Sam Mooney
The best hot chicken in Nashville! (And it’s not even close)
This is an absolutely amazing restaurant run run by really great people. I’ve tried hot chicken all over town and nowhere is as good as this place! Plus, their side items are phenomenal. The collard greens and fried Okra are my favorite sides! Beyond the fantastic hot chicken, this is just a great place for southern food in general, and you can get the chicken without the seasoning if spice isn’t your thing.
They sometimes close a little before the listed times if it’s a slow night, so I recommend going early if you can, but you won’t be disappointed. Go support this wonderful small business and enjoy the amazing food in the process!
… moreBianca Vlad
Best hot chicken I’ve ever had and the best service!! We stumbled upon this place while on our way to the Nashville Palace and it is a gem. We got two jumbo tenders, some whole wings, fries, coleslaw, and the fried corn on the cob and it was all amazing. The crispy skin and seasoning on the tenders and whole wings was to die for. I cannot believe how delicious it was and freshly made. The owner, granddaddy, came to greet us and told us about the history of the place. He made sure we were taken care of and it was so sweet. I will be coming back here every time we visit Nashville 100%
… moreJames Rudolph
While in old hickory working delivering Amazon found this hidden gem, the hospitality was beyond amazing the young lady up front was the sweetest told me first thing it’s all fresh cooked and made with love. I ordered 3 tenders and side of fried okra and collard greens. Let me tell you those greens are hands down the best I’ve ever had just enough spice and bursting with flavor. Chicken tenders are huge with the right amount of flavor to go with the spice level of your choice and the okra isn’t them baby pieces it’s whole okra so no joke the best. If your ever around the area definitely stop by show these people some love you won’t regret it trust me.
… moreTessa Fredman
My husband and I have traveled to Nashville four times, each time we have tried a new hot chicken restaurant. Nothing, and I mean nothing has compared to Granddaddy’s Original!! Food and service were top notch! We are foodies, and value good, quality, and authentic food and this hit all three of those and more! Could not recommend this place enough! We had the tenders and potatoe salad…and went back to order more once we realized we needed more of this amazingness. We even met and talked with Granddaddy himself. A very kind, passionate worker who takes care of his customers. The women taking orders was equally as sweet. We will 100% be back!
… moreEric Adams
I got the shredded chicken sandwich and my son got the deluxe chicken sandwich. The shredded chicken sandwich was probably the best or close to the best shredded chicken sandwich I ever had. The chicken was shredded, but little bits of it were fried, which added a really nice texture. The bun was very soft. You get a lot of chicken for $8. I got the medium spiciness and it was a little spicy so watch out. The cashier was super friendly and talkative. She had that southern hospitality that I’ve grown to love when I visit Tennessee. I just wish it was a little closer to the airport on my way there because I would grab a sandwich for my trip home. I also got some chicken tenders which were massive for $3 a piece. They were pretty decent, but you definitely need some sauce to dip them in. If you plan to dine in, I wouldn’t do it on a really hot day, because I don’t think there was air conditioning. It worked really well for me for takeout.
… moreCatherine Miles
Best hot chicken we’ve ever had anywhere! Not greasy like a lot of places. Incredible flavor. Everything is homemade (chicken, sides, cake, etc). Coleslaw & potato salad are excellent. The owners are very friendly & engaging. Not a lot of seating to dine in, but definately worth a stop if you are in Old Hickory.
… moreJared Neeley
It was my first time coming in to try out this joint. I was referred by many people to try this spot out and believe me – it did not disappoint. I really loved the jumbo tenders as they had perfect seasoning. The chicken was really juicy and succulent. The owners were very welcoming and made you feel at home. I will definitely be back to try out more items off their menu. But do yourself a favor and please stop by! You will not regret it.
… moreGeorge Jackson
This place is for lovers of epic local food and some serious fried chicken. Super crispy, unique spice blend, all about the flavor. We even met Grandaddy himself and he was very hospitable and charming.
… moreDaniel Jou
Grandaddy’s Original Hot Chicken Shack in Old Hickory, TN, is a true hidden gem for anyone looking to experience authentic Nashville hot chicken without the big-name hype. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed like family, and Grandaddy himself often makes you feel like you’re an old friend. This place isn’t just about good food—it’s about the warm, personal atmosphere that makes you feel at home.
The menu at Grandaddy’s offers a variety of favorites, but the hot chicken tenders and fried chicken are the stars. The spice level is spot-on, with the “medium” being perfect for most, while the “hot” packs a flavorful punch for those who can handle more heat. The chicken itself is tender and juicy, with that perfect crispy texture on the outside. For something unique, the hot chicken potato is a must-try—it’s loaded with the same spicy, flavorful goodness you expect from Nashville hot chicken.
The sides like the slaw and fries complement the chicken perfectly, offering a balance to the heat. Another fan favorite is the fried corn on the cob, which adds a sweet and savory touch to the meal.
This spot is a local favorite for a reason: it combines delicious food with a welcoming, family-owned vibe. If you’re in the area and looking for hot chicken without the long lines or hype of larger chains like Hattie B’s, Grandaddy’s is definitely worth the visit.
… moreHaden Block
This place is amazing! The owners were super welcoming and the food couldn’t be better. The best hot chicken I’ve had in Tennessee. The kabobs and shredded chicken sandwich were truly special. We took some desserts to go and wish I had bought more! The atmosphere felt like you were eating real family home cooking. Can’t wait to go back!
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