Nashville
Nashville, the vibrant capital of Tennessee, is just a three-hour drive from Memphis and is my favorite city for a quick getaway. Known as "Music City," Nashville is famed for its rich musical heritage, including the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and numerous live music venues. The city also features a thriving food scene with renowned hot chicken, barbecue joints, and an array of upscale dining options. You can explore the historic Ryman Auditorium, stroll through Centennial Park with its full-scale replica of the Parthenon, and enjoy the nightlife on Broadway. I enjoy staying in the Green Hills area because it's close to the mall and offers many restaurants to try out. My stay at the Courtyard Marriott is always pleasant. Its affordable prices, friendly staff, and inviting ambiance will always keep me coming back. Let’s dive into the exciting things I explored. You should know by now that I am a caffeine and brunch queen.
In Nashville's Germantown area, there's Neighborlily, a special coffee spot where you can sip coffee and make flower bouquets. It's located at 606 Monroe Street and has street parking. When you arrive, you'll be warmly welcomed to a lively scene of people chatting, shopping, and enjoying their coffee. Inside, you'll find dried flowers, candles, and gifts, plus workshops for learning about flowers. Don't miss their Hey Neighbor Latte, with brown sugar syrup and maple whipped cream. It tastes like caramel chocolate.
No Free Coffee is a black-owned coffee shop located in Nashville, TN, next to Slim and Husky's, a black-owned pizza restaurant. Its name humorously acknowledges the reality that coffee isn't free. The shop's appealing aesthetics include a pink glow sign, coordinated color scheme, and glass pink coffee mugs, creating a cozy atmosphere. The spring menu features unique drinks like the Flower Power iced latte, which combines espresso, yuzu, lavender, and tonic water for a refreshing and delightful taste. The welcoming ambiance and attention to detail make No Free Coffee a must-visit spot for coffee enthusiasts.
The Greenhouse Bar in Nashville is located in the heart of Midtown and is famous for its indoor-outdoor ambiance designed to resemble a greenhouse. It features a spacious patio area with plenty of greenery and string lights, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The bar offers a wide selection of cocktails, beers, and spirits, often hosting live music performances and events. It's known for its relaxed vibe, making it a favorite among locals and visitors. I enjoyed my turkey sandwich, chips and coffee. I felt like I was in paradise being surrounded by all the plants.
The Hampton Social in Nashville is a standout among its popular restaurant chain, celebrated for its coastal-inspired ambiance and vibrant atmosphere. Renowned for its 'Rosé All Day' motto, the restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring seafood, salads, and brunch specialties. Its beachy, nautical-themed decor creates a trendy setting ideal for social gatherings. Located in the heart of Nashville, it's perfect for unwinding and savoring a leisurely dining experience. During my visit, I particularly enjoyed the rooftop view overlooking the bridge, along with their delicious pizza, spinach dip, and refreshing rosé mocktails.
Restoration Hardware in Nashville offers a stunning experience. It is known for its luxurious home furnishings and decor, while providing upscale dining options for brunch, lunch, and dinner. One of my favorite items on the menu is their lobster roll, seasoned to perfection with buttery, lightly crisped bread, was a highlight. I also had the half of bird with mashed potatoes for dinner and it was cooked perfectly with a fruit mocktail. The service was exceptional, with our waiter being knowledgeable, respectful, and offering great menu insights.
Nashville's music, food, and neighborhoods always charm me. Exploring places like Ryman Auditorium, local eateries, and cozy coffee spots makes each visit special. Whether relaxing at the Greenhouse Bar or dining at Hampton Social, Nashville offers something memorable every time.