The Cookery

My husband and I went to The Cookery today in search of authentic Australian meat pies. We were NOT disappointed! What a treat!! The Aussie Style Meat Pie and Aussie Sausage Roll were AMAZING and the house made, oven roasted Potato Fries were well seasoned and delicious. Every staff person we encountered was friendly, helpful, and welcoming. Such a wonderful FIRST visit (with hopefully many more in the future) to this delightful establishment. 😋🇦🇺

We heard about this restaurant at church because of their mission. We went to support that mission. They help the homeless learn to cook and also have meals available for them. That being said we didn't know what to expect. We were pleasantly surprised! The food was really good! I also got a Latte and it was wonderful. The meat pies are very filling and full of flavor. The cinnamon roll was delicious and it was huge!!!!! Everyone was very friendly! It is a wonderful place. They have a prayer wall for you to leave a prayer and/or take a prayer. You can also pay for meals for people in need. What a wonderful way to give back! We will definitely come back and support this mission!

Found this gem while looking for something unique to eat near me. When I saw that it was Australian cuisine we tapped in right away. Loved the extensive menu items and loved what I chose: Cookery Hash! My kiddo ordered and enjoyed her Fairytale Toast. Downsides: parking seems limited and backing out is dangerous as you're literally backing out into the oncoming traffic. Since we were dining in, we would appreciate regular plates and utensils instead of disposable plates from the dollar tree. Dining in should be an experience. I received my Latte in a foam to go cup. Would add to the overall dining experience to have had a tea cup etc Upon arrival (it being our first time), we were told to grab menus so we did at the front but ended up standing there waiting to be seated not knowing we were to seat ourselves until I eventually asked for clarification. Maybe say grab menus and sit anywhere you'd like or something of that nature. We like the place and will return!

We were visiting from Orlando and found this super cute spot while out shopping so we stopped in for a late breakfast. The regular coffee was super good, which I didn't expect it to be anything special for drip coffee but it was. I also ordered the baked potato topped with lots of veggies and a brekkie pie. I would definitely come back here if we were in town again. The people are the nicest and it just has a really relaxed vibe with great food.

I’m an Aussie and my hubby( American) lived in Australia and loved meat pies and sausage rolls as much as Aussies do. We absolutely loved the sausage rolls but the pies and lamington weren’t as “Australian” as we had hoped. The pastry on the pie was perfect but the steak and the mince beef was super tomato tasting. Didn’t mean it wasn’t nice but didn’t have the Aussie flavor we like but understand things have to change to suit the environment they are in. 😀 The lamington was made from a heavier cake and again wasn’t bad but would have been so much better with a sponge like texture. The side of the jam though was awesome and tasted exactly like what usually is in between them.

Review: A Taste of Australia at The Cookery in Nashville Tucked away in the heart of Nashville, The Cookery is a hidden gem that brings a delightful Australian twist to the local food scene. While the café is known for its warm atmosphere and mission-driven approach, its menu is where the magic truly happens—especially for those looking to explore authentic Aussie flavors. From the moment you walk in, the inviting aroma of expertly brewed coffee (think flat whites done right) and freshly baked goods transports you straight to a cozy café in Sydney or Melbourne. The Aussie Meat Pie is a standout—golden, flaky pastry filled with rich, savory beef and gravy, just as you’d find in an Australian bakery. Pair it with a side of their crisp, well-seasoned fries for the full experience. Another must-try is their Lamington, a perfectly fluffy sponge cake coated in chocolate and rolled in coconut. It’s the kind of simple yet satisfying dessert that makes you appreciate the beauty of classic Australian treats. Beyond the food, The Cookery’s atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly service that makes you feel like a regular, even on your first visit. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, this place is a perfect blend of great food, community, and a taste of Australia right in Nashville. Highly recommended for food lovers looking for something unique!

This place is so much more than a delicious restaurant!! The chef & owner, Barry, is such a kind, sincere, & loving man of God!!! He has poured his heart & soul into this ministry & again, the delicious food!! We had the fish tacos & fries!! These are like none I have EVER had!! There is so much flavor in the fish!! No breading!! So well seasoned, I can eat the fish all by itself!! The portion size is enough for 2 meals or 1 if you're really hungry! The baked fries were also really good. Barry came to our table & prayed for me, then my husband prayed for him! Please don't sleep on the special place!! Go here & be blessed & be a blessing!!!

This place really took me to the Outback! The environment was so calm and peaceful during brunch. We got some shrimp tacos, the most delicious crepe of my life, and a chicken salad that was super delicious. I highly recommend trying out their coffee drinks too! I was very impressed by their mission too. I did not realize that the staff making the food were people that are trying to have a second chance at a better life and I think that's just beautiful. Definitely check them out and support their cause!

What a great place. I liked it better than the frothy monkey! The capuccino here was by far the best one i had during my entire week in Nashville. I ordered the yogurt parfait with honey and it was delicious! The atmosphere is great and they have an adorable little dog there to greet and then ignore you. Prices are reasonable and the staff is great. Keep in mind they are closed on Saturday since they spend that day donating food to the needy. Amazing place and people. Go here!!

A cozy space, hiding in broad daylight, this gem offers an uncomplicated and friendly dining experience with a focus on Australian fare. The flaky meat pie, paired with perfectly seasoned fries was just the base I needed today. The meat pie, with its golden, flaky crust, was in itself a wonderful introduction to what I would hope are Australian staples. As you take your first bite, the crust crumbles delicately, revealing a hearty filling that is rich and savory. The minced beef, was seasoned well with a blend of herbs and spices, a hint of thyme for sure. Complementing the pie are the seasoned fries, which are nothing short of perfection. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Lunch was sprinkled with kind and genuine service. What more could you ask for!

Gracious welcome, attentive staff, warm and hospitable environment, great coffee. Clearly quality kitchen. Partner had the cookery hash and opted to have an egg on top. Raved about it - loved the chipotle sauce. Fresh flavors came through. I had the Aussie Avo Smash . Goodness! Tahini complemented the avocado, beautiful, fresh greens, right texture and bread. Will definitely return and spreading the word. Also appreciate the balance - thank you for keeping hours that allow the staff to explore and engage across all of the other aspects of life. Well done and thank you!!!

The Cookery is one of favorite places! It's NYE and we came for takeout lunch. Thrilled to see the old menu back- all our faves are on it. Mine is the Ultima Salad , it comes with salad and fruit and choice of two more- I choose chicken salad and pasta salad. Delish!!! Frankly- everything they make here is fabulous and you can't go wrong. Great mission and you can purchase gift cards to be given to those who are hungry and without money. The spiritual ambience is welcoming and relaxing.

The best place to eat near Belmont. This is a wonderful place to have a meal. The restaurant has a mission to train homeless men to be cooks. It also has a program to feed the homeless and you can buy $5 or $10 meals for them to pay forward. The people here are so nice and the restaurant is so homey and there is lots of seating. The food here is delicious, and Breakfast is served all day! I love the Breakfast Bowl, the BLT, the fish, the pork, and the Burgers. My wife loves the salads. I highly recommend the Cookery!

A unique cafe near Belmont University that offers traditional (and hard to find and discover in Nashville) Australian cuisine. The various meat pies are delicious, and I love the coffee rubbed whitefish wrap. Its quaint but with ample seating. There is a lot of Christian themed decor, so if that's somehow going to bother you here is your heads up. I want to try the Aussie sausage rolls and come back for breakfast.

A great cause and even better eats!! Butter pecan pancake, cinnamon roll, breakfast hash and breakfast bowl. One of the best coffees I've ever had.

To make a long story short, I was having a bad morning and was in desperate need of a cinnamon roll. However, for a lot of reasons, I was struggling to find a place where I could quickly get one before work. Some random person on social media told me the cinnamon rolls here were legendary, so I thought I might as well, it was close enough to work. Oh. My. Lord. That cinnamon roll was DELICIOUS. Better yet, right as I walked in the door to pick it up, it had just come out. They were so quick and so nice, too, even though I was just popping in. I absolutely will be returning to dine in sometime, because I can never forget that cinnamon roll.

Everything! The food, the service, the staff is all excellent. If you have not been there you are missing out. The best kept secret in all of Nashville!

The walnut banana pancakes are more than the human race deserves. If you're in the area and you don't stop to have them then you fit the technical definition of a fool. The server we had was incredibly kind and patient with our difficult order. To top it off, like the delicious pancakes, their work is a mission field to provide work for those in need. For you folks at The Cookery, you've ignited in me a new hope for the future. Sincerely, One very happy customer with a full heart and belly

Good food and reasonably priced. The folks here COULDN'T BE NICER. Stop here for lunch. You are welcome.

COME HERE!!!! This is the most amazing place with the most amazing mission. Not only will you get amazing food you will be supporting a great cause of helping the homeless. With a laid back atmosphere and relaxed you will feel right at home. Coffee is 10/10! Get the iced vanilla latte. They were so good we ordered two! Everyone we met was kind and accommodating. Also we highly recommend the cinnamon roll.

First time visiting this establishment. While it was very hectic, we still enjoyed our experience. This is a Christ centered business who is very welcoming of ALL. Loved the contemporary music they played. We were greeted by a couple gentleman who instructed us to sit wherever we'd like. They have two areas used for inside dining and an outside seating area as well. Based off numerous YouTube videos of people trying vegemite, we had to try it ourselves. I personally wasn't a fan. It's an acquired taste for sure. I ordered the breakfast wrap with crispy bacon, which was pretty good just needed some extra seasoning. My friend ordered the breakfast crepe add crispy bacon (bacon was definitely limp). We ended up switching meals as she liked mine over hers. Must try The Bees Knees coffee drink and Fruited Tea (very refreshing) I'm assuming Sundays are their busiest days, which is why everything was hectic and a bit rushed or forgotten about.

My roommate used to rave about this place but I never made it. I moved away and moved back and a friend recommended it for brunch. Not the typical brunch spot but knowing how my old roommate talked about it, we gave it a go! We were not disappointed! My friend got a breakfast bowl and was easily able to modify it per her dietary requirements. She loved it. I got a butter pecan pancake - glad I just got one, they are huge! Over an inch thick. I also got the hash with potatoes, onions, and bacon. It was super light, not greasy at all! This is my new go-to brunch spot!

This might be the best breakfast spot in Nashville. It's a Christian coffee shop that I didn't know had breakfast thought it was just coffee and pastries. I saw they had breakfast and decided to stay. As a Jewish guy. I will happily give my money to these fine folks. Great food. Great coffee.

I liked this place. It is behind the new building they are constructing on the Belmont campus. Neat old building and a little funky. The vibe is cool for a breakfast/lunch joint. The food was really well prepared and interesting twists. The highlight was the cinnamon roll OMG was it good.

My daughter and I had a delicious breakfast here on a Monday morning. Cute comfortable place. Great menu. Food was delicious. Staff was kind and service was prompt. Love their mission as well. I don't mind paying a bit more when I know there is a great effort to support. Great spot just off Belmont's campus.

Got takeout for work, got the potato hash. Came with potatoes, feta cheese, bacon, bell peppers, onions, and chipotle aioli. Flavor wasn't great, egg was fine. Portions were small for the price of $15.30 post-tax.

I ordered chicken pot pie. The crust is delicious and crispy on the outside. There is a good balance between chicken, vegetables, and gravy. This is definitely homemade. Service is good and the ambience is low key and comfortable. I chose this place, partly because of their mission statement. Look them up on Google and if you're in the area, it is worth a visit.

Cute little coffee, breakfast and lunch spot nestled just outside the gulch area of Nashville -- I tried one of their breakfast bowls - YUM! Recommend if you're visiting (like me) w/ an ever so slight hangover and need some very home made sustenance.

Everything was amazing. They even put an egg on the burger. The only problem was the burger bun tasted old. Not fresh. Sudden being flaky and crumbly like old aged hamburger buns. I give this place an A-. Video review coming.

Walking in to this place, the vibe was great. Cute and comfy. Place was full of people but not too full. The waitress was attentive and polite. Ordered the avocado toast and it was so good and filling. Portion was perfect for the price.

I decided come meet a friend for a quick brunch moment. I was really excited to try some Australian food for the first time. This was a very cute place. I got the avocado toast and it was so good. It was more than I would usually want to pay but it was so worth it in this case. They have lots of lunch options. The workers were so nice accommodating specially to my friend who had a little toddler. I will definitely going back to try other lunch dishes. My plate has the cutest little Australian flag.

Had the bagel sandwich. Paid a dollar for cream cheese & had to schmear it myself. Tasted good tho.

I visited this establishment because I've heard word of their famous cinnamon rolls. The cinnamon rolls were decent. I enjoyed them. The vibes were rustic and comfy. I didn't expect this cafe to have a menu of such variety or waitress service. Both were a pleasant surprise. I didn't enjoy the Jesus paraphernalia or the worship music. However, I might come back and try out their lunch menu!

The cookery had easy parking and comfortable seating. We didn't realize until we were sitting down that it is a restaurant that is training men to be cooks-in order to gain employment and advance in their lives. That was fantastic to know! The staff was super friendly and very attentive. I ordered the hamburger with french fries. My daughter ordered a wrap. The french fries for more like roasted potatoes with pepper and seasonings. My daughter loved her wrap. The hamburger had some spices on it that I wasn't crazy about, but I tend to like my food pretty plain. I would definitely go back and try some of their chicken pot pie the next time. I also loved that they had the owner's Shih Tzu dog wandering around. He did not beg he was just friendly and sweet.

Cute Aussie Cafe in the Belmont Area with a great mission. Overall nice coffee shop ambience and food was good, however be prepared for long wait times! We went at 11:30pm on a Sunday and there were busy with both dine-in and delivery orders. Food: Aussie Style Meat Pie - smaller than expected but delicious and filling. The crust was flaky. Perfect for a lunch or light dinner. Down Under Wonder Blunder- the egg and bacon additions were great and highly recommend! I have no problem a $25 at a full service restaurant but I would say that $20 for a burger and fries were a bit pricey for this type of establishment. Fries- Hand cut and baked.The seasoning they use is really delicious. Healthier option, and are a bit soggier and soft compared to crispy fries. Think more baked potato than anything else. Chai Latte- it's got a spice kick, super good! Service: They are extremely understaffed. Only 2 people working front of hours (1 server/cashier and 1 Barista). There seemed to be more employees in the kitchen, but they haven't nailed down the timing yet. We were waiting a while to order and get our food. Also saw similar issues with other tables too as there was a backlog of orders. While slow, the food was executed nicely and I'd rather they take the time they need to properly prepare the food than sacrifice on quality. I would recommend this place for people looking for a coffee shop to get some work done and also grab a bite to eat.

Brilliant place to eat! Australian influenced menu w lots of regular options. Staff is friendly. Food wonderful. Most importantly. they train people who are in need of employment to work in the restaurant industry. Great place to eat and great cause.

I'm still sitting at the table writing this. Kyle was our server today and beyond being just the sweetest and most friendly person I've ever met, he was so accommodating. We asked for some special things on our pancakes that weren't on the menu and he practically bent over backwards to make it happen! The food BLEW us away with how good it is, and it's so affordable! $12 for the meat pie, $9 for the pancakes, like WHAT?! Such a relaxed environment and everyone here is so friendly. Also, you MUST order the Kyle Latte - yes, Kyle our server came up with it. He's so proud of it and it's genuinely the best latte I've had in a long time.

Great vibes, Australian infused? VERY NICE PEOPLE!!Which is cool and different! Off the normal beaten path of the all popular 12S area of Nashville. They have all day breakfast and coffee, but it was lunch and I decided on a burger. Cooked perfectly to order, fries were homemade, only wishing for more crunch. Seasoning did not disappoint. Casual atmosphere for lunch with a friend or study spot. I do not believe they roast their own coffee, but I'm excited to try a drink next time I'm in the area!

The food was hot and fresh. I had a the spinach dip crêpe which was super yummy. My husband had a biscuit with sausage gravy. Our server was super nice and the atmosphere was fun and eclectic. We will definitely go back to try the lunch food.

AMAZING BREAKFAST! Those pancakes are the best in the city. The best breakfast takeout order I have EVER gotten outside of NYC. Perfectly packed meals, the right items were separated, the order was correct, utensils were included, the food was hot upon pickup. Wonderful. Thank you!

This place was so cute and the people are so nice but they are extremely under staffed. I went there after church and placed a togo order for 2 bagel sandwiches and I waited over an hour.. and then they told me it would probably be another 15 minutes and I said I'll just come back. I should have just cancelled the order but I felt bad because they seemed to be working very hard and were literally running all over the restaurant. I came back 20 minutes later and it still wasn't fully ready. Finally, after waiting a couple more minutes it was out. I would give them another chance on maybe a week day and hope they have enough people working!

Insanely delicious, will be bringing everyone that comes to visit us here! Bonus points for the little dog, Azzy!

Nice spot to grab a tasty lunch. Relaxing atmosphere, good food at an affordable price. We were pleasantly impressed by the food quality.

The Cookery is my favorite breakfast option to order in! The food comes hot because it's appropriately packaged. I've never had a meal I regret. I could eat the Meat Pie everyday!

I'm from out of town but moved to the area and have been trying various coffee shops. This place popped up and I thought I would give it a try. First of all, this place is SO adorable. It has plenty of spaces to sit and has a very warm and loving atmosphere, very clean. Not too loud at all and a great place to work or read or just connect with others. Secondly, my latte was so delicious AND that had a vegan sugar free carrot cake that was so yummy. Finally, the staff were all very welcoming and inviting. 10/10 will be coming back.

I went in for a Latte and spied the chicken pot pies! the curried pie was delicious! a bit pricey but worth it for a treat once in awhile! love the atmosphere!

They have a great breakfast wrap when it doesn't have a huge stick in it. Hurt my mouth pretty bad from it. Won't be coming here again. Horrible experience

Really great little place that's doing thing right...Literally! Training the homeless for local jobs and offering a different way for you to donate a meal for just $5. A great restaurant with everything priced under $10. The owners and family grabbed a table and shared some time while we were there. Love it!

I tried the Cookery largely because I thought the Australian theme was different and intriguing. The restaurant itself is well decorated and inviting. From a service standpoint the Cookery has quite a bit of room for improvement. When I entered I was told to take a seat anywhere and they would be right with me. It took 27 minutes to get a drink and have my order taken. The food itself took another 28 minutes. I was hoping the food was spot on but the baked fries were cold and tasted old. I brought it to the attention of the server and she apologized but didnt offer to replace. The Australian sausage roll was outstanding though. The sausage was full of flavor and the pastry tasty. I also got the Australian meat pie. I had never had one before so I wouldn't know how to compare but I was happy with the taste. The meat had flavor and the pastry was decent. Overall the entrees were unique and tasty but the service was not good. From start to finish it was an 1 hour and 20 min. So if you need to get in and our real quick I would do take out here.

This was such a fun, cozy little place to visit! I got a Front Porch hot tea with the Down Under Wonder Blunder burger with a side of toast and Vegemite. Each artery of my cholesterol-filled heart was calling its name. The tea was pretty good, I thought. Nothing special obviously. It's just a bag of steeped tea. I was pretty excited about the Vegemite, since I've had it a couple times before and one of the very select few of people who actually like it. I was expecting it to be already on the toast, which I'm partially glad it wasn't because it can be very overwhelmingly strong. It came with 2 slices of toast cut in half and 2 thin packets of Vegemite, which was the perfect amount for me. The burger was marvellous. It had a surprisingly thick patty with lettuce, tomato, onion, chipotle mayo, bacon, and a big runny egg on top. For my side, I got the fries with it, and let me tell you, these spuddy buddies were HUGE. The dipping sauce that came with them were addicting. Not sure what it was, but it was sorta vinegary and savory, almost like a non-spicy buffalo sauce. Make a trip here sometime. You won't regret it. The people are nice, the atmosphere is great, andthe food is delicious.

I don't usually do reviews, but the food and service here was amazing! I highly recommend the Aussie Avo Smash. Also the cinnamon rolls are the best I have had!

The Cookery is food with heart. This establishment is part of Lambscroft Ministries, which give back to the homeless community in Nashville. For a reasonably priced breakfast or lunch you know you are supporting a great cause. I came here with my mom for lunch and we both enjoyed this experience. The Cookery is an inviting cafe-style restaurant serving up Australian food. Although I was not quite sure what Australian food is seems like a mixture of British and American cuisines. The menu has a mixture of breakfast (I wouldn't touch that Vegemite Toast with a 10 foot pole though) and lunch including burgers, sandwiches and baked potatoes loaded with toppings. I got a Southern Style Chicken Salad Wrap ($8.50) served with chips and my mom got the Aussie Style Meat Pie ($9.95). We both liked what we got. The space is small but the employees are nice and the food is good. I would definitely return especially because of their mission. I left feeling warm and fuzzy and that is the sort of feeling you don't forget.

Good place for lunch. Light meals. My spinach dip was absolute tasteful with the light chips. Shrimp and fish tacos had a good peppered taste. The tacos was pretty much a salad then a taco. Eat some salad to get to your tacos. Which was fine with me. The only thing that most likely needs work is the macaroni and cheese. Needs some flavor. Other than the Mac and cheese I love the scenery, the rustic look, people, and food. Thank you.

What a gem in Nashville. Take time on your trip to have lunch here. The staff was fast, and friendly. Food was delicious, full of unique flavors. Their mission is uplifting and positive so it is great to be all be to help them. They have quite a few features such as a prayer wall, helping (giving) tree, merchandise all to benefit those who visit the Cookery. Highly recommend.

Amazing food, amazing drinks, amazing people! Absolutely cannot go wrong with anything you order. Some unique tweaks on traditional American fare as well as some Australian treats. A real gem!

Cajun Whitefish on Hoagie Roll. YUM! Great food, awesome service and yummy coffee. If I lived nearby, I would come everyday.

The best fish tacos in Nashville. The cookery Nashville on 12th south has a great atmosphere and outstanding fish tacos. The Australian meat pies are a fan favorite. Try the chicken curry pie. Blended smoothies are very refreshing