I’ve noted specific locations of restaurants with multiple shops because those are the ones I can vouch for. The other locations may be great as well, and this list will be updated as I find more crispies!

Assembly Food Hall – Downtown

I can only vouch for the fountains on the Prince’s side of the Hall, but those are excellent. Pairs well with any of the local restaurants in the Food Hall!

Baja Burrito – Berry Hill

Go for the Diet Coke, stay for the incredible tacos and burritos.

Caliber Coffee – Donelson

Cheating on this one because it’s not DC brand. But it’s a good sugar free cola, reasonably priced, and at a coffee shop – what other coffee shops have any fountain sodas, period?

Cledis – Bellevue

I’ve heard the Elm Hill one is crispy, too, but I know the fountain on the left in Bellevue is fire.

Deir Cafe – Haywood

Technically, I tried a Coke Zero – they were out of DC. But even that was so cripsy, I have high hopes for the real thing!

Doublz – Donelson

This is a locally owned location of a family owned business and they are always so nice! A great option for a drive through DC.

Edley’s – Donelson

I’m going to have to test the other Edley’s to see if they’re as good, but Donelson is a chef’s kiss DC!

Edley’s Tacos – Melrose

The new taco concept from Edleys (a replacement for Pancho & Lefty’s) has two locations. I’ve only been to Melrose so far, but an excellent Diet Coke

El Fuego – East

Pairs exceptionally well with chips & salsa.

Elliston Place Soda Shop – Midtown

It would be a real shame if a soda shop didn’t have a crispy DC. Fortunately, they do. 😅

Gordo’s Taqueria – WeHo

They need bigger cups and smaller ice cubes…but the Diet Coke is crispy! And the food is good, too.

Hattie B’s Hot Chicken – West

They put hot chicken on the map, and they stay coming in clutch with their DC.

Little Hats Market – Germantown

Honestly, with all their specialty products, I wouldn’t expect them to have a good fountain soda situation, but it’s very, very good.

McDougal’s – Edgehill

The cups are small, so go sparingly on the ice if you’re taking it to go. But they’ve got the good ice, so honestly, just stick around and eat there!

Mr. J’s Original – Downtown

Burgers, pastrami, chicken, and more diner food. I could tell straight from the fountain it was going to be good – and it’s perfect. Plus they have the good ice.

Poke Nash – Sylvan Park

The syrup was slightly off, I think, but still good. And maybe that means more soda because it was extra crispy! And the poke bowl was very good, too!

Prince’s Hot Chicken – Tanger Outlets

I could tell by how fizzy it was coming out of the machine that it was going to be top tier. Might be my current fave.

Waldo’s Chicken & Beer – Germantown

Waldo’s is honestly not my personal favorite food-wise (I may be in the minority here). But, the Germantown location has one of the best DC’s.

McDonald’s – everywhere

Sorry – it’ll just always be number 1. (Use the app, and get it for $1.10 up to four times a day!)

Any that I’ve missed? I’m always on the hunt for a crispy Diet Coke, so bookmark this page and check back for ongoing additions!

XO,
SB

If you’re looking for even more ways to stay caffeinated, check out this guide to some of Nashville’s great coffee shops!

The post The Crispiest Diet Cokes in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

But, if you’re overwhelmed by all the buzzy places on Instagram and the sheer quantity on Yelp, let me simplify your choices by offering a local’s guide to the best spots (obviously, these are all my opinions, but I give food tours and eat out almost every day for my food-focused Instagram account, so I feel qualified to offer them!)

This guide covers must-visit spots in neighborhoods like East Nashville, The Gulch, 12 South, and more—perfect for planning your next brunch, dinner date, or night out.

12 South

Epice – intimate, delicious, and off the tourist radar, this Lebanese restaurant is not to be missed. Parking is tricky, and reservations strongly suggested.

Fryce – I don’t know if you can call fries and ice cream a restaurant, but they’re the best combo and when made by a long-time chef, certainly qualify as a meal. Parking is again limited, but no reservations needed. It’s a fun time for the whole family.

Downtown/the Gulch

Alba’s Empanadas – this walk up window is great when you’re running around the Gulch, and the food is very good. Most garages in the Gulch have one hour free parking.

Husk – a Nashville staple, Husk focuses on locally-sourced Southern flavors, so the menu changes frequently, but is always very good. Plus, the ambiance of an old home adds to the experience. They have a small parking lot and there is street parking. Reservations strongly recommended.

Marsh House – not your average hotel restaurant, Marsh House is New Orleans inspired, seafood-forward (although there’s plenty of non-seafood options!) and just really, really good. The vibes give big city. If you go for brunch, you have to get the cinnamon roll and the cham-bongs for fun! Parking in the Gulch is paid street parking or garages with an hour free. Reservations recommended.

Sunda – while not local to Nashville, Sunda is a limited-location Asian-Pacific restaurant from Billy Dec and it hits the mark every time. Parking is primarily garage parking in the Gulch, with an hour free in most garages. Reservations recommended.

Yolan – I cannot stress this one enough. You must go. Immediately. It’s so, so good. I generally am not a big Italian food fan, and I loved every bit of the tasting menu. It’s a fine dining experience in the Joseph hotel that’s worth the money. I can usually find metered street parking in that part of downtown, and they offer valet. Reservations recommended.

East Nashville

Kase X Noko – Noko’s omakase experience, it’s fresh, fun, and delicious. Reservations are required, and typically book immediately upon release, 6 weeks in advance. So, plan ahead. They have a small parking lot, and there is a neighborhood for street parking across the street (but be respectful!)

Kisser – One of Nashville’s most celebrated restaurants but one of the hardest to get into due to their limited lunch-only hours and no reservations. The Japanese kissaten inspired restaurant is worth the hype, but try to go as early as possible and plan to wait.

Koré – with all the feels of a neighborhood bar, from friendly service to a lively ambiance, Koré features yummy, fun cocktails, a “small plates” menu of Asian dishes that are anything but small, and affordable prices. Reservations strongly recommended. They have a small parking lot, then there is another lot across the street and neighborhood street parking.

Lockeland Table – another long-time Nashville favorite, Lockeland Table is a James Beard award nominee that features American foods done very well. If you’re a bone marrow fan (or just want to branch out), try theirs – trust me. Reservations strongly recommended. Parking is just neighborhood street parking.

Noko – my number one favorite restaurant in Nashville, Noko is approachable, has fantastic service (from the owner down), and serves really, really good food. It’s Asian inspired (loosely) wood fired with small plates and main dishes. Reservations required, but they do reserve the patio for walk-ins. They have a small parking lot and there is a neighborhood for street parking across the street (but be respectful!)

Peninsula – chef-owner Jake Howell just won the James Beard award for his work at this approachable fine dining spot. It’s a foodie’s paradise with creative, changing French and Spanish influenced menus and unique flavors – yet, it feels like a community restaurant (because it is), completely lacking pretension. Pretty easy street parking. Reservations required.

Xiao Bao – another Asian restaurant, Xiao Bao offers Asian-fusion comfort food. It’s good, approachable, and eclectic. They have a small parking lot and there is street parking around the neighborhood, but could require a little walking. Reservations not accepted.

Germantown

5th & Taylor – I’m sad it took me this long to get to 5th & Taylor because I’ve just been missing out on incredible food in a really great environment. I went for my birthday and all 6 of us loved it. Also, they have bottomless mashed potatos.

Pelato – Again, not an Italian food girly, but I love Pelato. Their small plates are done well, and their drinks are always great (don’t skip the frozen espresso martini). Parking is limited in the area, so exercise patience and plan to walk. Reservations strongly recommended.

Rolf & Daughters – an ever changing menu of American food, Rolf & Daughters has been a long time Nashville favorite for a reason. Reservations required for this small restaurant, and parking is street only.

Tailor – I don’t usually love Indian food, but the presentation, the gorgeous restaurant, the service, all made for one of my favorite meals this year. It’s a tasting menu, but I was sufficiently full by the end.

Wedgewood Houston/Berry Hill

Baja Burrito – Nashville’s local Chipotle, if you’re looking for really, really good casual food, look no further. I’ve never had anything there that wasn’t spectacular. Parking can be tricky, but they have an overflow lot around the corner. No reservations, and there is often a line, but it moves quickly.

Dos Santos – elevated but fun, Dos Santos is a Tex-Mex restaurant done right with an impressive tequila list. It’s a great vibe and perfect for a group or a casual date night (brunch is good, too!). There is a garage nearby; otherwise, it’s limited street parking. Reservations not accepted.

Pastis – This French-inspired bistro from NYC just opened it’s Nashville location, and it’s worth the hype! Delicious food, a great atmosphere, and good service. Parking is on your own in WeHo (there are a couple paid lots around). Reservations required. (Check out my full Pastis review if you’d like the whole scoop!)

West Nashville

Lola – delicious Spanish tapas and a great happy hour, it’s a trendy, intimate neighborhood restaurant with great food. Street parking in the neighborhoods around (be respectful!). Reservations strongly recommended.

Midnight Oil – pizza by the slice or the pie, with frozen drinks in a chill atmosphere. It’s a small spot, so it can fill up quickly. No reservations and parking is mostly street parking around the Nations neighborhood.

Sonobana – a strip mall Japanese spot that is always popular. It’s not fancy, but it’s good and affordable, and parking is ample. No reservations.

Tantisimo – Latin American food that originated as a farmers market pop-up. It’s fresh, creative, and seasonal, and something Sylvan Park was missing. Reservations encouraged. Parking is street in the neighborhood.

The Burbs

Lyncoya Cafe – if you’re up in Hendersonville, Lyncoya Cafe is not to be missed. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside you’ll find some of the best comfort food around – and a salad that I dream about. No reservations, but it’s popular so there could be a wait. Easy parking lot.

Sunflower Bakehouse – In Donelson (which is not technically the suburbs, but I digress), you’ll find a vegan and gluten free restaurant and bakery that is so good, even meat eaters will love it. No reservations needed, and easy parking.

Tutti Da Gio – The pizza here is incredible. I’ve heard the rest of the menu is, too, but I can’t get away from the pizza. In Hendersonville (and Hermitage, but a more limited menu for takeout only).

Other Categories of Note:

Brunch

Restaurant at the W – it’s rare that a hotel restaurant makes it on to any of my lists, but this brunch buffet truly blew me away. Reservations encouraged, and parking is lots or garages in the Gulch.

Nelson’s Greenbrier – great for groups, it’s a good vibe, good food, and great drinks. Reservations encouraged, and parking is usually easy during brunch hours (Sunday only).

Germantown Cafe – bottomless drinks, a solid food menu, and a classic Nashville restaurant vibe. They do have a parking lot, but otherwise it’s street parking. Reservations required.

Check out this post for more of Nashville’s best brunches!

Cocktail Bars

sidebar – if this bar were not in a hotel, it would have gone out of business because no one has ever heard of it. But the drinks are so good and it’s a speakeasy feel. No reservations, and they validate parking in their lot for locals. Downtown in the Bode Hotel.

Tiger Bar – located in East Nashville, it’s a novelty bar (1930s circus themed) that also delivers on drinks. Reservations encouraged. Parking is tricky, but I think they validate (call them first to be sure!)

The Fox – winner of so many awards, the Fox has a fantastic menu of delicious drinks (including an equally thoughtful zero-proof list). It’s small, so reservations encouraged, as is ride share, as parking is tricky (although there are paid lots around).

Coffee Shops

Elegy – with multiple locations, there is probably an Elegy near you where you can get crowd-favorite, the Honey Bear: Cold brew, oat milk, burnt honey, cinnamon, maple syrup. This is more of a takeout shop, although some locations have limited seating.

Surefire – another with multiple locations, Surefire brings the outdoors to a coffee shop near you, with walkup windows and outdoor seating.

Matryoshka – cult favorite, this tiny coffee shop is friendly, aesthetic, and fun! In South Nashville.

For even more coffee shop options, check out my lists of cozy coffee shops or coffee shops open past 5 pm!

The Nashville food and bev scene is alive and well and EVER changing! So, bookmark this list and checkback periodically to see what’s new! And be sure to follow me on Instagram at @thetipjarnash for all the latest recommendations.

XO,
SB

The post Best Restaurants in Nashville: Where to Eat Right Now in Music City first appeared on The Tip Jar.

A few months ago, I polled my Instagram followers to ask where the best bars for actual conversation were. Every spot on this list received multiple recommendations.

I can’t personally vouch for all of them (I did get a date at Mother’s, but he was 24, and I am…not. lolol), but I can present the info to do with it as you will.

• Barrel Proof – Germantown
• Cherrie’s – East Nashville
• Embers – 12 South
• Jonathan’s (this is the Germantown location specifically; not sure about the other locations)
• Lakeside Lounge – East Nashville
• Mother’s Ruin – Germantown. I strongly recommend during the week, unless you’re under 29. And watch your drink.
• North Italia – Green Hills, but I bet Cool Springs would be good, too
• Otto’s – Sylvan Park/The Nations
• Red Door Saloon – probably all the locations? Midtown, East, Donelson
• Sperry’s – happy hour at the bar is the place to be. Belle Meade and Cool Springs.
• Villager Tavern – Hillsboro Village

And here are a few more recommendations, but only one person gave the suggestion, so keep that in mind.

12 South

• Bartaco
• Urban Grub

Capitol View

• ML Rose

Downtown

• Alley Taps
• Black Rabbit
• Blue Sushi
• Doc Holliday’s
• Fleet Street Pub
• Skulls
• Standard Proof
• Teddy’s Tavern

East Nashville

• Beyond the Edge
• Dukes
• Lipstick Lounge
• Mickey’s
• Roy’s
• Schulman’s
• Village Pub
• Vinyl Tap

Franklin

• Perry’s Steakhouse

Germantown

• Germantown Cafe HH
• Neighbors
• Sauced

Hermitage

• Dominic’s

Marathon Village

• Nelson’s Greenbrier – Happy Hour, but Wednesday was the specific recommendation

Sylvan Park/the Nations

• Answer – one of the city’s best happy hours; get there early!
• The Centennial
• The Nations Bar & Grill
• Perfectly Fine

West End

• J. Alexanders

If you’re looking for even more ways to connect with people and make friends, check out my list of the best ways to meet people in Nashville!

XO,
SB

The post The best bars for meeting people in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

Cozy Bars in Nashville

• 1865 Club in North Nashville – head through the iron gates, around to the back of the building by the pool, and you’ll find a true speakeasy. You might feel like you’re in a cave when you enter, but the yummy cocktails and beautiful decor will remind you that you’re still in civilization.
• The Amsterdamian in East is downright sexy with its plush decor and lo-fi jams.
• Attaboy this no-menu hotspot is a perennial favorite. It’s tiny and popular, so expect a wait to be admitted if you go on a busy night.
• The Authentique in East is a French-owned wine bar and creperie and it is perfect for an intimate date. Reservations are recommended.
• Cafe Babu – Wedgewood Houston coffee shop by day, cozy cocktail and wine bar by night (Thurs-Sat). It’s always a vibe, but it is tiny; they have a great patio with firepits, too, though!
• Nashville City Club: The Study – even though this is a member’s only club, their ground floor bar is open to the public and is an excellent, under-the-radar spot Downtown.
• Coral Club – Apparently, this is what Tulum looks like. But this bar has a gorgeous candle lit entry way followed by an interior of dim lighting. It’s all about the vibes at Coral Club (the drinks are good, too.) In East.
• Ernie’s Boondock (no Instagram/website, but they’re below Up Down in East!) – This bar is known for their cheap beer, so it can get rowdy. But, the atmosphere is 1970s basement, complete with a fireplace. So, it gets the cozy stamp of approval!
• The Fox in East is one of the most celebrated bars in Nashville for good reason. It’s not a speakeasy, but it feels like one and is quite popular. And, they boast an extensive, well-crafted mocktail menu, as well.
• Golden Sound in the Gulch – this former recording studio is another vintage-vibed spot, featuring delicious craft cocktails.
• Grandpa Bar in North Nashville – if your grandparents’ home isn’t cozy, I don’t know what is. Stop in for some of the best espresso martinis in the city.
• The Green Hour at Tempered – this delicious chocolate shop turns into a cozy absinthe and cocktail bar Thursdays-Saturdays. Look for the green light!
• The Patterson House – one of Nashville’s OG craft cocktail bars, now located in the Gulch. Moody vibes and a superb drink menu.
• Rosemary & Beauty Queen in East – this beautiful restored house has all kinds of eclectic hiding spots.
• Sidebar – the bar no one has ever heard of. Part of the Bode hotel downtown, sidebar consistently has some of the best cocktails in town. They regularly have fun holiday pop-ups, but always have an intimate, dim atmosphere.
• Urban Cowboy East – head to the Parlor Bar for a glass of wine, or outside to one of the fire pits. Cozy either way.
• Urban Cowboy Downtown – the downstairs gives an Old West bar and is an oasis downtown. And stay tuned for their speakeasy, Armadillo Lounge, coming soon!

These spots are sure to scratch your cozy itch, but if you’re looking for even more places to feel snug and warm, check out my list of the coziest coffee shops in town!

XO,
SB

The post The Best Cozy Bars in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

Nashville – Restaurant Review: Pastis

Pastis, a favorite restaurant from New York’s Meatpacking district, has been slowly extending it’s reach, and Nashville is now home to it’s fourth location!

This restaurant opened to QUITE a buzz and questions as to whether it would live up to it’s NYC’s sister location. Aesthetically, the two mirror each other, with Nashville featuring the classic curved zinc bar, signature subway tiles, and mosaic-tiled floor people may recognize from the New York location.

The service is excellent (having never been to the NYC spot, I can’t compare – but I venture to guess Nashville’s southern Hospitality is always going to win out).

But the real question is, how’s the food?

I’m here to tell you – it’s delicious. Everything we tried was so good, from the steak tartare to the shrimp salad to the pancakes and the eggs Norwegian (salmon benedict). And of course, the cocktails.

Obviously, pancakes and eggs are features of the brunch menu, but many of the other brunch items are also available at lunch and dinner (like the steak tartare and shrimp salad), so I feel confident recommending Pastis for any meal. And I personally can’t wait to go back from the onion soup.

My only gripe with the restaurant is not really with them, per se, but rather everyone who refers to the restaurant as a classic French bistro. It is not. I majored in French and studied abroad in Paris, and those cafes are MUCH smaller, with tables right on top of each other, and quieter voices.

It really reminds me more of turn-of-the-century New York than Paris. But, either way, it captures the romantic essence of an exciting time in dining history.

Dress code is business casual, maybe? I saw many cute dresses at brunch, but you could get away with a nice set of jeans and a cute top. This is not an athleisure spot. For men, slacks and a polo or button down is more than appropriate, especially during the day.

Prices skew towards the bougie side, but I would not classify Pastis as “fine dining”. Perhaps $$$ out of 4.

Reservations are strongly suggested. Parking is on your own in Wedgewood Houston; there are a few paid lots nearby.

For foodies, Francophiles, and fans of the original, Pastis is a great experience and brings a cosmopolitan flair to Nashville. It’s worth the hype.

XO,
SB

P.S. For other restaurant reviews and recs, check out my Restaurant category tag!

P.P.S. Planning a visit to Music City soon? Check out my list of what to pack for Nashville so you don’t forget anything essential!

The post The Best Places in Nashville – Restaurant Review: Pastis first appeared on The Tip Jar.

Easy, Affordable Brunch in Nashville: Keke’s

While Keke’s is not a local restaurant, it should be in your rotation anyway for several reasons:

• The locations throughout Middle Tennessee are all super easy to get to – and have parking! Nashville breakfast places with parking are rare, so this is a huge plus.
• The menu is extensive and has something to please everyone for breakfast and brunch. And the prices are reasonable – especially for the cocktails! (Again, affordable brunch in Nashville is a rare commodity.)
• The food really is good! Sometimes restaurants become chains for good reason…and Keke’s is one of those. The Donelson location has a 4.8 rating – from over 1400 reviews!
• The atmosphere is friendly and bright. The best brunch spots in Nashville can get trendy and pretentious really fast – Keke’s keeps it casual and approachable.
• It’s one of the few family-friendly brunch spots in Nashville. Bring the kids, bring mom and dad – even though they serve alcohol, a full-on boozy brunch is not the vibe.
• Keke’s is quick service – skip the long waits of the buzzy places downtown! Again, great when the kids are in tow.
• It’s also a great Nashville brunch option for groups, thanks to the ample space and quick service (and did I mention the parking??)

In my completely honest, local’s opinion, Keke’s would not be my FIRST choice for breakfast (see this list of breakfast spots for some of my favorites). But, it definitely has its place and is an important addition to the Nashville brunch scene.

XO,
SB

If a boozy brunch is more your speed, then don’t miss my list of Nashville brunch places with bottomless mimosas (and bloody mary’s, sangria, and espresso martinis!)

The post Easy, Affordable Brunch in Nashville: Keke’s Breakfast Café Is Worth a Visit first appeared on The Tip Jar.

Nashville – Restaurant Review: Fancypants

Fancypants, the elevated but approachable concept from the brilliant minds behind Butcher & Bee and Redheaded Stranger opened in 2024 and has been buzzy ever since.

Fancypants styles itself as “your friendly neighborhood Asian Italian fine dining steakhouse” (lol), and they definitely capture those vibes in the gorgeous space. It’s giving mid-century Manhattan, with deep reds and plush floral decor. The bar is beautiful and each table and booth is intimate and inviting with a view of the open kitchen.

If you’re there on a nice night, try to snag a seat on the beautiful covered patio.

Everything we tried tasted delicious from the welcome drink (such a fun touch) to the crudo to the house-made “Sour Patch kids”.

I will be thinking about the garlic noodles, served in an old-school nostalgic lunch box for a long time.

The attention to detail and novelty (in a fun, not over-the-top way), as well as the great service (and a parking lot, which, though small, had adequate parking for a Sunday night), makes this a good dining experience all the way around.

With all of that said, a word of caution – if you’ve heard someone say the menu was veggie forward, let me assure, it is VERY veggie forward. As in, the menu we were served had almost no protein – not even nuts or cheese.

I left full, but somehow also feeling like I hadn’t eaten enough. There is a hearty steak on the menu, and a few other protein options. So, perhaps there is a way to construct your menu in a traditionally protein-heavy way. But, generally speaking, if you are counting macros, this is not the place for you (unless you want the steak).

Dress code is business casual, maybe? No one would look out of place in a suit or nice dress, but also you could get away with a nice set of jeans and a cute top. This is not an athleisure spot.

Fancypants is, well, fancy, and the price reflects that. Most nights are a chef’s tasting menu, but on Sunday’s you can order a la carte, so that’s definitely the night to go if you’re looking to spend a little less or have control over your order.

Reservations are strongly suggested.

For true foodies, Fancypants is a great experience and offers something unique in Nashville. For those used to eating a lot of animal protein, the entire vibe and the food quality is still worth a visit, but go knowing what to expect.

XO,
SB

P.S. For other restaurant reviews and recs, check out my Restaurant category tag!

P.P.S. Planning a visit to Music City soon? Check out my list of what to pack for Nashville so you don’t forget anything essential!

The post The Best Places in Nashville – Restaurant Review: Fancypants first appeared on The Tip Jar.

The Best Breakfast Spots in Nashville

Red Headed Stranger – The breakfast tacos are so good. And if you get a frozen marg with breakfast, we won’t tell. In East Nash.

Five Daughters Bakery – Nashville’s most famous bakery, their 100 layer donuts are worth the calories. (They also have mini versions and paleo versions so everyone can have a treat). Various locations.

Wanna Spoon Cereal Bar – there’s nothing quite like cereal and milk for breakfast, and even better if it’s accompanied by a latte. This one is also great for the kids, with a huge backyard for them to run around (and lots of photo ops!) In 12 South

Caliber Coffee – the friendliest coffee shop around, they offer pastries, breakfast sandwiches, chia pudding, and more. In Donelson.

Ladybird Taco – Another delicious breakfast taco spot, be sure to try all of their salsas, as well. And if you want a little boozy addition, head to the East Nash location. 12 South and East.

Crieve Hall Bagel Co. – delicious bagels and schmear, as well as other baked goods (I’m so eager to try their cinnamon roll!). And, if you go on your birthday, you can claim a free bagel! In Crieve Hall/South Nash

Red Bicycle Coffee – crepes, sandwiches, tacos – there’s something for everyone at Red Bicycle. Various locations.

XO,
SB

P.S. Wondering what to wear to breakfast in Nashville? Here are some ideas:

• Check out this ruffled bodysuit, and pair it with some breezy palazzo pants, or go for a pretty sundress or chic pantsuit. Add these cute Crocs sandals (yes, I said cute and crocks in the same sentence!) or these Hermes dupes, and finish it off with a cute crossbody bag.
• For winter vibes, keep the bodysuit, swap the palazzos for trouser jeans, and grab a suede blazer and some fashion sneakers for a put together look.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.

P.P.S. If you’re looking for a more in-depth review of a popular breakfast and brunch hotspot, check out my review of the Buttermilk Ranch!

The post The Best Breakfast Spots in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

Nashville – Restaurant Review: Turkey & The Wolf Ice House

This New Orleans restaurant just hit East Nashville, and the buzz has not stopped!

Despite the low key digs and small menu, you can see why it’s such a hit. I ordered the fried bologna sandwich – one of the most popular items, and I was absolutely blown away. I’m not really a sandwich girly, much less a hot one with bologna. But y’all, you HAVE to try this sandwich. I’m drooling right now just thinking about it.

All seating is outdoors, so keep that in mind, although the immediate patio is enclosed in inclement weather. Bring the kids and let them around outside while you sit on the eclectic picnic tables, sipping on one of the delicious adult bevvies. (Loved the frozen French 75).

This is a walk-up counter service joint, so no resys, and at peak times, the line can get long (definitely check their Insta before heading out to be sure they haven’t sold out.)

Parking is street only, and it’s in a residential area, so be patient and respectful of people’s driveways. And they’re only open for lunch.

Now for an honest critique – the menu is a little weird. I didn’t love the feta and spinach pie, and the empanada was just okay to me. And I didn’t really understand how either of them fit the vibe.

That being said, this spot is just fun and over all, worth a visit for sure.

XO,
SB

P.S. For other restaurant reviews and recs, check out my Restaurant category tag!

P.P.S. Planning a visit to Music City soon? Check out my list of what to pack for Nashville so you don’t forget anything essential!

The post The Best Places in Nashville – Restaurant Review: Turkey & The Wolf Ice House first appeared on The Tip Jar.

Located on busy 12South, you will have a wait for this restaurant – so get your name on that list early and wander around looking for murals and shopping while you wait. But, once you’re in, it will be so worth it!

The beautiful pastry display greeting you upon arrival is your first sign that this place is going to be good. Settle in for a boozy brunch with 4 different coffee cocktails (including a traditional espresso martini, of course!) or a variety of mimosas and bloody Mary’s. Or, sip on some locally brewed cold brew or fresh juice.

The menu offers both sweet and savory options, and I recommend sharing both so you get a little of everything. The menu updates seasonally, so ask your waiter for recommendations on the latest specials.

Vibes are immaculate – it’s giving ski lodge, with lush greenery and plenty of natural light. Dress is very casual, but also a cute sundress or brunch outfit will not look out of place.

And, aside from the wait, I’ve always had really great service at BMR, enhancing the experience even further. (And if you’re really in a hurry, they offer walk-up service for pastries and coffee!)

So, is the Buttermilk Ranch worth the hype? Absolutely. But, go with patience (or at an off time) so you can fully enjoy the experience at the best breakfast in Nashville: the Buttermilk Ranch.

And for even more brunch options, check out where you can find bottomless mimosas around town!

XO,
SB

P.S. Wondering what to wear to breakfast in Nashville? Here are some ideas:

• Check out this ruffled bodysuit, and pair it with some breezy palazzo pants, or go for a pretty sundress or chic pantsuit. Add these cute Crocs sandals (yes, I said cute and crocks in the same sentence!) or these Hermes dupes, and finish it off with a cute crossbody bag.
• For winter vibes, keep the bodysuit, swap the palazzos for trouser jeans, and grab a suede blazer and some fashion sneakers for a put together look.

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The post Best Breakfast in Nashville: The Buttermilk Ranch first appeared on The Tip Jar.