Category: Tennessee

It doesn’t matter if you have been to Broadway a hundred times or visiting for the first time – the sounds of country music pull you in every direction. Where do you start? It can be so overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be because you can’t go wrong with any choice. So just follow the crowds and see where they lead you.

On my adventure, I was lead to Honky Tonk. It’s 3 levels of open windows and balconies – reminding me of a place in the French Quarter in New Orleans.

As soon as I walked in I was greeted to my first live band – playing a Florida/Georgia Line hit song. Already I knew the vibe was going to be fun. Tons of people dancing and singing on the dance floor, with many more surrounding the bar.

I danced my way over to the bar to order something – but I wanted something new, since traveling to me is all about trying something new. I asked the bartender what she recommended and her suggestion was a “Bushwacker”. After laughing at the name, I tried it an WOW – it was like a chocolate frosty – but the adult version. It was perfect for a hot afternoon. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys something sweet.

Now that I had my drink I started exploring. I headed up to the 2nd floor. To my surprise there was a completely different band playing, and it wasn’t country music. They were covering a wide variety of artists. Plus the 3rd floor offered yet another option for live music.

I worked my way over to the balconies since this is what grabbed my attention outside. Let me just say AMAZING! The view was a spectacular way to see up and down Broadway.  All the people, car, and neon lights – right there in front of you. Other people on the balcony were yelling down at the people on the sidewalks – all that was missing was the Mardi Gras beads. Just in my 30 minutes there I counted 5 bachelorette parties and 1 bachelor party.

If you love people watching and listening to live music you have to check this place out. Go to their website: www.honkytonkcentral.com to see the music schedule.

Enjoy!

T

 

Having to be at a convention when you are in Nashville is kind of a bummer – but being close to great places for lunch helps. Just a quick walk from the convention center to Church Street I found Puckett’s Grocery. The crowd of patrons eating outside was a clear indication that I picked the right place.

I was hungry but didn’t know that I wanted. As I walked thru the big wooden door, the first thing I saw was the specials blackboard with the daily special of a southern favorite – FRIED CHICKEN.  I knew right away that I had to try this. The breading was crispy and kept in all moisture so that the chicken stayed nice and juicy.

Puckett’s also had a great drink menu with several original creations. I decided to try the “Nashcow Mule” – which was made with gin from the local distillery (Corsair), grapefruit juice, ginger ale, & St. Germain. It was so refreshing with the taste of the grapefruit juice that it made me feel like I should be sitting on a beach.

Check out their website at: www.puckettsgro.com

Enjoy!

T

   

A friend of mine who works in Nashville told me I had to try Arnold’s the next time I was in town. I was warned that I needed to get there early for lunch because they are known for long-lines out the door.

Arnold’s is the classic southern Meat & 3 place (but I ended up getting the smaller version, Meat & 2). I was lucky to be there on a Friday because one of their menu items was chicken and dumplings. I knew I had to try this since I have loved chicken and dumplings ever since my dad had me try them on a trip to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee when I was younger.

It came in a nice size bowl and not a single drop was left because I used the home made corn bread to wipe the bowl. They had so many sides to try it was hard for me to narrow it down, so I asked the server for their recommendations. He did a great job in suggesting the homemade mac & cheese and the green beans that were cooked with nice pieces of salty bacon.

I was lucky enough to meet the owner when I was there. He was very nice and  took a picture with me and of course gave me a hard time because I am a Gator.  We also got photobombed in by the server who suggested my side dishes. It really seems like everyone has a fun time working there.

Check them out at www.arnoldscountrykitchen.com for their list of daily menu items. Even if there is a line, it’s worth the wait.

Enjoy!

T