It's taken a while, but Nashville is finally coming into its own in regards to its food scene. Once a city full of throwaway restaurants with the sparse hidden gem (usually an out of the way dive), Nashville is finally becoming known for its high-quality restaurants.

As recently as 2006, Nashville’s independent restaurants were in a battle for survival. Big upscale chains were moving into the city, and the indies were trying to fight back, by banding together to supersize their bulk-buying and advertising muscle.

Fast forward to today. GQ magazine has dubbed Nashville “Nowville,” and the national press is suddenly hailing the city as a foodie destination and Nashville chefs as rock stars.

What changed?

A Downtown Food Desert

Deb Paquette saw it happen. She’s presided over Nashville kitchens for so long, even veteran chefs call her “Mama.”

“As long as they don’t call me “Grandmama,” I’m good with it,” she laughs.

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