Welcome https://travelntastejournal.com/ Tue, 05 Aug 2025 15:16:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 Virginia Beach Weekend Escape: Pizza, Pho, Arcade Fun and Oceanfront Bliss https://travelntastejournal.com/virginia-beach-weekend-escape-pizza-pho-arcade-fun-and-oceanfront-bliss/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=virginia-beach-weekend-escape-pizza-pho-arcade-fun-and-oceanfront-bliss Tue, 05 Aug 2025 15:16:40 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=659 Virginia Beach Weekend Escape: Pizza, Pho, Arcade Fun and Oceanfront Bliss We spent a windy but wonderful Thursday through Sunday in Virginia Beach, and by the time we left, we were already plotting our return. From digging into nostalgic slices to chasing waves and arcade tickets, every moment felt real. What We Did We checked […]

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Virginia Beach Weekend Escape: Pizza, Pho, Arcade Fun and Oceanfront Bliss

Virginia Bea

We spent a windy but wonderful Thursday through Sunday in Virginia Beach, and by the time we left, we were already plotting our return. From digging into nostalgic slices to chasing waves and arcade tickets, every moment felt real.

What We Did

We checked into the Embassy Suites by Hilton oceanfront, which turned out to be our hub. From pools and sunset views to spontaneous porch chats, it had everything we wanted. Down below the boardwalk we played in rolling surf. Windy, yes, but so invigorating.

We ducked into Dough Boys Pizza on Atlantic Avenue for a local favorite. Their Wave Pizza — half calzone, half flat pie — hit the spot, and the cheesy breadsticks only made it better. This family‑owned spot has been a staple since 1989 and delivers fun, flavor, and beach town hospitality.

Later, a crave for something warm led us to Pho Nguyen at Lynnhaven Mall. The broth was rich, the noodles tender, and it was just the kind of unexpected comfort halfway into the weekend.

Downtown, we found ourselves at the Beach Arcade. Despite some games being offline and no AC making it hot and a little rundown, the staff kept spirits up and classic machines still ran. It’s nostalgic and humble, but so worth punching in a few quarters and laughing as the tickets roll in.

Beach Arcade Virginia Beach

Evenings wrapped with burgers. Inside the Embassy Suites we sampled Arbuckle’s burger, casual and satisfying. Then, a visit to Fuddruckers felt like reconnecting with an old friend. The milkshakes were just as indulgent, the condiment bar familiar, and the protein choices reminded us of youthful adventures.

Tips for Visitors

  • Expect wind on the beach – it can cool you off or add drama to the waves, so bring windbreakers or extra towels.
  • Go to Dough Boys close to happy hour (Monday through Friday, 11:30 AM to 4 PM daily deals, plus a $5 Party Hour from 4 to 5:30 PM) for the bargains and best atmosphere.
  • At Beach Arcade, ask staff about games in repair – they’ll often offer extra play time as a workaround.
  • Reserve oceanfront rooms early. Embassy Suites fills up fast and is ideal for families or groups craving both comfort and beachfront access.

Plan Your Trip

What We Used

What catches your imagination more: salty boardwalk adventures or diving into the unexpected charm of arcade redemption games?

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Art That Stares Back: A Unique Experience at Scio Art in DC https://travelntastejournal.com/art-that-stares-back-a-unique-experience-at-scio-art-in-dc/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=art-that-stares-back-a-unique-experience-at-scio-art-in-dc Mon, 28 Jul 2025 23:32:39 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=651 Art That Stares Back: A Unique Experience at Scio Art in DC We stood in the middle of DC, our hearts still buzzing from the surreal moment of seeing our eyes transformed into vibrant, mesmerizing artwork. The Magic of Iris Art in the Heart of DC If you’re on the hunt for something that blends […]

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Art That Stares Back: A Unique Experience at Scio Art in DC

We stood in the middle of DC, our hearts still buzzing from the surreal moment of seeing our eyes transformed into vibrant, mesmerizing artwork.

The Magic of Iris Art in the Heart of DC

If you’re on the hunt for something that blends art, technology, and intimacy, Scio Art in Washington, DC, delivers. This studio takes the phrase “eyes are the window to the soul” to striking new heights. Using high-definition imaging, Scio captures the intricate patterns of your iris and turns them into personalized works of art.

You can go solo or create a composite design with up to four people, perfect for couples, families, or close friends. And yes, it makes a killer date idea.

More Than a Portrait: A Tech-Meets-Art Experience

From the moment we walked in, the vibe was sleek and modern, but the staff made it feel warm and inviting. The photo session itself felt like a creative shoot, a mix of science and soul. Choosing our final artwork took the most time (there were so many gorgeous options!), but that just speaks to the quality of the visuals.

The coolest part? They offer custom jewelry options, too, so you can literally wear your loved one’s eye (or yours) as a pendant. It’s art that stares back, and stays with you.

“The soul, fortunately, has an interpreter – often one eye, or both.” – Charlotte Brontë

Why It’s the Ultimate Romantic Date Idea

There’s something deeply intimate about locking eyes with someone and capturing that energy forever. Whether it’s an anniversary, a surprise date, or just a creative way to say “I see you,” this experience hits different.

Pro tip: Pair it with brunch nearby or a golden-hour walk along the National Mall. DCis full of charming spots to complete the perfect date day.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit

  • Look for a Groupon deal before booking. You might snag a sweet discount.
  • Arrive early to find parking (it can be tricky).
  • Think about your look for the shoot: colors, reflections, and something you’d want in a frame.

Essential Info

Scio Art DC
933 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Visit Website →

We were in and out in under an hour, and the whole experience felt smooth, thoughtful, and incredibly special. Whether you’re a local or just passing through DC, Scio Art is a meaningful stop you won’t forget.

Would you ever turn your eyes into art?

Eye as Art


Tags: Scio Art DC, iris photography, DC date ideas, personalized art, DC

Hashtags: #TravelnTasteJournal #HiddenGems #ArtExperiences #DCDateIdeas #ScioArt

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A Tail of Two Wolves https://travelntastejournal.com/a-tail-of-two-wolves/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=a-tail-of-two-wolves Tue, 08 Jul 2025 23:44:16 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=643 We never imagined we’d be debating the merits of two equally appealing Great Wolf Lodges. Our family’s visits to Williamsburg, VA, and Perryville, MD, revealed just how uniquely delightful each resort can be. Here’s our detailed breakdown to help your family choose the perfect spot. Two Great Wolf Lodges, Twice the Adventure When planning a […]

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AI Image of Great Wolf LodgeWe never imagined we’d be debating the merits of two equally appealing Great Wolf Lodges. Our family’s visits to Williamsburg, VA, and Perryville, MD, revealed just how uniquely delightful each resort can be. Here’s our detailed breakdown to help your family choose the perfect spot.

Two Great Wolf Lodges, Twice the Adventure

When planning a family getaway, Great Wolf Lodge is consistently at the top of our list. This year, we decided to try two locations: Williamsburg in June, followed by Perryville in July. Each lodge offered its own flavor of family fun, making our choice far tougher than expected.

Williamsburg: Making Waves with Waterpark Wonders

The Williamsburg waterpark immediately felt like an inviting aquatic playground. The standout feature for our family was the expansive wave pool. It felt deeper, giving even older kids plenty of room to dive, float, and splash. Seating around the pool was abundant, comfortable, and well-placed, offering perfect sightlines for watchful parents.

Yet the true highlight was Williamsburg’s gigantic tipping bucket. Its colossal splash turned waiting moments into pure excitement. Our kids stood eagerly each time, squealing as gallons of water cascaded down, creating lasting memories of pure joy.

The layout of the water attractions felt natural and easy to navigate. From lazy rivers to thrilling slides, everything flowed smoothly, allowing maximum enjoyment with minimal stress.

Perryville: Dry Adventures and Magical Quests

Perryville surprised us with its impressive collection of dry activities. Our kids couldn’t stop talking about the indoor rope course. Suspended high above, it challenged their courage and boosted their confidence. We also spent hours in the mini ten-pin bowling alley, where friendly competition made for lots of laughter.

MagiQuest in Perryville offered a little extra magic, too. Wandering through enchanted hallways with interactive challenges kept the kids entertained well into the evening. The mirror maze provided an additional unexpected delight, as we navigated endless reflections and playful confusion.

One downside: Perryville lacked laser tag and virtual reality, two activities our kids loved in Williamsburg. Still, the activities here were more than enough to keep everyone busy and happy.

Dining Delights at Both Lodges

Food at both locations was consistently tasty. We appreciated the variety—from quick snacks to sit-down dinners. Williamsburg had one small advantage: slushies were included with the soda sipper cup, whereas Perryville charged extra. This small detail became a notable perk during hot afternoons.

Detailed Family Fun Ratings

Perryville & Williamsburg Great Wolf Lodges

Activity Williamsburg Perryville Winner
Wave Pool ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Williamsburg
Giant Bucket ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Williamsburg
MagiQuest ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perryville
Rope Course ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perryville
Bowling ⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perryville
Laser Tag ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ N/A Williamsburg
Virtual Reality ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ N/A Williamsburg
Mirror Maze N/A ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perryville
Overall Layout ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Williamsburg

Williamsburg emerged as our slight favorite due to its unmatched water features, but Perryville made a compelling case with its engaging dry adventures. Both locations offer frequent discounts and specials, ensuring a fantastic family vacation without overspending.

Our Top Tips for a Perfect Stay

  • Always check for online discounts before booking your lodge stay.
  • Opt for MagiQuest at either location. It’s a memorable experience your family won’t regret.
  • Williamsburg’s soda sipper cup with included slushies is a must-have for families.
  • Pack swimming goggles for the wave pool. We almost forgot ours but found these great goggles on Amazon at the last minute, and they saved the day: Best Family Swim Goggles.
  • Don’t miss story time and dance parties—these unexpected moments made our evenings extra special.

Ultimately, whether your family prefers waterpark adventures or dry-land excitement, both Williamsburg and Perryville promise fantastic memories.

Does your family lean toward splashing in Williamsburg’s wave pool or conquering Perryville’s ropes course?

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Noir: Nashville’s Smoothest Happy Hour Secret https://travelntastejournal.com/noir-nashvilles-smoothest-happy-hour-secret/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=noir-nashvilles-smoothest-happy-hour-secret Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:18:24 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=613 Noir Nashville: The Cocktail Lounge That Feels Like a Secret (Until You Tell Everyone) 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 […]

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Noir Nashville: The Cocktail Lounge That Feels Like a Secret (Until You Tell Everyone)

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.

Noir Nashville Lounge Vibes

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

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

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Buttermilk Ranch Brunch Hits Different https://travelntastejournal.com/buttermilk-ranch-brunch-hits-different/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=buttermilk-ranch-brunch-hits-different Fri, 13 Jun 2025 00:50:07 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=616 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 […]

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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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Music City Rodeo + Tim McGraw https://travelntastejournal.com/music-city-rodeo-tim-mcgraw/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=music-city-rodeo-tim-mcgraw Wed, 11 Jun 2025 14:23:13 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=632 🐂 Music City Rodeo + Tim McGraw: Bulls, Boots & a Perfect Nashville Night 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 […]

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🐂 Music City Rodeo + Tim McGraw: Bulls, Boots & a Perfect Nashville Night

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:

✈ Coming In from Out of Town?

🎤 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 https://travelntastejournal.com/uncle-nearest-distillery-a-story-worth-sipping/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=uncle-nearest-distillery-a-story-worth-sipping Fri, 06 Jun 2025 01:01:21 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=594 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 […]

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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.

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Velocity Wings Brunch, Bottomless & Delicious https://travelntastejournal.com/velocity-wings-brunch-bottomless-delicious/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=velocity-wings-brunch-bottomless-delicious Sun, 01 Jun 2025 05:20:10 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=578 Velocity Wings Brunch Review: Crispy Wings, Pancake Surprises & Grits Done Right 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 […]

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Velocity Wings Brunch Review: Crispy Wings, Pancake Surprises & Grits Done Right

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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The Pink Dinghy, Virginia Beach serving up bold small plates and a coastal vibe https://travelntastejournal.com/the-pink-dinghy-virginia-beach-serving-up-bold-small-plates-and-a-coastal-vibe/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-pink-dinghy-virginia-beach-serving-up-bold-small-plates-and-a-coastal-vibe Tue, 27 May 2025 17:19:00 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=565 The Pink Dinghy: Small Plates and Big Flavor in Virginia Beach This spot is small, fun, and surprisingly delicious. The Pink Dinghy in Virginia Beach leans into seasonal ingredients, bold flavors, and coastal vibes. It’s built around shared plates, but delivers far more than you’d expect from its unassuming size. What We Ordered We kicked […]

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The Pink Dinghy: Small Plates and Big Flavor in Virginia Beach

This spot is small, fun, and surprisingly delicious. The Pink Dinghy in Virginia Beach leans into seasonal ingredients, bold flavors, and coastal vibes. It’s built around shared plates, but delivers far more than you’d expect from its unassuming size.

The post The Pink Dinghy, Virginia Beach serving up bold small plates and a coastal vibe appeared first on Welcome.

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Maggiano’s Tysons Review https://travelntastejournal.com/maggianos-tysons-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=maggianos-tysons-review Thu, 22 May 2025 16:05:45 +0000 https://travelntastejournal.com/?p=549 Maggiano’s Tysons Review: A Must-Try Italian Feast for Families and Food Lovers We visited Maggiano’s Little Italy in Tysons this past Saturday around noon and opted for the Family Meal, and let me just say—$50 has never gone so far. The portions were incredibly generous, and every dish brought warmth, flavor, and comfort to the […]

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Maggiano’s Tysons Review: A Must-Try Italian Feast for Families and Food Lovers

We visited Maggiano’s Little Italy in Tysons this past Saturday around noon and opted for the Family Meal, and let me just say—$50 has never gone so far. The portions were incredibly generous, and every dish brought warmth, flavor, and comfort to the table.

Our Maggiano’s Family-Style Feast (in Pictures)

Appetizer BoardWagyu MeatballsStuffed Shells
CalamariBranzino with LobsterPomegranate Martini

What We Ordered

We started with a delicious salami, cheese, and olive board that immediately set the tone—fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor.

Appetizers:

  • Wagyu Meatballs – Tender and packed with flavor.
  • Caesar Salad – Fresh, crisp, and dressed just right.
  • Crispy Calamari – Lightly breaded and golden brown.
  • Fried Zucchini – A surprise hit. Crispy, salty, and addictive.

Main Entrées:

  • Beef Medallions – Juicy and rich, a crowd-pleaser.
  • Stuffed Shells – Comforting and cheesy.
  • Fettuccine Alfredo – Classic, creamy, and well-balanced.
  • Chicken Parmesan – Crispy outside, tender inside, topped with melty mozzarella.

Special Mention: One of our guests ordered the Spicy Branzino with lobster and crab—and it was hands-down one of the best dishes on the table. Bold, buttery, and unforgettable.

Desserts: We ended the meal with a trio of sweets—Tiramisu, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Lemon Cookies. Each one hit the spot, light but satisfying.

Drinks: If you’re into cocktails, don’t skip the Pomegranate Martini. Refreshing and beautifully balanced, it was a table favorite.

Service & Atmosphere

Our server, Rue, was absolutely phenomenal. Attentive, kind, patient with kids, and full of great suggestions. The whole team helped create an experience that felt special but totally relaxed.

Final Thoughts

Maggiano’s Tysons is ideal for group outings, celebrations, or just treating yourself to classic Italian comfort food. The price-to-portion ratio is fantastic, the dishes deliver on flavor, and the service is top-notch. We’ll absolutely be back.

Have a favorite Maggiano’s dish? Let us know in the comments!

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