New Restaurants in Cookeville (So Far in 2023)

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Chef with knife and plate of food

Cookeville, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Tennessee’s Upper Cumberland region, has long been a crossroads of culture, commerce, and cuisine. From traditional Southern eateries to innovative fusion establishments, the city’s culinary landscape has always been a reflection of its diverse population and its evolving tastes. As Cookeville continues to grow, so does its palate, drawing food enthusiasts from far and wide.

In recent years, Cookeville has seen a remarkable uptick in growth. Year over year, its population has swelled, bringing with it new cultures, tastes, and demands. Moreover, the city’s strategic location, educational institutions, and natural beauty have only heightened its appeal, driving not only population growth but also an influx of entrepreneurs, chefs, and visionaries eager to make their mark.

And 2023 is no exception. This year, several exciting new eateries have popped up, each bringing its unique flair to Cookeville’s dining scene. Here’s a look at some of the newest additions.

Restaurants That Came to Cookeville in 2023

1. Drake’s

drakes burger
drakes burger

Drake’s recently opened up in Cookeville, right in the shopping center with Publix and Academy Sports on Interstate Drive and Walnut Ave. It’s in a pretty handy location, especially if you’re doing some shopping around that area.

From what I’ve heard, it seems like a good spot to hang out or catch a game. With them joining the local scene, Cookeville’s definitely got another dining option to consider.

Drake’s is a contemporary, casual dining restaurant and bar chain that blends the relaxed vibe of a sports bar with an eclectic mix of menu offerings suitable for both lunch and dinner.

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the restaurant boasts an array of flat-screen televisions making it an ideal spot for sports enthusiasts to gather, enjoy a game, and indulge in quality food and drink. Its décor is stylish yet comfortable, often featuring open layouts, bar seating, and a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces.

The menu at Drake’s showcases a diverse selection of dishes, ranging from gourmet burgers and sandwiches to sushi rolls, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Alongside these culinary delights, the establishment also takes pride in its extensive drink menu, which includes a wide variety of beers, cocktails, and other beverages.

Whether it’s for a casual meetup, a family outing, or an evening with friends, Drake’s offers a unique dining experience that merges the excitement of a sports bar with the flavors of a full-service restaurant.

2. Fire and Vine

Fire and Vine recently set up shop in Cookeville, just across from the Red Silo Brewery. The place has this cool industrial feel with exposed ceilings and brick walls, giving it a trendy vibe. But it’s all open, making it pretty loud, especially when it’s packed.

I had their filet, and it was well-cooked with a nice char – definitely hit the spot. We also tried the crab cakes and some wine, which were decent. They’ve got this rooftop seating that sounds like a great spot, though I haven’t tried it out yet.

While the food was good, they’re still new and working through some hitches. Service could step up a bit, and I’m thinking of giving it another shot during a quieter time. Being locally owned and in a location where you can easily hop to other local hangouts is a big plus. I’m optimistic about my next visit.

3. Crumbl Cookies

Crumbl Cookies also made its way to Cookeville, setting up in a strip center near Drake’s. Now, it’s not a sit-down spot like some of the other places on this list, but it’s worth a mention.

I took my daughters there, and we treated ourselves to a 6-pack of their cookies. The total came out to about $24, which might seem steep until you see the size of these cookies – they’re massive. When you break it down, $4 for each of those giant cookies feels more reasonable.

Even though there was a line, the wait wasn’t too bad. It’s clear people in town are excited about Crumbl. And considering how young this chain is, they’re sure to become a hit here.

4. Sbarro’s Pizza

In early 2023, a new travel center opened off of Hwy 111, south of I40, housing several dining options, including Sbarro Pizza.

Sbarro, which started in 1956 with Gennaro and Carmela Sbarro’s salumeria in Brooklyn, New York, grew rapidly during the latter half of the 20th century. By the 1980s and 1990s, the brand was a familiar sight in shopping malls across America.

However, as shopping habits changed and malls saw declining foot traffic, many Sbarro locations faced challenges. The chain declared bankruptcy twice, first in 2011 and again in 2014. As a result, Sbarro began closing many of its mall-based locations and by the early 2020s, their presence in malls had significantly diminished.

Visiting the Cookeville Sbarro brought back memories of those mall slices from years ago. While the pizza has its nostalgic appeal, it offers a different experience compared to local favorites like Big Tony’s.

5. El Tapatio Fresh

  • Website: none
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  • Address: 1750 Salem Rd, Cookeville, TN 38501

Situated right next to the recently opened Sbarro in the travel center off of Hwy 111 is another newcomer: El Tapatio Fresh. Having opened its doors around the same time as Sbarro, it offers a contrasting culinary journey.

For those unfamiliar, El Tapatio Fresh is all about fast and fresh Mexican-inspired cuisine. From customizable bowls and tacos to hearty burritos, they emphasize quality ingredients in a fast-casual setting.

It’s worth noting, especially for locals, that El Tapatio Fresh and Cookeville’s original “El Tapatio” are entirely separate entities. While they both serve dishes with a Mexican flair, they operate independently of each other.

I haven’t had the opportunity to try El Tap Fresh personally, but the early reviews from fellow Cookevillians have been generally positive.

6. Trackside Food Truck Park

People walking around at the new food truck park in Cookeville TN
People walking around at the new food truck park in Cookeville TN

Situated on the historic west side of Cookeville at 172 W Broad St, Trackside Food Truck Park stands as a testament to the town’s blend of rich history and modern culinary ambition.

Founded by Ricky & Shannon Shelton, Trackside seamlessly integrates the past and present. Located just west of the Depot and adjacent to P Dilly’s cupcakes, this culinary hotspot is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a hub for community engagement.

Opening its doors in October 2023, Trackside promises a diverse array of six local food trucks, each bringing unique flavors to the table. The park prioritizes inclusivity with handicap accessibility and welcomes pets, making it a perfect spot for families and friends to convene. Live music, featuring talents like Jake Hoot, amplifies the ambiance, making Trackside more than just a dining experience.

With its location on a former railroad yard and design elements like reclaimed timbers and bricks from the iconic Shanks Hotel, Trackside pays homage to Cookeville’s history. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a place where memories are forged, local businesses are supported, and the community spirit thrives.

For potential vendors and artists, Trackside offers collaboration opportunities, providing a platform for local talents to shine and businesses to grow.

7. Domino’s Delivery in Algood

Situated close to the well-frequented Mexican eatery, Pueblo Viejo, Domino’s has opened its doors in Algood. This carryout and delivery outpost finds its home in a location that has, over the years, played host to a diverse array of restaurants, including a breakfast cafe, a burger spot, and even a Filipino restaurant that has since relocated to Fil-Thai.

Domino’s, known globally for its pizza and expansive menu, has consistently evolved to meet changing consumer tastes. Over the years, they’ve expanded their offerings, moving beyond just pizza to include pastas, chicken, sandwiches, and a variety of desserts. Their significant rebranding efforts over the last decade emphasize fresh ingredients and a commitment to quality, helping them remain a favorite among many.

Given the resilience and adaptability of the Domino’s brand, combined with its innovative menu and dedication to customer service, many are hopeful that this new location in Algood will become a mainstay. And though past businesses at this spot have seen varied success, there’s a subtle optimism in the air that Domino’s might just be the exception.

About Jeff Martin

Avatar photoJeff was born in Cookeville, TN and has raised three children there. He knows a lot about the area and likes sharing his intimate knowledge of the city here on this blog.

View all posts by Jeff Martin

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