The 7 Must-Try Sandwiches And The Wild Story Behind Turkey And The Wolf Icehouse Nashville

The culinary landscape of Nashville, Tennessee, received a seismic shake-up with the highly anticipated arrival of Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse in East Nashville. This new venture, which opened in early 2025, is the second location for the high-profile New Orleans sandwich shop, bringing its unique brand of irreverent, chef-driven comfort food to Music City. Led by James Beard-nominated chef and "sandwich maestro" Mason Hereford, the Icehouse concept offers a laid-back, counter-service experience centered around a nostalgic, '90s-inspired atmosphere and a menu of utterly unforgettable, boundary-pushing sandwiches and sides. The opening, which had been rumored and tracked by food critics for months, immediately cemented the restaurant’s spot as one of the most promising new transplants to the thriving East Nashville dining scene. Located at 800 Meridian St., the Icehouse is not just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a destination that perfectly encapsulates Hereford’s philosophy that "food should be fun," delivering complex, delicious flavors without taking itself too seriously. This deep dive explores the man behind the magic, the unforgettable menu items, and the distinct, casual vibe that makes Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse a must-visit spot in Nashville today, December 17, 2025.

Chef Mason Hereford and The Turkey and the Wolf Legacy

The foundation of Turkey and the Wolf’s success lies squarely with its charismatic owner, Chef Mason Hereford. His journey from a promising young chef to a culinary icon is marked by a clear commitment to joyful, unpretentious food that resonates with both critics and casual diners. The original Turkey and the Wolf in New Orleans, Louisiana, quickly became a sensation after its 2016 opening, earning national acclaim, including being named Bon Appétit's Best New Restaurant in America.

Mason Hereford's Profile:

• Role: Chef and Owner
• Restaurants: Turkey and the Wolf (New Orleans), Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse (Nashville)
• Accolades: Multiple James Beard Award nominations, Bon Appétit's Best New Restaurant in America (for the original location)
• Culinary Style: Chef-driven, Southern-inspired comfort food with a playful, irreverent twist.
• Book: Author of the cookbook, Turkey and the Wolf: Flavor Trippin' in New Orleans.
• Expansion Concept: The Nashville location is designed as an "Icehouse," a nod to nostalgic, casual, mostly outdoor dining establishments.

Hereford’s cooking philosophy is straightforward: prioritize enjoying the cooking process and having fun above all else. This approach translates into a menu that features familiar Southern food staples—like collard greens and deli sandwiches—but reimagined with bold, unexpected flavor combinations. The expansion to Nashville was a strategic move, recognizing the city's rapidly evolving food culture and its appreciation for chef-driven concepts that still maintain a relaxed, approachable atmosphere. The Icehouse concept, with its counter-service model and emphasis on the outdoor dining experience, perfectly fits the casual, community-focused vibe of East Nashville.

The Icehouse Vibe: '90s Nostalgia Meets Nashville Chill

Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse is much more than just a sandwich shop; it's a fully realized, laid-back hangout spot. Located in the vibrant East Germantown area, the venue embraces the "icehouse" concept, which traditionally refers to a casual, no-frills, beer-focused establishment. The Nashville iteration leans heavily into a sense of '90s nostalgia and a deliberately low-key vibe.

The atmosphere is intentionally easy-going and unpolished, a refreshing contrast to some of Nashville's more elevated fine dining options. You won't find white tablecloths or complex reservation systems here; the establishment operates on a counter-service only basis and famously does not take reservations, encouraging a spontaneous and relaxed experience. The space is adorned with quirky, retro tchotchkes and colorful, mismatched decor that contributes to its signature "weird in a good way" reputation. The focus is heavily on the outdoor patio, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a delicious lunch or a casual dinner with friends on a sunny Tennessee afternoon.

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The Icehouse also serves a dedicated Breakfast Menu from 9 am to 11 am, catering to the early-bird crowd in search of something more exciting than standard breakfast fare. This commitment to all-day casual dining solidifies its role as a neighborhood hang, competing with other local favorites in the East Nashville sandwich scene like Bill’s Sandwich Palace and Fatbelly Pretzel and Deli, but with a distinct, nationally-recognized pedigree.

The 7 Sandwiches and Sides That Define Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse

The core reason for the restaurant's massive hype is the food itself. Mason Hereford’s menu is a masterclass in elevating simple ingredients into complex, craveable dishes. The Nashville menu features many of the greatest hits from the original New Orleans location, ensuring local fans can finally experience the viral sensations they’ve heard about for years.

Here are the must-try items that define the Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse experience:

1. The Collard Green Melt: This is arguably the restaurant's most famous dish, a true culinary paradox. It features slow-cooked collards, melted Swiss cheese, a tangy pickled cherry pepper dressing, and coleslaw, all served on perfectly toasted rye bread. It’s a vegetarian sandwich that manages to be richer and more satisfying than most meat-based counterparts.
2. The Gandolfini: A hearty sandwich featuring Italian meats and cheeses, likely a playful and delicious nod to classic deli culture, offering a savory contrast to the menu's more experimental items.
3. The Mama Tried Burger: A signature burger that promises deep, comforting flavors, living up to the restaurant's reputation for elevated comfort food.
4. The Single Patty Party Burger: A simpler, yet perfectly executed burger option, ideal for those who prefer a classic, high-quality patty.
5. Sweet Potato Waffle Fry Salad: A perfect example of Hereford’s playful, unconventional style. It takes the familiar, crispy sweet potato waffle fry and transforms it into a savory, texturally exciting "salad" that defies expectations.
6. Chicken Potpie Empanada: A brilliant fusion of Southern comfort and handheld convenience. It features the creamy, savory filling of a classic chicken potpie encased in a crispy, portable empanada shell.
7. Stuffed Crust: While details can vary, this item hints at the restaurant's fun, '90s-inspired approach, taking a beloved pizza concept and applying it to a savory, imaginative side or appetizer.

The menu also features a selection of other delectable options, from a crisp Wedge Salad to various non-sandwich specials and a full Drink Menu of beers and cocktails, all designed to complement the rich, layered flavors of the sandwiches. For visitors to Nashville seeking the city's best sandwich or a truly unique casual dining experience, the Icehouse offers a blend of culinary excellence and genuine fun that is hard to find anywhere else.

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