel. So, I’m here to give you our guide to the best eats and drinks to give you energy to make it from the 10:00 a.m. show on the Chevy Riverfront Stage to final night fireworks Nissan Stadium.
301 Broadway
With some of the best “bar food” on Broadway, Luke’s offers a surprising selection and a Salmon Salad that us locals all talk about.
129 2nd Avenue N
Need a cool down or just a sweet pick-me-up? Grab a scoop of Banana Pudding ice cream or a Tennessee Fudge milkshake.
410 4th Ave South
When you’re hangry and need to escape the crowd for a bit, take a stroll down 4th Avenue and order yourself a Redneck Taco.