You ever drive through Mount Juliet and feel like you're just surrounded by chains? It's all the same. The same burgers, the same fries, the same "fast-casual" lighting that makes everyone look like they’ve been under a fluorescent bulb too long. Then you stumble across a place like Grace and Mercy Kitchen LLC. It isn’t trying to be a Michelin-star powerhouse or a global franchise. Honestly, it just feels like home.
The spot is located at 9574 Lebanon Rd, Mount Juliet, TN 37122. It’s a cozy eatery. If you aren't looking for it, you might miss it, but once you find it, your stomach will thank you. People usually head there for the soul food, but they stay for the vibe. It’s black-owned, local, and has that specific "made with love" energy that corporate kitchens can’t replicate no matter how much they spend on marketing.
What's Actually on the Menu at Grace and Mercy Kitchen LLC?
If you're going to talk about a kitchen, you’ve gotta talk about the food. It’s comfort food. High-quality, fresh ingredients, homemade recipes. No mystery meat here.
Most regulars will tell you to start with the wings. They do a Garlic Parmesan and a Gold BBQ that basically ruin other wings for you. But the catfish? That’s where the real magic happens. It’s crispy. It’s seasoned. It isn’t greasy enough to make you regret your life choices an hour later.
Then there are the sides. You can’t have soul food without the heavy hitters. We’re talking:
- Mac and Cheese (the kind that actually has a crust)
- Green Beans
- Baked Beans
- Rolls that are actually soft
And look, we have to talk about the cheesecake. There’s this thing called the banana pudding cheesecake. It's ridiculous. It's essentially a spiritual experience in a plastic container. If they have the strawberry one, get that too. You’ve been warned.
Is It Just a Restaurant or Does Grace and Mercy Kitchen LLC Do Catering?
A lot of people find out about them because of their catering. It’s one thing to serve a couple of people at a counter, but it’s another thing entirely to feed a 30th birthday party or a corporate event without the food getting soggy.
They handle both. You can walk in for a quick bite or you can have them bring the smoker to you. One reviewer, Alice M., recently mentioned they catered her son’s birthday with smoked wings and ribs. The consensus? Everything was seasoned and prepared exactly how you’d want it if your own grandmother was in the kitchen.
The hours are a bit specific, so don't just show up on a Monday expecting a feast. They are usually open Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. They take Sundays and Mondays off. Honestly, respect the hustle—everyone needs a break, especially when you're hand-squeezing lemonade right in front of the customers.
Why the Local Business Model Still Wins
In a world where everything is moving toward automation and "no-contact" delivery, Grace and Mercy Kitchen LLC is doing the opposite. They don't even offer delivery. If you want the food, you go get it. You talk to the staff. You see the lemonade being made.
There’s a level of accountability there. When a business identifies as black-owned and local, there's a certain pride in the community that follows. It's not just a transaction. It's supporting a neighbor.
The atmosphere is casual and trendy, which is a weird mix but it works. You'll see tourists who wandered off the main path and locals who have the phone number (615-424-6317) saved in their favorites. It’s one of those "if you know, you know" spots.
Things to Know Before You Go
Don't expect a formal sit-down dinner with white tablecloths. This is counter service. It’s meant to be accessible.
- Payment: They take credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments (Apple Pay, etc.).
- Parking: There’s a free parking lot. No fighting for a spot on the street.
- Dietary Stuff: If you’re a strict vegan, this might be a tough sell. It’s soul food. It’s meat-heavy. It’s butter-heavy.
- Pets: Dogs are allowed outside, so if you're out for a drive with your pup, you're good.
The price range is usually between $10 and $20. For the amount of food you get, it’s a steal. Most people find that a "quick bite" turns into a "need to sit down for a minute" because the portions aren't exactly small.
Final Thoughts on Grace and Mercy Kitchen LLC
If you’re tired of the same old cardboard-tasting fast food, this is the pivot you need. It’s a small business doing things the right way: fresh food, friendly faces, and cheesecakes that should probably be illegal.
If you are planning to visit or hire them for an event, here is the move:
- Check the day. Remember, they are closed Sunday and Monday.
- Call ahead for catering. If you want the ribs and the big spreads, don't wait until the day of.
- Try the lemonade. Seriously. They squeeze it per order. It’s a game-changer.
- Save room for dessert. Even if you think you're full, buy the cheesecake. You'll thank yourself later tonight when you're raiding the fridge.
Go support local. It tastes better anyway.