Nashville's Bone Broth Bar: Empty Bowls, Empty Promises?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 28, 2026

Is Nashville’s Empty Bowls Bone Broth Bar Really Worth the Hype (and the Price)?

Bone broth. It’s the elixir of the moment, promising everything from glowing skin to a healed gut. Nashville’s Empty Bowls Bone Broth Bar has jumped on this trend, offering a curated selection of broths and add-ins. But does it live up to the hype, or is it just another overpriced health fad preying on the wellness-obsessed? Let’s dive deep, Tennessee style.

Empty Bowls boasts locally sourced ingredients and slow-simmered broths. That sounds great, but “locally sourced” can mean a lot of things. Are they using bones from truly pasture-raised animals, or are they simply buying from a regional distributor who sources from factory farms? This is crucial because the nutritional profile of bone broth is directly tied to the health of the animal.

The preparation method is also key. A truly beneficial bone broth requires a long, slow simmer – think 12-24 hours, or even longer. This extracts the maximum amount of collagen, gelatin, and minerals from the bones. Empty Bowls doesn’t publicly disclose their exact simmering times, which raises a red flag.

Compared to homemade bone broth, Empty Bowls is undeniably expensive. A single serving can easily cost $8-$12, depending on the add-ins. That adds up quickly if you’re trying to make bone broth a regular part of your diet.

Let’s talk about the nutritional profile. Bone broth is rich in collagen, which is essential for skin elasticity and joint health. It also contains gelatin, which can help heal the gut lining. Minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus are also present. However, the amount of these nutrients can vary wildly depending on the quality of the bones and the simmering time.

Many commercially produced bone broths, including some sold in grocery stores, are criticized for being watered down or made with low-quality ingredients. Some even add flavor enhancers or artificial ingredients to compensate for a lack of real bone flavor. It’s difficult to know for sure if Empty Bowls falls into this category without independent lab testing.

So, is Empty Bowls worth the price? For some, the convenience might outweigh the cost. If you’re short on time and don’t want to deal with the hassle of making your own bone broth, it could be a viable option. However, if you’re on a budget or concerned about the quality of the ingredients, making your own bone broth is almost always the better choice.

Here’s a DIY bone broth recipe tailored for Tennessee residents, focusing on sourcing local ingredients:

1. Source high-quality bones from a local farmer. Look for farms that raise pasture-raised animals without antibiotics or hormones. Check out farmers markets in Nashville, Knoxville, or Memphis for options.
2. Roast the bones at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes to enhance the flavor.
3. Place the roasted bones in a large stockpot or slow cooker.
4. Add vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. These add flavor and nutrients. Consider using organic vegetables from a local co-op.
5. Add herbs and spices like bay leaves, thyme, and peppercorns.
6. Cover the bones and vegetables with filtered water.
7. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar. This helps to extract minerals from the bones.
8. Simmer on low heat for 12-24 hours (or longer) in a stockpot, or on low in a slow cooker. The longer it simmers, the more nutrients will be extracted.
9. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve.
10. Let the broth cool completely, then refrigerate. The fat will solidify on top, which you can skim off.

Common mistakes developers make when making bone broth include not using enough bones, not simmering it long enough, and not using high-quality ingredients. These mistakes can result in a weak, flavorless broth with minimal nutritional value.

One challenge is finding truly high-quality bones. Many grocery stores sell bones from conventionally raised animals, which may contain antibiotics or hormones. Another challenge is the time commitment. Making bone broth requires a significant amount of time, which can be a barrier for busy people.

To overcome these challenges, prioritize sourcing bones from local farmers you trust. Consider making a large batch of bone broth on the weekend and freezing it in individual portions for later use.

For those seeking specific benefits like gut health, bone broth can be a powerful tool. The gelatin in bone broth helps to heal and seal the gut lining, which can reduce inflammation and improve digestion. However, it’s important to remember that bone broth is not a magic bullet. It’s just one piece of the puzzle. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management are also essential for gut health.

To maximize bone broth’s potential, drink it regularly. Aim for at least one cup per day. You can drink it plain, add it to soups and stews, or use it as a base for sauces.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy bone broth from Empty Bowls is a personal one. If you value convenience and are willing to pay a premium, it might be a good option. However, if you’re on a budget or concerned about the quality of the ingredients, making your own bone broth is almost always the better choice. And let’s be honest, there’s something deeply satisfying about creating your own nourishing elixir from scratch, especially when you know exactly what went into it. So, grab some Tennessee-sourced bones and get simmering!