The Best Restaurants Near Bristol Motor Speedway

Baseball fans, start your engines? There is a planned mash-up of two sports coming in 2025, as the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds are playing a regular season baseball game at NASCAR’s famous Bristol Motor Speedway. With the collision of two of the South’s favorite sports coming together, you better believe folks from the Delta, Appalachians, Lowcountry and more will be making their way to the mountains for this once-in-a-lifetime matchup. We’ve decided to pull together a few spots nearby the track whether you’re planning on a single, double or triple meal trip.

620 State

620 State St, Bristol, TN 37620

On the bustling street of downtown Bristol, 620 State stands out as a beacon of culinary fusion, seamlessly blending Asian and American flavors. This family-friendly restaurant is a haven for sushi lovers, boasting the best rolls in town, while its specialty cocktails and beers on tap invite you to linger a little longer. The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both family dinners and lively nights out. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional maki roll or an innovative fusion dish, 620 State promises a dining experience that is as diverse as it is delicious.

Blackbird Bakery

188 Piedmont Ave, Bristol, VA 24201

Blackbird Bakery is a sweet escape in the heart of Bristol, where the aroma of freshly baked bread mingles with the allure of southern pastries. This bakery is a temple to indulgence, offering what might just be the best donuts in all of Virginia and Tennessee, alongside mouthwatering apple fritters and decadent brownies. With bread baked fresh daily and an array of treats that include s’mores bars, cheesecakes, and pies, Blackbird Bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth—or anyone who simply appreciates the art of baking done right.

Burger Bar

120 Piedmont Ave, Bristol, VA 24201

Step back in time at the Burger Bar, a classic 1950s diner located in the heart of Bristol. This spot is not for the faint of heart—its beefy, juicy burgers are piled high with toppings and served with a side of nostalgia. Try the “Howlin’ at the Moon,” loaded with caramelized onions and homemade chili, or dare to tackle the “Fire God” with its fiery mix of habanero, ghost, scorpion, and jalapeño peppers. And don’t overlook the Triple Grilled Cheese, a masterpiece of melted American, Swiss, and Cheddar on grilled Parmesan Texas toast. At the Burger Bar, every bite is a delicious trip down memory lane.

Cootie Brown’s

118 Volunteer Pkwy, Bristol, TN 37620

Bringing a taste of the beach to the Appalachian Mountains, Cootie Brown’s is a vibrant, eclectic spot where every meal feels like a mini vacation. The menu is a delightful mix of everything from pizzas and burgers to tamales, catering to all tastes. It’s a family-friendly place, with colorful decor that kids will love, and the key lime pie is so beloved that it’s shipped nationwide. Layered with both a tart traditional and a sweet, creamy topping on a graham cracker crust, it’s a dessert that alone makes the trip worthwhile.

Delta Blues

724 State St, Bristol, TN 37620

Tucked away on the iconic State Street in Bristol, Delta Blues BBQ is where smoky southern barbecue meets soulful blues. This vibrant restaurant, with its live music stage and cozy indoor-outdoor seating, captures the spirit of a cool summer night in the South. While the menu is packed with barbecue classics, it’s the secretly superb burgers that keep locals coming back. Whether you’re savoring a smoky pulled pork sandwich or tapping your foot to the beat of a blues band, Delta Blues BBQ offers a feast for the senses in every bite and every note.

Eatz

520 State St, Bristol, TN 37620

At Eatz, Southern comfort food is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition. Located right on the border of Tennessee and Virginia, this cozy spot has been serving up Southern soul food for 17 years. The menu reads like a love letter to Atlanta, with dishes like Fried Catfish, Chicken and Waffles, collard greens, and mac and cheese that warm both heart and soul. Whether you’re craving BBQ or classic meatloaf, Eatz offers a comforting taste of the South that keeps you coming back for more.

Pal’s Sudden Service

Multiple Locations

Anyone venturing through the rolling hills of Virginia and Tennessee, Pal’s Sudden Service is more than just a burger joint—it’s a cultural experience. Known affectionately as the Southeast’s answer to In-N-Out, this beloved chain offers more than just fast food; it delivers “sudden” satisfaction. Named after the owner’s mantra, “You can’t get any faster than sudden,” Pal’s serves up mouthwatering burgers and crispy fries with an efficiency that’s almost bewildering. With its retro architecture and lightning-quick service, this is fast food done right, offering a slice of Americana with a southern twist.

Ridgewood BBQ

900 Elizabethton Hwy, Bluff City, TN 37618

Nestled in the quiet town of Bluff City, Ridgewood BBQ is a local legend, serving up authentic barbecue since 1948. This unassuming spot is famous for its hickory-smoked meats, tender and rich with flavor, all served pre-sauced for that perfect, savory bite. Don’t miss out on the bleu cheese dip—a creamy, tangy delight that pairs perfectly with their crispy fries. Ridgewood BBQ is a testament to the enduring power of simple, well-made food, where tradition and taste come together in every smoky, succulent dish.

Southern Craft

601 Spring St #101, Johnson City, TN 37604

Southern Craft is a BBQ lover’s dream, housed in a spacious warehouse-style venue in Johnson City, just south of the Bristol Motor Speedway. Known for its expertly smoked meats and an extensive list of bourbons, this restaurant takes Southern BBQ to new heights. The menu is a delightful mix of traditional barbecue and Tex-Mex influences, with standout dishes like Burnt End Nachos and brisket tacos that bring a smoky, savory twist to every bite. Southern Craft is where BBQ meets bold flavors, creating a dining experience that’s both familiar and exciting.

Union 41

171 Piedmont Ave, Bristol, VA 24201

Union 41 is Bristol’s culinary crown jewel, especially for those seeking a dining experience that’s both elevated and engaging. Located near the Bristol Motor Speedway, this chef-driven restaurant offers an open kitchen where you can watch culinary magic unfold. With a focus on farm-to-table ingredients, the menu bursts with fresh, local flavors. The cocktail list is equally impressive, featuring sophisticated concoctions that wouldn’t be out of place in a big city bar. Under the direction of “Chef T,” a Food Network alum, every meal here is a celebration of creativity and taste.