A Night Out in Quintessential Nashville: Dinner, Drinks, and the Grand Ole Opry

Whether you're a local and haven't been out to what one might call the old-school destinations in awhile, or, you're visiting for the first time -- I wanted to create an evening itinerary of some of my favorite (pre-"New Nashville") spots for an ideal night out on the town.

Best Bars in Nashville

Urban Cowboy's Public House, image via Urban Cowboy

I always have visitors (and locals) looking for recommendations of places to grab a drink in Nashville, and realized I haven't updated the blog with my favorite bars in town in some time. The last few years have been quite good to us with the food and drink scene here, and we now have a handful of spots that rival pretty much any of the hottest bar scenes you can find. 

So let's get straight to it, and, CHEERS y'all.

Best Bars in Nashville 

Old Glory

Hands down my favorite place to get my cocktail on in Nashville. An expertly crafted and always evolving cocktail menu, housed in an old factory boiler room --  making it the most fabulous atmosphere to drink in all of town. You 100% cannot miss this spot.

1200 Villa Pl #103, Nashville, TN 37212

Urban Cowboy Public House

The newest bar on my list and I can't speak highly enough of it. The vibe is ridiculously cool, the cocktails divine. Make sure and go hungry, because the wood-fired menu is insane: next-level in fact, truly raising the bar.

1603 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206

308

If you're looking for me in Nashville, likelihood is high we'll bump elbows at 308. My favorite happy hour ($5 bourbon + ginger with the most delish house made ginger ale), fab tacos, and on the weekends -- dance parties. 

 407 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206

Dinos

Dive-y + cozy bar, burgers, hot chicken, and fries with Velveeta cheese? Sold. If it's hip enough for Justin Bieber, it's probably hip enough for you, too. 

411 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206

Patterson House

New Nashville's original "speakeasy"-type bar, Patterson is known for the chic-yet-classic vibe and incredible and inventive cocktails. 

1711 Division St, Nashville, TN 37203

Hop Stop

Tucked over on the East side, Hop Stop offers one of the most extensive beer lists in town (36 on tap), serving up all the local-favorite brews. Pop in for that beer, pair it with a gourmet hot dog and a game or two of darts.

2909 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216

LA Jackson

Get your bougie on at LA Jackson, the Thompson Hotel's stylish rooftop lounge. Offering an incredible view of the city, bites by Chef John Besh, and perhaps the hottest people watching in Nashville. 

401 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

Be sure to shoot me your thoughts and follow me on instagram @ experiencenash.

Spending Two Days in Nashville? Here's my Recommended Itinerary!

As a follow up to my One Day in Nashville Itinerary, and for those fortunate enough to stick around longer than just a day in town, here's your Itinerary for Two Days in Nashville. Be sure to follow this agenda in order - I've set it up to optimize your day with the most efficient travel pattern throughout the city. It's most definitely a full day, but one that I'm certain you can pull off with your mad traveler expertise.

Need a driver while you're in town? Sign up for Lyft and use my code EXPERIENCENASH for $50 towards your first rides!

Let's start off day two in my favorite neighborhood in town, East Nashville.

Marche Artisan Foods
Nothing beats your day beginning with one of my favorite brunches in all of Nashville. Their always evolving menu is full of wonderful options that never fail to impress. Try a crepe, and/or (recommended: and) literally the best french toast I've ever eaten in my life.

1000 Main Street, Nashville, TN 37206

1108 Shops at Woodland
Just around the block lives a collection of precious boutiques. Vintage clothing, books, antiques are all gathered together for an eclectic and fun shopping experience. Good Buy Girls and Hello Boys are among my faves.

1108 Woodland Street, Nashville, TN 37206

Shoppes on Fatherland
Just a few blocks up the road is another group of boutique stores. Definitely walkable from your previous locale, and just as much fun. Don't miss Baxter and Bailey if you have a dog (or cat), Thrive for earth-friendly products, and Moxie for a cute made in Nashville poster or other unique gifts.

1006 Fatherland Street, Nashville, TN 37206

Jenis
I know you just had brunch but you must make room in your stomach for the best ice cream in the world, and if you've truly hit the ground and rigorously shopped as I would, this should not be an issue. I never let a visitor come see me in Nashville without giving Jeni's a try. Goat Cheese & Red Cherries and Brown Butter Almond Brittle will change your life, and sample as many flavors as your heart desires.

1892 Eastland Avenue, Nashville, TN 37206

Old Made Good
Probably my favorite shop in all of Nashville, just down Gallatin Pike from your previous destinations. These ladies truly have an eye for art, fashion, and design. Great local products and a floor entirely comprised of gold glitter round out this incredible spot.

3701B Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216

Opryland Hotel
Touristy? Absolutely. Impressive? Oh yeah. One of largest 'non-gaming' resort in the United States, Opryland Hotel is a sight to behold. You'll find indoor canals and mini-cities, beautiful plants, fountains, chandeliers, and even waterfalls. Take a canal tour and learn more about the hotel's fascinating story.

Be sure to park in the mall lot, near the Grand Ole Opry House. Parking at the hotel is crazy expensive, and free at the mall.

2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN 37214

Time to head South to Downtown Franklin, one of the most picturesque towns in America.

Nashville's 12South Neighborhood : Where to Eat, Drink, & Shop

SO so so excited to be featured and brag about our town in the May issue of Virgin Airlines Inflight Magazine, Voyeur. You can check out a link to the actual mag here, but I've also included the article here on the blog for your reading pleasure:

Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, expanding far beyond just a destination for country music lovers. These days it’s gaining a reputation among the most elite of foodies, with daily announcements of cool new developments and accolades handed to its hottest restaurants. All of this progress has brought resurgence — and leading the charge is the trendy 12South neighborhood. Just a few years ago a blighted part of town that locals avoided, 12South has now emerged as one of the places to be seen in Nashville. Beautifully restored homes, chic boutiques and a wide array of dining options are all within walking distance and allow for afternoons filled with a plethora of possibilities — making it truly the perfect one-stop destination to live, eat, drink, shop and play.

EAT

Nashville residents pride themselves on supporting local business, so you absolutely won’t see any familiar chains in this neighborhood. Start your day by grabbing an icicle treat at Las Paletas, a gourmet popsicle shop. Opt for an adventurous flavor such as its famous Hot Chocolate — a combination of creamy chocolate with a kick of chili. For lunch, try Edley’s Bar-B-Que for an authentic southern meal complete with all the ‘fixins’ — homemade sides such as baked beans, slaw, mac and cheese, and cornbread. In particular, don’t miss the barbecue nachos with brisket and fried pickles, and the smoked wings. Dinner reservations are a necessity at Josephine, one of Nashville’s newest hotspots. Pioneered by local restaurateur Miranda Whitcomb Pontes of Burger Up fame (her well-revered burger restaurant just down the street), Josephine’s new-American cuisine, hip atmosphere and topnotch service have already elevated it to every local foodie’s favorite list. A must try is the skillet of pretzel rolls with mustard butter, and you can’t go wrong with any one of its inventive vegetable sides or main dishes. Its cocktails are pretty good, too.
You won’t have to go far for dessert — just walk next door to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. Remarkable flavors include goat’s cheese with cherry, and brown-butter almond brittle. Even its classic ‘Milkiest
Chocolate in the World’ is exceptional.

DRINK

One can’t visit Nashville without trying a Bushwacker. This alcoholic milkshake-like beverage can be found at various spots throughout the city, but is particularly good (and strong) at previously mentioned
Edley’s Bar-B-Que. Mosey across the street to Frothy Monkey, and there’s a good chance you will bump shoulders with a famous musician while enjoying one of the best lattes in town. Hit Mafioza’s Pizzeria
and Neighborhood Pub to indulge in a drink (note the two-for-one drinks and pizza offer on Tuesday night). a little further down 12th Avenue South sits 12 South Taproom and Grill, a charming bar where you can grab a chair on the patio,  relax with friends and enjoy a variety of beer via its extensive list. looking for a bit
more beer to cap off the night? The Filling station carries 24 options on tap and you can even grab a growler to go. Be sure to sample refreshing creations from local breweries including Yazoo, Jackalope, Tennessee Brew Works and Turtle Anarchy

SHOP

Options are plentiful when it comes to shopping in 12South. White’s Mercantile is a recently opened boutique and the latest venture of singer Holly Williams (daughter of musician Hank Williams Jr). It’s located
in an old gas station at the southern-most end of the district. Williams showcases regional purveyors and offers a variety of items that span from olive oils and lotions to hand-picked antiques, linen and glasses.
Imogene and Willie, Nashville’s go-to spot for jeans, offers denim custom-fitted to your specifications — a must-purchase for any fashionista, including a few celebrities. The shop creates hand cuts and alters all of its designs in Nashville. Finally, a visit to Nashville isn’t complete without a trip to the music store: stop at
Corner Music and strum a few guitars, tickle some ivories and ensure you are ready to hit the stage. To suit up for your performance visit Katy K Designs, which offers western threads, including suits from Manuel — the ‘tailor to the stars’ credited as being responsible for making Johnny Cash the iconic man in black.

Edley's Bar-B-Que Restaurant Review

One of my favorite go-to spots for a quick lunch or dinner is Edley's Bar-B-Que in East Nashville or 12South: A casual-yet-trendy spot, Edley's offers fabulous service, a delicious menu, and great drink selection all at a decent price.

Food options are plentiful so it may be tough initially to make your ordering decisions, but, take comfort in knowing you really can't go wrong with any of their menu items. Typically I lean toward the pork sandwich paired with a couple of their homemade sides like baked beans and potato salad, but as of late I have been all about their Smoked Wings and the BBQ Nachos. The wings are huge, incredibly tender, and flavorful—with just the right amount of smoke and spicy kick. And the nachos... goodness gracious ya'll. House-made potato chips are topped with a house-made cheese sauce, tomatoes, green onion, sour cream, and your choice of meat. Go with the brisket here, and get ready for a life changing experience.

Edley's keeps giving you new reasons to come back by usually offering a daily special— I've had amazing dishes from a Pork Sandwich topped with grilled Peach Truck peaches (divine) to a Buffalo Shrimp Po' Boy—and even all you can eat fried catfish nights. You can keep up with their specials via their Facebook page.

Bar-B-Que is best when paired with an ice-cold brew, and Edley's has a fantastic selection of craft beer on draft, typically including local breweries like Yazoo, Calfkiller, and Jackelope. Also a must try is the Bushwacker, one of my favorite Nashville treats: A creamy, chocolate milkshake-like adult beverage.

One last tip: Don't miss either locale's fabulous patio in the warmer weather— always a great place to dine al-fresco.

What is your favorite Edley's menu item?

Edley's Bar-B-Que East
908 Main Street
Nashville, TN 37206

12South Locale
2706 12th Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37204

Top 6 Happy Hours in Nashville

Sometimes after work all you really need is a good happy hour to unwind with friends, grab a good drink, and a bite to eat. After chatting with a buddy of mine about our favorite places to do just that in Nashville, I thought I should pass along these ideas to you.

So, with much thinking and incredibly fierce debate, I was able to narrow down the top six best Happy Hours in town. What are your faves?

Holland House

Thursday night is probably one of my favorite times of the week as long as I'm at Holland House. Why, you ask? Its happy hour all night long! A fabulous selection of $5 finely crafted specialty cocktails and $5 bites give you the perfect excuse for a fine evening out and about. My favorites: The Old Fashioned, Parmesan Truffle Fries (divine), Hot Chicken, Meester Burger, and the Catfish.

*Update - they no longer do the Thursday HH, however, Holland House permanently added a fabulous selection of $6 cocktails (including my favorite, the Old Fashioned), and reasonably-priced snacks. Benefit = happy hour prices, all the time!

No 308

308 in my opinion, has one of the most consistent and best happy hours in the city. Every day from 5 til 8, Sundays and Mondays til 10. Happy Hour specials include two for one wells, a $5 special cocktail of the day and  $5 wines. Don't miss the homemade cola and ginger ale as mixers. Also, the frites and sliders are spot on.

ML Rose
A great burger, wings, waffle fries, the best ranch dressing in the world... and two for ones all night long! Wednesday nights in West Nashville and Thursdays on 8th, two of my favorite nights to grab a beer at one of the best local bars in town.

Jackson's

As one of the very first restaurants I ever visited before moving to Nashville, Jackson's has an incredibly special place in my heart (as do the cookie dough egg rolls). Two-fer-Tuesdays is my favorite time to grab a seat on the patio with two for one draft beers (their selection is superb) and well drinks all night long. My favorite menu item: The Buffalo Feathers Caesar. Delish.

Lockeland Table

Happy hour starts at 4:00 everyday, goes til 6:30 except Friday/Saturday til 6:00. A great chance to experience one of my favorite restaurant atmospheres in Nashville. A fab menu of $6 snacks, $5 cocktails, and reduced price draught beers. The whipped goat cheese and Pizza of the Day will change your life.

Mule Monday at Village Pub

I <3 Village Pub. Super cozy, and an incredibly friendly staff. Delicious soft pretzels and beer cheese dip, and a wonderful beer selection are just a few of the reasons why I'm such a fan. On my last visit, I learned of Mule Monday: HALF PRICE Mules all night (only 3 bucks)! Just choose your spirit- Vodka, Whiskey, Tequila, Gin, Rum or Scotch.

M.L. Rose Craft Beer & Burgers - One of my favorite places to grab a drink and bite in Nashville

Looking for a little bar action to partake in? A must-try and FAVE of mine is none other than the M.L. Rose (formally Melrose Pub). Being that I’m in my late twenties (I’m holding on ya’ll.. I turn 30 next week), my take on what I’m looking for from the bar world now is a bit different than when I was say, 21, and ML Rose perfectly encompasses what my friends and I enjoy most at our age: Lower-key atmosphere, has pretty people watching (don’t lie, you like this too), a great patio, offers a good drink spesh or two, an awesome beer/drink selection, and of course, great service and food.

Picture courtesy of ml-rose.com

Let’s break the deets down a bit further for your information:

Low Key: There will always be a steady stream of people here unless you go during the day when it tends to be a bit slower. If you're not in to bigger crowds, avoid the 2-4-1 nights where it tends to get a little crowded. Also, I've never witnessed a rowdy crowd here.

Pretty People Watching: Yep I said it. There are some good looking folk frequenting this local hot spot.

Great Patio: I love there is great outdoor patio space at both locations—even has a few fun games to get in to.

Drink Specials: 2-4-1 Thursday on 8^th/ Wednesday on Charlotte. Happy hour M-F which includes $1 off liquor, wine, beers and apps. You can see all the specifics here.

Beer/Drinks: Fabulous craft beer selection that rotates seasonally, and they offer one of the best drinks in town: the Bushwacker, basically a Wendy's frosty for adults. 

Good Service/Food: The burgers are fab, and I love the nachos and BBQ wings too (BBQ wings are no longer on the menu, but you can still get them). Don’t miss out on the waffle fries, sweet potato waffle fries, and the BEST RANCH DRESSING EVER. Trust. I've also consistently received great service, which is an absolute must!

M.L. Rose Craft Beer & Burgers
2535 Franklin Pike (8th Ave)
Nashville, TN 37204

4408 Charlotte Ave
Nashville, TN 37209

Sweet Summertime in Nashville

Now that Summertime is officially upon us here in Nashville, where are the must-stops in and around town for staying cool? Here's a little list of great ideas that will help you cool down as the temps continue to go up!

Bobbie's Dairy Dip
A Nashville staple for over 60 years, this needs to be a priority on your summer to-do list. Don't miss the soft-serve ice cream, available in vanilla, chocolate, or twist— available dipped in delicious chocolate. Other favs include the sweet potato fries, cheese fries, burgers, and the root beer floats! Divey and delish.

The Peach Truck
The best peach you will have in your life - ever. Freshly imported straight from the farm in Georgia, you must take advantage of their sweet goodness -- you won't find a more fresh, juicy, sweet peach anywhere in Nashville (especially from the grocery store). Posted in various locales all around town, you're sure to find a close and convenient outpost to take advantage of the most delectable fruit of summer!

Jeni's 
Ya'll know my obsession with Jeni's, and it is stopping no time soon. Look for new summer flaves to hit the shelves soon, as the folks behind Jeni's continue to ramp back up production. PS - Dark and Milky Chocolates are back, and you HAVE to try the Charleston Sundae: Sweet Cream Ice Cream, Salty Caramel Sauce, Buckstrap Molasses, Peanuts, Whipped Cream, and a Cherry.

Las Paletas Gourmet Popsicles
Nothing is more nostalgic than a fresh, homemade Popsicle on a hot summer day! My favorites from Las Paletas include: Oh wait. Everything.  From creamy to savory to fruity, all of their creations are incredible. My advice is simple, be adventurous!

Mas Tacos por Favor
Luckily Mas Tacos has wonderful options when it comes to cooling your palette and rescuing you from the heat of the day! Swing in for a refreshing agua fresca: a drink made from ice, pureed watermelon, and lime juice. They also have a pineapple and cilantro version, both of which mix wonderfully with a little vodka (yes, I went there, and yes, it's BYOB so you can do this.. cheaply!).

Mike's Ice Cream
Long before Jenis hit our town there was Mike's handmade ice cream. Hand made in right in their shop, and a bit more on the traditional side when it comes to flavors (you won't find goat cheese and cherries here), this is a wonderful and cool option if you find yourself braving the tourists on Broadway, or wanting dessert at their east side locale after devouring a sandwich at Mitchell's Deli. My favorite flavors are strawberry and mint chocolate chip... Simple yet divine.

Pied Piper Creamery
Another local ice creamery that cannot be missed. The flavors are adventurous and fun and include one of my fav ice creams of ALL time, Nanna Nanna Nu Nu. This would be banana ice cream with Nutella, marshmallow fluff, and graham cracker. Yes, this is for real. Other favs are C is for Cookie, their version of cookies & cream, and Trailer Trash, which is vanilla with oreo, Twix, Butterfinger, Nestle Crunch, Snickers, M&M's, and Reece's Pieces.

Rosepepper Cantina
One of my absolute favorite ways to cool down in the summer happens to include a wonderful margarita on the patio. Luckily for me (and you), Rosepepper offers both. You must stop in to enjoy the best marg in town (hands down). Offered in multiple flavors, my favs are fresh lime, mango, and the plain ol' house. Make sure not to miss out on the cheese dip and quesadillas while you are there.

3 Crow/ML Rose/Edley's/ACME/Broadway Brewhouse
I am highlighting all of the above as they all serve the all-time best summertime adult treat EVER, the Bushwacker, best described as an alcohol-loaded chocolate milkshake. It truly doesn't get much better than this. Be careful though, as these bad boys tend to sneak up on you.

Cummins Falls/Fall Creek Falls/Burgess Falls
Looking for a reason to get out of town for a bit and beat the heat? These three locales offer some of the most beautiful and scenic waterfalls in Tennessee, and are all only roughly an hour from Nashville. A cool fact: Travel & Leisure recently named Cummins Falls one of America's 10 best swimming holes.

What are YOUR favorite ways to cool down in Nashville?

Favorite Patios in Nashville... Post #2

Piggybacking on my first favorite patios in Nashville post, here is round two. With all of this gorgeous weather, I for one will be spending as much time outside as possible!

3 Crow Bar

You can't go wrong at 5 Points on the East side when it warms up.  Not personally a fan of smoking in bars, patio time gives you the chance to hang with the hipster crowd at 3 Crow. Great beer selection, a decent burger, and home to one of my favorite summertime drinks EVER - the Bushwacker (think the alcoholic version of a Wendy's Frosty). And 3 Crow has, in my opinion one of the best in town. Don't miss 2-fer-1s on Wednesday night and pretty much all day Sunday.

http://3crowbar.com/

Red Door - East and Midtown

A fun hangout on both sides of town, Red Door is a local hot spot both featuring fabulous patios. A bit of a different vibe at each, but both fun spots to throw back a drink or two (and if you think you can hang with a pro, play me at a game of Shuffleboard at the Midtown locale). I'm a fan of their beer selection and infused pineapple vodka.

http://www.thereddoorsaloon.com/

Village Pub

Soft pretzels with beer cheese and Moscow Mules (the BEST summertime drink ever): My staples at Village Pub at Riverside Village in East Nashville. With possibly one of the friendliest and most courteous bar staff in Nashville and the laid back, smoke-free atmosphere-- these are the reasons you will find me hanging out at this joint year round.

http://www.riversidevillagepub.com/

Edleys BBQ - 12s and East Nashville

I LOVE some good BBQ and Edley's has some of the best in town that you shouldn't miss! They have a great drink selection (Bushwackers and fun, inventive cocktails), and of course a wonderful patio. Plus, they are about to open their East Nashville location in the next couple of weeks (YAY!). Can't miss menu items are their wings and BBQ Nachos.

http://edleysbbq.com/

ML Rose - 8th Ave and West Nashville

Oh ML Rose.. You are so dear to my heart! One of my favorite places to grab a drink in all of Nashville, they feature a ton of local craft beers, a great burger (Mushroom & Swiss is my favorite), waffle fries, and THE BEST RANCH DRESSING EVER! West Nashville has 2-for-1s all night on Wednesday, and 8th Ave on Thursday. If you like to people watch the good looking crowd, ML Rose will be right up your alley.

http://ml-rose.com/

Rumors East

This place is just absolutely charming. Located in a renovated Victorian home on Woodland Street, Rumors East can't be beat when it comes to atmosphere. Wine is their forte but also have a wonderful cocktail selection. Happy hour is 5-7 daily and they have 1/2 of bottles on Sunday night with the purchase of an entree. Their patio is so fab and they often have live music in the warmer months. You need to experience why they are consistently voted Best Patio in Nashville by the Scene!

http://rumourseast.com/

The Oak Bar at the Hermitage Hotel

Last night's trip to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center was accompanied by a new tradition for me which involves a pre-(or post.. or both) show cocktail at one of my absolute favorite bars in town, The Oak Bar.  If you are looking for a swankier place to unwind, where one can actually hear a conversation, while kicking back and relaxing with a wonderful cocktail or glass of wine- a stop into the Oak Bar is a must!  Inside of the most beautiful building in town (seriously ya'll.. The lobby of the Hermitage Hotel is a site that cannot be missed), and not to mention Nashville's only 5 star hotel, is one of my favorite places to do just that.

Great food, wonderful drink and wine list, a comfortable yet gorgeous atmosphere, and fabulous service are just the icing on the cake.  Here are a couple of items that you cannot miss:

• The Tennessee Stack.  The Oak Bar and Capitol Grill use vegetables they harvest and beef raised on a farm near the hotel itself.  Not only is this one of the freshest, most delicious burgers in town, it is made with ingredients from just down the street.  I LOVE supporting businesses that support local businesses.  
• Fried Pickles.  Not exactly the healthiest option.. But, I feel this tasty snack is one that especially visitors to Nashville HAVE to indulge in.
• Fried Green Tomatoes.  See: Description for Fried Pickles.
• Jack's Mule.  I can't express to you how much I love this drink.  Served in an ice cold copper mug with Jack, Spicy Ginger Beer, and Lime.  Simple, refreshing, and delicious!
• The Men's Restroom.  Voted "Best Restroom" in the US in 2008- This beautiful art-deco style room is definitely the prettiest bathroom I've set foot in.  Ladies, if you ask, you are allowed to peek in too.
• Happy Hour from 4:30-6:30.  Drink specials and select apps 1/2 off.

So, if you're heading to a show at TPAC, War Memorial, or just looking for an excuse to have a drink at a nice place in Nashville, the Oak Bar is a stop that you must make!

Oak Bar

231 6th Ave N

Nashville, TN 

(615) 244-3121

Grab a Drink @ no. 308 - nashville bar review

I'd like to start featuring a few of my favorite places to grab a drink in town here on Experience Nashville, because, let's be honest—what better way to end a stressful day than to kick back with your friends and enjoy a great drink in a cool atmosphere?  You can absolutely achieve that at no. 308, a bar I would describe as trendy but definitely not pretentious, located in East Nashville. Vintage furniture, great booths/plenty of seating, and dim lighting all add to the sweet almost old-school vibe here.

So, the great atmosphere, friendly and attentive staff (they may or may know my 'usual' drink of rum & cola when I walk in.. it's whatever, really), a crazy assortment of cocktails, a tasty selection of snacks, and board games (yes.. we're talking Jenga) all add to the great experience you're sure to have if you stop by this neighborhood fav.

Couple of things to point out:

• They make their own cola and sodas.  So, literally, the rum & cola is like nothing you've ever had, and will change your life for the better.  Count on it.
• They have an awesome happy hour, which includes a 1/2 price cocktail list.  So you can have that delicious rum & cola for only a few bucks.
• Happy hour on Monday runs til 10:00 PM, and 8:00PM every other evening
• Trashy Tuesday: $5 for 2 sliders and a Miller Highlife.  Both hilarious and delicious.
• Astroturf front patio; enough said.

no. 308

407 Gallatin Pike

Nashville, TN 37206

Yazoo Brewery

If you haven't had the pleasure of touring the lovely local Yazoo Brewery in Nashville, do yourself a favor and do so this Saturday.  Just a few blocks away from the hustle of the trendy Gulch area sits what in my opinion is one of Nashville's greatest local treasures.  You may have sampled some of their brews at one of the fine establishments previously mentioned on this blog (Jackson's, Sportsman's Lodge, etc.) but nothing can compare to the fresh taste straight from the brewery itself.  Start the tour off in the tap room, where bargain priced flights and pints are available while you wait.  There is also a great little patio area for those warm spring afternoons we are *hopefully* about to regularly experience.  The tour is only $6, which includes a fabulous tour guide, SEVERAL samples, and a nice pint-sized souvenir Yazoo glass.  After the tour you can even grab a refillable growler of beer to go (and after all the tasting you'll do, trust me, you'll definitely want one).

The tour lasts about 30-45 minutes, and you'll learn the brief but interesting history on Nashville's very own brewery.  Great beer + cheap + interesting info on a local company = great way to spend a Saturday afternoon.  Be sure to arrive early or buy your tickets online (tours are offered tours every Saturday at 2:30, 3:30, 4:30, 5:30, and 6:30) as they fill up QUICKLY!

One last note, good news for you Gerst beer drinkers (like myself... formerly served only at Gerst Haus, Sportsman's Grill and Lodge) - Yazoo has brought the brewing of it back to Nashville!  Check out the Tennessean article here.

Drink and be merry!  Happy Spring ya'll!

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.