Nashville’s vibrant food scene offers a treasure trove of culinary delights, but few dining experiences capture the essence of Southern hospitality quite like Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. Located in the heart of Music Valley, this beloved restaurant brings Paula Deen’s famous recipes and family-style dining concept to life. Among the various family-style options available, The Savannah offers a delightful middle ground for those seeking a more substantial Southern feast. Let’s explore what makes The Savannah special and why it should be on your Nashville dining itinerary.
Key Takeaways
- The Savannah is Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen’s enhanced family-style dining option featuring 3 Down Home Dishes and 4 of Paula’s Famous Sides shared by everyone at the table
- All family-style meals include unlimited refills and a delicious Southern dessert for each guest
- Located conveniently near Opry Mills Mall and the Grand Ole Opry, making it perfect for tourists exploring Nashville’s Music Valley
- Family-style dining creates a warm, communal atmosphere perfect for both small and large groups
What is The Savannah Family-Style Dining Experience?
The Savannah at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville represents the generous spirit of Southern hospitality. This carefully crafted dining option allows guests to select 3 Down Home Dishes and 4 of Paula’s Famous Sides for the entire table to share. In the spirit of a traditional family meal, all dishes are served in generous portions at the center of the table, encouraging conversation and connection as everyone helps themselves to these delicious offerings.
The beauty of The Savannah experience is that it brings families and friends together over a shared meal. As Paula herself might say, nothing creates memories quite like passing dishes around the table and savoring good food together. And don’t worry about leaving hungry – The Savannah includes unlimited refills on all selected dishes, ensuring everyone gets their fill of Southern comfort food.
Down Home Dishes: The Heart of The Savannah
When you choose The Savannah, your table will select 3 of Paula’s famous Down Home Dishes from an impressive array of Southern classics. These hearty main courses truly showcase Paula’s culinary expertise and commitment to authentic Southern cooking:
Best Ever Southern Fried Chicken: Paula’s specially seasoned, hand-breaded chicken, fried crisp and golden. As Paula says, “Some things in life can’t be improved upon!”
Beef Pot Roast: Slow-roasted until tender and full of flavor, then lovingly shredded and ladled over buttered white rice – the ultimate comfort food.
Chicken-Fried Pork Chop: Boneless tender pork coated with seasoned flour, fried golden, and drizzled with rich pan gravy.
Country Fried Steak with White Gravy: Seasoned steak tenderized and fried to crispy perfection, topped with rich white gravy.
Spare Ribs: Slow-roasted, fall-off-the-bone ribs smothered in tangy barbecue sauce that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors.
Chicken & Dumplings: Tender pulled chicken and hand-rolled dumplings simmered in savory chicken gravy – a staple at Paula’s family table.
Georgia Fried Catfish: Lightly fried with flour and cornmeal coating, served with Paula’s zingy tartar sauce.
Ol’ Fashioned Southern Meatloaf: Thick-sliced, sweet and tangy meatloaf covered in crispy tobacco onions.
Paula’s Famous Sides: The Perfect Companions
The Savannah experience continues with your choice of 4 delicious sides that complement the main dishes perfectly. Each side dish is crafted with the same care and attention to detail as the main courses:
Green Beans: Slow-cooked with savory seasonings for that authentic Southern flavor
Creamed Potatoes: Rich, buttery mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth
Collard Greens: A Southern staple, seasoned to perfection
Fresh Candied Yams: Sweet, tender, and irresistible
Creamed Corn: Sweet corn in a creamy, buttery sauce
Cole Slaw: Crisp and refreshing with just the right balance of tangy and sweet
Poppyseed Tossed Salad: A light, fresh option to balance the heartier dishes
Baked Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting
BBQ Baked Beans: Sweet and savory with a hint of smokiness
Broccoli Casserole: A delicious way to enjoy your vegetables
Buttered White Rice: Simple yet perfect alongside the rich main dishes
Fried Okra: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy, and hand-selected
Sweet Endings: Desserts Included with The Savannah
In true Southern tradition, no meal is complete without something sweet to finish, and The Savannah doesn’t disappoint. Every guest receives their own dessert – a perfect ending to a perfect meal. Choose from:
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake: Paula’s signature melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s an experience all its own
Banana Pudding: Rich and creamy custard with fresh bananas and sweet vanilla wafers, topped with whipped cream
Seasonal Cobbler: Paula’s bubbling Southern favorite featuring the freshest seasonal fruits
Where is Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville Located?
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen is conveniently located in the heart of Nashville’s Music Valley at 575 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville, TN 37214. This prime location places it right next to Opry Mills Mall and just minutes away from the legendary Grand Ole Opry. Whether you’re enjoying a day of shopping, catching a show at the Opry, or exploring other nearby attractions like the Gaylord Opryland Resort, Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville offers the perfect spot to relax and refuel with authentic Southern cuisine.
Tips for Enjoying Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
Visit during non-peak hours: While the restaurant welcomes walk-ins, arriving before 11:30 AM for lunch or before 5:00 PM for dinner can help minimize your wait time. LUNCH SERVED MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY ONLY
Bring your appetite: With unlimited refills, you’ll want to come hungry to fully enjoy the experience.
Mix and match thoughtfully: When selecting your Down Home Dishes and sides, consider variety – perhaps one chicken dish, one beef option, and one seafood selection, along with a mix of vegetable sides and starches.
Pace yourself: Remember that refills are unlimited, so don’t hesitate to ask for more of your favorites.
Consider dietary needs: Let your server know about any dietary restrictions, as they may be able to accommodate certain modifications.
Experience The Savannah at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen Today!
Ready to indulge in the ultimate Southern comfort food experience? The Savannah at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen offers the perfect middle ground for those wanting to experience a wider variety of Paula’s authentic Southern dishes. Gather your loved ones and create cherished memories around a table filled with delicious offerings made from Paula’s treasured recipes.
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville is open daily serving lunch (Lunch served Monday thru Friday) and dinner Daily: 11am - 9pm. Whether you’re a Nashville local or just visiting Music City, make sure to add this Southern dining experience to your must-visit list.
Frequently Asked Questions
While Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen does welcome walk-in guests, calling ahead for large parties is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons in Nashville or on weekends. The restaurant is equipped to handle groups of various sizes and strives to accommodate all guests as promptly as possible. If you have a specific time in mind or are celebrating a special occasion, contacting the restaurant in advance at 615-492-6500 can help ensure your dining experience meets your expectations.
