Fans have been ordering the hand-tossed pies from Castrillo's since 2001. Some flavorful favorites incldue The Dylan, with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, tomatoes, chicken, spinach, bell peppers and garlic or the super-spicy Flamethrower with jalapenos, banana peppers, pperoni, Italian suasage, crushed red pepper and cayenne pepper. Of course, it isn't all pizza at Castrillo's, with calzones, wings, subs, pasta dishes and salads sharing menu space. Portions are filling and will last beyond the intended meal. The crew who works the counter are friendly and helpful if you are unsure about what to order, but you can't go wrong with one of the pizzas.
Recommended for Take Out because: They are known for their daily carryout specials, like Monday's medium with two toppings for under $9.
Hollie's expert tip: A second location in Sylvan Park serves the other side of the river.
Faithful customers line up for the lunch buffet, thanks to the delicious bounty of options. For a more refined experience, swing by at dinner for more of the classic Indian dishes like spicy boneless chicken in a thick curry sauce, tandoori chicken marinated in yogurt and grilled, and lamb saag cooked with spinach. Vegetarians have plenty to be happy about, even at dessert over sweet kheer made from milk and basmati rice, flavored with nuts, raisins, and cardamom seeds. Wash it all down with a mango lassi, a classic Indian drink, prepared with fat-free yogurt and mango pulp. Delivery available in a limited range.
Recommended for Take Out because: Friendly service paired with delicious fast food is a lunchtime home run.
Hollie's expert tip: If you can't swing by for lunch, they deliver within a five-mile radius.
This Alabama-based chain can always be counted on for fresh, delicious Mediterranean fare, and proves fast food doesn't have to be processed and greasy. You can even go online to find out the nutritional information about all of the menu items before you place your order. Taziki's first location was opened in Birmingham, Ala., after owners Keith and Amy Richards returned from a life-changing trip to Greece. Now there are Taziki's all over, with four in the Nashville area alone. And that's fine by fans of the light lunch and hearty dinners they can grab on the way home, like the slow-roasted lemon-herb chicken stuffed with fresh herbs and served with a reduction of onions, white wine, and fresh oregano.
Recommended for Take Out because: Try the Cool Springs, Mt. Juliet and Green Hills locations as well for a quick meal all over town.
Hollie's expert tip: Rotating daily features have their own following, like the Thursday's fish tacos or Monday's portobello mushroom sandwich with grilled chicken, red peppers, Swiss cheese and mushroom butter.
Baja Burrito is a Nashville staple. The locally-owned independent burrito shop in Berry Hill always has a line, but it's always worth the wait and the atmosphere is bright and happy, probably due to the communal love of the food and rapport with the long-time employees. Plus, any negativity is immediately forgotten at first bite. Fans swear by the fish tacos, served singly or in a basket of three. Burritos are the big draw though, prepared right in front of you with chicken, steak or veggies and rice, beans, salsa, sour cream and cheese. Kids can enjoy little cheese quesadillas or tacos while you dig in, and after, everyone can enjoy a Las Paletas popsicle. Delicious.
Recommended for Take Out because: Lines can be long, but they move quickly. Or, go online to fax in your order for speedy pickup.
Hollie's expert tip: Baja Burrito serves up some of the best fish tacos in town.
Pasta is the great unifier, and no matter if you're craving classic spaghetti and meatballs or spicy Pad Thai, Noodles & Company has it hot and fresh and fast enough to grab during lunch or on the way home from work. Carb lovers are in heaven with a number of Mediterranean, American and Asian options to choose from. The house special Truffle Mac, also known as "Fancy Pants," is their signature macaroni and cheese sauce spiked with white truffle oil, sauteed baby portabella mushrooms and topped with Parmesan cheese and house-made toasted breadcrumbs. And despite it's name, Noodles & Company does sell more than just pasta. Soups, salads and sandwiches round out a menu that should make everyone in your office happy.
Recommended for Take Out because: Order online from a world of flavors and head straight to the pickup.
Hollie's expert tip: Place your order from your smartphone while you are shopping at the mall, and it will be waiting for you when you're done.
Mitchell Delicatessen first opened its doors in 2008 with the idea to provide East Nashville with a full service delicatessen that only used the highest quality, natural ingredients from local sources. Residents responded - they ran out of food their first day - and Mitchell's has been bustling ever since. Their sandwiches are what made them famous, including the Reuben with locally-raised corned beef and turkey, apple and brie with jalapeno-cranberry relish. Most of their meats are cured or smoked in house and they even hand make their own sausages and roast beef. A small selection of carefully picked cheeses, dairy, fresh fruit and vegetables from local farms are also available, as it a self-serve salad bar. Mitchell Deli is also available for catering weddings and special events.
Recommended for Take Out because: A daily hot breakfast bar starts the day, with people streaming in and out the entire rest of the day for savory sandwiches and salads.
Hollie's expert tip: Pick up a package of Benton's bacon and a dozen farm fresh eggs to cook for breakfast tomorrow.
For more than 15 year, The Food Company has been keeping tummies full in Green Hills and beyond, thanks not only to their daily menu, but delicious catering options as well. Sandwiches are a standout, like the Gobbler with turkey, cranberry relish, house-made boursin white cheddar cheese, arugula and red onion on cranberry walnut bread. A simple BLT is elevated thanks to Benton's bacon, avocado and chipotle mayo on farm bread. Sides are so much more than french fries - think kale salad and hearty soups. The food in the cases is available until 6 pm, so swing by before hitting Green Hills traffic so dinner arrives him ready with you.
Recommended for Take Out because: Grown up sandwiches share the menu with grilled cheese and PB&J, so everyone can grab and go.
Hollie's expert tip: Like them on Facebook to be among the first to learn the daily specials.
Brie, brie, brie! Calling all cheese lovers. Located in the heart of historic East Nashville, Marche Artisan Foods is a cafe with European flair. Situated inside the Walnut Exchange, a former telephone switching building, this cafe boasts a rustic feel that ratchets up its unparalleled ambiance. In addition to the full coffee and espresso bar, diners can find house-made pastries, fresh fish, meats, cheeses and other decadent grocery items. Breakfast and lunch menus change seasonally, and the other dinner menu options are updated monthly. Of course, backed by East Nashville favorite Margot McCormack, diners expect nothing less than delicious perfection.
Recommended for Take Out because: The ultimate neighborhood market stocked with sweet pastries, cured meats and pre-made meals to go.
Hollie's expert tip: Shop the shelves for interesting ingredients to try at home.