Culture & Cuisine: International Restaurants in Franklin, Tennessee
In Franklin, Tennessee’s restaurant landscape, there is no shortage of flavor. With so many dining options available, you can experience the wonders of the world without even leaving county lines, finding authentic international cuisine right here in Middle Tennessee. Below you will find a complete travel itinerary for your palette and plenty of restaurants ready to serve you something new.
Italian Restaurants
Chrysalis Modern Italian is a locally owned, modern Italian restaurant concept located in Franklin’s Cool Springs area. Emphasizing quality, Chrysalis pairs made from scratch dishes with a curated selection of wines, cocktails, and beer. Visit the restaurant at 9040 Carothers Parkway, Suite A201, Franklin, TN 37067.
Culaccino Italian Restaurant + Bar in downtown Franklin celebrates family, food, and heartfelt memories with their premium selection of authentic Italian cuisine. Their menu boasts local, artisanal ingredients for dishes including their scratch-made pasta and 72-hour fermented woodfired pizzas, served alongside a global wine list and craft cocktails. Visit Culaccino at 104 East Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064.
Gina’s Stonefired Italian Pizzeria is a family owned pizzeria bringing authentic, old world recipes to Franklin. With a strong emphasis on family, Gina’s prides itself on their classic, Nonna-inspired Italian recipes and artisanal pizzas. Alongside these dishes, they are also known for gourmet sandwiches, wings, salads, and signature garlic knots. Visit the pizzeria at 3046 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064.
Little Hats Italian Market is an incredible Italian deli and market with locations in Nashville and Franklin. The market specializes in gourmet sandwiches, handmade pasta, and imported goods and ingredients available for purchase. You can dine in, take out, or buy the perfect artisanal ingredients for your next homemade meal. Stop by Little Hats in Cool Springs at 980 Meridian Boulevard, Franklin, TN 37067.
Roma Pizza And Pasta serves Italian cuisine across several locations and counting in Middle Tennessee. Across locations, the restaurant operates as a Mom-and-Pop establishment, serving and delivering homemade style pizzas, strombolis, and calzones as well as pasta, salads, Italian sandwiches, and more at excellent prices. You can visit the Williamson County location, with delivery services offered in Franklin and Brentwood, at 9200 Carothers Parkway, Franklin, TN 37067.
Zolo’s Italian Restaurant combines the artisanal flavors of the Italian countryside with Southern ingredients. You can enjoy delicious Aperitivo, Antipasti, house specialties, Italian favorites, aperitifs, and dessert in a warm and sophisticated atmosphere near downtown Franklin. Adding to the ambiance, the restaurant hosts live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Visit Zolo’s at 119 5th Avenue North, Franklin, TN 37064.
Indian Restaurants
Bawarchi Biryani Point serves authentic Indian cuisine including but not limited to biryani buckets, samosa, butter chicken, and tikka masala. The restaurant, which also offers weekly entree specials, is a global chain; However, our local location is the only one in the state of Tennessee. Stop by Bawarchi Biryani Point at 625 Bakers Bridge Ave, Franklin, TN 37067.
Café India is located in the heart of Franklin, and serves a wide variety of authentic Indian dishes in an elegant and modern atmosphere. Their mission to serve delicious food in a warm and inviting space is accomplished through a team of skilled chefs, a dedicational to healthy ingredients, and traditional recipes. Visit Cafe India at 101 International Drive, Suite 106, Franklin, TN 37067.
Chai Samosa Franklin has an extensive menu that serves small and large plates, from samosa and puffs to biryanis and curry dishes. The Indian restaurant is a quick stop for an authentic dining experience or a specialized online grocery order from India Bazaar Fresh Produce & Groceries. Swing by for a bite to eat at 330 Mayfield Drive, Suite #C1, Franklin, TN 37067.
House of India serves fine Indian food in a memorable atmosphere made complete by authentic decor, an expansive menu, and pleasant music. The fast, casual dining experience includes lunch and dinner, with a lunch buffet offered daily. Alongside dine in, delivery options include the Franklin and Brentwood areas. Visit House of India at 9100 A Carothers Parkway, Suite 105, Franklin, TN 37067.
Namaste Indian Restaurant and Bar celebrates the culinary legacy of India with a menu dedicated to the flavors found from corner to corner of the diverse country. The elevated experience includes authentic yet innovative recipes and a selection of specials, beverages, and an all-you-can-eat buffet option. Dine in at 9040 Carothers Parkway Suite B111, Franklin, TN 37067.
Chinese Restaurants
Asian Taste is a local destination for Chinese and Asian cuisine, serving Franklin with high quality recipes and fresh ingredients. Their menu includes a variety of specialty Asian dishes such as Chow Mei Fun, Moo Shu, Pad Thai, and more, alongside chef specialties and dinner combos. Visit the restaurant at 116 N Royal Oaks Boulevard, Franklin, TN 37067.
Bamboo House offers a delicious selection of Chinese and Japanese food including Hibachi, fried noodles, fried rice, ramen, homemade dumplings, and more in a comfortable, community-serving space in Franklin. Their chefs are dedicated to high-quality ingredients and bold, beloved flavors. Stop by the Cool Springs location at 330 Mayfield Drive, Suite #A10, Franklin, TN 37067.
Beijing Hot Pot brings Beijing-inspired flavor to Franklin with fresh ingredients including premium seafood, meats, vegetables, and broth. The traditional hot pot experience is a communal way to dine, sharing conversation over a simmering pot of broth and a selection of ingredients. Experience it for yourself at 2000 Mallory Lane, Suite 310, Franklin, TN 37067.
Chang Hong Spicy Hot Pot is another wonderful hot pot dining option here in Franklin. The Northern Chinese eatery specializes in Malatang spicy noodle soups, Yunnan style rice noodles, signature hot pot, and boba tea favorites. Visit Chang Hong Spicy Hot Pot at 1113 Murfreesboro Road, Suite 108, Franklin TN 37064.
Ching Asian Bistro, formerly known as the Great Wall of China Restaurant, is a premier Chinese restaurant located in Franklin’s beautiful Westhaven neighborhood. Their menu includes a selection of specials and favorites including Moo Goo Gai Pan, cashew chicken, Kung Pao, and more. Stop by the bistro at 188 Front Street, Suite 104, Franklin, TN 37064.
Hot Wok Franklin has been a part of the local culinary scene for no less than 3 decades. The casual Chinese restaurant serves up fresh, traditional dishes perfect if you’re looking for a quick and quality meal. The beloved restaurant prides itself in a longstanding legacy of bringing Chinese culture to the Franklin community. Visit Hot Wok at 1113 Murfreesboro Road Suite 409, Franklin, TN 37064.
Steam Boys brings Chinese comfort food to locations across Tennessee and Alabama. The Franklin location’s menus includes favorites such as soup dumplings, sesame balls, bao, boiled dumplings, noodle soups, and more. They also serve an extensive selection of boba, matcha, and assorted teas. Aside from Franklin, there is another Williamson County location in Nolensville. Experience Steam Boys in Franklin at 4000 Longpoint Way, Suite 400,Franklin, TN 37064.
Japanese + Asian Fusion Restaurants
MI Kitchen is a modern tapas restaurant that caters to the vast variety of flavors found across the continent of Asia. A diverse menu, expertly crafted cocktails, and elegant ambiance set MI Kitchen apart, making the restaurant the perfect location for a afternoon or night out for dinner and drinks. Enjoy an elevated dining experience at MI Kitchen at 9050 Carothers Parkway, Franklin, TN 37067.
Miso Japanese Restaurant is a local spot that serves a variety of Japanese favorites including sushi, bento boxes, and entrees. Other Asian-inspired menu items include red curry, pad Thai, and pho. The casual, family-friendly Franklin restaurant is located at 2020 Fieldstone Parkway, Franklin, TN 37069.
Otaku Ramen is a local favorite in both Franklin and Nashville, serving up what’s considered by some to be the best ramen in the area. Alongside classic, vegetarian, and specialty ramen, Otaku serves rice bowls, salads, and snacks. Bowls are packed with flavor and customizable. Visit their Williamson County location inside the Factory at Franklin: 230 Franklin Road, Franklin, TN 37064.
Takumi is a hibachi and sushi lounge that offers traditional Japanese flavors in a fun, contemporary environment. Menu favorites include Shrimp Shumai, specialty sushi rolls, miso soup, seaweed salad, sake, and more. Stop by Franklin’s Takumi at 545 Cool Springs Boulevard, Suite 195, Franklin, TN 37067.
Wild Ginger is a fine dining experience that features flavors from across the globe, making it a premier spot for Asian fusion cuisine. The menu is constantly evolving and innovative, making Wild Ginger the only restaurant of its kind in Middle Tennessee. Enjoy a unique, upscale dining experience at 101 Market Exchange Court, Franklin, TN 37067.
Thai Restaurants
Koi Sushi & Thai has been a Franklin staple for over a decade, serving top-notch Japanese sushi rolls and memorable Thai cuisine including Pad Thai, cashew chicken, stir-fried Bok Choy, and so much more. The family-owned restaurant is a great place to gather with loved ones. Reservations are recommended for parties of 5 or more. Visit Koi Sushi & Thai at 102 Lumber Drive, Suite 200, Franklin, TN 37064.
Sakura Sushi & Thai is another fantastic option for both Japanese and Thai cuisine, with sushi, sashimi, tempura, assorted curry, stir-fry, and specialty dishes. With dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, Sakura emphasizes high quality ingredients and service. Please note that daily they are closed between 2-4:30 p.m. for break. Stop by Sakura at 595 Hillsboro Road, Franklin, TN 37064.
Siam Pad Thai specializes in Thai food that is as delicious as it is authentic. Regional dishes such as Thai curry, crab rangoon, Lad Na, Lo Mein, and papaya salad are prepared using the freshest of ingredients. Specialty beverage options also include Thai iced tea, Thai coffee, and more. Grab some locally crafted Pad Thai at 9100 Carothers Parkway, Suite 108, Franklin, TN 37067.
Thai Samurai offers a sophisticated spin on original cuisine, with a ambient cocktail bar and an artisanal sushi bar. The diverse menu, which combines Thai, Japanese, and other Asian recipes is artistic and led by a team of well-qualified, innovative chefs. Experience their culinary masterpieces at 1762 Galleria Boulevard, Franklin, TN 37067.
Mediterranean Restaurants
Greek Cafe Grill is the perfect spot to grab a casual bite to eat, with fast service of Greek and Mediterranean favorites. Menu options include hummus, chicken shawarma, gyros, falafel and other recognizable dishes. Alongside daily specials, there are several vegetarian options. The Cool Springs restaurant is located at 2021 Mallory Lane, Franklin TN 37067.
Gyros King 6 Franklin is a casual, Greek-inspired eatery that serves everything from gyros, falafel, and baklava to cheeseburgers and fried okra. With locations across Middle Tennessee, the restaurant is particularly known for their gyros and dedication to fresh ingredients. Stop by the Franklin dining room at 3046 Columbia Avenue, Suite 113, Franklin, TN 37064.
Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe is a well-known Mediterranean food chain serving salads, gyros, soups, and more. Though the restaurant is fast and casual, the cafe particularly emphasizes healthy eating by implementing fresh, colorful ingredients and bold, Mediterranean flavors. Stop by the Berry Farms location at 31000 Village Plains Boulevard, Suite 100, Franklin TN 37204.
Cava is another fast and casual Mediterranean inspired chain, offering build-your-own bowls, pitas, and more. Fresh and flavorful options include harissa avocado, falafel, lamb, Greek salad, and a number of vegetables and sauces to choose from. Meals come with a side pita, as well as the option to add a side of their famously good pita chips. Visit Franklin’s Cava location at , ,
Pita Way is a Mediterranean grill that serves customizable sandwiches “sandweechs,” pita quesadillas “quesopitas,” and bowls, with protein options of grilled and crispy chicken, gyro, and falafel. Alongside a selection of fresh vegetables, hummus, and sauces, other Mediterranean dishes include Fattoush, Tabbouli, and Tourshi. Our location is the only one in Tennessee, at 500 Cool Springs Boulevard, Suite 120, Franklin, TN 37067.
Mexican Restaurants
Casa José started in California and has since made its way to Franklin, Tennessee. Previously called Camino Real, the restaurant has a strong passion for home and family, hence their revitalized name. Menu items include the classics: fajitas, quesadillas, burritos, nachos, margaritas, and more. Visit Casa Jose at 3046 Columbia Avenue, Suite 110, Franklin, TN 37064.
Cinco De Mayo has been serving authentic Mexican food to Middle Tennessee for 25 years. With a colorful atmosphere and a vast variety of classic, Mexican dishes, Cinco De Mayo is a great place to grab lunch and dinner on May 5th and any other day of the year. Signature menu items include the queso fundido and their frozen margaritas. Grab a bite at the Franklin location at 1010 Murfreesboro Road, Suite 178, Franklin, TN 37064.
El Guadalajara is a local Mexican restaurant serving fresh favorites including tacos de pescado, mojarra, huarache mexicano, tostadas de camaron, milanesa, quesadilla rellena, burrito bronco, and enchilada suprema, alongside a variety of specials and authentic desserts such as churros, sopapilla con nieve, and xango. Check out their menu at 603 Hillsboro Road , Franklin, TN 37064.
El Sombrero brings together Mexican tradition and culinary innovation, serving a diverse selection of regional cuisine. Menu favorites include specialty tacos, tamales, burritos, bowls, and platters of every variety. El Sombrero is also a great place to grab a specialty margarita or cocktail made with their premium tequila, Siete Leguas. Dine in at 1401 Liberty Pike, Franklin, TN 37067.
Garcia’s is a family-owned restaurant that honors Rueben and Elena Garcia, the parents of the restaurant owners who raised 14 children on a farm in the town of Degollado in Jalisco, Mexico. Inspired by their mother’s recipes, the Garcia’s began their restaurant journey in 2000 and have since opened 8 independently owned restaurants in the U.S. Witness their beautiful family legacy at 1113 Murfreesboro Road, Suite 316, Franklin, TN 37064.
La Hacienda is family owned and operated by the Guzman family, who also came to the United States from Jalisco, Mexico. Complete with family recipes, tradition, and a dedication to their customers, La Hacienda is a great place to find street tacos, burritos, fajitas, and classic Mexican flavors. Stop by their Franklin restaurant at 1110 Hillsboro Road, Franklin, TN 37064.
Los Primos is a restaurant that prides itself on quality and freshness, serving dishes like tortas especial, carne asada especiales, mojarra frita, taco de carne asada, burrito de al pastor, tamales de mole, quesadillas, and tostadas de ceviche especiales to the Franklin community. Grab a bite to eat at 1203 Murfreesboro Road, Suite 125, Franklin, TN 37064.
Mojo’s Tacos is named after their mascot, Mojo the Bull, who is a beloved resident of Middle Tennessee. Alongside a fun, friendly atmosphere, Mojo’s does what they do best: chef-driven tacos, starters, and house made margaritas. They also have an on-wheels option, with a taco truck that makes frequent appearances at local gatherings. There are 3 Williamson County restaurants in Franklin, Nolensville, and Thompson’s Station. Visit the original in the Factory at Franklin: 230 Franklin Road, Suite #11Y, Franklin TN 37064.
Nacho’s is a casual spot to grab lunch or dinner and a drink, with a variety of favorites like quesadillas, fajitas, and, of course, a large selection of specialty nachos. Nacho’s is also known for great margaritas, mixed drinks, and Mexican beer. Their Franklin restaurant is located at 1031 Riverside Drive, Suite C, Franklin, TN, 37064.
Pancho’s Place is a vibrant family-friendly place to get authentic Mexican and Southwestern food, with particularly good fajitas, margaritas, and salsa. The restaurant has been a Franklin favorite since 1998. Stop by for lunch or dinner at 209 South Royal Oaks Boulevard, Suite 176, Franklin, TN 37064.
Sopapillas has deep connections to Music City. The Mexican restaurant’s owner is Steve Dale, former bass player for country group Little Big Town. Originally from the Western U.S., Dale decided to recreate the authentic flavors he missed from home by hosting post-show Fiesta Nights. As these nights became more popular, he was inspired to open his very own restaurant. You can try incredible, southwestern recipes here in Franklin at 1109 Davenport Boulevard, Franklin, TN 37069.
Tacos El Prime specializes in expertly crafted Tijuana-style street tacos with a touch of Southern hospitality. The taco truck proudly serves the Franklin community with incredible tacos, quesadillas, and mulita that speak for themselves. Stop by their regular spot for street tacos (on wheels) at 1306 Murfreesboro Road, Franklin, Tennessee 37064.
Taqueria Jalisco is a proudly family owned and operated taqueria that serves recipes from their home state of Jalisco. Authentic dishes include an incredible selection of tortas, tacos, quesadillas, fajitas, burritos, tostados, dinner specials, desserts, and much more. Stop by the restaurant located in Independence Square at 595 Hillsboro Road, Suite 323, Franklin, TN 37065.
Tito’s Mexican Restaurant is an award-winning Franklin favorite, serving up home-style recipes straight from Mexico. The large menu includes traditional chicken, beef, seafood, and vegetarian options and drinks, including their top rated, top shelf gold margaritas. Tito’s also has a mobile restaurant, perfect for private events. There are 2 Tito’s locations in Franklin, 1 in Nolensville, and 1 in Spring Hill. Tito’s Pueblo Real is located downtown at 1340 West Main Street, Franklin TN 37064. Tito’s Berry Farms is located at 4001 Hughes Crossing, Suite 111, Franklin TN 37064.
& Even More
Kokomo Trading Company is located near the waterfront in Franklin’s Westhaven neighborhood. The fresh, fun restaurant combines Southern and Island flavors, making it a one-of-a-kind Caribbean Fusion dining destination. Dedicated to wellness, the restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients when possible and avoids seed oils in most dishes. Swing by Kokomo Trading Company at 158 Front Street, Suite 100, Franklin, TN 37064.
Perenn Bakery, opened downtown in May of 2025, is a European-style rotisserie, bakery, and cafe. The artisanal bakery began in Nevada and has expanded to their Franklin location, which emphasizes craftsmanship and farm-sourced ingredients used to create mouthwatering pastries, breakfast foods, salads, sandwiches, and beyond. Visit the sublime space at 94 East Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064.
Two Hands is an Australian, community-based restaurant that supports healthy choices, local sourcing, and environmental sustainability. Their food menu stretches from breakfast to dinner, with coffee to cocktail beverage options to create the perfect pair. Enjoy their location within the Factory at Franklin at 230 Franklin Road, Suite 1302, Franklin, TN 37064.
Vui’s Kitchen offers a Vietnamese inspired menu, including pho, noodles, and rice bowls alongside other popular Asian dishes. Their recipes are all MSG-free, loaded with herbs, and made with whole, natural ingredients. Vui’s Kitchen recently launched a food truck in Nashville, but you can visit the brick-and-mortar Franklin location at 1201 Liberty Pike, Franklin, TN 37067.
Well Traveled Taste Buds
Going out to eat is one of life’s simple pleasures, especially when there’s such a diversity of wonderful choices. Whatever new restaurant you decide to try, we hope you partake in great food and even better company, all while supporting our city’s incredible business owners. As an added bonus, many of our local, internationally inspired restaurants have great options for those with dietary restrictions.
Trying something new is never a waste, and in Franklin there is certainly no lack of opportunity to do just that. To make a day of it, check out the top happy hours in Franklin, summer movies at the Franklin Theater, or the newest shopping destinations at the Factory at Franklin. Finally, if this article has sparked a longing for a more distant destination, check out our tips for traveling internationally from Williamson County.
As always, an ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone in our home, and beyond, is free from food insecurity. Join our local nonprofit GraceWorks’s ambitious campaign to make sure that every child in Williamson County has enough to eat this summer.
