2016 Nashville Local Gift Guide

I sat down to chat with fabulous local trainer to the stars (ahem. Carrie Underwood), Erin Oprea, who recently released her first book The 4x4 Diet. Outlining her diet, exercises (most of which you can do on-the-go), meal plans and recipes -- the book is a perfect solution for anyone looking to streamline their waistline + lifestyle. Our chat covers Erin's personal faves of how you can be social and still be healthy in Nashy. Want legs like Ms. Underwood? Read on. What inspired you to go…

your insider guide for a local perspective on nashville, tennessee.

Dave Barnes is the total package. Funny, genuine, incredibly good looking, and man he can write (+ sing) a song. I was thrilled to sit down with him recently to discuss his upcoming headlining Ryman show (tickets available here), new album Carry on San Vicente, and of course his Nashville faves. How about we dive right on in? EN: Tell me a bit about the process of writing and recording Carry On, San Vicente. The story behind it, if you will. DB: It's crazy to say, this is my 14th if you…

your insider guide for a local perspective on nashville, tennessee.

Well hey y'all! I wanted to start posting thoughts I have here and there so fellow locals (and non-locals) can have a few ideas of what to do for night out on the town with friends. I, for one, oftentimes struggle coming up with eventful ideas so as they happen in my world -- I'll jot them down for you. Let's start with what we did last Saturday eve. Escape Experience Nashville I've heard rumblings over the past year or two of Escape Games happening in Nashville -- yet never had the lovely…

Josephine is definitely not a newby to our ever-so-bustling restaurant scene in town, and has long held a top spot on my favorite brunches list (because, sticky buns). However, dinner service has always left me wanting a bit... more. Until now. Thanks to a lovely friend for gifting a Community Hospitality gift card over the holidays, we decided to venture back to Josephine on a random weekday night, and y'all. I couldn't have been more delighted. First, we did not have a reservation—which we…

Josephine is definitely not a newby to our ever-so-bustling restaurant scene in town, and has long held a top spot on my favorite brunches list (because, sticky buns). However, dinner service has always left me wanting a bit... more. Until now. Thanks to a lovely friend for gifting a Community Hospitality gift card over the holidays, we decided to venture back to Josephine on a random weekday night, and y'all. I couldn't have been more delighted. First, we did not have a reservation—which we…

Josephine is definitely not a newby to our ever-so-bustling restaurant scene in town, and has long held a top spot on my favorite brunches list (because, sticky buns). However, dinner service has always left me wanting a bit... more. Until now. Thanks to a lovely friend for gifting a Community Hospitality gift card over the holidays, we decided to venture back to Josephine on a random weekday night, and y'all. I couldn't have been more delighted. First, we did not have a reservation—which we…

Now that Summertime is officially upon us here in Nashville, where are the must-stops in and around town for staying cool? Here's a little list of great ideas that will help you cool down as the temps continue to go up! Bobbie's Dairy Dip A Nashville staple for over 60 years, this needs to be a priority on your summer to-do list. Don't miss the soft-serve ice cream, available in vanilla, chocolate, or twist— available dipped in delicious chocolate. Other favs include the sweet potato fries…

Y'all. Tis the time to be in Nashville. Downtown's Goo Goo Shop is kicking off their “Goo Goo Summer Chef Series” this week. So, Goo Goo + my favorite chefs in town? I don't even know where to start. Let's just go with I am truly overwhelmed, but in oh-so-the-best way possible. Here's a quick rundown of those participating: Matt Bolus – 404 Kitchen Karl Worley – Biscuit Love Brunch Maneet Chauhan – Chauhan Ale & Masala House Deb Paquette – Etch Hal Holden-Bache – Lockeland Table Dale…

Everyone loves a special night with their significant other, bestie, or soul mate (or all of the above) - but, this special night out doesn't necessarily need to break the bank. Below, I present to you my best effort for a budget-friendly and fabulous night out in Nashville. Why, you ask, do most of these establishments make the cut? A combination of specials, BYOB options, creative factor, and overall cheapness round out my overall criteria. Onward. Mas Tacos Por Favor Wednesday, Thursday…

If you're like me - you are quite excited about summertime in Nashville—and the oh so many perks that come along with this glorious season. The month of May brings upon us many of my faves— ice cream at Bobbie's Dairy Dip, fresh Tennessee Strawberries at the Farmers Market, and perhaps most excitingly, the freshest, most delicious peaches I've ever had— from one of my most obsessed-over local brands: The Peach Truck. I recently sat down with one of The Peach Truck owners, Stephen Rose, at…

We are so fortunate to live in a city consistently raising the bar when it comes to our dining scene. Southern Living Mag has just released their 100 Best Restaurants in the South, with so many Nashville spots making the cut. Congrats to 404 Kitchen leading the way with the number 3 spot. 404 Kitchen's Crudo, Image courtesy SouthernLiving.com And here are the rest, in no particular order: Capitol Grill City House Husk Lockeland Table Pinewood Social Catbird Seat Rolf & Daughters What do you…

Brunch brunch brunch. Oh, how I love thee. As Nashville continues to grow, thankfully, so do our brunch and breakfast options. Brunch is possibly my favorite meal of the week for several reasons: It's the weekend, I can day drink and it's okay, and I love French Toast. Disclaimer: I hear there are several new places on the horizon (and a couple I have yet to try) so this list is most definitely fluid. That said, in no particular order, here are my current picks for best brunch in Nashville…

I'm a firm believer that in order for your business to be as successful as possible, you have to immerse your customers in the ultimate 'experience': The most minute details can often be the most important ones and simply cannot be missed. The ambiance, level of service, and the quality of the product itself are all crucial elements in your customers' overall satisfaction and in turn making them repeat visitors. I'm so grateful to live in a city where so many of our restaurants, shops, and…