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.

Bars and Restaurants on the Water in Nashville (Waterfront Restaurants)

🍹 Blue Moon Waterfront Grill – tucked away in West Nash, Blue Moon feels like an oasis in the city. 

🍹 Hoppin’ River North – this taproom is absolutely gorgeous and perfect for a casual date or group hang; plus, you can order food from ShakeShack next door. The Cumberland River view is still a bit of a trust the process, but once the riverfront is completed, it’s going to be a beautiful spot.

🍹 Shipwreck Cove – off Bell Road in Nashville, it’s like being transported outside the city, while still within the city limits. 

Honorable Mention: Neuhoff District – although there are no restaurants or bars directly overlooking the water at this point, the whole district sits on the river. So, grab a coffee or a smoothie and find one of the scenic overlooks to park and relax.

The Surrounding Areas

🍹 Amigos by the Dock – taking over where Scoreboard left off, this is a big, fun space in Antioch perfect for the whole crew

🍹 Awedaddy’s – go for the fun atmosphere, stay for what may be the best bushwacker I’ve ever had. In Gallatin. 

🍹 Hoppy’s Harbor Grill – at Fate Sanders Marina in Mt. Juliet. No working website or social media, but there are recent Google reviews, so they appear to still be going strong.

🍹 Moby Dicky’s – another Hendersonville spot, this sports bar is a locals favorite.

🍹  Paddle Dog – the cutest hot dog stand you ever saw, with live music and paddleboards/kayaks to rent in the Westhaven neighborhood of Franklin 

🍹 Papa Turney’s BBQ – good BBQ and good views in Hermitage. Honestly, what more do you need? 

🍹 Riverview Restaurant & Marina – Ashland City is a rural gem that must be protected; and the deck at Riverview is just lovely. 

🍹 The Rudder – Hendersonville’s offering, the outdoor live music is a vibe and the scene is poppin’.

🍹 Sam’s Blue Turtle Bay – I’ve only been to Sam’s in Old Hickory once, and that is a shame, because this place is huge and a great time. And you can catch the game while you’re there!

🍹 Tailgate Hendersonville – You know Tailgate for their pizza and huge local beer menu. Now enjoy their lakeside views, too!

I think it is important to remind everyone that waterfront bars are for the drinks and the vibes. The meals at these restaurants may/may not change your life. But, we’ll all have a great time. 

And if you want to be outside, but being waterfront isn’t a key objective, check out my list of Nashville’s outdoor bars and restaurants!

XO,
SB

The post Bars and Restaurants on the Water in Nashville (Waterfront Restaurants) first appeared on The Tip Jar.

I’m a mimosa girlie, so these spots are specific to mimosas. But I noticed that MANY also offer bottomless bloody Marys, too, so use this as your starting place if you prefer the more savory brunch cocktail.

As always, restaurant offerings change regularly. So, always be sure to double-check before heading out anywhere! (Also, some have a 90-minute or 2 hour time limit, so keep that in mind.)

Sorted by neighborhood (with notes for the ones I’ve specifically tried):

Berry Hill/Melrose:

Fenwicks 300 (not technically bottomless, but they sell $18 carafes, so…)

Big Machine: Technically, vimosas (they’re made with vodka instead of prosecco), they’re yummy whatever you call them, especially when you can create your own from their juice and topping bar. And, the patio is excellent. Brunch 7 days a week!

Downtown:

Boqueria: tapas in a fun environment in 5th & Broadway; great for starting a Broadway day drinking day (also includes a bottomless sangria, bloody, and marg option!)

The Farm House: cozy, farm-to-table spot tucked away downtown (also bloodies and beer’mosas)

Liberty Common: beautiful, French vibes and bottomless mimosas (and bellinis) EVERY DAY (Thurs-Sun)

Stateside Kitchen: a DJ brunch; this one can get quite lively… (Fri-Sun). Bottomless frose and bloodies, too!

Tenn in Holston House: Every day – includes bellinis, too.

East Nashville:

Waymore’s – every day!

Germantown:

Germantown Cafe: You won’t see the word bottomless on the menu, but don’t worry – Germantown Cafe will help you stay well-imbibed, with a fun vibe, delicious food, and bottomless bloody Marys and frose (!!), too – or mix and match! Reservations strongly recommended. 

The Gulch:

Federales: Go for the bottomless food and/or add on the bottomless drinks (mimosas or vodkas). This is definitely a more party vibe as the day goes on with a DJ, so go early if you want a more chill, acoustic experience.

STK: An elevated brunch experience, they have an all-you-can eat brunch experience, as well as bottomless mimosas, bloodies, sangria, and tequila sunrise.  

Hillsboro Village:

Twenty-First – also bloody Mary’s.

Midtown:

Commons Club at the Virgin Hotel: Also bottomless rosé mimosas

Sylvan Park:

Park Cafe: Old school style, great food, a patio with live music – and of course, bottomless mimosas – as well as bloodies, aperol spritz, and beer!

Wedgewood Houston:

Mercado: An afternoon brunch option. Butchertown Hall’s WeHo expansion, Mercado has a great atmosphere and flavored mimosas! PLUS, rooftop dining – and carafes of margs!

Dos Santos: Intimate, but also good for the whole gang, and everything I’ve tried there is delicious!

If you know of any I missed, please let me know, and I’ll add them. Cheers, y’all!

XO,
SB

P.S. Wondering what to wear to brunch in Nash? Here are a few ideas (As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases):

• 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.

P.P.S. Have you seen my post about the BEST Nashville brunches (right now!)?

The post Where to find Bottomless Mimosas (and bloody Marys!) in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

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.

60 Vines – Downtown

Worth the trip downtown, the super high ceilings and natural light, combined with delicious frozé, charcuterie, and pizzas make it an essential add.

1865 Club – North Nash

A speakeasy with gorgeous chandeliers, velvet furniture, and craft cocktails.

Butterlamp – East

Known for their wine and bread – the original girl dinner? 

Cafe Roze – East

Cozy with subtle feminine nods, and an oyster happy hour.

Coral Club – East

Apparently, it looks just like Tulum… I wouldn’t know, but I do know the candle aesthetic and good drinks make for a great GNO. 

Fait La Force – WeHo

A brewery for the girls – or at least one decorated with an elegant, eclectic aesthetic.

Fonda – 12 South

A pink aesthetic with the cutest guac holder you’ve ever seen. 12 South

Love’s Alibi – the Gulch

The Gulch’s newest addition pays tribute to female rock icons

Love & Exile – East

Go for the wine, stay for the frozen drinks, incredible patio, and overall pretty vibe.

Pont Neuf – West Nashville

Named after the bridge in Paris, with dreamy curtains and seating and gorgeous flowers from Amelia’s. 

Sadie’s – Edgehill

Bright and floral with a delicious froze and a whipped feta with pomegranate that cannot be missed.

Now that you know where to go for Girl’s Night Out in Nashville, the only question is…who are you inviting?? Cheers to girlhood and friendship! ✨

XO,
SB

P.S. If you’re looking for more ideas of things to do with the girls, check out my list of Nashville’s best brunches!

The post Where to go for Girls’ Night Out 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.

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.

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.

If it weren’t for Seattle, Music City could easily be renamed Coffee City thanks to the abundance of great, locally-owned coffee shops. While all of these shops provide caffeinated sustenance, not all of them are suitable for working. As Xennials, we’ve got lots to do, and post-pandemic, many of us are working outside of the office more than ever before. (Best Nashville Coffee Shops for Remote Work)

So, here is a list of some of the best coffee shops in Nashville to get things done. To even qualify for this list, a shop must be open until at least 5 pm (aka, the end of the work day). Other factors considered include noise level and availability of outlets, but I left the actual coffee tasting to your discerning palettes.

12 South/Edgehill

Land of A Thousand Hills

The Edgehill location stays open until 9 all week (6 on Sundays) and the back half transforms into a social space at 6 pm.

Downtown

Crema

For those who want the East Nashville experience without crossing the river, Crema might be the place for you. Hipster baristas and customers set the vibe at this trendy store, and the bright natural light and ample seating (including a large patio, if you’ve got a full battery charge) make it a great place for working.

Parking downtown can be tricky, but Crema has a metered lot with free 1.5 hour parking.

(While the Brentwood location is big and also open to 6, it gets so loud and crowded, working there can be a challenge.

East Nash

Living Waters Brewing

One of the most unique options on this list, you can grab a coffee or a beer (I promise I won’t tell!) while you knock out some work. So many options for seating, living room-esque decor, and they’re open until 10 for those night owls who still need to be productive.

It can get quite noisy, so keep that in mind.

Sip Cafe

Located in the Inglewood district of East Nashville, Sip Cafe is an unpretentious shop, both inside and out (although it is in an old bank, complete with teller stations). While there are plenty of outlets, they’re placed a little inconveniently, so keep that in mind. Because it’s also an ice cream shop, Sip is open until 9 which earns it major points, as does the fact that each drink is about a dollar cheaper than at any other shop in Nashville.

Ugly Mugs

Comfy, cozy, and full of people working, Ugly Mugs is an oasis off of bustling Eastland Ave. With all of the East Nash vibes and a full sandwich menu to go along with their inventive drinks, Ugly Mugs is a great place to grab a cup and stay a while.

The Nations/Sylvan Park

The Nations has quickly become one of my favorite areas of town, thanks to the multitude of great food and brewery options and the lack of tourist traffic. And, Sylvan Park has all the old Nashville charm you could ever want. The area also delivers on coffee shops, with three making the “best of” list (and one an honorable mention)!

8th and Roast

The Nations/Sylvan Park installation of this popular Wedgewood coffee shop is bright, big, and full of people of all ages working away. The noise level is usually minimal because most everyone is on their laptop, although they do offer a couple couches and comfy chairs for those needing to meet a client or colleague or to just catch up on some reading.

Dose

Dose is the perfect set-up for working – lots of individual seating with plenty of outlets. And, they offer delicious sandwiches (as well as the usual pastries, etc.), if you need to refuel with food.

In the mornings it can be quite busy and outlet placement isn’t ideal.

Ramblin’ Joes

Ramblin’ Joes is a Memphis-based coffee shop that closes at 4, not technically qualifying for this list. However, they offer FREE PRINTING – up to 10 pages – making them a great working option.

Living Waters Brewing

The more well-lit version of the East Nashville shop, this is a great place to lock in, and refuel with Badluck Burger Club.

South Nashville

The Horn

The Horn is a Somalian café known for their chai and sambusas (phenomenal!). With an outlet at every table, it’s perfect for settling in to crank things out.

The Horn also has a Midtown location, but those hours are more limited.

Primitive 

Open Wed-Sun until 8:30. (Closed Sundays, and open until 5 on Monday/Tuesday.)

Red Bicycle Woodbine

While this popular shop can fill up quickly, and the back-supported seating is limited, they’re open until 7 during the week (!!) and have a great food menu to keep you going.

A little extra: The address is on Nolensville Pike, but there’s no entrance to the parking lot off the main road (just a curb that’s really easy to miss…) Instead, turn onto the cross street, Vivelle Ave., and enter the lot from there.

Wedgewood-Houston

Americano Lounge

Travel back in time to the Jazz Age with this beautiful coffee shop/bar combination. With both well-lit tables and moody seating that fits the ambiance of Houston Station, Americano Lounge is a great place to knock out some work and transition straight into happy hour.

Humphrey’s Street Coffee Co.

Located in a converted old church, Humphrey’s Street Coffee is a bright, airy shop with tons of seating both indoors and outdoors (including a couple of old church pews), and there are plenty of outlets scattered around.

Best of all, Humphrey’s Street is a social enterprise of Harvest Hands, both employing students from South Nashville, as well as reinvesting profits into programs and scholarships. You can find out more about their work at the Humphrey’s Street website, and click over to find a full list of Nashville cause-based businesses here.

The Burbs

Are Bellevue, West Nashville, and Donelson the ‘burbs? Debatable. But, either way, these coffee shops make the drive worth it.

Caliber Coffee

Hip Donelson is slowly starting to live up to it’s name, and Caliber Coffee has a lot to do with that. With inventive drinks and a friendly staff, Caliber is a fun stop for any reason.

Because it is so popular and a smaller space, it can sometimes be crowded which amplifies the noise. If you can handle a little distraction, though (or have good ear buds), they’re open until 8 pm (!!), so you can really knock some things out. And don’t skip the food – Caliber has one of the best (and most affordable) salads in town.

Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee

Although Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee is a small chain, it feels like anything but. Attached to the Cortland West residential complex, Land of a Thousand Hills occupies a beautiful building that gives off major ski-lodge vibes.

Cafe Sperry’s

Tons of parking, tons of seating, and good outlet placements. The back room is super cozy, too, with a library feel and fireplace.

The Well – Bellevue

Another caused-based coffee house, the Well supports clean water initiatives throughout the world – including right here at home after the 2020 tornado. The Bellevue installation is spacious and industrial and less crowded and noisy than its other locations.

Do you frequent any of these coffee shops? Did I miss one of your favorites? Leave me a note and let’s swap tips!

XO,
SB

If you’re looking for some other coffee shops open later, or just a cozy place to chill out, check out my other coffee guides!

The post Best Nashville Coffee Shops for Remote Work first appeared on The Tip Jar.

HiFi – for cookie lovers in East Nashville (the Donelson location has limited hours, so check before you go!), these music themed cookies rotate regularly, and I’ve yet to have a bad one!

Pink Door – they share a common color with Crumbl, as well as frosting and sprinkles. But, these are made fresh right here in Nashville. It’s the perfect neighborhood cookie store in Sylvan Park.

Doug and Dolly’s Cookies – Craving a classic-style cookie in Nashville? These more traditional bakes are a MUST try. The chocolate cherry cookie may have changed my life. Located in Donelson, and run by a couple with a great back story.

The Buttermilk Ranch – if you don’t want to wait for a table at the ever-popular Buttermilk Ranch, their counter service is walk-up. While their pastries rotate so I can’t GUARANTEE cookies, everything in their cases are perfection. So, you’ll win either way. In 12 South.

Sunflower Bakehouse – If you’re searching for gluten-free or vegan cookies in Nashville, Sunflower Bakehouse in Donelson is the place. Their GF kitchen does NOT sacrifice taste – and while you’re there, grab a cupcake parfait. They’re irresistible.

Craving a coffee to go with your cookie? Don’t miss my list of coffee shops (with patios!) to complete your sweet treat!

XO,
SB

The post Cookies That are Better than Crumbl Cookies in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.