When it comes to finding the best craft burgers in Nashville, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer has quickly established itself as a go-to destination for both locals and visitors. Located in the heart of Downtown Nashville, Black Tap offers a dining experience that’s as much about creativity and atmosphere as it is about the food. Originally from New York City, this award-winning burger joint brings its iconic menu and vibrant style to Music City, creating a seamless blend of gourmet food and playful, laid-back vibes. Since opening its doors in May 2023, Black Tap has already carved out a special place in Nashville’s ever-evolving dining scene.
Why Black Tap Stands Out
In a city known for its hot chicken and Southern comfort food, Black Tap stands out with its gourmet approach to burgers. But these aren’t your average burgers. The team at Black Tap has mastered the art of crafting what can only be described as elevated comfort food. Rather than grilling their patties like many traditional burger joints, Black Tap uses a flat-top griddle, flipping the patties just once. This method ensures that each burger remains tender, juicy, and full of flavor. It’s this attention to detail that has earned Black Tap multiple awards, including five wins at the prestigious New York City Wine & Food Festival’s Burger Bash competition.
One of the standout features of Black Tap is its focus on using high-quality ingredients. Every burger is made from prime beef sourced from top distributors, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. The buns, too, are carefully selected to complement the burgers, with the soft potato rolls serving as the perfect vehicle for the juicy patties and fresh toppings. This commitment to quality is a big part of why Black Tap has earned rave reviews from both food critics and burger enthusiasts alike.
A Diverse Menu for Every Taste
Black Tap’s menu is diverse, offering something for every kind of burger lover. The restaurant’s craft burger menu is packed with options that range from classic to bold and inventive. The All-American Burger is a fan favorite, featuring a prime beef patty topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and Black Tap’s special sauce. It’s a simple yet expertly crafted burger that hits all the right notes for those who prefer a traditional flavor profile.
For those looking for something a bit more indulgent, the Greg Norman burger is a must-try. This award-winning burger features a half-pound wagyu beef patty, blue cheese, and arugula, all served on a perfectly toasted potato bun. The richness of the wagyu beef, paired with the sharpness of the blue cheese, creates a flavor combination that’s hard to beat.
Of course, Black Tap isn’t just about beef burgers. The menu also features options like the Peri Peri Turkey Burger and the Crispy Cauliflower Corn Burger, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, including vegetarians. The Mexico City Burger, with its spicy pickled jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and chipotle mayo, adds a fiery twist for those who like their burgers with a kick. The variety and creativity of the menu are part of what makes Black Tap one of the best craft burger spots in Nashville.
The Tennessee Burger: A Local Favorite
While Black Tap’s classic burgers are available at all its locations, the Nashville outpost has its own exclusive creation: the Tennessee Burger. This local favorite features prime beef, Jack Daniel’s red pepper jam, sweet potato chips, white BBQ sauce, and pickles, all combined to create a burger that’s bursting with Southern-inspired flavors. The Jack Daniel’s red pepper jam adds a subtle sweetness, while the white BBQ sauce brings a tangy richness that pairs perfectly with the crunchy sweet potato chips. It’s a burger that feels right at home in Nashville, offering a unique twist on traditional Southern flavors.
Beyond Burgers: Craft Beers and CrazyShakes®
One of the things that sets Black Tap apart from other burger joints is its ability to elevate the entire dining experience. It’s not just about the food—it’s also about the drinks and desserts. Black Tap has become famous for its over-the-top CrazyShakes®, which are as much a visual treat as they are a culinary delight. These milkshakes are piled high with indulgent toppings, making them the perfect Instagram-worthy treat. The CakeShake®, topped with a slice of Funfetti cake, rainbow sprinkles, and whipped cream, is a crowd favorite, while the Cookies ’n Cream Supreme is a must for Oreo lovers.
For those looking to pair their burgers with something a bit stronger, Black Tap also offers an impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails. The beverage menu features local brews from some of Nashville’s favorite breweries, including Bearded Iris and Turtle Anarchy, alongside a rotating selection of seasonal beers. On the cocktail side, Black Tap’s CheerWine Old Fashioned, made with Tennessee whiskey and the beloved Southern soda, is a standout option that adds a regional twist to a classic drink. The Smoky Manhattan, with its blend of George Dickel Rye, Corsair Triple Smoke whiskey, and Memphis BBQ bitters, is another cocktail that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to creativity.
For those who want to try something truly unique, Black Tap’s Shake Shots are a Nashville-exclusive offering. These mini boozy milkshakes are the perfect way to end a meal—or kick off a night out.
The Atmosphere: Where Food Meets Fun
Black Tap’s atmosphere is as much a part of the experience as the food and drinks. The 4,000-square-foot restaurant is decked out in 90s-inspired decor, with graffiti-covered walls, cassette tapes, and plenty of pop culture references from the era. The music adds to the lively vibe, with a playlist of sing-along hits from the 90s that keeps the energy high.
The space itself is designed to accommodate a variety of dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a late-night bite, or a place to host a private event, Black Tap has you covered. The restaurant features a main dining room, a milkshake bar, a full-service bar, and a private dining area that can accommodate up to 40 guests. The outdoor seating area is perfect for soaking up the Nashville sun while enjoying one of Black Tap’s signature burgers.
Why Black Tap is a Must-Visit in Nashville
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer has quickly earned its place as one of the best burger joints in Nashville. With its commitment to quality ingredients, innovative menu options, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this restaurant has become a local favorite. Whether you’re a burger aficionado or just looking for a great place to grab lunch or dinner, Black Tap offers something for everyone.
If you’re searching for the best craft burgers in Nashville, Black Tap is a must-visit. From the exclusive Tennessee Burger to the indulgent CrazyShakes®, every item on the menu is crafted with care and creativity. So, next time you’re in the heart of Music City, make sure to stop by Black Tap and experience what all the buzz is about.
