Top Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Locations in Cookeville, Tennessee area.

Are you having a Wedding near Cookeville in Middle Tennessee and trying to figure out where a great restaurants/venues to host your Rehearsal Dinner? As a wedding venue near Cookeville, Tn Leeric Lodge & Resort on Center Hill Lake is conveniently located just about 20-25 minutes away from Cookeville, Tennessee. Here at Leeric Lodge & Resort on Center Hill Lake, we have listened to our couples and here are a few restaurants we have referred our couples booked with us looking for a have booked their wedding with lodging.

Just an hour and a half away from the Music City, Nashville; Cookeville, Tennessee is a charming city nestled in the heart of the Upper Cumberland region, offering a delightful blend of small-town warmth and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque downtown, Cookeville exudes a Hallmark movie feel with its historic architecture, locally-owned boutiques, and inviting atmosphere. Strolling through the city’s walkable downtown, visitors can explore unique shops, cozy cafés, and artisanal stores that reflect the community’s creativity and hospitality.

Cookeville, Tennessee is a charming city.

With that in mind, we've curated a list of exceptional restaurants and venues in the Cookeville area of Middle Tennessee in no particular order that perfectly capture the charm and warmth of Southern hospitality. Whether you're dreaming of an intimate, candlelit dinner or a lively celebration with your closest family and friends, these locations offer the ideal setting for a memorable rehearsal dinner. Each spot on our list is chosen for its welcoming atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and romantic ambiance—helping you kick off your wedding festivities in style and creating cherished moments before your big day.

Crawdaddys

Starting with Crawdaddys, is nestled in the heart of Cookeville, Tennessee. This relaxed restaurant offers a mouthwatering menu that blends the best of Seafood and American cuisine with a touch of Southern flair. From the fresh and flavorful Oysters on the Half Shell, California Sea Bass, Mango Mahi Mahi, Shrimp & Grits, and the Crawdaddy’s Crab Cakes for dinner or for appetizer have been some of my absolute favorites. 

Crawdaddy's has a cute outdoor seating with edison lighting

Their selection of dinner is large with expertly crafted signature cocktails adding even more to the experience—making it the perfect spot for a romantic and unforgettable wedding rehearsal dinner in Cookeville, Tennessee. What truly sets Crawdaddy’s apart is the exceptional service. Reviews consistently praise the friendly, attentive staff and quick service, ensuring that your rehearsal dinner is as stress-free as it is delicious.

Shrimp & Grits

Mauricio's Italian Restaurant 

Mauricio’s Italian Restaurant offers a warm and inviting setting, perfect for a wedding rehearsal dinner in Cookeville, Tennessee. Once a private home built in 1910, the space still holds its original charm with hardwood floors, 12-foot ceilings, and five cozy dining rooms—3 of which have their own fireplace. The historic details create a relaxed, home-like atmosphere that feels both comfortable and special.

The menu features authentic Italian dishes made from scratch, paired with a thoughtful selection of wines— It’s the kind of place where you can settle in, enjoy a good meal, and take a moment to slow down.

My personal favorite is the Lobster Ravioli.

If you’re looking for a quiet, intimate space with a touch of old-world charm, Mauricio’s is a lovely option. Guests often mention the personal service and the unhurried pace, making it easy to focus on what matters—enjoying the company of your loved ones before the big day.

So many great dishes to choose from.

The Putnam Room

The Putnam Room in Cookeville, Tennessee, is both a restaurant and event space, offering a menu crafted by Chef Chad Combs, a World Food Championship winner with over 25 years of culinary experience. Chef Combs has honed his skills across 20 different establishments in Nashville, TN; Jacksonville, FL; Cookeville, TN; and Smithville, TN, bringing a diverse range of expertise from casual bar and grille fare to fine dining.

The menu features a wide variety of American favorites, from club sandwiches to steak medallions, ensuring there’s something for everyone—even the pickiest eaters. Whether you're craving a classic comfort dish or something a bit more refined, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your guests.

Wide Variety of Dishes

To complement the meal, The Putnam Room also offers an extensive selection of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—perfect for toasting with friends and family in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a lively wedding rehearsal celebration in Cookeville, Tennessee, it’s a great spot to enjoy good food, great company, and lasting memories.

El Lago Mexican 

El Lago Mexican, tucked inside Center Hill Lake Marina, offers a relaxed, comfortable spot to enjoy a meal with beautiful lake views. Located just a few miles from Leeric Lodge & Resort on Center Hill Lake, it’s an easy and convenient choice for a casual, laid-back wedding rehearsal dinner in the Cookeville Tennessee area.

Outdoor Seating updated and ready to host (they are not open on Tuesdays)

The menu has a little something for everyone— mexican dishes: tacos, wings, sandwiches, and more. They also serve a variety of drinks, including local craft beers and frozen cocktails, making it a great place to kick back and enjoy the evening.

Another view on the dock

What makes El Lago stand out is the friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Their goal is to make you feel at home, whether you’re sharing a quiet dinner or gathering with a larger group. With scenic lake views and easygoing vibes, it’s a comfortable place to relax, share a good meal, and enjoy time with family and friends before the wedding.

Leeric Lodge & Resort on Center Hill Lake 

Last but certainly not least— Leeric Lodge & Resort on Center Hill Lake located in Silver point, TN just 20 minutes south of Cookeville, Tennessee and about an hour east of Nashville Offers a more intimate wedding rehearsal dinner setting, Leeric Lodge can host Rehearsal Dinners of 30 guests or fewer. Whether you choose the infinity pool spa & bar area or the beautiful Grand View Reception, or outdoor on the Lanai, these elegant spaces offer a beautiful view of Center Hill Lake with a luxurious, yet laid-back setting to relax and celebrate with your loved ones.

If you decide to host your wedding rehearsal dinner in Cookeville, Tennessee area with us, you’ll receive the friendly, professional service our team is known for, with a staff member on-site throughout your event. While we don’t provide catering, you’re welcome to bring in food from an insured outside source. If you need assistance finding a caterer, we’re happy to share a list of local food recommendations. For those seeking the most beautiful and picturesque, private setting for their rehearsal dinner, Leeric Lodge on Center Hill Lake offers this ambiance. Its unique setting is where you will be able to create memorable moments, and gather with the people who matter most, also perfect for intimate and destination weddings. 

Brunch Rehearsal Dinner

When choosing a venue for your wedding rehearsal dinner in the Cookeville Tennessee area, it’s all about finding the setting that matches your aesthetic, vibe, and vision. This special gathering—surrounded by your closest family and friends—is a meaningful part of your wedding journey, and selecting the right venue helps set the tone for the celebration.

While Cookeville may be a small city, it’s full of sweet, rustic, and Southern charm, offering the kind of warm, welcoming experience many out-of-state guests hope to find when attending a Destination Wedding in Tennessee. From casual spots serving sandwiches and burgers to seafood and authentic Italian cuisine, these local restaurants and venues offer a variety of options to suit every style.

No matter what kind of ambiance you’re looking for, Restaurants in the local area in and around Center Hill Lake, Tennessee—a true hidden gem—has something special to offer for an unforgettable rehearsal dinner.

If you are interested in having your dream Destination Wedding near Nashville, make sure you email us at leericlodge@gmail.com or call us at 615-684-9643. One of our lovely staff will be happy to offer you a no obligation consultation for an amazing wedding and rehearsal dinner here at Leeric Lodge & Resort on Center Hill Lake. 

We hope to use our platform to create awareness for the value of supporting locally owned wedding venues. You can help support amazing locally owned wedding venues across the country by writing a GOOGLE review, following their social media accounts and referring locally owned wedding venues whenever you have the opportunity. We sincerely appreciate your support and want to share a shout out to some of our wedding venue owner colleagues around the country.

Homestead 32 ,The Postmark, Hightower Falls, The Venue At Springfield Estates,Heart D Farm, Brandt 1910, The Haycraft, Cherry Barc Farm, Willow Creek Farm, Berkshire Ridge of Blackwell, Butterfly Kisses Pavilion, Prosperity Mansion, Kinsey Events, The Barn at Ballard Creek, The English Barn, Cabins on Strawberry Hill, The Vintage Rose Barn Contact, The Cellar at Grapefull Sisters Vineyard Contact, Maidenwood Events Contact, The Barn at Magnolia Farm Contact www.leericlodge.com