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’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.

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.

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.

Nashville – Restaurant Review: Sperry’s

Located near the far West end of Nashville sits classic steakhouse, Sperry’s.

Everything about this cherished spot is nostalgic – from the heavy double-doors into an elaborately decorated lobby, to the fireplaces and dark wood that give the dining area a cozy feel, to the salad bar (yes, a salad bar! With house made dressings!)

This is the type of place to take your parents when they visit. But, don’t be fooled – it’s great for any occasion when you want to enjoy a nice meal without the hustle and bustle of the downtown steakhouses). Also, Dax Shepherd has been there and talked about it on Armchair Experts, so there’s that!

You can expect good service, an extensive wine list (with a very affordable house wine), well-prepared steaks, and a dessert list you can’t skip (the bananas foster flambéed tableside is a crowd pleaser.)

There is a small parking lot that is typically adequate, and Sperry’s also has a business casual dress code. Check out their website for more details.

Reservations are typically required, so make those plans early and enjoy a trip back to a simpler time with delicious food and a cozy ambiance.

XO,
SB

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

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

Nashville – Restaurant Review: Noko

Located at the end of a small shopping center in East Nashville, Noko offers a simplistic aesthetic. But that’s where the simplicity ends, as they do not miss a single detail.

You can expect Asian-inspired, wood-fired small plates (although some dishes are definitely large enough to be eaten as entrees).

Everything on the Noko menu is delicious, but I particularly recommend the district sando (trust me, it is SO much more than a ham and cheese); the Szechuan green beans; and the wagyu brisket.

The cocktail menu has something for every taste – whether you prefer something fruity and Instagrammable (get the Ube colada – the purple one!) to a wagyu fat washed Old Fashioned. Or, if you’re not drinking, they have several craft mocktails to choose from as well.

And whatever you do – always get the dessert! From a house-made Dole whip, to coconut cake and more, a sweet treat will always end your meal on the right note.

Brunch is available on Sundays only and has some crossover with the dinner menu, while also featuring traditional brunch dishes and some Asian-inspired meals.

Reservations are strongly recommended and usually needed a few weeks in advance. But, the patio is always reserved for walk-ins, so if the weather’s nice, you might be able to risk it!

At Noko, the food is delicious and the service is excellent (probably because of the company’s core values that put their people first, providing benefits, allowing them to travel, and otherwise just being good humans). It will always be at the top of my list of Nashville restaurants.

Have you been to Noko? What’s your favorite order?

XO,
SB

You’ll also find Noko on my full list of Nashville places that serve mocktails!

The post The Best Places in Nashville – Restaurant Review: Noko 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.