If you’re searching for a slice of Franklin living at its tastiest, look no further than Westhaven. Nestled along New Highway 96, just a few miles west of downtown Franklin, Westhaven isn’t just famous for its picturesque streets and family-friendly vibe—it’s also a genuine culinary gem. Whether you’re craving a hearty Southern breakfast, artisan-baked treats, mouthwatering sushi, or an unforgettable date-night dinner, Westhaven’s food scene is as vibrant as its sunsets. Here’s your go-to guide to the culinary stars, hidden gems, and can’t-miss bites that make Westhaven one of Franklin’s most delicious destinations.
The Heart of Westhaven: Magli Green & Front Street
Clustered around Magli Green and Front Street, you’ll find Westhaven’s main dining artery, where most of the neighborhood’s standout spots are just a short stroll apart. This walkable village center has a little bit of everything—from cozy coffee shops to buzz-worthy dinner destinations.
Standout Restaurants: Taste the Best of Westhaven
- Neighbors Franklin
- *Cuisine*: American eats, casual burgers, salads, beers on tap
- *Price*: $$
- *Location*: 401 Main Street, right by the Westhaven Lake
- *What to Try*: Smash burgers, Nashville hot chicken, the Black & Bleu Salad
- *Why Go*: Neighbors is beloved for its laid-back vibe, spacious patio (perfect for families!), and killer happy hour specials. A classic neighborhood spot where the food is consistently good and the service always friendly.
- Café West
- *Cuisine*: Contemporary American, Southern twists
- *Price*: $$-$$$
- *Location*: 1910 Pearl St, just steps from the central green
- *What to Try*: Avocado toast for brunch, short rib Benedict, or the pimiento cheese burger for lunch
- *Why Go*: Café West nails the bright and breezy “neighborhood bistro” energy, with fresh local ingredients and inventive menu items. Their weekend brunch is a not-so-secret local favorite!
- Sperry’s Mercantile
- *Cuisine*: Upscale steakhouse fare
- *Price*: $$$
- *Location*: 1912 Westhaven Blvd (next to the pond)
- *What to Try*: Filet mignon, pecan-topped trout, the famous wedge salad
- *Why Go*: This outpost of Nashville’s iconic Sperry’s exudes steakhouse tradition and southern hospitality. Perfect for special occasions—or when you’re simply craving a slice of prime rib in a classic, candle-lit setting.
- Westhaven Wine Bar
- *Cuisine*: Wine lounge with cheese and charcuterie boards, light plates
- *Price*: $$-$$$
- *Location*: Right on Westhaven Blvd, tucked beside the water feature
- *What to Try*: Flights of local or international wines, shimmer charcuterie boards, flatbreads
- *Why Go*: With chic interiors and a breezy patio, this is the spot for upscale sipping, Friday date nights, and catching up with friends over a bottle.
Casual Eateries & Family Favorites
- Oscar’s Taco Shop
- *Cuisine*: Mexican, quick-service
- *Price*: $
- *Location*: 100 Winners Circle, just off the main drive
- *What to Try*: California burrito, street tacos, breakfast burritos
- *Why Go*: Fast, flavorful, and always filling—Oscar’s hits the spot for everything from a grab-and-go lunch to an early-morning breakfast that locals swear by after a morning walk.
- Great Wall of Westhaven
- *Cuisine*: Chinese
- *Price*: $-$$
- *Location*: 150 Front Street
- *What to Try*: General Tso’s Chicken, steamed dumplings, Mongolian beef
- *Why Go*: There’s a reason this place always has a steady stream of takeout orders—Great Wall is the go-to for classic, no-frills Chinese comfort food with generous portions.
- The Ice Cream House
- *Cuisine*: Ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes
- *Price*: $
- *Location*: 1406 Westhaven Blvd
- *What to Try*: Cookie dough sundae, custom milkshakes, waffle cones
- *Why Go*: An old-school treat shop beloved by families, especially after a summer evening stroll around the lake.
Westhaven’s Beloved Cafés, Bakeries & Food Trucks
- High Brow Coffee + Tea
- *Cuisine*: Specialty coffee, teas, baked goods
- *Price*: $
- *Location*: 188 Front Street (at the corner of Westhaven Blvd)
- *What to Try*: Lavender latte, nitro cold brew, gluten-free blueberry muffins
- *Why Go*: With cozy corners and front-porch seating, High Brow serves some of the smoothest coffee in Franklin. A favorite for remote workers and morning catch-ups alike.
- The Westhaven Bakery
- *Cuisine*: Artisan bakery
- *Price*: $-$$
- *Location*: 152 Front Street, near the roundabout
- *What to Try*: Sourdough loaves, croissants, chocolate chip cookies
- *Why Go*: Small-batch, made-fresh-daily treats—locals run (don’t walk) for their flaky morning pastries and crusty artisan breads.
- Cousins Maine Lobster (Food Truck Visits)
- *Cuisine*: Seafood, seasonal food truck
- *Price*: $$-$$$
- *Location*: Often parked by the Magli Green, check Westhaven’s event calendar
- *What to Try*: Lobster roll, lobster tacos, New England clam chowder
- *Why Go*: When this famous food truck rolls through, the line says it all. Authentic, buttery lobster rolls without the plane ticket to Maine.
Hidden Gems & Can’t-Miss Bites
- The Lakeside Grille
- *Cuisine*: Casual American, lakeside bar food
- *Price*: $$
- *Location*: Beside the Westhaven lake, near Market Street
- *What to Try*: Catfish tacos, house-made chips, craft beer
- *Why Go*: A scenic, low-key spot for breezy waterside bites—especially on live music nights!
- Franklin Bakehouse Westhaven Outpost
- *Cuisine*: Breakfast, baked goods, gourmet grab-and-go
- *Price*: $-$$
- *Location*: Seasonal pop-ups at the Front Street Farmers Market
- *What to Try*: Quiche Lorraine, banana bread, sparkling lemonade
- *Why Go*: If you catch one of their pop-up appearances, you’re in for some of the flakiest, most flavorful bites around. Locals wait for these seasonal treats!
Local Food Traditions & Flavorful Events
What truly makes Westhaven’s food scene stand out? Beyond restaurant menus, the community itself loves to celebrate food. Don’t miss:
- *Westhaven Farmers Market (Saturdays, Front Street)* – Fresh produce, food truck specials, artisan cheeses, and community vibes.
- *Food Truck Fridays* – A rotating lineup of the best Nashville and Franklin food trucks, from barbecue to gourmet grilled cheese.
- *Wine Down Main* – An annual event pairing local eats and great wines, perfect for mingling with neighbors and sampling something new.
Taste the Westhaven Difference
Whether you’re a Westhaven local or just rolling in for a taste of Franklin charm, this neighborhood’s food and dining scene offers endless reasons to linger. From sunrise coffee to sunset dinners by the lake, Westhaven’s mix of innovative creativity, family favorites, and passionate local foodies makes every meal a memory. Next time you’re around Magli Green or strolling Front Street, come hungry—and discover why Westhaven is one of Franklin’s most crave-worthy communities.