Nashville’s burger scene is buzzing with an eclectic range of burger joints, but if you’re seeking the ultimate smash burger experience, look no further than Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer. Nestled in the heart of downtown Nashville, this New York City transplant has already made waves with its delicious, award-winning burgers and famous CrazyShake® milkshakes. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Music City, Black Tap is the spot where burger dreams come true.
What Makes Black Tap’s Smash Burgers Special?
At Black Tap Nashville, the smash burger is not just food, it’s an art form. The method behind their famed burgers is griddling, not grilling, which locks in all the juiciness by pressing the patty onto a sizzling flat-top, caramelizing the outside while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. This griddled-to-perfection style is key to what makes Black Tap’s smash burgers some of the best smash burgers in Nashville. With a perfectly balanced crust and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, every bite offers a flavor explosion that’s hard to forget.
When you sink your teeth into a Black Tap burger, you’ll notice that it’s not just the meat that stands out. Their burgers are built with high-quality ingredients, from prime beef to freshly baked potato buns that complement the juicy patty without overpowering it. And then there are the toppings—whether it’s their classic “All-American” burger with American cheese and special sauce or the Tennessee Burger topped with Jack Daniel’s red pepper jam, every option is meticulously crafted for maximum flavor.
The Menu Highlights: Burgers and Beyond
While the smash burger might be the star of the show, Black Tap’s menu offers a variety of burger options that cater to different tastes. A few must-tries include:
- The Greg Norman: Featuring a half-pound Wagyu beef patty, blue cheese, and arugula, this award-winning burger has earned praise nationwide.
- The Tennessee Burger: Only available at the Nashville location, this burger is packed with local flavors like white BBQ sauce, Jack Daniel’s red pepper jam, and sweet potato chips for a sweet and savory punch.
- Mexico City Burger: A spicy option with pickled jalapeños and chipotle mayo that adds some heat to your bite.
In addition to their renowned burgers, Black Tap also serves up crispy fried sides like fried pickles, mozzarella sticks, and, of course, their indulgent fries. Choose from traditional fries or upgrade to something like Carolina Fries, which are loaded with pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and house-made buttermilk dill dressing.
CrazyShakes®: The Perfect Sweet Finish
If you’ve heard of Black Tap before, it’s likely because of their iconic CrazyShake® milkshakes. These over-the-top creations are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the taste buds. They’ve become Instagram sensations for a reason, with outrageous toppings like slices of cake, mountains of whipped cream, and candy galore. The Cakeshake®, for instance, comes adorned with a full slice of rainbow Funfetti cake. It’s the perfect treat to pair with your savory burger.
But Black Tap in Nashville takes things up a notch with its Shake Shots—mini boozy milkshakes that are exclusive to this location, making it a must-visit for those looking to indulge in a more adult version of their signature shakes.
Craft Beer and Cocktails to Match
Of course, what’s a burger without the right drink to go along with it? At Black Tap, you can choose from a wide selection of local craft beers, including brews from Nashville favorites like Bearded Iris and Hap & Harry’s. Prefer something stronger? The cocktail menu doesn’t disappoint either, featuring Southern-inspired creations like the CheerWine Old Fashioned and the Smoky Manhattan, both made with Tennessee whiskey.
The full bar also includes frozen concoctions, and for something truly unique, try the Black Tap Bushwacker, a blend of coffee liqueur, rum, and coconut cream—a local twist on a classic frozen treat.
A Lively Vibe in the Heart of Nashville
When you walk into Black Tap, you’re greeted by a vibe that’s as vibrant as the food. The interior is decked out in 90s-inspired graffiti and nostalgic decor, with a soundtrack to match. The fun, laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for everything from a casual lunch to a pre-concert bite (it’s located just a short walk from Ryman Auditorium and Bridgestone Arena.
For those looking for a late-night fix, Black Tap stays open until 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, making it an ideal post-night-out stop for grabbing a burger or shake.
Why Black Tap Stands Out in Nashville’s Burger Scene
While Nashville boasts several amazing burger joints, Black Tap stands out thanks to its commitment to quality and innovation. Each burger is meticulously prepared using high-quality ingredients, and the diverse menu ensures that there’s something for everyone—from meat lovers to vegetarians. Their smash burger technique, combined with their focus on inventive flavors, has quickly earned Black Tap a place among the best smash burgers in Nashville.
Plus, the experience at Black Tap goes beyond just the food. The atmosphere is fun and engaging, and the menu’s variety of burgers, sides, and drinks make it a spot you can visit again and again without getting bored. Whether you’re a tourist looking to experience some of Nashville’s best food or a local craving a fresh take on the classic burger, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer is the place to be.