Calypso Cafe
1101 Gartland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37206
Calypso Cafe Menu
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Address :
1101 Gartland Ave
Nashville, TN, 37206 - Phone (615) 227-6133
- Website https://www.calypsocafe.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm
- Mon : 11:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Accepts Bitcoin : No
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
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James M.
Honestly, I go to Calypso Cafe almost every time I can't think of what I really want for lunch/dinner. It's just THAT good. I love Nashville's food scene. I love that you can default to as good of an option as Calypso, which is what I do. My fiancee and I love Calypso and aren't strangers to the eastside location. It's a pretty chill atmosphere and most of the workers bring their own personal flair to the job making you feel pretty cool for coming in. You walk in and smell the rotisserie chicken and feel the action of a group of employees putting together meals for the guests. It's usually pretty busy but they turn the food around quickly. My favorite which we get almost every time is the Lucayan Salad. We also usually split the Beans & Three. Calypso has some great vegetarian options without making you feel disappointed that you wanted to vegetarian that day. The Lucayan Salad, however, is the best salad I've had in Nashville. Oranges, Rotisserie Chicken, and Almonds make it a filling and delicious option any time. Also, their fruit tea rivals Baja Burrito for the best in town. Pros; The Lucayan Salad is the best. Cons: I don't really like staying there to eat. There's nothing bad about eating there that I can point out but I just prefer to take my salad home to eat. Overall: This is one of my favorite go-to's in town. I love that the food can make you feel full and happy without making you feel too heavy. Also, the fruit tea can brighten up the coldest winter day and is perfect for summer.
(5)Kyron C.
I did find this to be very good Caribbean food. I'm honestly did not get even a strong sense of Caribbean flavor. The most popular and recommended dish was a pulled BBQ chicken (~7$). It had a decent tangy marinade but seemed dry and overall lacked a strong spiced flavor I was expecting. Sides were also underwhelming. Signature side: Black bean salad. This literally seemed like a can of black beans with some red onions mixed in served with sour cream. I am a fan of black beans, but I don't see this being very Caribbean or special. Overall, too bland and not memorable, not worth.
(2)J G.
I expected more and really wanted to like this place. However my chicken on salad was dry and not really that flavorful. The muffins were good, not great. My friend'sr chicken and black beans were okay- nothing special. Good sized portions don't always translate to good food.
(2)Kara R.
Flavorful food, colorful decor, friendly staff. Offers a variety of vegan, vegetarian, and low-fat options. Wouldn't recommend the fruit tea and my friend said the bathrooms were a little "hippie dirty," if you will. Overall worth a visit for some strong and affordable flavors.
(3)Casey J.
If you're going for Jamaican or Caribbean food, don't be fooled. The menu is 98% hipster food. The majority were sandwiches. The bread choices were whole wheat or whole grain whole wheat. The staff matched the atmosphere; lawn chairs and metal tables. The only thing close to authentic was the dark meat, half chicken with curry spices, listed almost as an after thought on the menu. The yams as a side were also good. I enjoyed it, but it was the only thing interesting on the menu, which is why I'm giving the restaurant 3 stars rather than 2.
(3)Jane E.
Visiting Nashville. We were stayed in the neighborhood nearby and was told there were restuarnats in walking distance... we were trying to head to the villaeg type area, but saw this place and decided to stop in... mistake. This isn't the place to go if you're visiting... walk a bit further and you'll end up at 5 Points Pizza, March, the Treehouse, etc. Eat there. Back to Calypso SERVICE: Very nice staff. FOOD: Just okay... good if you want healthy and know that there may not be much taste. This is not authentic carribean food btw... there aren't Jamaicans or islanders of any type making the food. I think it's a franchise TN restaurant, there are lots more around the city. Jerk: My friend got this and liked it. He said his sides were very bland. Curry: It was okay. Rice was okay, the cornbread was kinda good. PRICE: Goof pricing. My meal was about $7, my friends was $8 SUMMARY: Don't come here expecting carribean cuisine. It's really just a health food spot.
(2)Zeb M.
I've been patronizing Calypso Cafe for almost six years now and I've always had a great experience. This is a Nashville institution as much as Loveless or Bluebird Cafe, in my opinion. I typically get a white chicken plate and rotate my sides between their black beans, sweet potatoes with coconut, side salad, and muffins because they're all so dang good! Another winner is their black bean salad (you can add chicken for an additional small charge), which is HUGE. I would also like to add they have an impressive selection of dressings and sauces, which are all house made. Oh, and so is their fruit tea, which will knock your socks off. You can eat here for lunch and dinner and have a bill under $10 including tax. They also have fast and easy pickup!
(5)Quinn D.
This food is not good. Taste like it comes from boxes and bags. Atmosphere does not allow you to relax. It's like high class fast food but quality is just not there. No thank you.
(1)Ron O.
Solid 4 star place. I liked my food. I liked the service. The atmosphere is pretty good but not 5 star. I left feeling healthy and happy.
(4)thomas h.
Calypso is the rock of East Nashville restaurants. The food and service are alway great and the price is great. It's great for kids without being a kids' place. Parking is ample and there is never a wait. I like the half chicken all white with jerk sauce, greens, and bean and corn salad. The veggie plate won't let you down either though.
(5)Cate H.
Stopped in for a quick lunch, the menu was solid and there are options for all kinds of appetites. Food was Ok but not amazing. I expected more flavor and was disappointed. Service was adequate but that was all. It could be your spot for a quick, cheap, casual lunch but I won't be hurrying back.
(3)Matthew D.
Awesome place. We were travelling and this place was a perfect stop. Cheap, fast and great food. In and out in about 30 minutes. Really good original food too. The owner was even working behind the counter. Definitely recommend.
(5)Chelsea J.
Just about anything here is good. The beans and 3, taco salad, chicken salad, veggie sandwich -- you really cant go wrong! The portions are pretty big and its a good place to get lunch and save the leftovers for dinner. I feel healthy when I eat here which is a nice change of pace for my lifestyle. The service is always quick, and takeout takes under 5 minutes if you order at the counter. The prices are really fair, the new location on Charlotte is sooo much more spacious and bright. A (minor) gripe of mine is that I would like to have a make my own salad option. I probably can do this I've just never asked.. Calypso Y U SO TASTY?!
(4)Joel M.
I had the jerk chicken whole-white (jerk sauce delicious), bean & corn salad, & the boija muffins (Caribbean sweet cornbread w/ coconut on top). Don't make the mistake of not getting the muffins. There were lots of healthy options on the menu, good portion sizes, and a great price. It seemed to be a busy time, the service was pretty good, if maybe a little disorganized and scattered.
(4)Christine R.
Every time I travel to TN it's a MUST to eat here! Best food in Nashville! I would recommend this restaurant to everybody, and I do. Just a warning, they're usually very busy, but there's a good reason for that. The fruit tea is amazing, the salads are like none other you'll ever have, the black bean dip is the best I've ever had, and the staff is always friendly and welcoming. It's a cool little place with a fee different locations. I highly recommend calypso cafe! I grew up eating there, and have traveled back to TN for the last 5 years never missing a calypso visit each time.
(5)Brandon M.
Stopped in while visiting Nashville. Healthy food choices, great prices, clean restaurant, good service. Overall a great experience. And make sure you get the sweet potatoes. I ordered extra after my meal. I couldn't believe how great they were. Highly recommended.
(5)I M.
I've eaten there a few times, I always order the same black bean salad for take out. Its usually good but I've noticed it has been getting worse in quality... Until the other day when it just got really bad. The salad tasted dirty, lettuce being old and tomatoes not too fresh. But the most ridiculous take out I've ever seen was this rounded portion of a pretty regular-bad tasting bbq pork and next to it a tiny corner of soaked cole slaw... Like the whole thing looked like it was a joke... Not only a small portion that was served akwardly but it just didnt taste good. Wont go back
(2)Patrick P.
The chicken was covered in an apple sweet sauce and was very tinder straight out of the rotisserie. The black bean dip was delicious. The sweet potatoes were okay, the muffins were okay. Overall very filling and pretty good food.
(4)Bailey M.
I've eaten here many times and I'm never disappointed. The food is so good and fresh. It's served to your table faster than any other sit down restaurant I've been to, and that's a regular occurrence. Clean dining area and plenty of space. Try the fruit tea!
(5)Stacie P.
Calypso is a Nashville staple. I've been eating their food for ten years now, ever since I went to Vanderbilt. I highly recommend their Chicken and Veggies salad. The lettuce and chicken is super fresh and their homemade ranch dressing is delicious. Also try their black beans. Definitely worth it.
(5)Dana S.
Calypso is one of my favorite places for lunch or dinner. Weekly, I find myself craving their Lucayan salad, fruit tea, and orzo salad. The staff is always friendly and take out is so speedy, but you can eat there as well. They have lots of vegetarian and gluten free options, but their specialty is their rotisserie chicken, which is beyond amazing. I have never had a bad experience!
(5)Andrew W.
Great, simple menu. Easy to follow and a phenomenal selection. God variety of vegan and meat dishes. Was freshly made and cooked nicely. Their choice of sides to accompany the main course was excellent. If your party has a mixture of meat and non meat eaters then this is the place.
(5)Donald D.
Great place with good Southern and veggie cuisine. Stuff and vibes are super-friendly here. Second time here and I'll be back.
(4)Sonya T.
Counter Employees Need to Learn Customer Service: When I asked to make sure I got the right order made, I was met with more hem and hawing. LEARN TO ENGAGE w CUSTOMERS. Repeat the order and be sure to hand off order to right customer. I learned that skill as an 18-year-old working at Captain D's!!! Ugh. Oh, and I just discovered a female hair in my bb salad. Ugh! Ugh! Poor customer service skills all around. There's no mature worker there to teach them better.
(1)Cheryl H.
This place is so good! The salad dressing is delicious and the jerk chicken is to die for. Love the sweet potatoes and Cuban black beans too. Great, fast, friendly service. Every single time I've been in here to service has been ridiculously fast, and yesterday four police officers came in so you KNOW it's good :)
(5)David G.
Calypso is the kind of place we get takeout when we can't work up the efforts make dinner but don't want to put a big crimp in our "going out" budget. Tasty, fairly healthy food at fast food prices and nearly fast food convenience. The roasted chicken is good; not the best I've had but solid and better than most grocery store rotisserie options. The sides are all tasty, though none blow me away. I personally find the fruit tea too sweet but it's still nice. The salads are my favorite thing there, simple but fresh and well balanced. It's not Marche, but it's the best option around for good cheap healthy simple food fast.
(4)Kim U.
This place hits it out of the park for me - inexpensive, high quality, healthy food, prepared really quickly, with a ton of vegetarian options. Bonus: it's really kid friendly. It's our go-to spot for a weekday dinner when we're really busy and don't have time or energy to cook. This particular location is my favorite, because there's always plenty of room and everyone who works there is really nice. Pros: *Inexpensive *Great tasting food *Reasonably healthy options (depending on your choices) *Fast *Clean restaurant *Friendly and thoughtful staff Cons: *I wish it was in my neighborhood so I didn't have to drive to get to it. *But really, nothing else Kid-friendly scale: Off the hook. The people who work here seem to really enjoy having kids around and interacting with them. The food gets to your table really quickly - on our last visit, I barely had time to get the wrapper off my straw before the food showed up. The background noise level makes it okay for an occasional random louder-than-you-really-want outburst of preschooler energy, but is still low enough for conversation. Vegetarian-friendly scale: Also off the hook. My go-to used to be beans & three (black beans, with three sides) but I've switched to the black bean salad. Loads of protein, lots of variety, everything that 95% of restaurants in Nashville miss on their vegetarian options. If you're a vegetarian in Nashville and haven't been here, I don't know why.
(5)Rachel T.
This place is awesome. Everything on their menu (that I've tried so far) has been excellent. Their prices are nice too. :)
(5)Erin A.
This is my favorite restaurant in Nashville. Everyone is friendly, the food is delicious and healthy, the takeout is fast, and it's cheap! I love anything with black beans, the black bean salad with chicken, the Lucayan salad, and all of their homemade sauces and dressings!
(5)Jenn W.
Love the black bean salad. Do not like their new location at all though as it is much less convenient for Vanderbilt crowd.
(5)Maria Diana G.
Really tasty food and healthy for you too. It's a little out of the way for my husband and I to get to but we've made the trek just for the good food.
(4)Justin L.
One has to respect this establishment. The food is always affordable, the service is on point and it tastes delicious. I've had almost everything on the menu and it is all tasty. It's really hard to go wrong with this place.
(4)Russell W.
We didn't intend to come here but we woke up to a flat tire and after putting the spare on drove to our closest Firestone. We asked if there was a place in walking distance to get lunch. They recommended this place and what a great way to turn the day back around. I had the pulled chicken sandwich with spiced sweet potatoes and boija muffins. Wife had a pick 3 all were excellent. Couldn't have hoped to break down in a better spot!
(4)Ozro D.
We recently moved to East Nashville, and I was thrilled to see that there was a Calypso so close to our house. I've always been a fan. Calypso is the one place that I'll order a salad and not feel like I'm eating less of a meal. The black bean salad (with added chicken, of course) is a hefty plate that can easily turn into two meals or a shared lunch. And at ~$9, that's a pretty great deal. Like salads, I'm not typically into fruit tea, but it's great here. Almost more than the great food, I love Calypso for its convenience. It's great for take out. Unless they're in the middle of a lunch rush, it's a quick order at the counter, and the food is ready by the time you're finished paying.
(4)Meagan M.
Super fresh, super unique, super cheap, super delicious. Great to grab and go or sit in and eat. They have the best fruit tea in Nashville. I can't get enough. Also the barbeque sauce is out of this world!
(5)Josh B.
Went late at night and wasn't expecting too much. Services was really quick and Jamaican Curry Chicken was amazing. Also highly recommend the black beans!
(4)Amie K.
Casual spot for some good food. Fruit tea is the best, make sure to try it out and their house dressing is delicious. try out all of the sauce options that comes with the rotisserie chicken to see which one you prefer. They have moved to a new location on Charlotte which is larger and more pleasing to the eye then their location across from Vandy.
(5)Samantha S.
Worst burger I've EVER had. Literally have had better burgers in a middle school cafeteria or as a patient in a hospital. Good lord... no! Luckily I've only had the pleasure of eating this burger once (tonight, after my other half said it was good) and I might have punched him after I got home. I dig the sides, sauces, all the chicken dishes, the salads and the service (I always order to-go but they rock) and the prices. It's the perfect place to grab a healthy lunch or dinner and spend $6-$7 dollars. There is nothing on the menu that is a "must have" for me but everything is good enough to keep me coming back. Except the burger.
(3)Dante' T.
I was a regular at the Elliston Place location for years and then they turned an old shoe store into this wonderful restaurant. I love the black bean dip, the callaloo, and of course the rotisserie chicken with the curry sauce. When you have a taste for something healthy and flavorful, stop by one of the many locations around town.
(5)Suzie R.
Can you say beans and three? OOOOOOOh, it's delicious. I think the greens are the best I've had in my life. The fruit tea is spectacular and the coconut muffins are scrumptous.
(4)Matt N.
Looking for a place to grab a quick bite to grab lunch or dinner, somewhere that offers mostly healthy options and is inexpensive? My solution for you happens to be my favorite "fast" food in all of Nashville: Calypso Café. So what if I have eaten there three times in the last week? Those who have been will understand why, and those who haven't.. well, give it a try and you'll get it too. A super casual, local-to-Nashville hot spot, Calypso offers several locations throughout the area, so you're bound to be close enough to one for a quick meal. I must confess, when I first moved to town six and a half years ago, my mind/palette wasn't quite ready for Calypso. I thus ignored all of the local hype, which unfortunately caused me to miss many years of their delish cuisine (disclaimer/reminder: from small town, we only had those 'wonderful' super chains and maybe a gas station or two to choose from). Learn from my mistake, and do yourselves a favor and prepare to broaden your horizons just a bit. Calypso offers what I would call fresh Caribbean inspired cuisine. Roasted chicken, creative sauces, incredible sides. My most beloved adjective best sums it up: FABULOUS. Here are my fave items to order: Nachos. Tortilla chips smothered in their bean dip. The other standard nacho ingredients; chicken, beef, or rice, and BBQ sauce. Simply divine. Black Bean Salad. Lettuce, black beans, tortilla chips, cheddar, tomato, red onion; chicken beef, or rice, and a side of BBQ sauce. Try an extra side of their unbelievable house salad dressing too. Pulled BBQ White Chicken. Fresh, tender, rotisserie chicken with an absolutely amazing sauce. Get it as a sandwich or a plate. Bean and Corn Salad (side). A mixture of beans, corn, in a cilantro vinaigrette. Just yum. Sweet Potatoes (side). The perfect amount of sweet and spice. House Salad dressing. Simple: Pour it on everything. Fruit Tea. Some of the best in town. When in Rome. Calypso Bar. One of my favorite desserts, ever-- their take on a cookie bar. Simple, sweet, a bit sour, just delicious. Ok.. There's my take. What are your favorite dishes at Calypso?
(4)Lisa S.
I just got hosed on some bean dip. We eat there a lot, and order take out several times a month.... Even got a bunch of the bean dip for a holiday party we had. So we were a little surprised when we got home to find two containers with 1/3 the usual amount of dip in them. I called (being really really nice and apologetic!!!) asking if there portion sizes had changed. And was passed off to the 'manager' who lied to me about who scooped the dip (the manager did not do it, unless there are several running around), and then told me he actually gave me extra..... Um, no. Great rice, great chicken, great bean dip. But if you can't effectively manage a bean dip issue with a regular you fail. $6 for some smushed beans and a bad taste in my mouth.
(1)Janet S.
After a number of not so interesting meals I am finally on board. Jamaican Curry chicken, calalloo and bean salad, Ta Da!, I have found the Calypso meal I love after years of trying to eat the Jerk Chicken which clearly lacked Jerkness for me. Conveniently located at the end of my street this makes getting take out during Celebrity Apprentice super easy. I would definitely say I prefer the lunch experience to dinner, good service even though super busy, chicken was succulent and tasty. Huge Salads, enough to share for two.
(3)Denise M.
I had the strangest experience at Calypso Cafe. I had no real complaints whatsoever... the food was delicious, the price was excellent, the service was great, and the ambiance fun. But I left doubting we'd ever be back. And I truly can't tell you WHY! I had the chicken salad with a side of rice and bean and corn salad. My husband had jerk chicken with a side of rice and side salad. We both ordered fruit tea -- which was without a doubt the highlight of the whole night and something we'd probably stop in JUST to order if ever in the area. Delicious. The order came out fast, was fresh and filling. The food was so unique to anything we normally have that we embraced the adventure. Our server was just attentive enough without being overbearing. Everyone was friendly and welcoming. By all rights, I should be giving it 5 stars and planning to come back often. However, I seriously think it just comes down to that "it" factor that no one can ever really explain. And for me, it didn't have "it." Perhaps we'll be back. Perhaps we won't. No hard feelings either way.
(4)Dan A.
We had a hankering for a salad and something different ....this place fit the bill on both points. I had the black bean salad and my wife had the chicken salad platter, both were excellent and fresh. A large serving for site and we had leftovers. Good food, fast!
(4)Patrick R.
Just as advertised, this is affordable, quality food and a laid-back atmosphere. We ordered the Cuban black bean dip appetizer, which had chopped red onion and cheese, and a tangy sauce with tortilla chips (delicious). We also got the pulled white chicken BBQ plate, with house slaw... tender and delicious, not too spicy, and sauce came on the side. Caribbean coconut cornbread muffins were yummy and not too dry, and the spiced sweet potatoes tasted like cinnamon-spiced Christmas. appetizer + 2 entrees + 2 import beers = $30.00 on the dot. Wait staff was friendly, and atmosphere was laid-back. We will be back!
(5)Amy C.
Gotta give a shout out to my East Nashville Calypso...the food is top notch, cheap and super speedy. The staff is welcoming and friendly. I will be back and OFTEN!
(4)Janet Y.
Before you read my review, please keep in mind that I came to Calypso Cafe on a day I was NOT necessarily looking for a healthy meal. With that being said, it was refreshing to eat a meal that didn't leave me feeling blah, but I have to say this wasn't the tastiest place I've ever eaten. I got the white meat pulled chicken dish with two sides. The sauce on the chicken was a little bland. I wasn't digging it. My sides included the mashed sweet potatoes and the black beans. These were delicious and probably saved the meal! I ended up stealing some of my husband's rotisserie chicken, which was thankfully better than my pulled chicken. Overall, the food was ok, but I just felt it was missing the "kick" I was hoping and looking for. I'd come back here but probably only if someone else suggested it.
(3)Paul S.
I love this place for lunch. Super fresh tastes and great prices. I always order the rotisserie half chicken with the jerk sauce. Sweet potatoes are awesome. Black beans are excellent as well.
(5)Robyn L.
Yes this place has a million rave reviews but it still surprised me on how good it was. It was a Saturday night around six pm and there was plenty of tables. The small menu and simpleness made me worried I might not love it (I was wrong.) I got the rotisserie chicken bbq with cole slaw and black beans. My sister got a veggie melt with chips and soup. We both got our food super quick. My chicken was super moist and the sauce was delicious. My sisters chips came with this sweet dip that we could not get enough of. Coleslaw was good which is a hard thing to pull off, black beans were good which was surprising because well I can make those at home why order them at a restaurant but nope they were good and the vegan sour cream was good and looked and tasted just like actual sour cream(a lot of times vegan sour cream taste fine but it has a super weird texture not this time.) Anyways I honestly can't wait to come back and try different things on this menu. Only downside is if you aren't a local getting into the parking lot can be tricky had to make a circle to figure it out.
(5)Ken A.
I have become a regular at this place. My favorite is the Black Bean Nachos. The staff is always welcoming and the service is prompt and courteous.
(4)Ed R.
After reading some of the reviews and racking my brain to figure out how this place got a 4.5 star average, I can only come to the conclusion that Nashvillians have no concept of what food that is of the non-dumpster variety should taste like. As if the travesty that is putting a White Castle and a Krystal's across the street from each another wasn't enough, Nashville had the gumption to try to pull a fast one of me in the form of this "jamaican" inspired restaurant. I won't list them all, but my first gripe is the ludicrousness of the menu. As if we really need a "V" symbol next to rice, beans, and fruit to signify that those are vegan sides. And do you really need a symbol in the shape of a heart to note that rice is a healthier option? Between the liberal use of said symbols and the overall color scheme, the menu gives the impression that a remedial child finally got the cover to the crayon box open and just went hog wild on that sumbitch. But let's get to the heart of the matter, as in, I'd rather eat possum heart than force down another bite of the rotisserie chicken at this fine establishment. How can they call this "rotisserie" when the all important goodness of the skin is tasteless, slimy, and not even worthy of being called the bastard kin of Kenny Roger's Roasters? And then we move onto the sauce, oh my, the sauce. I went with BBQ, described as "spicy Caribbean forumlated with countless herbs and seasonings". Countless? I'll narrow it down for you. Ragu and water, seasoned with a pinch of our idiot patrons can't tell the difference between tomato sauce and jerk seasoning. The only upside of this place is the solid service and the fact that I didn't shit out the 3rd child of Hades a few hours later.
(1)Sarah B.
I love, love, love Calypso. I have one former co-worker that every time we would go out to eat together, it was understood that it was to Calypso (we changed locations amongst Ellison Place, East Nashville, and every once in a while 100 Oaks); and always for the Black Bean Salad with Chicken. It is a most generous salad, and when ordered with their super yummy creamy dill dressing instead of the barbecue-like sauce they recommend, and have them leave off the onions - perfect. Love the fruit tea, and they are always so generous to offer you a to go cup for back to the office if you like. Not on your request, but theirs. When's the last time that happened? The chicken is great, chicken salad is great, black beans are great, tempting desserts by the cash register are great... and if you don't think so. Well, so sorry. You're missing out.
(5)Mark B.
The laidback atmosphere and excellent food was a wonderful break from the convention I was at. I ordered the Calypso Burger. It was a good burger, but it was the sauce that wasn't salsa but sure looked like it that made it. I poured a little on my burger before every bite. My wife and daughter (8) loved it and my daughter was really fond of their other sauce, like a smooth remoulade, but not as strong. My side was the sweet potatoes, which were good, but I have an elderly mother-in-law that can own that, so it wasn't amazing to me. My wife got a barbecue chicken, or something. I wasn't amazed by it. And my daughter picked nachos off the kids menu and it was store bought round tortilla chips with cheddar melted on it. Now, it sounds like I'm down on it. But I really loved my food, my wife really liked hers and said she wished she had gotten the chicken (like she had) in a salad. I recommend. However, this was $29. Burger combo, BBQ chicken combo, and kids meal with sodas. The service was excellent. The general feel is rather hipster and there are a few picnic tables outside.
(4)Carly S.
Great food and even better staff! Love this Calypso!
(5)Caitlin C.
I have 3 words: Black Bean Salad Plus 2 more: Fruit Tea I have yet to even get anything else but I keep coming back for just these two things. The great thing about the black bean salad is that it fills you up and I still have enough left over for my lunch the next day.
(5)Colleen T.
Always delicious! I'm so glad this place is around- I love that they are at least vegan-conscious and are willing to prepare things dairy free without a lot of hassle or explaining on my part. The callalou is incredible! It does drive me bonkers that they use styrofoam containers though. I would eat there closer to once a week rather than once a month if they used something a little more earth friendly. Otherwise, worth stopping in if you want somethin healthy in a hurry!
(3)Todd G.
sigh... it seems I am always writing bad reviews. I hate that.... but in truth the only time that I am "inspired" enough to write a review is either a great experience or a horrible one... and since I am a creature of habit I tend to frequent the same establishments...as in this story.... about a guy who has been eating at a restaurant for over 24 years...way back since they opened......I think it is easiest just to repost the letter I wrote to Calypso cafe.. To Whom it May Concern, I have been eating at Calypso Cafe for over 24 years... since you opened. I have enjoyed all of your vegetarian offerings over the years but last night was unfortunately my last meal at Calypso Cafe. The quality consistency at the East Nashville location is laughable. Since the time I have been eating there (since THEY opened) I have had to adjust my ordering by adding extra "this or that" ,over time, just to insure a proper amount of food. As I mentioned, I have been eating at your establishment since you opened ...consistently so, and I have personally experienced the decline. As of the last several years I pretty much get the same order... I am sure the people at that location that have been there awhile would recognize me just by my order... 2 loaded nachos w/ rice, no onions (since you switched from green), EXTRA bean dip (because the portions vary so), EXTRA cheese (see bean dip) and the vinaigrette in place of the barbecue(it gives me heartburn). I have had several times over the last year that I get home, open the box and am pissed. On ,at least, one occasion, so much that I actually called to complain (talked to the texan lady that runs that store)... because it was so ridiculous for the amount of money that I paid.... yet I keep giving you the benefit of the doubt and go back...because I do like the food, in the 4 times out of 10 it is prepared correctly. Last night however, was the final straw. My wife brought the order home (and was so kind to do so)... the extra bean dip was in containers on the side?????? ... and the other toppings were just non existent...just a pile of chewy chips, a sprinkle of rice, I don't know that there was bean dip actually ON the nachos and "some" cheese....I called the night manager and told him the situation and that I will not be back, because I think they should know that their employees are losing them business. The friendliness and service of the staff has always been great but the food prep is a joke. I COULD drive ALL the way to Elliston, even though I am in east nashville...but come on, should I have to? and I really haven't been to that location in so long...it may be the same thing...although that location has always been pretty consistent. In closing.... most of all... I am saddened that, basically, I am forced, by your own establishment, to quit eating there. It was a good run while it lasted.. the properly prepared meals I have gotten there over the years have given me much pleasure. Please ensure that others do not have to quit eating at your restaurant. Serve proper portions.
(1)Thomas L.
I came here to get lunch on a Saturday afternoon around 2 so things were pretty slow. I got the pulled BBQ chicken plate. For my sides, I got the boija muffins and the spiced sweet potatoes. The chicken was pretty tasty and was very tender. The BBQ sauce provided was pretty good but nothing to write home about. The Boija muffins were pretty good. They kind of reminded me of sweet corn bread but not quite as good. The spiced sweet potatoes were probably the highlight with the coconut on top. They were the right level of sweetness and were of a nice consistency. For the price, not a bad meal at all. I would go again again probably try something more adventurous.
(4)Marcia M.
I dig it! After have a somewhat lackluster experience at the Berry Hill location, I nearly wrote off Calypso Cafe. My friend nudged me to give it another whirl for lunch today and I am glad that I did! The picnic tables and outdoor seating were ideal for our crew today that was also comprised of 3 pups with discerning taste so this East Nashville location was perfect. I ordered up the vegan version of the massive Black Bean Salad ($7.32) which was layered with lettuce, black beans, tomatoes, red onions, rice, and tortilla chips. I garnished it with barbecue sauce which made for a tasty and very filling meal! I have a hunch that with this location being near my abode that I will be popping by more frequently for meals and am tempted by the Beans and Three offering ($6) that includes Cuban black beans and your choice of any 3 side items. My attention goes straight to the St. Lucian Rice, Spiced Sweet Potatoes, and Martinique Callaloo (mustard greens with tomatoes and onions). Menu is packed full of healthier options ranging from nachos or salads to sandwiches, soups, and desserts! For those craving a frosty beer, you can even order domestics and imports to go with your meal too. This is a great option for inexpensive and healthy carryout! TIP: Vegetarian Family Carryout Special - 3 pints of side items and 4 Boija muffins - $11.94~
(4)Avery F.
Calypso is a great bargain. Food is fresh, chicken is delicious, staff are friendly. I love Calypso.
(5)Eliza R.
As I said in my other review for the Elliston Place location (near Centennial Park), Calypso Cafe is my favorite go-to restaurant in Nashville. I will never, ever get tired of their healthy and delicious food! The only difference between this East Nashville location and Elliston Place is that the former is much more spacious and has outdoor seating in the front. I have also been going so often to this particular Calypso that I think the servers are starting to catch on to my obsession... I hope to be a regular someday!
(5)Howard L.
People freak out for their black bean salad, but I think it's pretty average. I wouldn't say no to a box of greens with cheese and beans and tomatoes with oft stale chips in it, but I wouldn't actively seek it out either. I think their dressing tastes like a weak barbecue sauce. Never, ever ever order the beef. Ordering the beef is like ordering death. It smells and tastes old and it has a microwaved rubbery texture. It also has a weird medicine taste. I'm reminded heavily of formaldehyde when I do order it. The chicken is OK, but I still wouldn't order it. The whole pieces are actually pretty nice, but the pulled chicken is awful. Generally tastes old and gamy. I like dark meat, but they manage to make their dark meat taste like butt. Not recommended. Do order their sides. I usually go vegetarian when I eat here, as I enjoy their Callaloo, bean salad, and black beans and rice. I don't enjoy the sweet potatoes or really any other side.
(3)Natasha J.
The service was good, facility was nice and clean, but the menu didn't have some of the food I was looking for like Ox tails and curry goat....I'm a little disappointed
(3)Jenn Z.
This is pretty close to our house and a nice change change from the "usual" fare. I love, love nuts and fruit in my salad, they have that. The salads are large and priced well at $7.47 as the median. The black beans are delicious and they serve them with sour cream and red onion on top like I do at home. You can get almost anything in a pita. The chicken is juicy and well seasoned, with your choice of sauces. The muffins are SO yummy too! The kiddos love it here, they can customize their kids meal and it isnt the typical chicken nuggets and fries variety. My Daughter enjoys the PB&J, and the cheese and pita and usually opts for a salad and muffins as her sides. They have many different combos to try and they are willing to add or leave out any toppings you ask. We often get the nachos for the table with black beans, salsa, tomato, jalapenos, sour cream, and either chicken or beef and cheese. Those are good too and I think possibly the least healthy choice on the menu. But hey we cant be good all the time! It is very casual here, good, laid back and friendly vibe. A lot of folks like to get it to go as well and the counter space is ideal for this. Always very friendly and attentive service. My only wish: they would trade in the resin patio chairs for something smaller! :) They can be tough to manage around the table.
(4)Gitanjali K.
Very good even by Nashville and non-Nashville standards. I had the BBQ Pulled Chicken (sandwich). I think it was a sandwich. it did not have bread...is normal not to serve a sandwich with bread? :) Nonetheless the carb-lite dinner was good. The sauce that comes with was tasty. I had the plate, so I ordered a salad and a side of sweet potatoes - def get with coconut on top - that makes it and it's not that fattening as it's just flakes. The salad dressing was so tasty. I wanted to lick the bowl. Then I had the brownie with mint glaze. mmmmm. All for $9. Yeeehhuummm! Lots of people do take out here.
(4)Benjamin N.
Delicious quarter of a chicken (white meat) with Rice and Mustard Greens. You can't go wrong with such a healthy meal at such low costs. So what does that mean? Tip well. Tip the line cooks, and tip your server. Will come back again and again.
(5)Reg Z.
I get why other people like it, it just isn't my thing personally. That said, I ate a lot of it late at night. Delivers on what it should
(4)John Mack M.
The value, the quick service, and fresh healthy meals are Calypso's hallmarks! The East side represent!
(4)Dana D.
No idea why this place has such a high rating. I ordered the beans and 3. Extremely bland. I had to order a side of BBQ sauce (30cents) just to get some flavor. The only good thing I suppose is the price and the staff. Everyone raves about the black bean salad that a friend of mine ordered but honestly....how can you mess up a black bean salad?
(2)Patrick R.
The restaurant on Gallatin Pike is the latest member of the Calypso family and a welcomed addition to the East Side. I love Calypso Cafe, but I hated always having to drive to the West Side to enjoy one of their tasty Boca Burgers. This Calypso is bigger than the others, but they serve the same tasty Caribbean cuisine. Their fruit tea may be the best I've ever had, and their staff is friendly and fast. You can make your order to-go if you're fiending for a quick fix, but the dining area is large and nice, and it's a great spot to dine with a few friends. There's always plenty of parking at Calypso, and it's just a brief walk from Five Points (where you can go have a drink, hit Pied Piper for some ice cream or browse CDs at The Groove). Calypso has lots of vegetarian and healthy options, but they have delicious, thick burgers if you're a carnivore like me. Calypso is definitely worth checking out.
(4)Jessy Y.
This is my favorite fast food in Nashville. I became addicted to their black beans and fruit tea back in Murfreesboro, though that branch is long gone. The black bean salad (a ginormous pile of beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese and chips -- and your choice of rice or chicken -- to be drizzled with their mouthwatering sweet-spicy tomato-based barbecue sauce that's served on the side) is hands down my favorite salad in Nashville. But their beans and three -- a take on the locally famous meat and three -- provides so many options for less than $6. Sweet potatoes with coconut? Cold bean and corn salad? Coconut corn muffins? Mustard greens and tomatoes? Wild rice? House salad with the best vinaigrette ever? All of the above and even more are options here, making this restaurant one of the most accommodating for vegetarians and vegans in the whole city. Of course, you also get two side options and three sauce options for the famed rotisserie chicken -- jerk, barbecue and ... um ... something else that no one I've ever been with ever gets. And don't get me started on the fruit tea. For someone who doesn't drink cokes, it fills that sugary soft drink void. Yum. Plus, their service is faster than the Mexican restaurant down the road. They have it down to a science. The only problem is that I always seem to crave Jamaican food on Sunday evenings, right after they close.
(5)Kyle L.
The atmosphere is great. The place is clean, simple, and the food is very fresh. The black bean salad was excellent. As we sat and ate we saw many patrons coming and ordering food to go, looks like the perfect place for that if you live close. Great fresh food, just try it!
(5)Leah F.
ummmm love this place! love the people! the salads are the best! love the callalloo...can not go a week with out eating here at least once!
(5)Melanie R.
I agree with others - that this is the best Calypso location around town. All of them are good and you should get great experiences at any location. But this location is a favorite of those of us at work. My favorite is either the Black Bean Salad or the Lucayan Salad (crumble up a Boija muffin into your salad and mix it in!). They definitely have the best fruit tea in town (sorry Baja). They've always given us great service and it's become a regular lunch spot. The service is fast which is nice if you're in a bit of a hurry.
(5)Sean A.
Calypso is #1 on the list of places to go when my neither my wife or I feel like cooking. In fact, I've eaten lunch at some of the other locations, but only gotten take out from this one on North 11th Street. I think that's because it's just past the threshold where it would be too far for me to walk, but close enough that I can zip over there and be back in around ten minutes. They're always really quick (don't need to call ahead), but the food is still always fresh and hot/cold... in other words it's like good made-to-order at a fast-food pace. The sandwiches are really good, but most of the time I get the rotisserie chicken, cycling through the bbq, curry, and jerk sauces. My wife is a big fan of the black-bean nachos, and I'm a big fan of finishing them because they give a very large serving. The side dishes are all pretty good too, I think. I'd like it if they had some more side dish options and mixed them up occasionally. Actually I get the same ones every time, so maybe that's not really such an issue.
(4)Amie S.
That's some pretty decent Caribbean food for a great price! I had the meat and 2: chicken with Jamaican curry, rice and beans, and corn cakes. It seems everyone gets the same chicken and then the sauce comes on the side. The curry sauce tasted like a sweet apple chutney. Yum! I made a point of sampling all the sides I could, even if it meant sneaking bites from my friends' plates when they weren't looking. The 3-bean salad and sweet potatoes were quite tasty, and I enjoyed my rice and beans. The corn cakes were super dry and mealy, though, which was a bummer because they had that tasty sweet corn flavor that some people don't get right. Somebody suggested these might be better dunked in milk. Maybe, but either way I'd rather they hold together instead of disintegrating into sand when I try to take a bite. This is probably not the place to go for date night. The atmosphere at Calypso Café is about the same as your average fast food joint, but that worked fine for us, since we were just looking for a fast meal on the cheap. There's also a kid's menu for the mini members of your family. Children's dishes consist of one main entrée and a choice of 2 sides, which is a pretty good spread and gives options to picky eaters. I wouldn't recommend the kid's cheese pita, though. It was basically just Kraft singles half-melted on pita. Not impressive when you consider all the other fresh, tasty, sweet and spicy options the menu has to offer.
(4)Paul H.
Second verse, same as the first (or in this case, fifth verse same as the first). How exciting was it when Calypso jumped into east Nashville? I used to live a block away from the Elliston place location - and it truly was a favorite lunch-time destination. Calypso has been nothing if not consistently good across time and across their multiple locations. The food is always as you expect it to be - fast, fresh, and super tasty. My personal favorites are the Chicken Salad salad with black beans and sweet potato mash and the quarter chicken served jerk style with callaloo and muffins. My only complaint is that sometimes the muffins turn out a little dry. But that can be overlooked because the quality of everything else is so high. Also, the staff is great - they're all really friendly and professional. All in all, a great experience that is a wonderful addition to East Nashville.
(5)Nadeau N.
By far my favorite Calypso! I have been to every Calypso in town, but Calypso East is the best. You never have to wait for a seat, but you don't feel like you're the only one in there either. My favorite here is the Black Bean Nachos! Perfect as a snack or something to share with friends. I always get everything on them, because everything is better with cheese, jalepenos and sour cream! My only gripe with Calypso and it has nothing to do with this location, but with all of them is with their Boja Muffins... Have they not heard of non-stick spray? I used to get these every time and they are TASTY, but I hate to leave half of it on the wrapper! Oh and I wish that the East Side would be open late on the weekends, at least til 9PM. You would think with 5 points around the corner they would be more hoppin'!
(4)Megan M.
I love this place. Everything seems pretty healthy and I haven't had a bad thing on the menu (although the tuna salad didn't float my boat). My favorite is the black bean salad. I get it with rice and you can also get it with chicken. The dressing is a combination of bbq sauce and salsa and is delicious. The nachos are super yummy too, and try the mustard greens. Just try them! Service here is always fast and friendly, atmosphere is laid back other than the lunch rush. Multiple locations in Nashville.
(5)Wade B.
Great food!!!!
(5)Chiara S.
I have tried so hard to like this place. Seems like everyone loves it... I have been disappointed every time I've visited. The food is very average, bland, and with weird spicing that I think is supposed to be "Caribbean" but just tastes very sweet. I don't know why, I am a major chicken lover, but I cannot stand the taste of their chicken - it is mealy and old tasting. The other thing that bothered me was I got the chicken nachos to go, and I saw them go into the microwave in the styrofoam container and get handed to me half warmed. That's it for me, my lunch was $10 and I would've done better going anywhere else.
(2)Michael S.
good food fast servuce reasonably priced
(5)Anna A.
I have always been a fan of Calypso! It's not my favorite restaurant in Nashville but I love good value and Calypso always exceeds my expectations for the price point. There signature item are these roast chicken. The side items include calallou greens, dirty rice, and boija muffins and a host of other healthy fare. they also have salads and soup. They have a family meal to go that's under $15. All in all, It's clean, healthy, tasty eating and well under $10 a person including a drink. They are open for lunch and dinner. Service is efficient and fruit tea is plentiful. Enjoy!
(4)Martha H.
Never have I been to a restaurant that gets my food to me as quickly as Calypso. The staff are all very laid back and friendly but literally get your food to you in under five minutes. It's super reasonably priced, delicious, and has a lot of great options. I have nothing bad to say and I will keep coming back!
(5)Helen Gaye B.
So I eat here at least once a week. Or, I should say I get takeout at least once a week and eat in occasionally. Either way, I love this place. The service is always fast and super friendly. They get my order right every time even when I ask them to modify. (I always ask them to leave off the almonds on my Lucayan salad and they never forget.) The food isdelicious no matter what I order. I love that they identify the low cal and vegetarian items on the menu. The portions are generous. Sometimes I can save half of my meal and have leftovers the next day. Most of the time it's just so good I finish it all at one sitting... On the rare occasion that I don't come in once or twice a week they always ask where I've been. Nothing like making your customer feel loved to keep them coming back! If I absolutely had to find something I don't love it would be that the prices are a little bit high. But, obviously it's not too much of a problem since I eat there all the time. What's for dinner to tonight, honey? Hmmm. I think I'll run up to Calypso and grab something for us dear...
(4)Lilly H.
We were passing through Nashville on our way to Knoxville and needed a fast, easy, yummy place to eat that was close to I-40. Calypso was perfect! Easy to locate, small and very casual for our attire. Located in a strip center with lawn chairs for sitting. However there were plenty of people dressed up, just coming from church. The loaded black bean nachos were fantastic and definitely unique.The fruit tea was extremely refreshing. My husband got the Jerk Chicken, which he says wasn't anything close to the Jerk Chicken in the Caribbean, but still tasty. The sweet cornbread muffins had a great flavor but were a bit dry and crumbly. The prices are fantastic! All in all, it was a pleasant and different experience and we did thoroughly enjoy the food!!! I would definitely recommend it.
(4)Kyla A.
I was so excited when I found out Calypso was moving to my side of the river. This new location is excellent. It doubles the size of their Vandy area location, but maintains the friendly and timely service. They also offer the same delicious, super vegetarian friendly, menu. Most of my orders from this Calypso are nachos to go. It's a huge box of food at a great price. We take it two blocks down the street to the Red Door patio to absorb some of the Sunday 2 for 1 drinks we've been enjoying all day. It's just the right boost to re-energize for the night. I recommend getting them with a side of sweet potatoes.
(5)Kent S.
Jerk rotisserie chicken and fruit tea! Can't beat it! Try the greens too. Fabulous!! 5 stars for the above mentioned items and a few others. Less so for some of the other items. I love going here.
(4)Rachel W.
Caribbean style food that's scrumptious. Lucayan salad with boija muffins is my usual but the black bean salad comes in 2nd. Jerk chicken with the corn and bean salad side are mmm....mmm....good too. With several locations around Nashville this is a great spot for lunch or dinner. Waiters are chill and the food comes out fast.
(5)Dan K.
delicious-healthy-good prices- yum yum yum -- i love me some calypso
(4)Griselda J.
The selection of food isn't big but the food they do make is great. Coming from CA and wanting to experience something new, got it at Calypso. Thanks for the great food and service.
(4)Jamie J.
Great food and extremely affordable. The muffins and roast chicken are fantastic, but I can't go in without getting the black bean salad. Great food, great atmosphere - you can't really go wrong! Calypso is a great restaurant if you want convenient food that's a bit healthier than your normal fare. Try their tea - yum!
(5)Brintha V.
The shredded chicken breast was great! BBQ sauce great, but the Jerk was cold (would be better warmed). Surprisingly the mild Curry sauce was my favorite!
(5)Ben G.
I cant say enough great things about Calypso. It is a great Nashville treasure that has even outgrown its Nashville roots (I think they have one in knoxville now). There is no way to possibly not enjoy this place. It is one of the most efficient and delicious eateries out there. Whether you are getting take out or eating in, the service is always great, the food come out super fast, and is always perfect no matter which location around town you go to. It is also cheap as well which makes it even better. You can't go wrong at calypso no matter what you order, it is all delicious and fresh. There menu is very original and its healthy as well, which is such an added bonus for eating out. I definitely love this place.
(5)jack c.
Love it! Fruit tea! Affordable good quick food.
(5)Tart L.
The vegetarian / island types of East Nashville now enjoy the sixth Calypso Cafe of metropolitan Nashville. In 5 Points neighborhood, it offers a great mix of veggie dishs and carnivore chicken dishes. The black bean salad is good and I always get a least one of their corn muffins baked with whole corn kernels, not just cornbread mix.
(5)