Spicy Boys Nashville: A Cajun Gem in East Nashville

If you’ve been scouring the Nashville food scene for that perfect blend of Southern hospitality and authentic Cajun heat, your search ends at 924 McFerrin Ave. Tucked away in the eclectic heart of East Nashville, Spicy Boys Nashville isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a portal straight to the bayou.

As someone who takes their Nashville bucket list seriously, I can tell you that finding a spot that nails the texture of a Po’ Boy and the depth of a proper roux is rare outside of Louisiana.

But from the moment you step into this bright and welcoming space, you know you’re in for something real. Whether you’re a local looking for a new hangout or a visitor craving a taste of the South, here is everything you need to know about this East Nashville treasure.

Sharing experiences like this is exactly what I aim to do on wavynashville.com, serving as your personal Nashville Guide and helping fellow food lovers and explorers discover the spots that make Music City unforgettable.

Spicy Boy’s Nashville Location: Plan Your Visit

Before you head out to experience this East Nashville coffee shop alternative and lunch spot, here are the details you need to know.

• Location: 924 McFerrin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
• Phone: (504) 269-3442
• Email: [email protected]

Best Times to Visit

If you’re looking for a quiet spot to study or work from a laptop, aim for the weekday lunch hours between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. If you want to experience the lively Nashville brunch spots energy, the weekends are your best bet—especially Sundays when they often have special vibes for the brunch crowd.

Spicy Boys Nashville Hours

To better serve guests and manage peak times efficiently, here’s a suggested schedule for Spicy Boys Nashville. These hours balance lunch, dinner, and late-night visitors while keeping staff well-rested.

Spicy Boy’s Nashville Menu: Cajun Classics Done Right

Let’s get down to business: the food. Spicy Boys menu has a variety of tasty options. Starters include boudin, Andouille sausage, gumbo, roast beef debris fries, and meat pies. Prices range from $5.50 to $13.50. 

Po Boys come with Gulf shrimp, fried catfish, roast beef, Surf & Turf, Andouille sausage, smoked turkey, and vegetarian choices. Half or whole servings cost $11.00 to $15.00. Entrees include fried shrimp and catfish platters with two sides. 

Prices are around $20–$21. Sides, sauces, and desserts like bread pudding, beignets, and root beer floats round out the menu. Most items are under $23.

Starters That Pack a Punch

You can’t start a meal here without diving into the appetizers.

• Gumbo ($5.50/cup, $12.00/bowl): This is the real deal—classic Cajun chicken and smoked Andouille sausage served over rice with green onions. It’s smoky, rich, and comforting.
• Boudin ($8.00): Described as “The Cajun staple,” this house-made sausage is served with Abita beer mustard and pickles. It has a 4.9-star rating on Uber Eats for a reason.
• Roast Beef Debris Fries ($11.00): If you want pure comfort, this basket of Cajun fries topped with savory roast beef debris gravy is non-negotiable.

The Po’ Boy Experience

The main event at Spicy Boy’s East Nashville is undoubtedly the Po’ Boy selection. Served on genuine Leidenheimer French bread—the hallmark of an authentic New Orleans sandwich—these are crispy on the outside and cloud-soft on the inside.

• Gulf Shrimp Po’ Boy ($14.00 half / $23.00 whole): Golden fried gulf shrimp dressed with lettuce, tomato, mayo, and pickles.
• Surf & Turf Po’ Boy ($14.00 half / $23.00 whole): Can’t decide? This gives you a healthy mix of fried shrimp and roast beef debris.
• The Benny & Clovis ($13.00 half / $22.00 whole): A nod to history, this is the “OG Nola Po Boy” served to streetcar workers in 1929—fries smothered in roast beef debris on French bread.

Platters, Sweets, and Sides

If a sandwich isn’t your style, the Fried Catfish Platter ($20.00) or Fried Shrimp Platter ($21.00) comes with two sides and house-made sauces.

You’ll also find sides like Cajun fries, house-made potato salad, or comeback slaw, typically $3-$5 each.

And for dessert? Don’t skip the Bread Pudding ($7.00)—a sweet, savory, and slightly boozy New Orleans classic. If you’re in on the weekend, treat yourself to fresh beignets ($7.00, Sat & Sun only) or an Abita Root Beer Float ($6.00).

Drinks Menu

Spicy Boys Nashville has a diverse drink menu. It includes classics like Sazerac and Vieux Carré, creative options like Cocktail A La Louisiane, and refreshing drinks such as Pimm’s Cup and Grand Isle Ice Tea.

Bourbon and rye lovers can enjoy an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. Other favorites include the Side Car, Mint Julep, and Traditional Daiquiri.

The menu offers something for every taste, from sweet and fruity to strong and bold. Prices are reasonable, ranging from $11 to $14, making it easy to try multiple drinks without overspending.

Upcoming Events at Spicy Boys Nashville

Spicy Boys Nashville hosts a variety of fun events throughout the year. They regularly update their event schedule to keep guests informed about live music, special dinners, and seasonal celebrations.

From crawfish boils to themed nights, there is always something exciting happening. The restaurant focuses on creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for every event.

To stay up to date and see the full list of upcoming events, be sure to check out their official website. You won’t want to miss the next gathering at Spicy Boys!

Spicy Boys Nashville Owner – Justen Cheney

Justen Cheney, the owner of Spicy Boys Nashville, has been cooking his whole life. He learned most of his skills from family and friends.

Justen started in restaurants at 16 and worked every position from dishwasher to management in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Nashville, and New York City. After years of experience, he opened Spicy Boys.

Transforming a small historic house into a restaurant was challenging. Today, his goal is to create a welcoming, Louisiana-inspired atmosphere with great food, drinks, and community. His hard work has earned strong support from Nashville locals.

A Vibe Unlike Any Other

Walking into Spicy Boy’s feels less like entering a business and more like joining a neighborhood party. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between a trendy Nashville spot and a cozy, unpretentious joint where you can kick back for hours.

The interior is a plant-filled cafe dream, with greenery breathing life into the corners and natural light flooding the space.

It’s the kind of mood-lifting place where you can easily lose track of time. You’ll see digital nomads treating it as a laptop-friendly cafe during the quiet weekday hours, while the weekend crowd brings an electric energy that spills out onto the patio.

Unlike the crowded tourist traps downtown, this spot captures the genuine East Nashville spirit—laid back, creative, and deeply community-oriented. It’s a popular Nashville cafe not just for the food, but for the feeling of belonging it cultivates.

Community and Sustainability: More Than Just Food

What makes this place a true community-focused cafe is its dedication to values that matter. In a world of fast food, Spicy Boy’s stands out as an environmentally friendly restaurant. They are conscious of their footprint, prioritizing single-use waste reduction and incorporating sustainable materials into their daily operations.

It’s also a sustainable cafe in Nashville in how it sources. They prioritize local and seasonal ingredients, ensuring that what’s on your plate is fresh and supports the local ecosystem. For instance, their vegetarian option, the “Fried Oyster Mushroom” Po’ Boy, uses locally sourced mushrooms from Hedgehog Farms.

Furthermore, the Spicy Boys Nashville owner and team, including folks like Nick, have built a space that feels personal. It’s common to see them chatting with regulars, fostering a community feel that turns first-time visitors into loyal patrons.

Spicy Boys Reviews: My Experience & What Locals Are Saying

Spicy Boys in Nashville is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Cajun food. My visit was really good, and I loved the lively atmosphere. The staff are super friendly and make you feel welcome from the moment you walk in. 

The shrimp po’boys are a favorite, made with fresh Gulf shrimp and soft, flavorful bread. The gumbo is rich with a dark roux, and the Cajun fries are perfectly seasoned. Many guests love the Surf & Turf Po’boy and red beans with real Cajun flavor. 

The atmosphere is fun and relaxed, perfect for both first-time visitors and regulars. Service is excellent, and every meal feels special. This Spicy Boys review highlights why it’s so loved by locals and visitors alike.

Why Spicy Boy’s Belongs on Your Nashville Bucket List

Whether you are hunting for biscuits and gravy Nashville style (keep an eye on their specials!) or just a perfectly fried shrimp basket, Spicy Boy’s delivers. It’s a unique coffee spot in Nashville adjacent—offering great vibes, better food, and a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

So, next time you are in East Nashville, skip the chain restaurants. Head over to McFerrin Ave, grab a menu at the counter, and treat yourself to some of the best Cajun cooking north of the Mississippi. You won’t just leave with a full stomach; you’ll leave planning your next visit.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to experience this Cajun gem for yourself? Spicy Boy’s is a must-visit, whether you’re a local exploring the East Nashville food scene or a visitor looking for an authentic taste of the South.

The restaurant is perfect for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, or a weekend brunch. It’s also one of those great Nashville brunch spots that offers something a little different from the usual fare. Just be aware that it’s a popular spot, so you might encounter a weekend crowd—but it’s always worth the wait.

Spicy Boy’s Nashville has truly carved out a special niche in our city. It’s a place built on a passion for good food, good company, and a genuine love for Cajun culture. So next time you’re in East Nashville, do yourself a favor and stop by. You might just find your new favorite spot.