1. Maiz de la Vida Queso Fundido
Julio Hernandez spent years researching and perfecting the art of creating the perfect corn tortillas. His passion for his culture is evident in everything he does, which is why the debut of his October brick-and-mortar restaurant opening at Paseo South Gulch is so exciting. As with the life-changing tortillas, Julio has also perfected his Queso Fundido for the opening (and, of course, it comes served with a stack of his crazy good corn tortillas). Maiz de la Vida's debut Queso Fundido is served on a bed of refried beans and caramelized onions, with gratin quesillo cheese that is shipped to Nashville weekly via BNA cargo from an Indiana-based cheese farmer who uses local Amish whole milk to make the cheese!
606 8th Avenue S, Nashville
maizdelavida.com
2. Torchy's Tacos Green Chile Queso
A beloved chain that started as a trailer in Austin, Torchy's Tacos just opened in Nashville in September (I promise I've been harassing them to do so on social media for years!). Sure, they have fun tacos (and a secret menu) and really killer branding, but I will go down in history saying that Torchy's consistently serves my favorite bowl of queso in life. It's won awards for a darn good reason. It packs a lot of heat and comes topped with a dollop of guacamole, cotija cheese, cilantro, and fiery Diablo sauce. (Don’t forget to ask for extra Diablo sauce on the side for an extra kick!) Torchy's finally opened in Nashville the same week my book was released, so that will always remembered as one of my favorite weeks in life :).
1929 Broadway, Nashville
torchystacos.com
3. Velvet Taco Red Curry Coconut Queso
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, Velvet Taco is the place to be. While they are known for their globally inspired tacos, their duo of queso options deserve their own spotlight. Creamy and decadent, VT's Red Curry Coconut Queso is a legendary combo of heat and sweet. It's a smooth blend of cheese and spices that definitely turns the idea of "traditional" queso on its head. Topped with pickled onions, queso fresco, and Thai basil. But if you're in the mood for that, the queso blanco is also worth ordering.
1911 Broadway, Nashville
velvettaco.com
4. Sopapilla's Chile Con Queso
A musician who missed home while in Nashville and on the road brought a "taste of New Mexico" to Tennessee over a decade ago, and my queso-loving heart is especially thankful he did. Even if you're not obsessed with queso, I think Sopapilla's is a must-visit. Their queso is a delightful blend of assorted gooey cheeses and savory house seasonings, some onion, and roasted Hatch chiles. You can even make a meal out of it by adding smoky brisket to the bowl! (Then you can save room for their signature sopapillas for dessert!)
1109 Davenport Blvd #600, Franklin
sopapillas.com
5. Chuy's Queso
Last but certainly not least, Chuy's might be a chain, but it is a consistent staple for queso lovers (not to mention that creamy jalapeño dip and their spicy "boom boom" sauce! Their famous queso is a fan favorite, featuring a rich blend of melted cheeses, green chilies, and ranchero sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and there’s something about the lively, colorful decor that enhances the entire experience. Whether you’re dining in or getting takeout, Chuy's queso is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling thankful for every cheesy bite.
(multiple locations)
chuys.com