But if the idea of celebrating with nearly 250K of your closest friends gives you some anxiety (as does the traffic afterwards…), here are some other great ways to celebrate our nation’s birth!

Celebrate at home by placing an All-American catering order with Park Cafe – orders due by noon on July 1!

June 30

​The Keeton​

Keeton Community Wind Ensemble “Music of America” in Donelson

July 1

Birdie’s Wine

Ode to America with 3 Different American Wine Tastings at Lost & Found in East

Two Rivers Mansion

Historic Tours in Celebration of America’s 250th Birthday in Donelson (July 1, 2, and 6)

July 2

Mint Gaming Hall

Family friendly fireworks with food trucks, ice cream, and more in Franklin, KY

Two Rivers Mansion

Historic Tours in Celebration of America’s 250th Birthday in Donelson (July 1, 2, and 6)

July 3

Nashville Shores

Fireworks at the waterpark in Hermitage (they have events Fri-Sun!)

Nashville Sounds

Baseball – as American as apple pie. Maybe even more American as far as folklore goes, but either way, it’s one of my favorite Independence Day past times.

The Sounds kick off a 3 day Independce Weekend run, Friday-Sunday. Each show ends in fireworks, and they have other promotions going, as well, so check them out!

A little extra: If you want to see the fireworks (and the game), but enjoy a more adult atmosphere, Tailgate Brewery and Third and Home have great outdoor patios with views of the field.

Cheekwood

America the Beautiful: National Parks & Landmarks by rail – this is a fun one for all ages, and Cheekwood is always beautiful, of course. Open all weekend in Belle Meade.

Post 82

Stars, Strips, and Community with music, food trucks, kids activities and more in East

Freedom Festival

If you don’t mind a short drive out to the burbs, Hendersonville offers food trucks and vendors, live music, activities for the kids (including princess photo ops!!), and a fireworks show! The fun kicks off at 5 pm and fireworks are scheduled around 9.

Half Batch Brewing

While you’re in Hendersonville, check out the backyard party with music, vendors, and more – plus a view of the city fireworks!

Robertson County Fairgrounds

Head in a different direction to Springfield for Freedom Fest, with music, food trucks, vendors, and more – and fireworks, of course!

July 4

Nashville

Music City 5K

Burn off some of the beer you’re going to drink later with this run/walk through downtown!

Music City Hot Chicken Festival and Fire Truck Parade

This annual free festival brings the heat – literally and figuratively. If you’ve ever wanted to try all of the best hot chicken Nashville has to offer, this is your chance! It’s also the only place in Nashville proper to find a parade on the 4th – so get there early!

Fat Bottom

All Day family-friendly party in the Nations.

White Limozeen

Country pool party (Day party) on the Graduate rooftop in Midtown

East Nashville Beer Works

World Cup, cook out, music and more in East (day party)

Fait La Force

Patriotic cupcake decorating with Hoamsy in WeHo

Red, White, and BOOM

With plenty of activities for the kids, a great view of the downtown fireworks, and easy parking (!!), the Adventure Science Center’s Red, White, and BOOM event is well worth the price of admission! Go early to take advantage of both the museum entry and the special activities.

This will sell out, so don’t procrastinate!

A Fourth of July Celebration at the Pool Club

If you’d still like the rooftop fireworks-viewing experience but not the masses and traffic, this might be the event for you. Right on Music Row, the Pool Club at the Virgin Hotel should be pretty easy to escape without getting too stuck in everyone else leaving downtown.

Pinewood Social

Patio celebration with AYCE backyard cookout, fireworks views, cocktails, music, and more. (Fair warning, traffic getting out of here will likely be tough.)

Pontoon Saloon

View the fireworks from the Cumberland and park at the marina, which is well out of the traffic fray!

Nashville Sounds

The Sounds kick off a 3 day Independce Weekend run, Friday-Sunday. Each show ends in fireworks, and they have other promotions going, as well, so check them out.

Nashville Shores

Hot dog eating contest and Captain America showing at the waterpark in Hermitage (they have events Fri-Sun!)

Tall Tales at Waymore’s

Rooftop fireworks view with hot dogs, cocktails, music, and more in East.

Hampton Inn Capitol View

If the Hampton Inn isn’t your first thought for a party, maybe it should be! Tickets include pool access, live music, and a rooftop view of the fireworks!

General Jackson

Fourth of July cruise – see the fireworks from the water!

Stateside Kitchen

Start the party early with patriotic vibes and bottomless mimosas. (FYI, this is a DJ brunch…it will not be chill.)

Coa

A new rooftop in the Gulch, this party will feature a full performance by Waka Flaka Flame, other live music, firework views, and probaby easier in/out than if you were actually downtown

TN Brew Works

Cookout and live music, in walking distance to the fireworks (and probably a slightly easier exit)

—

If for some reason you do REALLY want to go downtown…Nashville Guru has all the best downtown options. I personally love seeing the Symphony accompany the fireworks from Ascend Amphitheater – but you will not be spared the traffic.

The Burbs

Franklin on the Fourth

Festivities by day downtown (including pets and children’s parades) and fireworks. (Fair warning, this sounds like a fun day, but I expect it will also be quite crowded and have a lot of traffic).

Red, White, and Boom

Music, fireworks, Revolutionary War music & color guard, and fun for the kids in Brentwood

The Nashville Distillery

Fourth of July Party with fireworks, skydivers, food trucks, and more in Whites Creek.

East Nashville Beer Works

Block party with the Lion’s Cage, food trucks, music, and more in Lebanon (day party)

July 5

Nashville Sounds

The Sounds kick off a 3 day Independce Weekend run, Friday-Sunday. Each show ends in fireworks, and they have other promotions going, as well, so check them out.

Nashville Shores

Fireworks at the waterpark in Hermitage (they have events Fri-Sun!)

Monday Night Brewing

Metro Nash Market with Liberty & Vintage For All in Germantown

​City Winery​

Hamilton Sing a Long Brunch Downtown

July 6

Two Rivers Mansion

Historic Tours in Celebration of America’s 250th Birthday in Donelson (July 1, 2, and 6)

Holiday Specials

In addition to all the events listed above, there are typically some holiday specials around town. Check back here for announcements!

Did I miss any? Which event are you most excited about? And if you attend any, please drop some tips for next year below or via email! Happy 4th, y’all! Nashville 4th of July: Things to Do, Fireworks, Concerts & More

XO,
SB

P.S. Did you know I send out a weekly events guide newsletter? In addition to holiday activities, it includes all the Xennial-approved events for the upcoming week (typically 40-50 events!), as well as any future events that have been announced so you can plan ahead. You can sign up here and have it sent directly to your inbox every Monday morning!

P.P.S. Visiting Nashville for the first time? Be sure to check out my packing list for all of your Nashville essentials!

The post Nashville 4th of July: Things to Do, Fireworks, Concerts & More first appeared on The Tip Jar.

More will be added as they’re announced, so be sure to bookmark this page and check back!

*Please note, I’m focusing on parties that will keep you OUT of the downtown fray. So, while there are probably a ton of great parties happening in/around Bicentennial, perhaps check out Nashville Guru for those. Nashville Guru is also a great resource for celebratory dinner seatings.

Daytime Events

If you want to celebrate, but staying out past midnight sounds like a punishment – or you have kiddos – there are a few options during the day on NYE.

East Nashville

East Nashville Beer Works: Noon Year’s Eve with family friendly band in East

The Nations/Sylvan Park

Fat Bottom: Slightly Early NYE: balloon drop at 4 pm in the Nations

Teeline: Family friendly Noon Year’s Eve in the Nations/West Nash

WeHo/South Nashville

Cyanide Cider: Irish NYE with 6 pm countdown in South Nash

Fait La Force: Half New Year’s Eve, 6 pm countdown with London in WeHo

New Heights: Family friendly, 6 pm countdown with London in WeHo

Other Neighborhoods

Bavarian Bierhaus: 6 pm countdown with Munich in Music Valley

Edmondson Pike Branch Library: Noon Year’s Eve party in Crieve Hall-area

Half Batch Brewing: Family friendly, 6 pm countdown with Edinburgh in Hendersonville

Hillside Hangout: NYE with live music (and an early ball drop for the kiddos!) in Mt. Juliet

Kinderland: Dancing People New Year Party from 10-1 pm in Hendersonville

King’s: New Year’s Eve party for the kids (2-5) in Cool Springs

Concerts/Entertainment

Downtown

The Ryman: Old Crow Medicine Show Downtown (30th and 31st)

Tenneessee Beer Works: Grateful Dead tribute pre-game (6-8 pm, so you can escape before things get crazy!)

East

Basement East: My So-Called Band 90s Tribute in East

The Gulch:

Rudy’s Jazz Room: The Get Down with the Wooten Brothers in the Gulch (just be sure to leave going away from Downtown!)

Marathon Village:

Third Coast Comedy: Improv and toast (will end before midnight)

Music Valley

Scoreboard: Nashville Yacht Club Band in Music Valley

Nashville Palace: The Spazmatics in Music Valley

Wedgewood Houston

Vinyl Lounge: Y2K Party in WeHo

Warehouse Residency (exact location TBA): Daft Punk tribute in WeHo

Other Neighborhoods

The Factory: The Smoking Section band and party in Franklin

Hop Springs: Mixtape 1980s tribute in Murfreesboro

Parties

No Cover

(These are also listed under their respective neighborhood – and may not be comprehensive)

Inglewood Lounge: NYE with no cover in East

No Quarter: No cover, live band NYE party in East

Passage Kava Lounge: NYE party in Madison (no cover)

Perfectly Fine: No cover NYE with midnight chambongs in the Nations

Schulman’s: Studio 54 no-cover party in East

Up/Down: No cover NYE party in East

Urban Cowboy: Party Like It’s The End of the World in East (no cover)

East

American Legion Post 82: Square dance and bluegrass jam in East

The Amsterdamian: Disco Royale candle-lit elegant party in East

Cherries: Open bar with a DJ in East

Eleven11: NYE party with DJ in East

Groceries, etc.: NYE Party in East

Inglewood Lounge: NYE with no cover in East

KillJoy: Booze-Free NYE Karaoke with 10 pm countdown in East

Love & Exile: NYE Party in East

No Quarter: No cover, live band NYE party in East

Pearl Diver: Pretty in Pink 80s NYE party in East

Reunion Bar: No cover with throwback vinyl DJ in East

Schulman’s: Studio 54 no-cover party in East

Sid Gold’s: Sing in the New Year with piano karaoke in East

Skinny Dennis: Live Music and two stepping in East

Smith & Lentz: Champs, oyster, shrimp cocktail and more in East (4-9 pm)

Tiger Bar: Knives Out Murder Mystery in East

Up/Down: No cover NYE party in East

Urban Cowboy: Party Like It’s The End of the World in East (no cover)

Waymore’s: Midnight on the Mountain rooftop party in East

The Gulch

Fogg Street Lawn Club: Cabins and ice curling in the Gulch (this is getting a little close to the chaos…but I think you can sneak out of downtown into WeHo without getting stuck!)

Patterson House: NYE Dinner or Midnight Party in the Gulch (again, go out away from downtown!)

The Nations/West Nashville

The Local: Live music party in West End

Perfectly Fine: No cover NYE with midnight chambongs in the Nations

Pont Neuf: Le Reveil – 6-10 pm candlelight party in L&L Market

South Nashville/WeHo/Woodbine

Game Terminal: Games, champagne, and more in South Nash

Mercado: Thursday Dating pre-game party (7-10 pm)

Rosie’s Twin Kegs: Karaoke and champagne toast in South Nash

Other Neighborhoods

Hillside Hangout: NYE with live music (and an early ball drop for the kiddos!) in Mt. Juliet

King’s: New Year’s Eve party in Cool Springs

Passage Kava Lounge: NYE party in Madison (no cover)

Extra Bougie Parties

The Cambria: The Rux rooftop party in Midtown

LA Jackson: Starry Night Black Tie party in the Gulch

Marquee: While I generally recommend avoiding downtown on NYE, the Marquee’s glamourous Big Bang party might be worth it

The Parthenon: Eminence Ball in West End

Virgin Hotel: The Gatsby Gala throughout the hotel in Midtown

White Limozeen: Astral NYE – suspended gravity circus in Midtown

New Year’s Day

If you still have energy after all that revelry, the party continues on New Years Day! For a full list of brunches, check out Nashville Guru.

Cedarmont Farm: Yoga and sound bath with Papermoon Wellness in Franklin

Nicky’s Coal Fired: New Year’s Day pizza party (and chance to win pizza for a year!) in the Nations

With so many options of things to do in Nashville for New Year’s Eve in 2025, now the only question is, how do we choose??

Thank you all for being here this year, and I look forward to so many more great things in 2026! Happy New Year to all!

XO,
SB

P.S. If you’re not doing dry January, then keep the New Year celebrations going this weekend with bottomless mimosas!

The post Things to do in Nashville for New Year’s Eve in 2025 first appeared on The Tip Jar.

One of my favorite things about Nashville is how much we collectively love a good happy hour. Unfortunately, some of the specials end so early, a working Xennial can’t take advantage of the deals. But, there are some happy hours after 5 pm in Nashville!

Of course, be sure to check hours and specials with the restaurant before heading out. Specials change ALL the time.

*A note about this list. I only included restaurants/bars that had specials at least Monday-Thursday or every weeknight they’re open. For a comprehensive list of happy hours, Nashville Guru will always be king.

5:30 pm

Depending on traffic, this 5:30 group might still be hard to make if you clock out at 5. But, I’ve included a couple just in case.

The Nations/Sylvan Park:

Streetcar – Sylvan Park

6:00 pm

12South:

Bartaco – 12South (Bar only)

Burger Up – 12 South (Sun-Fri)

Belle Meade/Bellevue:

Sperry’s – Bar only

Berry Hill/Melrose:

Common Ground – Both locations

Donelson:

Darfons – Donelson (M-Sa; closed Sunday)

Nectar Cantina – Donelson

Downtown:

Assembly Food Hall – Downtown (Fifth & Broadway)

Black Rabbit – Downtown

Blue Sushi Sake Grill – Downtown (Fifth + Broadway) – all day on Sunday!

Boqueria – Downtown (Fifth + Broadway)

Corner Pub – Downtown

Ellington’s – Downtown (M-Th, bar only)

The Farm House – Downtown/SoBro (Tues-Sat at the bar)

Puckett’s – Downtown

Tennessee Brew Works – Downtown-ish

East:

Cafe Roze – East Nash

Lockeland Table – East Nash

Love and Exile Bar – East Nash

Lyra – East Nash

Treehouse – East Nash

Edgehill/Hillsboro:

Sadie’s – Edgehill (M-Th, bar & patio seating only)

Germantown:

Barrel Proof – Germantown

Bearded Iris – Both locations

Germantown Pub – Germantown

Henrietta Red – Germantown (Every day)

Jonathan’s Grille – Germantown (Honestly, their specials are all over the place, with different ending times. So, just check the website where you’ll also find some all-day happy hour specials.)

Sonny’s Patio Pub & Refuge – Germantown

Von Elrod’s – Germantown (Specials not offered during events at First Horizon)

Waldo’s Chicken & Beer – Germantown (Specials also offered all day Tuesday and Sunday)

The Gulch:

Hops & Crafts – The Gulch

Joe Muer – The Gulch

Otaku Ramen – The Gulch only. Every day.

St. Anejo – The Gulch

STK Nashville – The Gulch (Starts at 2:30)

Sunda – The Gulch

Green Hills:

Char – Green Hills (lots of food specials)

North Italia – Green Hills (bar only)

Midtown:

Avo – Midtown/West End (OneCity)

Henley – Midtown (Su-Th)

Jasper’s – Midtown (bar area only)

Ruth’s Chris – Midtown

The Nations:

Fat Bottom – The Nations

North Nashville/Marathon:

A-Roi – North Nashville

Grandpa Bar – North Nashville

Sylvan Park:

Answer – Sylvan Park (bar top only)

Bearded Iris – Both locations

Common Ground – Both locations

Lola – Sylvan Park (every day (closed Tuesday); bar area only)

Miel – Sylvan Park ($5 specials on food and drinks!)

Otto’s Bar – Sylvan Park

Park Cafe – Sylvan Park

PennePazze – Sylvan Park (HH ends at 5:30 on Friday)

Wedgewood Houston:

West End:

Avo – Midtown/West End (OneCity)

Springwater – West End (starts at 3, Sunday-Thurs; beer/cash only)

Multiple Locations:

Las Palmas – All locations starting at 2, Mon-Fri

M.L. Rose – All locations (Additionally, each location offers 2-for-1 til close on a different day)

6:30 pm

Downtown:

Acme – Downtown/So Bro (M-Th, 1st and 2nd floors only)

Etch – Downtown (Bar area only)

East:

Noko – Includes snacks and drinks (Bar only)

Germantown:

Germantown Cafe – Germantown (Bar area only; extends to 9 pm on Mondays!)

7:00 pm

12South:

Embers Ski Lodge – 12South (Everyday!)

Downtown:

sidebar – Downtown in the Bode hotel (one of my favorite bars)

Stateside Kitchen – Downtown (M-Th)

Donelson:

Party Fowl – Donelson (the Gulch location until 6 pm)

Phat Bites – Donelson

East:

The Amsterdamian – East

Coral Club – East

Plane Jane – East Nash (Specials run all day Tuesday)

Reunion Bar – East Nash

The Gulch:

Sambuca – The Gulch (Bar area)

Melrose/Berry Hill:

Midtown/Elliston Place:

Corner Bar – Midtown/Elliston Place

I Love Sushi – Midtown/Elliston Place

The Slider House – Midtown (As befitting Midtown, HH starts at 11 am, so you can have a happy lunch hour, too. Food specials run until 6.)

South Nash:

Game Terminal – South Nash

Sylvan Park:

The Ridge – West Nash

A little extra: while their drink happy hour is every day (and all day Sunday!), get there early Monday-Friday and from 2-5, get 20% off apps!

West End:

The Local – West End

Stoney River – West End

Multiple Locations:

Neighbor’s – All locations

Beyond

Green Hills:

The GreenHouse Bar – Happy All Day menu

Wedgewood Houston:

Never, Never – Wedgewood-Houston (8 pm)

Did I miss any of your favorites? Do you have any extra tips on the ones listed above? Comment below and fill us in!

XO,
SB

P.S. If you’re an espresso martini lover, check out my guide to Nashville espresso martinis! They might not be on special, but they’ll be worth it!

The post Happy Hours after 5 pm in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

While most any bartender would be glad to throw a little cranberry juice into club soda, the following bars and restaurants are very friendly to non-drinkers, offering at least three mocktail/zero proof cocktail options so everyone can still have a fun, delicious (and Instagramable!) drink.

12 South

Buttermilk Ranch

Of course the very trendy BMR has plenty of juices, coffees, and ice cream shakes/floats to choose from. But, they also offer several craft mocktails – in addition to their impressive alcoholic beverages menu. Just be sure to go at an off-time or get on the wait list early! It’s popular for a reason.

Downtown/SoBro

City Winery

City Winery is obviously known for, well, wine. But, they also offer an impressive cocktail list, which includes quite a few inventive zero proof cocktails.

Mimo

Mimo is the flagship restaurant in the Four Seasons. Their cocktail list is extensive, creative, and inclusive – it includes 3 mocktails (and a non-alcoholic beer thrown in!).

Oak Steakhouse

The swanky steakhouse downtown offers five mocktail selections – some with zero proof liquor, some just with fun, tasty ingredients.

Pushing Daisies

This underground margarita bar is a vibe. It simultaneously gives speakeasy and Vegas club – a rare combo. But have no fear if you’re not a tequila drinker or a drinker of anything for that matter. They have three different craft cocktails that will both taste delicious and save you quite a bit of money over the stronger stuff.

Yolan

Located in the Joseph hotel, Yolan is a fine dining experience with a seasonal menu that includes several mocktail options. Be sure to follow their socials for special events, including tastings and pasta making courses.

East Nash

The Fox Bar and Cocktail Club

The Fox is a dramatic step back in time, and its menu is designed to fit the ambience. But, among all the Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, you’ll also find an impressive trio of craft non-alcoholic cocktails so good the liquor will not be missed.

KillJoy

Not a bar, but any mocktail list would be remiss without an inclusion of Killjoy, Nashville’s only N/A bottle shop! You can find non-alcoholic beer, wine, “liquors”, mixers, and even some small gifts!

Noko

Everything Noko does is excellent. That’s all that really needs to be said.

Sid Gold’s Request Room

Sid Gold’s hosts arguably the most creative, fun events in town, and thanks to an inventive non-alcoholic cocktail list, everyone can join in the fun!

Edgehill

Old Glory

One of New Nashville’s originally speakeasies, Old Glory was early on the craft cocktail train. While they only offer two zero-proof cocktails, they also carry kombucha and Liquid Death water, so you can look like you’re drinking a beer, anyway.

A little extra: If you’ve not been to Old Glory, here’s a tip – the entrance is in the alley off of Edgehill and behind Sadies, Bella Napoli, etc. There is no sign, but there is a gold triangle that marks the door.

Sadie’s

Another favorite of mine, Sadie’s has got to be one of the prettiest restaurants in Nashville – and their margarita is one of the best. While they only offer two zero-proof drinks, Sadie’s also features two low-proof options. So, if you want to indulge very moderately, you’re in luck!

Germantown

Le Loup

When the menu is basically just oysters and cocktails, you know the drinks are going to be good. But, Le Loup doesn’t leave the designated drivers out of the fun! Their menu includes four zero proof cocktails, and in true craft cocktail fashion, I don’t even know what half of the ingredients are!

Green Hills

The GreenHouse Bar

The GreenHouse is one of the most original bars I’ve ever been to. Despite being in the middle of the Green Hills hustle and bustle, when you step inside the GreenHouse (literally in a green house), you’re transported to an oasis full of plants and cozy nooks for seating. They offer four different mocktails, so there’s something for everyone’s taste.

The Gulch

Proof

Located at the top of the W hotel, Proof offers great views, a great Happy Hour, and mocktail options (which are included in the HH specials!)

Sylvan Park

Lola

Lola is the stuff of Spanish tapas dreams. Warm, intimate, and featuring a rotating drink menu that includes both cocktails and mocktails, everyone can enjoy a unique, seasonal drink.

West End

Avo

Avo is not only one of the healthiest restaurants in Nashville, it’s also one of the most inventive. Their drink menu has lots of alcoholic choices, of course, but several mocktail selections, as well as kombucha, sparkling tonic, CBD drinks, and several other NA options.

Multiple Locations

Common Ground

Common Ground has locations in Sylvan Park and Berry Hill, featuring a great happy hour, the most delicious boursin toast you can imagine, and several craft mocktails and a N/A beer that rivals any of their harder stuff (which is also delicious).

Southern Grist

I love a good brewery, and I love a good brewery that caters to all types of customers. Southern Grist does just that with their non-alcoholic beer options! As with their regular beer options, varieties may vary, so be sure to check their website or socials for the latest at both their East Nash and the Nations taprooms.

The Burbs

Darfons

Darfons just keeps making every list, y’all! This Donelson mainstay has a great happy hour, is diet-friendly, and features three different delicious craft mocktails on their extensive cocktail list. Hip Donelson is where it’s at!

Pinky Ring Pizza

Just up Gallatin into Madison is a new pizza joint that has SO much to love. But, most exciting of all, it was designed with sobriety in mind. Currently, they offer about 10 non-alcoholic beers, with N/A wines and mocktails soon to follow! Nashville Scene did a great write-up of the new spot – it’s definitely worth a read (and a visit!)

Did I miss any? Where is your favorite spot for a mocktail – or do you have a special recipe yourself? Leave us a tip below, or shoot me an email!

XO,
SB

If you’re abstaining from alcohol for health reasons, you may want to also check out this guide to healthy restaurants in Nashville!

The post Places that Serve Mocktails in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

So, by request, below is your guide to restaurants, bars, and breweries that are open on Monday (some are closed on Tuesday instead, though, so I’ve noted that where applicable).

12 South

bartaco

Burger Up

Downtown

1 Kitchen

Assembly Food Hall

Blanco Cocina and Cantina

Blue Sushi Sake Grill

Boqueria

Calacas

Tennessee Brew Works

Etch

Hampton Social

Husk

Oak Steakhouse

Sixty Vines

Stateside Kitchen

East Nash

The 5 Spot

Attaboy

Bay 6

Cafe Roze

East Nashville Beer Works

The Fox Bar and Cocktail Club

Jane’s Hideaway

Lockeland Table

Love and Exile

The Pharmacy

Rock’n Dough Pizza and Brewery (Dickerson Pike location only)

Sid Golds’ (closed Tuesday)

Xiao Bao (closed Tuesday/Wednesday)

Edgehill

Barcelona Wine Bar

Sadie’s

Germantown

312 Pizza Co

5th and Taylor

Butchertown Hall

Germantown Cafe

Monday Night Preservation Co.

Mother’s Ruin

Pelato

Sonny’s Patio Pub & Refuge

Green Hills

Char

etc.

The GreenHouse Bar

True Food

The Gulch

404 Kitchen

Carne Mare

Marsh House

Proof

Saint Anejo

Sambuca

STK Nashville

Sunda New Asian

Virago

Midtown/Hillsboro Village

Halls Chophouse

Jasper’s

The Patterson House

The Nations

Midnight Oil Pizza

Nicky’s Coal Fired

Sylvan Park

Answer

Lola (Closed Tuesday)

Park Cafe

West End

The Local

Wedgewood Houston

Bastion (Big bar only)

Never Never

New Heights Brewing Company

Multiple Locations

Bearded Iris

Edley’s Bar-B-Que

Emmy Squared

M.L. Rose

Martin’s BBQ

Otaku Ramen

Party Fowl

Southern Grist

Tailgate Brewery

Did I miss one of your favorites? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll be sure to add it.

As always, be sure to check with the restaurant before heading out, as hours are subject to change. Happy Monday!

XO,
SB

P.S. For a bonus, cross-check this list with my guide to happy hours after 5 – and save some money while you Monday dine!

The post Places Open on Mondays in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

I recognize that a significant proportion of my followers are women, which I think is probably true of most city-centric platforms.

But, I really try to be inclusive of all different types of people, tastes, interests, etc – just because we are all Gen X’ers, Xennials, or Elder Millenials doesn’t mean we’re all alike.

So, this one’s for the dudes. I really appreciate y’all sticking around, despite the florals and pink drinks that so often grace my feed, and Nashville has plenty of more masculine places to hang, from meat and beer joints to live music to a more sophisticated night on the town. Here’s to guys’ night!

*Links to everything coming soon (and some photos), but I ran out of time, y’all! For now, you’ll have to google.

Food

These spots offer great bites, cold drinks, and usually something else to do while you’re hanging out.

Baja Burrito – Baja Burrito is just one of my favorite spots in Nashville. No frills, just really, really good made-to-order food (think Chipotle, but so much better).

Bringle’s – Barbecue and an outdoor space with HUGE screens and lawn games – I rest my case. They also post on their socials which games they’ll be showing on the big screens and/or with sound, so you can know going in.

Brown’s Diner – a Nashville institution, Brown’s offers good burgers, cold beer, and live music most nights. It’s in a trailer (that they recently added a patio to – swanky!), so it’s definitely giving dive.

Earnest – channel your inner Ernest Hemingway and order a rum drink at this restaurant that was originally designed with the author in mind.

Joyland – if you miss the days of grabbing a burger after the game with some buds, Joyland is the spot for you. It’s modern-old school in the best ways possible.

Martin’s Downtown – TBH, Martin’s is not my favorite bbq in town (everyone’s got their own fave, so don’t get mad!). But the space at the downtown location is tough to beat, especially for groups.

Midnight Oil – I made the mistake of ordering a Midnight Oil pizza for myself one time. Each slice was the size of my head – and it was delicious. Another no-frills spot that’s a great local hang in the Nations.

M.L. Rose – similarly to Martin’s, ML Rose is not my favorite burger. But, they are one of my favorite spots for watching a game, hanging on the patio (shout out Sylvan Park location), or grabbing a beer with some friend – they have some of the best beer specials.

Nashville Jam Co. – for a brunch worthy of even the heartiest man, check out Nashville Jam Company where the food is great, the portions are huge, and the mimosas are served in 16 oz. tumblers!

The Ridge – now this is one of my favorite bbq places in town, and it’s off the beaten path, so you never have to wait long for your food. Huge portions and lots of drink specials if you time it right.

Rock’N Dough – you know I love Rock’N Dough, but here’s why it’s great for guys night – a GIANT screen for whatever the game of the night is, tons of space, over 150 whiskeys, and craft beer brewed at their flagship location in West Tennessee. Oh, and good pizza.

Streetcar – this new spot on Charlotte Ave. has all the makings of Sylvan Park/the Nations’ new favorite neighborhood hang. Its outdoor beer garden with picnic tables is perfect for a night out with the boys.

Scoreboard – good, old fashioned bar food, reasonably priced drinks, and live music or sports (or both!) while you eat. The enclosed outdoor space has a tiki bar vibe all year round.

Twilight Tavern – one of the best places to watch sports, Twilight Tavern has a zillion TVs and its seldom overly crowded. Their bar food is some of the best in town, IMO, and they offer 2-4-1 drafts on Sundays. ON SUNDAYS!

Von Elrod’s – a beer garden with a ton of German (and other) beers on tap, as well as German-inspired bar food. Plus, their community style seating is just a fun time.

Drinks

While some of these spots might have some small snacks, they’re really more known for the beverages.

Americano Lounge – Americano Lounge is a Jazz Era vibe, and whether you’re wanting cocktails or coffee, they’ve got it covered. Pairs well with Earnest, just down the street.

Brew Hop – maybe more of a guys’ day than a guys’ night activity, Brew Hop will take you and your crew around to 7 different breweries, and you can hop on and off all day. They also offer a locals’ discount – use code “LOCAL615” for $6.15 off your ticket.

Embers Ski Lodge – Embers has great HH specials and just a fun vibe. Some good snacks, too (the coconut shrimp, omg).

Never Never – this is probably the coolest “dive” I’ve ever been to. The walls are painted black and it looks like a hole in the wall from the outside, yet they serve delicious cocktails (and beer, of course) and have a great outdoor space, in front and in the back.

New Heights – I probably could have put every brewery in Nashville on this list, honestly – there are a ton and they’re all good. I love New Heights, though. Warehouse-y, creative brews, and a very loyal mug club make this a great spot for a chill bro hang.

Patterson House – PH is the type of spot that makes me want to smoke a cigar – speakeasy feels and craft cocktails, it’s the essence of cool.

Urban Cowboy – this bar was the first place I ever experienced a pretentious “mixologist”. But, that’s how you know the drinks are good. The space is cool and gives Western vibes, and the outdoor firepit adds to the ambiance.

Activities

When you just want to get out and burn some energy, with or without food/drinks, these places have you covered.

The Basement East – you’ll have to wait for a show for this one, but this place is literally named the Beast. It doesn’t get much less feminine than that. They have all kinds of fun shows that appeal to a variety of genres, ages, genders, and tastes.

HQ Arcade – Nashville has several arcades, which is just so fun. HQ has historically been one of my faves because of the vibe, extensive draft list, and old school arcade and pinball games. But, No Quarter and Game Terminal are other great options.

McCabe Golf Course – another guys’ day option, book yourself a tee time at McCabe Golf Course. But almost every man I’ve ever met raves about it whenever Sylvan Park comes up. So, I take that as a good sign.

Pins Mechanical – pin bowling, giant beer pong, giant Jenga, pinball machines and more, Pins Mechanical is just a giant, fun, loud playground.

Santa’s Pub – a trailer that sells cash-only beer ($2.50 PBRs, last time I was there, although inflation may have raised the price) and offers the best karaoke in town, Santa’s Pub is a must. But, go early or on an off-day to avoid the crowds.

Tee Line – part sports bar, part curling facility, Tee Line offers sports you can play, sports you can watch, and food and drink to refuel after either/both.

Zanies – friends who laugh together, stay together. Or something like that. Zanies brings in some of the top level talent in the comedic game. And, on Mondays, you can hear new material from a variety of folks, so you never know what you’ll get!

So, there you have it! I will admit that I ran my initial list past one of my guy friends, so many of these additions are his suggestions – still vetted by me, though!

Did I/we miss any? Leave us a tip below, and cheers!

XO,
X

The post Guide to Guys’ Night! first appeared on The Tip Jar.

As much as I love a good bargain (and I do!), as I’ve gotten older, I value putting my money where it can do additional good – even if that may cost slightly more. I suspect that many Xennials feel this way (after all, Millenials are the TOMS generation!)

So, if you’d like to put your money to good use AND come away with something for yourself (really, what better bargain is there?), here are a few places around town where you can do just that.

Coffee

Crest Coffee

Although Crest Coffee is next door to a church, it is it’s own unique entity, serving Nashville by partnering with a different community organization each month. Not only does Crest Coffee give back, but their coffee is also completely donation-based, allowing everyone in the community to have the benefit of a good cup o’ joe.

Humphreys Street Coffee

Humphreys Street Coffee in Wedgewood-Houston is a social enterprise of Harvest Hands CDC and employs area youth, giving them not only jobs, but also mentoring opportunities, trainings, and skills that go beyond the workplace. 100% of their profits are reinvested into programs and scholarships that support students. “Our expectation is that the students we employ will transform and impact their own neighborhood in positive ways.”

They also happen to be one of my favorite spots for remote work, and the space itself is a beautiful, light-filled converted former church.

Land of a Thousand Hills

Land of a Thousand Hills coffee in West Nashville has a more global focus. Their Do Good Initiative not only sustainably sources coffee from Rwandan farmers, but also provides health care, schools, and other programs for those farming communities.

The Well

Another favorite spot of mine, the Well uses their profits to help fund clean water projects in the countries from which they source their coffee. But, they don’t forget about their local community either, having partnered with several initiatives to provide clean water and services to those impacted by the 2020 tornado. And, with several locations around Nashville, you’re never too far away to do a little good.

Food/Drink

Christie Cookie Co.

A Nashville original, Christie Cookies are delicious AND they give back, locally and nationally! Check out their “For a Cause” page to see all the special edition cookies you can order to support various organizations.

A little extra: Did you know Christie Cookie Co. is the creator of the DoubleTree cookie?? If you’ve ever stayed at a DoubleTree, you know that is one of the best cookies on the planet!

The Cookery

From their website, “the Cookery is a nonprofit restaurant, cafe, caterer, and event space that trains formerly homeless men in the Culinary Arts to prepare them for employment in Nashville’s food industry.” They are open most days for breakfast and lunch and have a convenient location just beyond the busy district of 12South.

Etch

You know the roasted cauliflower at Etch is delicious. But did you also know that $1 from each order goes towards Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee? A few years ago, it was reported that Etch donated $17,000 dollars from their cauliflower proceeds! You can find Etch in SoBro – and on my guide to happy hours after 5!

Tennessee Brew Works

Every Sunday, Tennessee Brew Works donates $1 from every pint to a local charity or non-profit. Their chosen partner changes quarterly, so follow their Instagram for the latest partner. Sunday Funday and Sunday Give-Back-Day? I’m in.

The Café at Thistle Farms

For over 25 years, “Thistle Farms has lit a pathway of healing and hope for women survivors of trafficking, prostitution, and addiction.” The Cafe is one way to support this beautiful mission, as it provides employment for those Thistle Farms serves, as well as an entrepreneurial stream for the organization’s mission (including safe housing, therapy, legal services, and more).

The food is delicious, the service friendly, the space lovely and inviting. It’s a special place.

Shops

ABLE

As beautiful as any boutique in Nashville, Able’s mission is to empower women by providing living wages, ensuring on-the-job safety, and working for equality. They partner with vendors who share that mission and are seeking to bring about change in the fashion industry – at home, and around the world.

Ten Thousand Villages

Although not unique to Nashville, Ten Thousand Villages is one of the leaders in fair-trade merchandising, offering unique gifts from around the world. Their mission is to ensure makers earn a fair, living wage in safe working conditions, to invest in partnerships that empower women and communities, to celebrate diverse cultures, all while caring for the earth.

Project 615

Project 615 t-shirts and hats have become nearly ubiquitous with Nashville, and it’s easy to see why! With soft fabric, high quality printing, and catchy slogans (my personal favorite is “I climbed Mt. Juliet”), what’s not to love? Plus, since they started in 2010, Project 615 has donated nearly $1,000,000 to world-changing causes and local non-profits. They live our their most well-known t-shirt every day and “Spread Love. It’s the Nashville Way.”

Thistle Farms

You can read about the mission above, but the shop is just as worth a visit as the café! Gorgeous hand made accessories, deliciously scented soaps and candles, and a full line of natural bath products, Thistle Farms is the best place to treat yourself or find some gifts – while also supporting their incredible programs.

Other

The Listening Room

At least monthly, The Listening Room hosts Sound Good, Do Good – donating the cover charges from the events to non-profits or people in need. Check their calendar or socials for the next opportunity to give back while hearing some of the best music in town!

The Russell and the Gallatin Hotel

The Russell and its sister hotel, the Gallatin, both offer unique, boutique stays in East Nashville. The Russell is in a beautiful, reclaimed church with gorgeous stained glass windows. The Gallatin is also a reclaimed church, but it has a more eclectic feel with a different color scheme per floor (that carries down to the room refrigerators!). But, even better, much of their proceeds support local homeless ministries, with the Russell’s website estimating that the average stay provides 16 beds and meals at local shelters. So, whether you are on a staycation or have friends coming to visit, be sure to put the Russell and the Gallatin at the top of the list of places to stay!

Nashville is such a giving community, I feel almost certain that I missed something on this list. Did I? Please send me an email or drop us a tip below if so! And leave a comment to let us know your favorite way to shop and give back!

XO,
SB

The post Guide to Cause-Based Businesses first appeared on The Tip Jar.