SEC Tournament: Five places to eat near Bridgestone Arena (and a reminder to eat)

So you’re heading to Nashville for the SEC Tournament. Or if you’re really excited, you’re already there. Whatever the case, the Big Blue Nation in the Music City will need some food in between games. I say that not because of anyone’s eating habits but because I know how some of you drink, and it will be better for everyone if you work in some greasy bites throughout the day. Nobody will be more thankful that you did than you the following morning.

Now that you’ve promised me you will remember to eat, let’s review some of your options. Let’s stick to a one-mile radius around Bridgestone Arena so you don’t wander too far from home base. With those parameters, these are some of my favorite meals while enjoying the tournament and the shenanigans on Broadway.

The Sausage & Cheese Plate at Rippy’s

No. 1 on my list has been there for me for as long as I can remember Honky Tonking, and it couldn’t be closer to Bridgestone Arena. It’s the Sausage and Cheese Plate at Rippy’s, and it has saved my life on more than one occasion, whether it be at an SEC Tournament, after a Titans game, or a long day of country music.

Rippy’s keeps it simple on this one. You’re paying $10 for what’s in the name: sausage and cheese, plus some hot peppers to really test that stomach.

The Recession Special at Robert’s Western World

Longtime followers of KSR’s Nashville adventures already know where I am going for a complete meal on Broadway. You can find me hovering over the bar at Robert’s Western World, waiting for my fried bologna to come off the hot grill. It comes in a combo with chips, a Moon Pie and a Pabst Blue Ribbon, all for six U.S. dollars.

Smashville Double Stack at Barlines

Let’s get back closer to Bridgestone for our next recommendation. It’s new to the list after I discovered it at last year’s SEC Tournament when I was wallowing in the misery of Kentucky’s early exit. Over at Barlines at the Omni Hotel, the Smashville Double Stack Burger gets the KSR stamp of approval when you need a couple of greasy patties and a pile of fries. Bonus points for proximity to the tournament and it’s not in the middle of the action on Broadway.

A Hot Dog

Before you call this a lazy recommendation, please understand the cultural significance and lower Broadway’s history with hot dogs. Like the loud drums and Bachelorette parties, hot dog stands are part of Broadway’s identity, providing nourishment on the go with a simple streetside transaction. Some Nashvillans are passionate and loyal to particular hot dog stands; I, however, prefer the one in front of my face when the smell of hot dogs tells me it’s hot dog time.

Assembly Food Hall

If sausage, bologna, burgers, or hot dogs don’t sound good to you (which, when written like that, may not), the megaplex that is Assembly Food Hall will have something for your belly. There you will find hot chicken, tacos, more sausage, sushi, donuts, pizza, and lots more. Here’s the full list.

But remember, you’re not in Nashville to eat. This is a business trip. We have an SEC Tournament Championship to win. But, you know, still eat.