I’m half tempted not to even write this review. It seems like one of Nashville’s unwritten rules to not blow up the places that all the locals know as their secret watering holes. I do feel like I’m violating that code in some ways by putting this out on the internet. But, since most of our Nashville footprint consists of locals, and the attention span of internet users is a 24-hour cycle, I feel like I might be able to slip this one into our grand catalog of Nashville Reviews – because the bottom line…the pure truth of the matter…is that Dino’s belongs in that upper echelon of local favorites over in East Nashville.
Every year, we ask our audience what they think the best burger in Nashville is, and every year, Dino’s is a popular name that comes up. Prior to a couple of Sundays ago, I had yet to have a burger at Dino’s, so I couldn’t accurately rank it among Nashville’s burgers. Lucky for me, I was tagging along with Brittany and Jesse for a fun night of pro wrasslin’ at the Nashville Fairgrounds. Afterwards, we were all hungry, and I was elated when someone brought up Dino’s. It was finally going to happen – after years of hearing Brittany and Jesse talk about Dino’s, I was finally going to try it for myself.
It was a momentous occasion – one of those classic late nights in Nashville that reminded me of my 20s. Big event downtown, and we’re going to crush some greasy food at 11PM before heading home. We parked along the street, ventured down the alley behind Dino’s, and lo and behold, like an oasis in the desert, approached the dining area out back. Lit by decorative lights and buzzing with hideaway energy, I felt like Dino’s and I were on the same level – we had the same vibes. We walked through to the bar, placed our orders, and then sat at one of the picnic tables out back chowing down before calling it a night. It was a hell of a way to cap off a good night. For more on Dino’s, check out their website here.
Pics
Yes, it’s only one picture, and I know it sucks. Listen – my usual photographer wasn’t with me, so I had to go it alone on this review, and this is just not my strong suit. My phone/camera is at least six years old at this point. Sue me. I can’t let something like decent pictures stand in the way of writing this review.
Ratings
Food: 8.9/10 – I don’t even know where to begin. I felt like I had no choice but to get the cheeseburger because of how hyped up it’s been. And, for something to deliver on that type of hype surprised me, especially when I tend to be a contrarian. Like…I wanted to dislike this burger. But, there’s not a bad damn thing I can say about it. It’s old fashioned – bare bones kinda stuff. I didn’t get a load of weird/fancy toppings. Just a warm bun, fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and a burger that tasted like it was cooked in the same grease they’ve been using for a hundred years. It was like a century’s worth of history dripping down my chin. It was juicy and flavorful, but not greasy – I didn’t have to pop a TUMS, and I didn’t have a stomach ache afterwards. That feels like sorcery to me. The fries were my favorite style – little bit of crispy flaky action going on there. And, Brittany told me I had to get their special sauce, so I did. I have no idea what it is, but it is indeed special. So….aptly named. Something about the meal just felt like simpler times. Like the good old days.
Booze: 7.3/10 – I wasn’t lookin’ to get fucked up late on a Sunday night with work at 8AM, but I did take notice of what the bar looked like and how it was priced. Two thumbs up from me – excellent prices, solid selection.
Value: 9.56/10 – Man, I’ve never given such a high score on anything, but holy shit, if you factor in everything you get for the dollar amount you’re giving up, it feels like highway robbery. I got a burger, fries, and a diet coke, and with a tip included, spent like $15. That is, and I don’t say this lightly, the best value in the city.
Atmosphere: 7.1/10 – Here’s where I have to project a bit, and get out of my own head. I’m 6’2″, 280 pounds, and probably four feet wide. I always feel a bit claustrophobic in tight spaces, like I’m taking up way too much room and getting in everyone’s way. So, yeah – while I felt a bit cramped, I can certainly appreciate why so many people talk about the atmosphere at Dino’s. It was great – relaxed, no pressure…something about it just felt homey in a weird way.
Overall: 8.22/10 – Yeah, Dino’s hits. I get it – I get why the locals hold this fine establishment in such high regard. The vibes were right. The food was phenomenal. The value may be the best in the entire fucking city. You just can’t beat a good old fashioned burger and an ice cold beer. I can’t wait to go back and try the hot chicken.
CURRENT NASHVILLE RESTAURANT RANKINGS
- Butcher & Bee (8.5/10)
- Nectar: Urban Cantina (8.44/10)
- Barcelona Wine Bar (8.23/10)
- Dino’s (8.22/10)
- M.L.Rose (8.19/10)
You can check out our full Nashville restaurant rankings here. I’m always looking for new spots to try – don’t be afraid to hit the comments with suggestions!
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network, and a Dogs Playing Poker on velvet connoisseur. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD, #BeBetter, and ‘Minds right, asses tight.’ “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, Yankee Candle, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley.
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