Get out of the cold... Enjoy the warmth of Sportsman's Lodge in Brentwood!

It's the perfect time of year to write about one of my absolute favorite restaurants in the Brentwood/Cool Springs area, Sportsman's Lodge.  I discovered it by just by noticing an interesting looking restaurant on the side of I-65, and on a whim decided to give it a try.  I am glad I did!  It is great choice not only because of the best fried pickles in the area, or the fact that they serve one of my favorite local brews (Gerst Beer.. and a pitcher is only $6-ish bucks), but perfect because you can melt away the cold by the warmth of one of the huge fireplaces in the lodge-esque atmosphere.  Immediately upon walking in the front door you are transported to a restaurant you would think you'd find in the Rocky Mountains in the early 1900's.  Log walls, huge stone fireplaces, rustic furniture, and antler chandeliers complete the overall look.

Whether you are looking to just grab a drink/apps and unwind by the fire (Happy hour lasts until 7- I had an ice cold fishbowl of Gerst for around $2.) or grab dinner with friends, they've got it all covered.  I have never been disappointed by any of their menu options and overall service... I'd say that a must try on the menu are definitely the fried pickles-  I would go as far as saying they're the best I've had in Nashville. Other favorites are their wings (very unique sauce.. almost like a BBQ/buffalo), the Blackjack sandwich, and Barbeque on Cornbread.  A menu item I have never had is their catfish, but rumor is it's pretty good as well.  I have yet to find good catfish in Nashville so maybe they will be the first to not let me down- I will keep you posted!  A word of advice, keep in mind that their portions are HUGE- most of the time by the time I get through with the pickles and beer, I just want to split an entree.

All in all, if you are looking for a unique way to spend a winter evening, head out to Brentwood and give Sportsman's Lodge a try!  For my friends that live in Nashville proper, get out your passports - it is worth the drive.  See you all there.

Bella Napoli

I had to blog another post to recommend a new favorite restaurant of mine here in Nashville, Bella Napoli Pizzeria.  A friend and I decided to go to happy hour on Wednesday and decided to try out Bella Napoli.  Neither of us had been, and after randomly reading about it in the local news, I wanted to give it a try.  Let me tell you - it did NOT disappoint!  For those who have experienced authentic Italian pizza across the pond, Bella Napoli will take you back to those quaint/cozy Italian neighborhood restaurants with both its authentic atmosphere and food. We made it just before happy hour ended (6:00 PM) which included $5 margherita pizza (fresh mozzarella, basil, tomato sauce, and olive oil- AMAZING) and $5 glass of wine (with a great pour).  Neither one of us was too hungry so we just ordered one pizza between the two of us, but normally they suggest (and I agree) to order one pizza per person.  The food and service were great, and to top it off there was a live band to add to the experience.  Overall, a great evening out, and $15 for pizza and two glasses of wine, you can't beat the price.  I can't wait for my next visit!

Before or after you eat, be sure to check out the great shops in the historic Edgehill Village. SUCH a cute area that shouldn't be missed. 

Gatlinburg - an easy weekend getaway from Nashville

One of my favorite weekend trips has to be a fall excursion to GATLINBURG!  If you have not taken the 3.5 journey East it is a must see, especially this time of year. Start with renting a cabin in the Smokey's (we've used a wonderful company called Auntie Belham's), but make sure you do it sooner than later-- they book up fast. For around $200 bucks a night, we were able to rent a beautiful cabin with a view, cook great food, and of course spend priceless time with amazing friends.

You can opt to stay in, relax by the fire, and sit in the hot tub all weekend, or if you're feeling adventurous take a journey out into town of Gatlinburg.  Expect great people watching, delish food/candies, and typical touristy-type attractions. There's everything from putt-putt golf to old time photo booths, all nestled in within the beautiful Smokey Mountains. One can't miss stop in the town is the Pancake Pantry, which is an annual tradition every time we visit—you should make it one of yours too. Similar to ours in Nashville but different enough to try. I've had the blueberry, sweet potato, and cinnamon/spice pancakes and they are all fabulous!

Another must is a trek into North Carolina to see the beautiful mountain views, and if you like ice skating, a trip up to Ober Gatlinburg.  Repeat visitors and theme park enthusiasts should definitely make a trip to Dollywood.

It's definitely worth driving up after work on Friday and staying through Sunday, but if you can squeeze a little extra time in there I'd suggest it!  Overall, it is a FABULOUS, relaxing, and easy getaway.