YOUR GUIDE TO SPENDING VALENTINE'S DAY IN NASHVILLE
Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite holidays, so — naturally — I love to make the day as special as possible for whoever I’m spending it with, whether that’s Cooper, my best friends, or my family. But this year specifically, I want to do something in our city, and I thought you all might like a little inspiration if you’re in the Nashville area or ever plan to visit!
These spots are great at any point in the year, but each one has that something special that always makes for a great date. Plus, this list includes spots that are a little more low key if you’re not interested in a fancy night out!
Stroll Through a Bookstore
McKay’s
McKay’s does have a great selection of books — which is part of the reason I love it so much — but they also have a pretty extensive record collection! The store is absolutely massive and you can get lost looking through retro video games, book, music, etc., the whole place is just brimming with character and memories.
Novelette
I can’t even begin to tell you how much I love Novelette. The whole store is so cute, the selection is amazing, and the people working there are always so nice! They really strive to create an inclusive environment for everyone, so if you’re new to Nashville, I really hope you stop by. You may just find your next favorite book AND meet a new friend!
Enjoy a Drink
Tiger Bar
If you’re looking for a really cool spot for drinks and you want the ambiance to be part of the experience, Tiger Bar is the spot for you. The cocktails there are amazing, but the decor really sells the place. They want it to feel like you are stepping into a 1930’s sideshow of a circus. The food also always looks amazing and perfectly curated, so I’m excited to go back and try more of the menu! My suggestion would be the Rose Tea Service, a TN whiskey-based drink infused with tea! It even comes served in a teacup with a biscottini on the side!
Arrington vineyards
If a bar isn’t your scene for Valentine’s Day, Arrington Vineyards is a great family-friendly option. Whenever I go, we usually bring a picnic blanket and pack some snacks to munch on while we sip on their wine! It’s a really laid-back environment, and there’s something about being outside, lounging in the grass, and sipping on a glass of wine… Sometimes the simplest options turn out to be the best time! Plus, they usually have live music! On one side of the property you’ll usually find a jazz band and just over the hill a bluegrass band is usually featured. The music really adds to the overall vibes. My favorite drink to get? Actually, the frosé!
Grab a Tasty Bite
Kisser
Kisser is a Japanese restaurant that offers comfort Japanese dishes with a modern twist. The ambiance is casual but refined, the food is out of this world, and it’s reasonably priced. So if you’re not looking to splurge this Valentine’s Day but still want a nice meal, try Kisser! I also just love that it’s a husband and wife team that created and run it! The menu is seasonal so be sure to check back often, but one staple I love is the Chicken Katsu Sandwich!
NoKo
Noko features Asian-inspired dishes, and they specialize in wood-fired cuisine. As soon as you step into the restaurant, you know you’re in for a treat. Though this is definitely a great spot for a fancy date night, it’s on the pricier side. My suggestion? Make a reservation if you’re planning on trying it so you can guarantee a table! This is actually one on my list I’m hoping to check off soon!
Xiao Bao (Asian fusion)
This is one of Cooper and I’s favorite places; the food here is just SO GOOD. And on top of that, they have some really fun cocktails, which are equally delicious. My favorite thing to get is the Okonomiyaki and Noodles!
Strike Up a Bit of Healthy Competition
Pins Mechanical
I haven’t been here yet, but I’ve heard great things about Pins Mechanical! They’ve got brews, cocktails, duckpin bowling, pinball, patio pong, and more. I think this would be such a fun choice for a Valentine’s Day with friends or even just your partner — especially if the two of you love a little friendly competition.
Up-Down Nashville
This is another spot that’s on my list because I love a casual hang with games, pub food, and drinks, and this one seems to have it all. AND their website says that they have a ton of gaming options, including Nintendo 64 console gaming… So now I have to go!