Now that March has rolled around, hoops are about to be all the rage, allegiances are about to be tested, and neighborhood bars and living rooms across America are about to be transformed into center court. March Madness has turned into so much more than a college sports tournament—it’s a cultural phenomenon that sweeps the nation from mid-month into April. It’s the last-minute bracket edits you immediately regret. It’s an enthralled audience collectively holding its breath at a last-second buzzer beater pretty much anywhere you go.
And in Nashville, the places to go to watch the games are plentiful … and plenty of fun! Whether you choose to go out and chant with a crowd or stay in and cheer with your friends, exceptional eats are easy to come by. From award-winning barbecue and smokey wings to gourmet hot dogs and tasty shareable sides, here are some top local picks to bring serious flavor to every round of the tournament.
Slam Dunk #1: Bringle’s Smoking Oasis
If your ideal pairing is basketball + finger-licking barbecue, Bringle’s Smoking Oasis scores. Located in The Nations neighborhood, this friendly and welcoming BBQ joint is the sister restaurant to the award-winning Peg Leg Porker, and this concept is owner Carey Bringle’s take on Lone Star State–style barbecue. That means incredibly tender and flavorful smoked brisket, beef ribs, the ever-famous pulled pork, and more, all accompanied by can’t-miss homemade sides like Mexican Street corn, chorizo queso, and Texas-style baked beans.
During March Madness, the setting strikes the perfect balance between lively and laid-back, with plenty of TVs indoors and out to take in the games while enjoying the food and drink offerings. The sprawling lawn area features lots of casual and comfortable seating, with screens above the bar area taking center stage. So sit back, order a rack, and make sure you sample the prize-winning house bourbon from your front-row seat to your favorite teams squaring off.
For menu details and hours, visit the Bringle’s Smoking Oasis website.
Slam Dunk #2: Streetcar Taps & Garden
Looking for both atmosphere and mouthwatering food? Streetcar Taps & Garden in Sylvan Park (now joined by the newly opened and ever-busy location in Germantown) is sure to fit the bill. Not only does it serve up gastro-pub style grub alongside a diverse beer list, it also offers its signature brand of hospitality in one of the city’s coziest and beloved outdoor spaces. Large TVs throughout ensure you won’t miss a single shot.
The spacious beer garden and communal seating set the scene for bracket debates between bites. Fan favorites like crispy wings, Smashville sliders, and Park Potatoes keep things classic, while Rainbow Bites trout cakes, bratwurst plates, and hearty wraps mix it up. Be sure to save room for a scratch-made oatmeal cream pie to finish.
Explore the full menu on the Streetcar Taps & Garden website.
Slam Dunk #3: Dog Haus
The new Dog Haus in East Nashville brings a playful spin to basketball viewing. Known for creative flavor combinations and all-beef dogs served on grilled King’s Hawaiian rolls, this casual spot delivers bold takes on stadium classics … just without the stadium crowds.
The open layout and upbeat atmosphere make it easy to settle in for a full slate of games or to stop by between matchups. Shareable plates like loaded tots and fries keep the table stocked, while signature Haus Dogs and all-day breakfast burritos layer on inventive toppings that feel fitting for a month defined by surprises.
Find location details and hours for Dog Haus East Nashville here.
Staying Home But Eating in Style
According to the NCAA, March Madness draws millions of viewers each year, with games spanning many weeks and time slots. That’s a lot of hosting potential for spectators who’d prefer to enjoy the tournament from the comfort of their own couch.
Luckily for Nashvillians, the standout eateries above offer a slew of to-go options fit for your crew, without having to wait in line for a table (or the restroom!) or eat at a set time.
Both Bringle’s and Peg Leg Porker’s crowd-friendly platters travel well, making them ideal for feeding a hungry lineup of friends. The catering menus have been specifically designed for festive gatherings, with large portions and varied items that will instantly turn your place from a casual hangout to BBQ headquarters.
Streetcar Taps & Garden also makes hosting easy with take-out choices that bring the Streetcar experience to you. Order anything you want, in any quantity you want, add a cooler of craft beer, and game day is covered.
Dog Haus is particularly well-suited for game-day pickup spreads, whether you want to serve just apps and sides or a whole pile of crispy chicken sandwiches and tenders or, of course, their famous dogs and brats. With endless varieties of either, all palates will be pleased!
Game-Day Hosting Tips: Keep It Simple, Keep It Fun
If you’re leaning toward home-court advantage, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some top tips:
- Set up multiple viewing zones in your home, if possible, whether that means TVs in different rooms or viewing devices on counters or on patios so that fans of different teams can follow the games they most want to see.
- Create a self-serve drink station so guests can refill on their own without interrupting you during crucial plays.
- Label the food items you lay out, not just the multiple sauces that come with finger food, but any vegetarian, vegan, or food-allergy-sensitive dishes to accommodate your guests’ dietary needs.
- And most importantly: order enough food! It’s always better to have too much than too little, especially for games that go into overtime.
For inspiration on planning a successful March Madness watch party, ESPN’s tournament hub can help you track schedules, stats, and storylines.
Nashville for the Win!
March Madness is an exhilarating time for fans, especially in college towns like Nashville. Wherever you choose to watch the tournament, the city knows how to host and it sure knows how to feed foodies! Here, you can savor great flavors without a lot of fuss. Here, you can grab the corner booth, your favorite stool at the bar, or bask in the fresh air of spring outside while munching on delicious fare just made for convivial sporting events.
And if you’d rather avoid the crowds and have a little party of your own, Nashville restaurants make sure to offer pickup, catering, and delivery options that make it convenient and easy to do so without having to sacrifice any taste or team spirit.
So go ahead and draft the best of Nashville’s food scene into your tournament plans, whether you’re dining in or out. This March, the bracket may be unpredictable, but your game-day experience doesn’t have to be. At home or away, you’re already set up for a win.