We didn’t plan to cry into our Whiskey Smash, but Noir had other ideas.
That’s the thing about Nashville’s best secrets: they don’t stay secret long. Especially when they hit this hard on atmosphere, craft, and just the right amount of edge.

The Kind of Happy Hour That Turns Into a Night

We ducked into Noir thinking it would be a quick pre-dinner drink. Two hours later, we were halfway into a moody playlist, lingering in velvet booths, and ordering round two of the best Whiskey Smash we’ve tasted in town.

Tucked just enough off the beaten path to feel like a discovery, Noir doesn’t beg for attention. It earns it. The lighting is low, the bartenders are poetry in motion, and the crowd is there to savor — not scroll.

It’s not trying to be “the spot.” It just is.

Why Noir Feels So Different

What sets Noir apart isn’t one thing — it’s the way everything comes together.
There’s an elegance to the details: vintage glassware, candlelit corners, a music mix that skews soulful and unexpected. Even the restrooms feel like a set piece from a noir film.

We’d call it cinematic, if that didn’t sound too precious.

More importantly, it’s a place where you can talk without shouting, sip without rushing, and disappear from your own schedule for a while.

Our favorite kind of magic.

What Noir’s Perfect For

• Pre-dinner elegance before heading downtown
• Date night charm without the white tablecloth pressure
• Impressing visitors who “aren’t into Broadway”
• Solo moments where you just want to sit, sip, and exhale

And the prices? Surprisingly chill for a place this dialed-in. It’s luxury without the markup — something that’s getting harder to find in a city on the rise.

Travel n Taste Pro Tips

• Arrive early. Noir’s walk-in policy means the best booths go fast. Aim for golden hour.
• Order the Whiskey Smash. If honey and heat had a baby with bourbon, it’d be this.
• Make it your anchor. Start or end your night here — Noir adapts to both moods flawlessly.

Links You’ll Love

• Where to Stay in Nashville
• Book a Local Tasting Tour
• Find Flights to Nashville

What’s your go-to cocktail when the lights go low?

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Brunch Like a Local: What to Order at Buttermilk Ranch in Nashville

We didn’t plan to fall in love with croissants dunked in queso, but here we are. Buttermilk Ranch doesn’t just serve brunch—it delivers a memory.

It was barely 10 a.m. when we rolled up, and the place was already humming with the kind of energy that tells you you’re in the right spot. The line moved fast, the coffee smelled amazing, and we knew immediately we’d made the right call.

Brunch MVPs: What We Ate and Loved

We kicked things off with the Croissants & Queso, which honestly stole the show early. Flaky, golden pinwheels perfect for dragging through a pool of smoky bacon queso. It felt indulgent in all the right ways.

We couldn’t skip the Dirty South Fried Rice either. This bold bowl hit every note, jasmine rice stir-fried with a yolky egg, scallions, thick-cut bacon, and a perfect kick of chili crisp. Rich, spicy, comforting, and so satisfyingly different from the usual brunch lineup. We were obsessed.

Then came the Buttermilk Road Breakfast, a Southern staple done oh-so-right. Soft eggs, crispy ranch potatoes, and that house-made sausage? Perfection. We added a side of Porter Road butcher ham, and it might’ve been our favorite bite of the day—smoky, thick-cut, and full of flavor.

We couldn’t resist the Basket of Biscuits either. Laminated, buttery, and served with rotating house-made jams and butters, they made us question every other biscuit we’ve ever eaten.

The house-made breakfast sausage deserves its own applause—savory, juicy, and clearly crafted with care. Every element on the plate felt intentional and familiar, but better.

Why Buttermilk Ranch Works

This isn’t a place chasing brunch trends. No gimmicks, no over-the-top plating. Just thoughtful food with bold flavors and a whole lot of soul. The staff moves with grace under pressure, the vibe stays upbeat even when it’s packed, and the coffee is legit.

Tips for Visiting Buttermilk Ranch

• Arrive early: It gets busy fast, especially on weekends.
• Share dishes: You’ll want to try more than one thing.
• Take pastries to go: Even if you’re full, grab a croissant for later.
• Ask for seasonal specials: Their rotating menu items are worth exploring.

Plan Your Visit

Make the most of your Nashville weekend. Book a stylish stay near Buttermilk Ranch right here, and check out these tours to see the city like a local. Need flights? We’ve got deals.

Which dish are you most excited to try at Buttermilk Ranch?

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Tim McGraw and pro rodeo lit up Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. Here’s how to do Music City Rodeo right, including VIP tips and travel links.

We didn’t expect a rodeo to compete with a concert, but in Nashville, they don’t compete. They collide. And we were there for every bull ride and every lyric.

The Energy Hits Before You Even Find Your Seat

Held at Bridgestone Arena in the heart of downtown Nashville, the Music City Rodeo felt like a Southern Super Bowl: high-stakes, high-volume, and packed with energy. By the time the first cowboy mounted up, the crowd was already buzzing, thanks to the promise of a Tim McGraw concert to cap off the night.

VIP Access? Worth Every Penny

We sat in Section 105, Row KK, but the real win was splurging on Lexus Lounge access.

Picture this: private entrance, no lines, a full buffet, craft cocktails, and a sleek lounge scene with locals and travelers dressed to impress. The Lounge opens at 5:00 PM, come early, load up, and enjoy people-watching before the rodeo kicks off.

Bucking Bulls, Barrel Racers & Tim McGraw’s Mic Drop

The rodeo itself was a full-on, PRCA-sanctioned show with all the classic action: saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, team roping, and the ever-adorable mutton bustin’.

And then the lights dimmed.

Tim McGraw hit the stage with “Truck Yeah” and never let up. The whole arena sang every word to:

• “Something Like That”
• “Humble and Kind”
• “Live Like You Were Dying”

What to Know Before You Go

• Where: Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN
• Parking: Pinnacle Garage (150 3rd Ave S), 5-minute walk
• VIP Tip: Lexus Lounge opens at 5:00 PM and runs all night
• Dress Code: Cowboy boots, denim, and a hat with a little tilt

What We Brought (and What You Should Too)

If you’re looking to channel full rodeo glam, Amazon has some great deals on boots and cowboy hats that’ll get you arena-ready in style.

But even if fashion’s not your focus, these two were essentials:

• Clear stadium bag – A total lifesaver at check-in.
• Refillable water bottle – We were grateful to have one post-rodeo.

Coming In from Out of Town?

• Browse Nashville Hotels
• Book Tim McGraw Tours & Rodeo Tickets
• Find Flights to Nashville

Final Verdict: Go. Just Go.

Whether you’re a rodeo rookie or a country concert regular, Music City Rodeo + Tim McGraw is a Nashville experience we’d do again in a heartbeat. Book the lounge, wear the boots, and sing until your voice gives out.

Would you go for the rodeo, the concert, or both? Tell us in the comments!

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Uncle Nearest Distillery – A Story Worth Sipping

When your tour guide grew up a stone’s throw from Jack Daniel’s and used to play catch in the fields that now house a world-class distillery, you know you’re in for something special.

Welcome to Uncle Nearest, the small-town distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee that’s capturing national attention and is well on its way to becoming a world-renowned destination for food, drink, and culture.

This place is doing everything right.

Uncle Nearest isn’t just another whiskey brand. It’s a legacy, brought back to life.

The story begins in the 1850s with Nathan “Nearest” Green, an enslaved man on a Tennessee farm who became the first known African American master distiller in the United States. He wasn’t just skilled, he was the teacher. He’s the one who taught a young Jack Daniel how to make whiskey using a charcoal filtering method that became known as the Lincoln County Process, now a defining trait of Tennessee whiskey.

“His name was almost forgotten. Today, it’s etched into history.”

But for over a century, Nearest Green’s contributions went unrecognized. That changed in 2016, when author and entrepreneur Fawn Weaver began a deep investigation into Green’s life. What she uncovered flipped the script on whiskey history, and in 2017, she founded Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey to ensure the name Nearest Green would never be forgotten again.

A Distillery Rooted in Purpose

In 2021, the Nearest Green Distillery marked Juneteenth with more than a celebration, it reopened after a yearlong pandemic pause with new expansions and a renewed mission. The Welcome Center got a major upgrade. The Family Tasting Room opened its doors. The Master Blender House joined the lineup.

Thousands came to witness the grand reopening. It wasn’t just about whiskey. It was about honor. History. Healing.

That commitment runs deep. Uncle Nearest launched the HBCU Old Fashioned Challenge, a nationwide effort that runs each year from Martin Luther King Jr. Day to Juneteenth. For every Uncle Nearest Old Fashioned sold in participating bars, and for every bottle purchased at retail, the brand donates $1 to a fund supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

The goal? Fund one full in-state tuition scholarship at every accredited HBCU in the country. That’s not marketing. That’s mission.

The Woman Behind the Movement

So why this kind of passion? Why this kind of drive?

Two words: Fawn Weaver.

She’s not just the founder of Uncle Nearest. She’s the soul of it.

A bestselling author and businesswoman, Weaver took what could have been a footnote in whiskey history and turned it into a global movement. She didn’t just launch a brand, she built a legacy. Through the Nearest Green Foundation, she also provides scholarships and direct support to Green’s descendants.

Thanks to her vision, the story of American whiskey now includes the Black pioneers who built it. And Uncle Nearest is leading the way.

The Distillery: More Than a Place, a Tribute

The Nearest Green Distillery sits on over 400 acres in Shelbyville. It’s the first distillery in America named after a Black master distiller, and every inch of it reflects that honor.

There’s a museum. A bottling house. Beautiful tasting rooms and event spaces. And the attention to detail is clear: this isn’t just a site for whiskey production. It’s a place of pilgrimage for anyone who cares about heritage, craftsmanship, or the untold stories that shape what we sip.

Since its launch, Uncle Nearest has picked up more than 600 awards and honors, including multiple Best American Whiskey titles. But the most impressive thing isn’t on the shelf, it’s in the atmosphere. The people here believe in what they’re building.

What It’s Like to Visit

Some distillery tours leave you with tasting notes. Uncle Nearest leaves you with something deeper.

About an hour outside of Nashville, the distillery is more than a scenic detour, it’s a destination. Built to honor Nathan “Nearest” Green, the experience blends world-class spirits with overdue celebration.

From the gleaming copper stills to the 1884 blend we sampled in the welcome center, everything felt intentional. You’re not just sipping whiskey, you’re stepping into a story.

• The storytelling was sincere and well-paced
• The tasting felt generous and personal
• The shop had rare bottles and merch worth browsing
• The staff radiated pride in the mission

If you’ve got a car and a few hours, make the drive. Grab the single barrel if it’s available. Say yes to the tasting. You’ll leave with more than just a bottle, you’ll leave with perspective.

Pro tip: Make a reservation, especially on weekends. This is an ideal midday stop on a longer Tennessee road trip.

The post Uncle Nearest Distillery – A Story Worth Sipping appeared first on Welcome.

When a spot known for its wings rolls out a full brunch menu, you go in with curiosity—and leave with a full belly. Velocity Wings surprised us in all the right ways. It’s casual, fast, and tasty, with a brunch lineup that covers everything from southern comfort to sweet tooth favorites.

What We Ordered

• Buttermilk Biscuits – Fluffy, buttery, and a great start. Surprisingly well executed.
• Caesar Salad – Classic and standard. Not a standout, but it did the job.
• Mini Burgers – Solid bar food. Familiar and satisfying if not groundbreaking.
• Chicken Wings – This was a surprise hit. Crispy, seasoned well, and true to their brand name.
• Espresso Martini – Bold and rich with a solid kick. A great brunch cocktail.
• Strawberry Lemon Drop – Bright and sweet, with just enough tartness to balance it out.
• Stuffed French Toast – Sweet, decadent, and plated well. Great for sharing or dessert vibes.
• Blueberry Lemon Pancakes – The unexpected star of the show. Light, fluffy, citrusy, and perfectly sweet.
• Shrimp and Grits – Comfort food done right. Creamy grits and well-seasoned shrimp.
• Catfish & Grits – Good seasoning on the fish, but the shrimp version edged it out for us.
• Chicken and Waffles – Just okay. Needed a bit more flavor or a sauce boost.
• Breakfast Tacos – A sleeper hit. Flavorful, balanced, and super satisfying.
• Pepperoni Flatbread – Crispy, cheesy, and exactly what you want from a brunch flatbread.
• Shrimp Alfredo – Creamy and comforting, though more of a lunch vibe than brunch.

Final Thoughts

Velocity Wings isn’t trying to be fancy—and that’s exactly why it works. The portions were generous, the flavors were bold, and the standout items (like those pancakes and wings) made the whole experience feel like a win. The drinks were legit, and the menu has enough variety to keep everyone happy—from your biscuit-loving brunchers to your wing-and-beer crew.

Looking for a relaxed, satisfying brunch spot? Velocity Wings might surprise you—in the best way.

Been to their brunch? Tell us your favorite dish in the comments!

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If you’re tired of the usual dinner spots, Songbird is your answer. This quirky Asian fusion restaurant pairs moody lighting with tropical drinks and shareable plates. It’s not just food, it’s a whole night out. Think funky music, strong cocktails, and bites that are as bold as the decor.

What We Ordered

We were so into the food, we didn’t even pause for photos—except for these three standout cocktails.

• Volcano Punch Bowl (for 2) – A dramatic and boozy mix of rums, citrus, spices, bitters, and *secrets*. Definitely a showstopper.
• Yin – Yang Highball – Tequila-based with turmeric, cayenne, galangal, lime, and ginger beer. Spicy, earthy, and one of the most unique cocktails on the menu.
• Songbird Old Fashioned – A bourbon-forward house special with a smooth citrus finish. Strong but balanced.
• Pu Pu Platter – A sampler of appetizers that’s perfect for sharing. A great way to try multiple bites in one go.
• Wings – Sweet Basil – Juicy, crispy, and glazed in a sweet-savory basil sauce with just enough bite.
• Sichuan Spicy Wontons – Pork, scallion, sesame, and chili oil. Rich, spicy, and silky soft. One of the stars of the meal.
• Pan-Fried Spicy Pork Dumplings – Crispy on the outside, juicy and savory inside. A classic executed well.
• General Tso’s Chicken – Sticky, crispy, and full of flavor. A more refined take on the traditional version.
• Coconut Shrimp – Served in a creamy coconut sauce with pineapple and peppers. Not crunchy, but flavorful and fragrant.
• Sticky Crispy Beef – Thin-cut beef flash-fried and tossed in Szechuan chili sauce. Sweet, spicy, and perfectly textured.

Know Before You Go

• Address: 10940 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax, VA 22030
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Monday. Kitchen open until midnight.
• Ambiance: Dark wood, chandeliers, neon signs, and yes, a spinning disco ball.
• Seating: Limited. Arrive early, especially on weekends. No reservations.
• Price Point: Expect $13 to $18 per dish and $12+ for cocktails. A bit on the higher end, but worth the splurge.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Show up early or risk waiting. It fills up fast.
• Order a mix of dumplings and shareables to sample more flavors.
• Ask your server for their favorite cocktail. They know their stuff.
• Check their Instagram for rotating specials and theme nights.

Final Thoughts

Songbird isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a mood. From the edgy cocktails to the pan-fried dumplings, everything feels curated and just a little bit extra. If you’re in Fairfax and haven’t tried it, bump it to the top of your list.

Have you been? Drop your favorite dish in the comments below.

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After a quick shower, it was off to dinner at a local sushi spot, Absolute Noodle & Sushi. It was about a 10-minute walk from the Westin. The sushi did not disappoint, and neither did the retro eclectic décor. It’s a small place where you are greeted by the owner and operator and thanked for your patronage on the way out. The personal touch made the experience even more special.

After dinner, it was about a 4-minute walk to Capital One Arena. The anticipation was building as we joined the crowd of excited fans. The show started promptly at 8:00 PM, and the crowd went wild for Nelly’s Club Derrty. Nelly had the room in their feels, dancing and singing for 40 minutes while he entertained us with hits from his expansive catalog of music spanning the past two and a half decades. The energy was electric, and it was impossible not to dance along.

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