East Nashville is a neighborhood that’s teeming with a unique mix of Southern charm and urban vibrancy, a cultural hub where traditional flavors meet inventive culinary twists. For those on the hunt for the best burger in East Nashville, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer is a standout spot that combines the flair of a big-city burger joint with Nashville’s own iconic tastes.

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer first gained popularity in New York City, celebrated for its legendary burgers and outrageous CrazyShake® milkshakes. Since opening its doors in Nashville in early 2023, Black Tap has brought its high-quality, flavor-packed menu to the local food scene, drawing both locals and tourists. In East Nashville, finding a great burger isn’t hard, but finding a burger experience that’s equal parts delicious, memorable, and satisfying is where Black Tap excels.

Discovering the Best Burger in East Nashville

The menu at Black Tap Nashville highlights a variety of burgers that bring bold flavors to the forefront. Each burger is meticulously crafted, with options ranging from indulgent classics to gourmet, chef-driven creations. What sets Black Tap apart from other burger joints in East Nashville is not only the quality of its ingredients but the originality of its offerings.

1. The Nashville-Exclusive Tennessee Burger

Exclusively at Black Tap’s Nashville location, you’ll find the Tennessee Burger. This burger celebrates the tastes of Nashville with a hearty 7oz prime beef patty dressed in Jack Daniel’s red pepper jam, a rich white BBQ sauce, crispy sweet potato chips, and kosher pickles. The combination of tangy, smoky, and subtly sweet flavors makes this burger a memorable tribute to Tennessee’s culinary heritage. It’s the kind of burger that makes you stop mid-bite to appreciate the harmony of flavors and textures.

2. The All-American Burger

For those seeking a more classic approach, the All-American Burger at Black Tap is a must-try. This burger is topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and Black Tap’s signature special sauce. There’s something comforting and nostalgic about the flavors here that instantly transports you to an old-school burger joint — with the added sophistication of a gourmet establishment. It’s a perfect choice for burger lovers looking for a straightforward, delicious burger that honors tradition.

3. The Wagyu Steakhouse Burger

Black Tap’s Wagyu Steakhouse Burger is a premium option designed for the true burger connoisseur. Featuring a half-pound Wagyu beef patty, pepper jack cheese, crispy onions, A1 sauce, and roasted garlic mayo, this burger provides an elevated experience. The richness of Wagyu beef is complemented by the spicy, slightly sharp notes of pepper jack and the sweetness of crispy onions. It’s a burger that doesn’t shy away from big flavors, offering an upscale take on the classic steakhouse burger.

Beyond the Burgers: More to Love at Black Tap

While burgers are the stars of the show at Black Tap, there’s plenty more to explore on their extensive menu. Chicken lovers can enjoy a range of options, from crispy chicken sandwiches to mouth-watering wings. The Hot Chicken Sandwich is a crowd-pleaser, featuring Nashville’s signature hot chicken with a Black Tap twist — crispy fried chicken, spicy chili oil, kosher pickles, and a house-made buttermilk-dill sauce that balances out the heat perfectly.

Those looking for something lighter can indulge in salads that incorporate Black Tap’s renowned burger ingredients. The Burger Chopped Salad, with pieces of prime burger, bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and black pepper parmesan dressing, offers all the flavors of a burger in a lighter, fresher form.

The CrazyShake® Experience

No visit to Black Tap is complete without diving into their world-famous CrazyShake® milkshakes. These Instagram-worthy shakes have become a phenomenon in their own right, offering a dessert experience that’s as visually captivating as it is delicious. Popular options include the Cakeshake®, a cake batter shake topped with a slice of Funfetti cake, and the Brooklyn Blackout, a chocolate lover’s dream featuring chocolate brownies, whipped cream, and chocolate drizzle.

For families or groups, the CrazyShake® milkshakes add a playful, indulgent element to the meal that’s perfect for celebrating or simply enjoying a fun treat after a satisfying burger. Each shake is crafted with creativity, and it’s no wonder why these towering treats have become a staple of Black Tap’s menu.

Ambiance: A Tribute to the 90s

The ambiance at Black Tap Nashville is as much a draw as the food. Step inside, and you’re greeted with a nostalgic 90s-inspired decor complete with graffiti-covered walls, photos of pop culture icons, and cassette tapes. The playlist often features hits from the era, setting a fun and lively vibe that feels both familiar and fresh.

The dining area is spacious, accommodating up to 145 guests with sections for different dining preferences — a milkshake bar, a lively main dining area, a cozy bar, and private dining options. This layout makes Black Tap a versatile spot suitable for casual lunches, family outings, and group gatherings alike. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a longer sit-down experience, the atmosphere at Black Tap makes you feel right at home.

Why Black Tap is Nashville’s Best Burger Spot

Finding the best burger in East Nashville is no small feat, given the neighborhood’s plethora of great eateries. However, Black Tap stands out not only for the quality of its burgers but also for its commitment to a complete dining experience. Here’s why Black Tap is, hands down, the best place for burgers in the area:

1. Locally-Inspired Menu: The Nashville-exclusive items, like the Tennessee Burger, show a dedication to blending local flavors with Black Tap’s signature style.
2. Quality Ingredients: Every burger is made with a 7oz prime beef patty from Greater Omaha, ensuring freshness and flavor.
3. Inventive Shakes: The CrazyShake® lineup adds a level of excitement and creativity that goes beyond the standard burger-and-fries experience.
4. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The spacious layout and fun decor make it an inviting spot for all ages.
5. Great Location: Situated near popular Nashville attractions, it’s an easy and appealing choice for both locals and tourists.

A Quick Glimpse at East Nashville’s Other Burger Spots

While Black Tap is a must-visit, there are a few other notable spots in East Nashville for burger lovers to explore:

• The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden: Known for its homemade sausages and burgers, the Pharmacy offers a relaxed beer garden atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual outing. Their classic and unique burger options make them a popular spot among locals.
• Emmy Squared: Famous for its Detroit-style pizza, Emmy Squared also offers the Le Big Matt Burger with double patties, special sauce, and greens on a pretzel bun. It’s a filling, flavorful option for those looking to switch things up.
• Grillshack Fries & Burgers: This small but mighty spot focuses on quality ingredients and straightforward flavors. Their burgers are consistently praised for being juicy, flavorful, and paired with hand-cut fries that are the perfect accompaniment.