Just south of Nashville, Tennessee, the region’s rolling hills and rural highways now feature a destination that’s turning heads among locals and road travelers alike—a new Amish restaurant that’s redefining comfort dining in Middle Tennessee. “The Amish Country Smoke House,” tucked along the scenic Ethridge Highway, is the latest culinary gem blending hearty farm-to-table traditions, outstanding homemade bakery items, and an atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a visit with family. Whether you’re passing through on a Bluegrass tour, enjoying the scenery, or seeking the best fried pies in the state, this restaurant delivers a true taste of Amish hospitality and craft.youtubeyelp+1
An Authentic Amish Welcome in Middle Tennessee
The Amish Country Smoke House, opened by Paul and Linda McBride, is set right in the heart of Tennessee’s Amish country. The restaurant is a local gathering spot and a favorite among travelers for its wood-smoked meats, giant homemade cinnamon rolls, and picnic-table vibe that lets diners watch horse-drawn buggies passing by. Inside, you’ll find rustic wood décor, friendly staff, and plenty of laughter from regulars who visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.yelp+1
“Ethridge feels like a different country—peaceful and welcoming. The food is always fresh, portions are big, and the atmosphere couldn’t be better,” writes Jed K., a frequent diner.yelp
Favorite Menu Items: Hearty Plates and Bakery Delights
Smoked Meats & Main Dishes:
- Brisket: Perfectly seasoned and wood-smoked with Amish-cut logs, featuring a just-right char and tender inside. It’s a crowd favorite, often described as “the best BBQ in Middle Tennessee.”
- Pulled Pork & Ribs: Smoky, tender, and served with a tangy house barbecue sauce. “The brisket was amazing, and the baked beans with molasses were a nice touch,” reports Steph W., a Nashville traveler.youtube
- Fried Chicken: Crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside, with homemade country sides.
Side Dishes:
- Cheesy Potatoes: Creamy, golden brown, and loaded with gooey cheese.
- Green Beans & Baked Beans: Fresh, with the baked beans sweetened by a hint of molasses.
- Pole Beans, Pinto Beans & Mashed Potatoes: Sides served family style, sometimes accompanied by homemade carrot soufflé.
Bakery Favorites:
- Homemade Cornbread: Unlike any you’ve ever had—rich, hearty, and moist.tripadvisor
- Cinnamon Rolls & Sticky Buns: Oversized, perfectly glazed, and irresistibly soft.
- Sugar-free Peach Cobbler: For those seeking guilt-free southern sweets.
- Peanut Butter Pie & Carrot Soufflé: “Worth the price of the meal alone,” rave visitors who return just for dessert.
Picnic & To-Go:
- Take-out brisket, ribs, whole pies, and packaged bakery treats are perfect for road trips or picnics at the nearby Amish farms.
Real Reviews & Local Voices
Guests routinely praise the service and quality of The Amish Country Smoke House:
- “Staff are great—they come around and truly check on you, making sure everything’s perfect. Plates are cleared quickly and drinks never run dry,” says Marcus K. from Decatur, GA.yelp
- “Eating outside while listening to live bluegrass was a bonus. Friendly folks, fantastic food—I’ll be a regular when I retire and move here.”
- “The side dishes were wonderful; the carrot soufflé was worth every penny,” raves Tom from Florida.tripadvisor
- “Food is so fresh it feels picked that morning—the onions, jalapeños, and pickles tasted straight from the garden.”
Insider Tips for Travelers
- Arrive early: Brisket and cinnamon rolls sell out quickly, especially on weekends.
- Bring cash: While cards are generally accepted, food trucks and adjacent Amish grocery stands often prefer cash.
- Order the family-style plates: “Seconds and thirds are offered if you want them—first servings are plenty,” says traveler Steph W.
- Check for special events: Bluegrass jams and outdoor markets are regular weekend treats.
- Try the sides: Cheesy potatoes and carrot soufflé have become cult favorites among locals.
Local tip: Don’t miss the adjacent Amish Grocery next door for fresh bread, jams, pickles, and seasonal produce sourced from nearby farms.
Atmosphere & Community Vibe
Dining at The Amish Country Smoke House feels more like gathering at a family reunion than at a restaurant. Plates are heaping, seconds are encouraged, and everyone is treated like a regular. The view of horse-drawn buggies and farmland is matched by the peace and friendliness of the staff.
Live music is sometimes a feature, with bluegrass bands performing during the dinner rush and on special weekends.
What Makes The Amish Country Smoke House Stand Out
It’s not just the exceptional smoked meats and baked goods that set this restaurant apart—the sense of community, attention to detail, and local spirit create a destination worth returning to. Whether you’re seeking a hearty breakfast, a family-style lunch, or an evening of music and brisket, The Amish Country Smoke House delivers the full Tennessee and Amish experience…