Have you ever wished you could spend an evening in China without having to leave Nashville? I can’t necessarily say that I have, but eating at Steamboys sure made me feel like I was no where near Tennessee. Steamboys is a newer restaurant located in Germantown that serves traditional Chinese “comfort food,” quick-service style. This type of comfort food is definitely a whole lot different from the typical comfort food you find in the south, but it might just become your new favorite if you give it a try.

The menu is not extensive but still has plenty to offer including traditional handmade bao and dumplings which are made fresh in store every morning. I have tried Chinese dumplings before, so I decided to play it safe with an order of pork & cabbage dumplings (pictured above). They were filled with pork, ginger, white onions, and cabbage, and I could tell they were super fresh. They were still steaming when the waiter brought them to me! They were delicious when paired with a little soy sauce.

The restaurant is known for their bao, so although I didn’t even really know what it was, I ordered the juicy pork steamed boa (pictured above). The menu lists this item as “signature style pork, ginger, cabbage, & green onions wrapped in light and airy dough.” It was unlike anything I had ever seen before. The waiter told me the best way to eat it was to pick it up and bite in like I was eating a cheeseburger. The bread was amazing. The closest thing I can compare it to is a bagel. The outside was slightly browned, and the inside was soft and fluffy. I would personally like to see what some bread like this would taste like filled with chocolate! However, this one was filled with what appeared to be a pork meatball. The pork had a very strong flavor. Honestly, it was not my favorite. However, I need the bread in my life, so I think next time I will try the tender beef & veggie bao to see if it is more pleasing to my taste buds. If not, maybe I’ll suggest the idea of a dessert bao to the chef next time I’m there. 😉

Another menu option is seared bao (pictured above). I tried the juicy pork which was listed on the menu as “signature style pork and spices seared with cornflower for a delicate flake.” I liked this filling better than the pork meatball in the steamed bao; it was more like what you find inside an egg roll. However, the outside breading definitely ranks second in comparison. If only there was a way to get this filling inside the bread from the steamed bao…

The menu also offers 3 types of noodle soup. My friend ordered the beef shank soup which was composed of beef shank, green onions, cilantro, and baby bok choy (pictured above). The chef did not skimp on beef when he made this soup! There was plenty of beef shank to complement the noodles and beef broth.

There were a few menu items we did not get to try. One is a hot dumpling bowl which is composed of the pork & cabbage dumplings drenched in a homemade blend of sichuan pepper sauce, topped with onions and cilantro. As I have stated in previous posts, I am not a fan spicy foods, so I will have to let someone else give this dish a try. However, I would like to taste the “XLB soup dumplings” next time I go to Steamboys. The menu describes these as “delicately crafted soup-filled dumplings with skin wrapped around season pork fillings mixed with flavorful broth.” This sounds very intriguing to me.

Steamboys also serves boba tea which is a classic Chinese favorite that is slowly starting to gain fame in the south. The restaurant offers milk teas as well as fruit teas with or without chewy tapioca balls, better known as boba. I love boba tea, so I will definitely back to taste theirs.

Prices at steam boys could steal the joy you find when you taste the light and airy bread from the steamed bao, depending on the size of your appetite. The steamed bao only comes with one piece and costs $3.50, but it is pretty big. The seared bao comes with two smaller pieces and costs $6.50. The noodle soups range from $7.50-$14, depending on the variety and size. The dumplings are around $8 for 6 pieces, which makes for a nicely sized serving. The hot dumpling bowl and XLB soup dumplings both cost $8.50. The best deals on the menu are the lunch combos which offer pairings such as “dumplings & boba” for $11.

The parking situation at Steamboys could also steal your joy. Steamboys is located on 2nd Avenue in Germantown, so street parking is really the only option. You probably won’t have to pay, but you may have to do a little walking. I think the extra cardio serves as a good excuse to order another steamed bao. 🙂

Steamboys is a unique little place. The traditional feel of the restaurant will make you think you have traveled to Asia, but after you order and seat yourself at a table, you will have your food faster than you could drive to the airport. If you aren’t afraid of trying something a little different than traditional southern comfort food, this is definitely a perfect lunch or dinner spot for you!

Fido is a popular cafe/restaurant for the 20-30 something aged crowd in Nashville and for good reason. It is located on 21st Avenue, just across the street from Jeni’s (my favorite place in the whole world if you didn’t already know). It appears to be a quaint cafe from the outside, but don’t be deceived; Fido has space for all of your needs — a brunch meet up after church with friends, a dinner date with your someone special, or a coffee & cake break from studying. The back room can even be rented out for private events!

Fido can get a little loud during peak business hours (brunch on the weekends or lunch almost any day of the week), but it offers an overall great environment for studying with lots of seating options throughout the cafe. Outside, there are places to sit in front of the building if the weather is nice, or you can sit inside at a high-top with a window view, at a booth, or at a table.

Fido is somewhat known for their coffee (hence the fact it is a cafe), but personally, I like to go to Fido to study during a meal time so I can eat some of their delicious food while I’m there. Their menu is quite extensive and offers everything from all-day breakfast including items such as “Banana French Toast” and “Huevos Rancheros,” sandwiches like the “Fido Burger” or “Havana Ooh-Na-Na,” salads featuring the, “Good Boy Salad” and “1122 Hummus,” and entrees such as the “Beef Barbacoa Quesadilla” and “Tuscan Pesto Pasta.”

The menu was recently updated and no longer includes my favorite sandwich. However, the baristas are happy to make modifications to the menu items, so you can have just what you want! My favorite dish so far on the new menu is the “Cauliflower Steak” sandwich (pictured below). No, I am not vegan; however, I was intrigued, so I gave it a try. The sandwich is served on a pretzel bun and is composed of browned cauliflower, baby kale, blue cheese, pumpkin seed slaw, and buffalo sauce. I have never been a fan of blue cheese; I mean, sorry, but I don’t choose to eat mold if I don’t have to. I am also not a fan of anything spicy, so I asked for brie in place of the blue cheese and no buffalo sauce. It was delicious!! The combination of the warm pretzel bread with the brie and perfectly cooked cauliflower was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I really think Fido should make the changes I made to the sandwich permanent and re-name the it the, “Cauliflower Samie.”

All sandwiches are served with fries, but substitutions can be made upon request. Other sides include salad, fruit, or sweet potatoes. If you know me, you know the sweet potatoes clearly sounded like the best option, and I was not disappointed. They are perfectly crisp and delectable (pictured above).

Another sandwich on the new menu is the, “Brie L. T” (pictured below). My friend tried it, and we were both overwhelmed by the amount of bacon sandwiched in between the two slices of toast. If you are a bacon lover, this is definitely for you! The sandwich also features tomato marmalade, triple cream brie cheese, arugula, and garlic aioli.

As I mentioned earlier, Fido has an all-day breakfast menu and is the perfect spot for brunch. I recently ordered the, “Hot Chicken & Waffles,” a plate composed of buttermilk waffles, creamy slaw, Nashville hot chicken, and apple cider maple syrup (pictured below). My dish appears a little less exciting because I asked for no seasoning on my chicken since I don’t like spicy foods, and I also asked for no slaw. However, it was delicious nonetheless! The fried chicken was honestly some of the best flavored and juiciest chicken I have ever had. This is definitely something I will order again!

A trip to Fido’s is truly not complete without dessert. Fido is part of the “Bongo Java” family of businesses which makes many homemade treats. There are cookies as big as your hand, muffins, brownies, and cereal treats, as well as slices of various cakes and cheesecakes. I have sampled a few of these different items, including an Oreo cheesecake (pictured below), and my taste buds have always been pleased.

Ok, now it’s time to talk parking and prices. Fido has its own private parking lot located behind the building where you may park for free for 90 minutes. During peak business hours, it may be difficult to find a spot, but I have generally been able to park either there or in a parking garage across the street which also offers 90 minutes of free parking.

Fido’s prices are a little high but comparable to other cafes in Nashville. Drinks on the barista menu range from $2.50-$5. Most breakfast plates cost between $10-12 with additional sides ringing up around $4. Sandwiches range from $12-$14, including a side. Salads cost around $10 but adding meat is an additional $5-$6, depending on what you get. Entrees are the priciest category on the menu and range from $14-$18.

Fido is one of my favorite spots in Nashville, and I hope reading this post has shown you why. If you don’t agree yet, head on down to 21st Avenue, and give it a try for yourself! You won’t be disappointed, but if you are, it’s probably because you didn’t order the, “Cauliflower Samie.” 🙂

Voted “Best BBQ in Nashville” Edley’s is a quick-service barbecue restaurant that is a favorite of many locals, including myself. If you haven’t tried it yet, you will definitely find yourself craving barbecue after reading this post, so proceed with caution. 🙂

Edley’s menu includes your typical barbecue offerings, as well as some specials you won’t find at other restaurants. One of these special menu items is, “Edley’s Nachos” (pictured above). It consists of a mouth-watering combination of house-made kettle chips, nacho cheese, pico de gallo, bbq sauce, sour cream, green onion, and your choice of meat–pork, chicken, or brisket. This delicious dish is truly a steal. It costs only $9, and is plenty of food for two. I have never even seen a guy finish a whole order by himself. (Yes, this is a challenge. If you can prove me wrong, let me know.)

The menu also features pork, brisket, catfish, and shrimp tacos, in addition to typical sandwiches and platters. The main choices for the platters include pork, chicken, turkey, catfish, brisket, wings, hot chicken, or ribs. And the options don’t stop there! Each platter comes with 2 sides & cornbread. The best side option is obviously always macaroni & cheese, and there’s is truly amazing. It has the perfect balance of creaminess and that hard cheese topping your grandma probably puts on her mac & cheese. One thing that makes Edley’s stand out from other similar restaurants is that you can get banana pudding as a side. Yes, a SIDE! You don’t even have to count it as dessert. It’s amazing.

Honestly, everything at Edley’s is great, but my favorite order is a little life hack I learned from a friend. One of the offerings on the kid’s menu is a full-sized bbq sandwich which comes with a choice of side and a drink, all for under $5 after tax (pictured below)!! These days, you can hardly even eat at McDonald’s for under $5. This is a true bargain my friends.

Edley’s has 3 locations in Nashville, so you’re probably within 15 minutes of at least 1 location at all times. There is one in 12 South which is practically always busy but worth it for the 12 South experience if you have not ventured there before. Just be prepared to park a ways away. The Main Street location is even more of a nightmare. There is plenty of seating at this location, thanks to a side room off of the main restaurant, but good luck finding parking close by, especially if you go for dinner on the weekend. The best location (in my humble opinion) is the one in Sylvan Park. Even on a Friday night, I have always been able to find parking somewhere close by. This location does not have as much indoor seating though, so it’s best to go when the weather is nice.

Edley’s is a great place to grab a quick lunch or meet up with friends for dinner. With so many options at unbeatable prices, you’ll want to make it a weekly stop. So if you haven’t been yet, give it a try for yourself, and see what the rave is all about!

The Grilled Cheeserie originally started as a food truck but soon gained so much attention it now has 3 storefronts! But is this business truly deserving of the fame it has received? Hopefully after reading this post, you will be able to make a decision for yourself.

In my opinion, the whole concept of The Grilled Cheeserie is quite genius. Grilled cheeses are a easy and cheap meal that even a kid can make. Adding a few extra ingredients, calling them “gourmet,” and pairing the sandwiches with sides and milkshakes was all it took to turn a simple sandwich into an entire company.

The menu offers a wide selection of grilled cheese sandwich options. My personal favorite is the, “Turkey di Parma” which is a specialty melt composed of buttermilk cheddar cheese, free-range turkey, walnut pesto aioli, and balsamic-marinated sun-cured tomatoes, stuffed between two slices of parmesan-crusted rosemary garlic bread. I ordered mine without tomatoes and quite enjoyed my modified version. The taste of the pesto, combined with melty cheddar cheese, on parmesan-crusted garlic bread was spectacular. The, “Pimento Mac & Cheese,” is another popular specialty which piles house-made pimento cheese, local cheddar, macaroni, a tomato slice, & bacon bits high on country white sourdough bread. The, “Buffalo South,” offers yet another unique combination — pepper jack cheese, pulled organic chicken, buffalo sauce, bleu cheese aioli, and pickled celery on country white sourdough bread.

If you prefer more traditional toppings, or if you just feel like being creative, you can also make your own combination! You can choose from 5 different cheeses, even including a vegan option; 4 different breads, including a gluten free option; 4 different proteins; and an extensive list of extra toppings. My personal favorite combo is buttermilk cheddar cheese, organic pulled chicken, and fresh avocado on multigrain bread.

And of course, no grilled cheese is complete without a warm bowl of tomato soup for dipping purposes. The menu offers two choices — creamy old-fashioned and roasted red pepper. If tomato soup isn’t your thing, you are weird, but there are some side options for you as well. The tater tots, which are dusted with house seasoning, are my favorite of the choices. They are a little salty in my opinion but still pair well with a melty grilled cheese. Other choices include cheesy tots (in case you don’t think you have reached your cheese in-take for the day after eating your sandwich), sweet potato chips with french onion dip, kettle chips, or a small house salad.

I don’t know why anyone would go to a place that literally has “grilled cheese” in the name and not order a sandwich, but the menu also offers 3 different entree salad choices. I cannot tell you about these because I am a normal person and order grilled cheeses when I go to The Grilled Cheeserie. If somebody wants to try one and tell me about it, you can comment on this post.

The restaurant also offers fun drinks to quench your thirst while eating your meal including bottled craft sodas like mexican coke, root beer, and cream soda. For you true Southerners out there, don’t worry, they also have sweet tea and fresh-squeezed lemonade.

The last part of the menu, and the best part of any menu, is the sweet treats. The Grilled Cheeserie has a selection of old-fashioned floats which can be made with any of their craft sodas, as well as a nice offering of milkshakes. The menu lists your typical shake choices in addition to specialties like, “The Hopscotch,” which is made with vanilla ice cream, house-made butterscotch, fresh banana slices, and brown sugar caramelized bananas. The “Tiramisu,” is another specialty which is made with sweet cream ice cream, cold brew coffee, mascarpone, lady finger crumble, and cocoa powder. The milkshake I got last time I visited the restaurant was a seasonal offering called, “The Strawberry Shortcake.” It was made with vanilla ice cream and strawberry sauce and topped with biscuit crumbles from the well known restaurant Biscuit Love, a fresh strawberry, and whipped cream. Honestly, this milkshake both looks and sounds better than it actually tasted. It was good, but personally, I think a McDonald’s strawberry milkshake topped with some biscuit crumbles would be just as tasty but ring in at a much better price.

Since we’re on the topic now, let’s go ahead and address how much you’re going to be spending on a trip to The Grilled Cheeserie. The “specialty melts” range from $8-9, and the “make your own melts” start at $5.50 but add up quickly with each protein costing $1.50 and extras ranging from an additional 50 cents to $1. The soups are $3.50, tots are $2.75, and chips are $2.50-3.50. Drinks add another $3, and milkshakes ring up between $6-6.50. Needless to say, you could easily go to the store and purchase an entire loaf of bread, a package of sliced cheese, a family sized bag of chips, a can of soup, a 2 liter soft drink, and probably even a whole gallon of ice cream for less than one meal will cost you at The Grilled Cheeserie. But is the price worth it for the taste? That would have to be a no from me. Don’t get me wrong, the sandwiches are delicious. However, I just can’t justify spending $9 on a grilled cheese no matter how unique the toppings are.

Parking is also an issue. At the Hillsboro Village location, there is not a reserved parking lot for the restaurant, and there is very limited street parking in the area. Really, the only option is to park in the lot across the street which will cost you a few extra dollars, making your trip to the restaurant even more expensive. I have not been to the locations in East Nashville or Franklin, so I cannot comment on the parking issues you might face there. Let’s be optimistic though and hope for better, cheaper options.

Modeling an entire business off a simple cheese sandwich is a great concept. However, the extremely high prices prevent me from adding this restaurant to my list of Nashville favorites. I definitely think everyone should try one of the specialty melts at least once, but this is definitely not a restaurant to rave about.

If you talk to anyone who is familiar with 12th Avenue South in Nashville, they will likely tell you one of the best restaurants on the strip is Taqueria del Sol, known by many locals as simply, “Taqueria,” or even more simply as, “Taq.” (There is also a location on Charlotte Avenue which is less popular but also less crowded.) Taqueria is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant offering typical Mexican cuisine as well as Southern-inspired plates to please every palate in your party. After reading this post, I hope you will understand why it’s a go-to for my friends and I anytime we get together.

The menu at Taqueria del Sol changes depending on the season and whether it is lunch or dinner time, but there are many items that are always offered. A favorite menu item for many of my friends is the fried chicken taco (pictured in the above photo). All tacos at Taqueria are served in soft flour tortillas, and this one is filled with a fried chicken tender, lime jalapeño mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato. Other regularly-offered tacos include the “Memphis” which is composed of chopped smoked pork, a spicy jalapeño coleslaw, and tequila BBQ sauce. The main component of the fish taco is tilapia which is dipped in egg wash, rolled in corn masa and bread crumbs, and deep-fried; poblano tartar sauce and pickled jalapeños are added for extra flavor.

Enchilada are another regular menu item. There are several different filling options, as well as multiple choices of sauce. The roasted chicken enchilada with lemon cream sauce is my go-to order, and I will even let you in on a little money-saving secret… To me, the lemon cream sauce tastes like a sweeter version of their queso. So, when I order, I ask for my sauce on the side, and then I basically get an order of cheese dip for free!

But for real though, let’s talk about the cheese dip (pictured above) because I know that’s what we’re all really here for. I mean, let’s be honest, who actually has the willpower to walk out of a Mexican restaurant without ordering some? And you would have to be crazy if you didn’t get an order when eating at Taqueria. Their chips and cheese dip are truly some of my favorite, and for those who prefer salsa or guac with your chips, they have those options as well. The menu also lists your typical Mexican side dishes such as refried beans and rice, which are both great, especially paired with the sauce from an enchilada!

My personal favorite part of the menu is the “Weekly Specials.” There special tacos featured in this section from time to time. Recently, the “Cheese Burger” taco was offered as a dinner special. It highlights a mixture of ground beef, spices, and jalapeños and is topped with cheese dip, lime jalapeño mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato. My friend tried this taco and said it was full of flavor and ranked above the fried chicken taco in her opinion. This is something I will definitely have to try for myself if I see it on the menu again.

The best thing I have ever ordered at Taqueria was also a weekly dinner special titled, “Green Chile Pot Pie” (pictured below). It had a layer of Mexican rice topped with a puffed flour tortilla and smothered with a nice helping of a chicken pot pie mixture, complete with roasted New Mexico green chiles. I was hesitant to order this dish because I do not like spicy things at all, and I was unsure if the green chiles would have a kick. I was pleasantly surprised to taste only a hint of chile spice, and I was even more pleasantly surprised to find the Mexican restaurant had added their own twist to the typical chicken pot pie mixture. To me, it tasted almost like queso. What could be better? It was honestly the best dish I have ever had from a Mexican restaurant. I hope one day you are lucky enough to find it on the menu so you can taste the beauty of this unique dish for yourself. I am honestly glad it’s not a regular menu option though because I would be both severely overweight and in extreme debt.

Taqueria del Sol has a couple of different soups and chilis on their menu as well, including a shrimp corn chowder. I don’t even like corn chowder, but theirs is undeniably delicious. Taqueria also has a couple of salad options. The choices change periodically, and I have actually never ordered one because why would you order a salad when you could get a taco? But if a salad is what your heart desires, they are available.

Now that you have been thoroughly informed of the food offerings, we should probably discuss how much all of this goodness is going to cost you. Taqueria offers comparable prices to typical Mexican restaurants. Tacos are about $3 each, enchiladas are a little over $4, sides are just under $3, starters ring in between $3-$4, and weekly specials are around $12.

Annnnd what about the parking? Honestly, good luck if you plan to eat at the 12 South location. There is a small reserved parking lot behind the restaurant, but if you don’t get lucky with one of these spots, you will either have to park in the street or pay to park in another lot. My advice is to simply avoid this location unless you are going for lunch. At dinner time, the Charlotte Avenue location is a much better option. I have never not found a spot in the large reserved parking lot behind the restaurant.

For the overall experience, I have to give Taqueria del Sol an 8/10. Since it is fast-casual, the only waiting you have to do is in the ordering line. After that, you choose your own table, and they typically bring out your starter by the time you have filled your drink cup. With above-average flavors at an average price range, Taqueria truly offers an eating experience you will enjoy time and time again.

Japanese restaurants in Nashville are not hard to come by, but which ones are worth your money? In my opinion, Ninki’s makes the top of the list.

I have eaten at and gotten take out from Ninki’s numerous times. Ninki’s menu options include a large variety of everything from entrees with steak, chicken, shrimp, or salmon; more sushi roll choices than you can even read in one sitting; specials like yakisoba, udon noodles, and bento boxes; as well as classics like chicken or shrimp fried rice.

If you eat at the restaurant, you have the choice of sitting at the hibachi grill or at a regular table. Especially on the weekends, wait times can become very long and make you very hangry if you want to sit at the hibachi grill. However, if you are planning on ordering hibachi, it is definitely worth the wait. One time, I ordered hibachi chicken when I did not sit at the grill, and not only were the portions smaller, but I also had to pay extra for fried rice instead of steamed rice. At the hibachi grill, everything is included: everyone’s favorite clear onion soup, salad, cooked vegetables, two pieces of shrimp, and fried rice, in addition to the protein of your choice. Unfortunately, gratuity is also included with hibachi orders, so you will end up spending around $20 on a meal like this. However, unless you can eat as much as my dad (which is a lot), you will have enough leftovers to make a second meal which helps me feel a little better about spending so much on one entree.

Personally, I think ordering take out sushi from Ninki’s is the best way to go. That way, I don’t have to worry about waiting for a table (my couch always seems to have seats available). My favorite roll is called the “Hawaiian.” Sadly, I do not have a picture of this majestic masterpiece, but it consists of tempura shrimp, asparagus, and cream cheese, topped with avocado and mango. It sounds like a strange combination, but TRUST ME, IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE. I mean come on, what other food product could deliver all of these delicious flavors in one bite? A single roll rings up at a pricey $11.95, but it has more pieces than some of the other rolls, so I think it’s worth the splurge every now and then.

Another one of my favorites is the “Jack’s Roll” (bottom roll in picture above) which offers a delicious combination of fried halibut, avocado, and cream cheese. The favorite roll of several of my friends is the “Happy Sunday.” This roll contains salmon and cream cheese and is deep fried and topped with eel sauce. Both of these rolls are smaller, but cost less than $6 each, so they are a little easier on the wallet.

There are also plenty of raw sushi options like the hamachi which is sliced yellow tail atop rice or the sake which is sliced salmon atop rice. I stay away from these items, so I can’t really give much feedback other than saying I personally don’t know why anyone would want to eat something uncooked when you can pay the same amount and get something cooked, but maybe that’s just me.

If you are looking for a Japanese restaurant in Nashville that is worth your time and money, Ninki’s is the place to go! With mouth-watering hibachi and endless sushi options, you are sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. Just make sure you are prepared to wait if you go for a weekend dinner date!

Five Daughters Bakery is arguably one of the hottest spots to hit when visiting Nashville. The locally-owned bakery specializes in concocting doughnuts made from croissant dough, as well as other unique treats. There are 3 locations around Nashville, and the family-run business has even expanded to Atlanta, Seaside, and Rosemary Beach due to its success.

The popularity of Five Daughters is largely due to their “100 layer” croissant doughnuts that are unlike any other doughnuts you will ever find at a regular doughnut shop. Some are frosted, some are filled, some are topped with extra ingredients, and some feature a combination of all three (like the “Pumpkin Cheesecake” doughnut featured above). I have sampled several varieties of the 100 layer doughnuts, and it is safe to say I have never been disappointed. There are certain “staple” flavors that are always available. “The Purist” has a simple sweet glaze; perfect for the plain Janes. The “Vanilla Cream” is filled with a vanilla buttercream, topped with a thick layer of vanilla frosting, and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. The “King Kong” is the most unique of the staple options. It has a maple glaze icing and is topped with bacon. The combination of maple, bacon, and endless layers of flaky dough is a truly delicious balance of salty and sweet.

There are also several seasonal flavors each month. Some are repeated year after year, and some are never on the menu again, so choose wisely when you order! I tried the “Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough” (pictured above) when it was offered last year, but I noticed the recipe has been altered for its appearance on the current September 2019 menu. I am excited to try this one again, because I can honestly say it was the best doughnut I have ever had. If you think chocolate chip cookie dough by itself is good, just wait until you taste it sitting atop a soft, buttery croissant doughnut. Let’s just say my mouth went on a wild ride, and it did not want to come back.

Some of the other 100 layer flavors I have tried include “The Parent Trap” which was a neat twist on the Oreo and peanut butter combination that became popular after the release of the movie the doughnut is named after (pictured below).

The “Chocolate Lovers” was extremely rich but perfectly satisfied allll my chocolate cravings (pictured below).

The “Strawberry Eclair” was filled with strawberry buttercream and topped with strawberry icing (pictured below). The airy croissant layers soaked in the cream, making for a delicious balance of fruity, sweet, and creamy goodness in each bite.

I don’t see how anyone could not like a doughnut like the ones I have described, but for those out there who think 100 layers might be a bit too much, Five Daughters has some options for you too. There are several varieties of yeast raised doughnuts, and some of these are even vegan for those of you who live that life. I once tried the “Boston Cream” which had a traditional Boston Cream filling and was frosted with a layer of chocolate. Personally, I was not impressed. The dough was not flavorful, and the chocolate frosting was too bitter for my liking. I don’t want to discredit all of Five Daughter’s yeast donuts, because other flavors such as the “Blueberry Lavender” or “Brownie Batter” might be delicious, but for now, I think I’ll stick to Shipley’s or Donut Den if I want a yeast donut in Nashville.

Five Daughters also offers a doughnut known as the “paleo” which is free of grains, gluten, dairy, and sugars. I really don’t know how you can still call it a doughnut at this point, but whatever it is, it’s surprisingly tasty. I sampled the “Chocolate Raspberry” flavor. The doughnut itself was very dense, and the consistency was more like that of a cake. Nonetheless, I enjoyed every bite, and I think it’s really neat that Five Daughters has options like this so people on special diets can enjoy yummy treats too!

If you were thinking all of this was beginning to sound expensive, you were right! The 100 layer doughnuts ring up between $4.25-$4.75 each; the yeast raised range from $2.50-$3.25, and the paleo are $4 a piece. Obviously, when you compare the cost of a few doughnuts at Krispy Kreme to a few at Five Daughters, there is no competition. However, a single 100 layer doughnut from Five Daughters will keep you full from breakfast to lunch; whereas a single Krispy Kreme doughnut will only leave you angry until you eat about three more to make yourself somewhat full. When you look at it from this perspective, the prices at Five Daughters are much more reasonable.

Many locals think Five Daughters Bakery is over-rated, but where else can you get a doughnut topped with edible cookie dough? If you like sweets as much as I do, a trip to Five Daughters will truly make all your wildest dreams come true.

The Pharmacy Burger Parlor and Beer Garden is considered one of the hottest spots to grab a burger in Nashville, but does it really live up to its fame? How does it compare to other burger places? As a seasoned Pharmacy customer, I believe I can provide the unbiased answers I know you are all on the edges of your seats to hear.

First things first, let’s talk about the food because that’s what we’re really here for. I have tried a few different burgers, and I do have to say they were all tasty. The ever popular “Farm Burger” features country ham, applewood-smoked bacon, a farm egg, and maple mustard. The “Mission City Burger” puts a unique twist on typical burger toppings with the addition of guacamole, pico de Gallo, slow-cooked black beans, and horchata cream fresca. For those who prefer something other than beef, there are options such as the “Daily Grind Fish Burger,” made with salmon, the “Falafel Burger,” made with chickpeas, and the “Black Bean Burger,” made using a black bean patty. My personal favorite is the “Choose Your Cure” which allows you to choose your own patty and toppings. I order the turkey patty which it is seasoned to perfection, and when topped with some cheese, veggies, sauce, and finally enclosed a giant yeast bun, it is truly a masterpiece (pictured above). The menu also offers a variety of Wurstchen like the classic bratwurst or currywurst, along with grilled chicken sandwiches for those who would rather not have a burger at all.

Now that I have your mouth watering for something juicy, let’s talk about sides. The options include hand-cut fries, hand-cut sweet potato fries (pictured above), tater tots, cole slaw, german potato salad, black bean & corn salad, and cold pasta salad. Personally, I cannot image why anyone wouldn’t get sweet potato fries after seeing they are an option. Sweet potato fries are always my go-to, and they are consistently crispy, yet tender, and perfectly salted. I can’t provide any feedback regarding other side options because I have never tried any. However, we have already covered the fact that sweet potato fries are really the only option anyway, so you don’t need to know anything else.

Another draw to The Pharmacy is their “Soda Shop” selection. They serve old-fashioned favorites such as the “Creamsicle” and “Strawberry Ginger” that are sure to take your taste buds right back to the 1950s. The Pharmacy also has classic chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla shakes and malts to please your mouth even further. After all, there’s nothing better than a good ole burger, fry, and milkshake combo.

I know this all sounds great, and you are probably already getting in your car to go check out The Pharmacy for yourself, but before you do, we need to cover how it compares to other burger places in Nashville. Let’s start with parking. Almost no where in Nashville has great parking options, but some places are better than others. Unfortunately, The Pharmacy is definitely not one of those locations. It does not have a parking lot of its own, and most of the parking close by is reserved for other businesses. Street parking is pretty much the only option, and during busy times, you might find yourself walking pretty far from your parking spot to the door. Once in the door, you will likely have to wait awhile to be seated. Since The Pharmacy is so popular, it is best to go for lunch or an early dinner to avoid wait times upwards of 60-90 minutes.

What about the prices? Most burgers are around $10, and sides ring up at $3, which isn’t cheap but actually pretty comparable to other burger joints. Plus, the servings are large, so you might even be able to get away with splitting a meal if you aren’t a big eater, or if you are trying to save room for Jeni’s ice cream afterwards (hehe – refer to my previous post to read about how great it is). Finally, how does the taste compare? In my opinion, the burgers are all well seasoned and have great flavor, and the variety of toppings allow for everyone from the pickiest of plain eaters to the dads who want it all to find something they like. It is hard to say whether the meat and toppings themselves are better than at other restaurants, but for me, it all comes down to the bun. The Pharmacy definitely has a leg up in this category. Their buns are made from yeast dough and are large and fluffy, yet crispy on the edges. I like them so much, I could eat them by themselves. As far as fries go, my all time favorites live at M.L. Rose (review to come, so stay tuned!), but The Pharmacy’s fries are definitely nothing to complain about and are a necessary pairing to any burger.

Overall, I would rate The Pharmacy with a 7/10. The parking and wait times put a damper on the overall experience, but the quality and taste of the food, drinks, and shakes make it well-worth the hype. If you have never tried The Pharmacy, I would say it’s a must. Just make sure you go early to beat the rush!

There is nothing more refreshing on a hot, sunny day than a bowl full of cool, fruity deliciousness.  Frutta Bowls is without a doubt my favorite spot to go in Nashville to satisfy this craving.  Frutta Bowls offers a wider selection of menu options than any other smoothie bar I have visited.  They have toast served with a variety of both sweet and savory toppings, hot oatmeal bowls with various add-ins, organic coffee, smoothies of all sorts, and smoothie bowls with a selection of bases including açaí, pitaya, and kale, and an endless amount of yummy toppings.

The first time I went, I was overwhelmed by the menu and had no idea what to get. I was quickly offered samples of each of the smoothie bases so I could decide what I liked best.  I have had plenty of açaí bowls at other places, so I wasn’t surprised that I liked the dark purple açaí base which is made using organic açaí (a berry similar to blueberries and blackberries) and banana.  I was intrigued by the bright pink pitaya base because I had no idea what pitaya even was.  Turns out, it is just another word for dragon fruit.  This base combines pitaya with banana, pineapple, and almond milk and tastes a little sweeter than the açaí base.  I was skeptical of the green kale base because I expected it to taste like salad, but I was very wrong.  The combination of banana, pineapple, and almond milk completely disguised the kale in the base, and it was actually the sweetest of all!

I have now been to Frutta Bowls multiple times.  I always try to make myself get something different, but I have trouble deviating from my favorite order.  In my humble option, the “Frutta Bowl,” is perfect because it has a little bit of everything.  It is a smoothie bowl that consists of the açaí base topped with granola, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi, honey, coconut flakes, and my favorite additions, peanut butter and nutella (which are hidden under the fruit in the picture above).  It is nutrient-dense but tastes like dessert.  You would have to be crazy to not like it.

Something I really like about Frutta Bowls is how they allow their customers to change up menu items to create their own combinations.  I like to switch out the açaí base for pitaya in the Frutta Bowl.  For someone who does not like certain toppings, the flexibility of the menu at Frutta Bowls allows you to create your own dream concoction of flavors.  For those trying to build muscle, there is even an option to add whey protein, and some menu items such as the “Muscle Up Bowl” or “Chocolate Explosion” smoothie already have it included.

Really, the only downside to Frutta Bowls is the cost, but honestly it’s probably a good thing the menu is a little pricey because otherwise I might go every day.  Typical bowls range from $10-12.  However, they are pretty large and justify the amount of food I would consider enough for breakfast or lunch.  Plus, if you think about how much it would cost to purchase all of the individual ingredients to make a bowl like this yourself, I don’t think it’s a bad deal.  So, the next time you are in need of something that will satisfy your sweet tooth but is also nutrient-dense, head on over to Frutta Bowls and grab yourself to a fresh and guilt-free treat!

You know that saying about how the more sketchy a place looks, the better it probably is? Well, that is definitely true of my latest food adventure. I had often driven by the small “hole in the wall” known as Korea House, but I had never tried it until last weekend. I became suspicious it was going to be very good before I even walked in because there was a line of people waiting outside. My friend and I had to wait at least 30 minutes before a table even became available for us in the small restaurant, and the seats were only about 2 inches away from the groups seated on either side. That being said, it’s probably not the best place to go for dinner on a Friday night if you are in a hurry, or if you require more than a few inches of personal space. However, those are honestly the only negative things I have to say about the entire experience.

Our waitress was kind, and the service was quick. I ordered the, “Japchaebap,” which was described on the menu as “stir fried potato noodle, vegetable, beef bits, and rice.” I really had no idea what to expect when my order was brought out, but I was pleasantly surprised (pictured below). The noodles were almost a shade of purple and unlike any I had eaten before. They were mixed with small pieces of beef and cooked broccoli, onions, zucchini, and carrots. It was all bathed in a thin sauce that tasted a little like teriyaki but had no color, and it was delicious. Since it was my first time trying real Korean food, I probably shouldn’t make any comparisons, but I will say it was better than any other stir fry I’ve ever had before.

My friend ordered the, “Dolsot Bibimbap,” which consisted of sticky rice, pieces of beef, and mixed vegetables topped with a fried egg and served in a hot stone pot (pictured below). We learned it was customary to top this dish with hot sauce and then stir it all together with chopsticks so each bite was a flavorful combination of each component. My friend obliged, and even though I don’t usually like spicy foods, I was a fan of this one! The coolest, or should I say hottest, thing about this dish was that it stayed warm throughout our entire dinner since it was served in a hot stone pot.

A selection of small side dishes also came with our meal. I can’t even tell you what most of the items were, but they were a fun addition to the experience (pictured below). I really liked the one on the top left which I think was some type of baked egg cut into squares. It sounds disgusting, but it had a great flavor so don’t knock it til you try it people! I also enjoyed the one on the bottom right which was a some sort of potato dish. It tasted just like the potatoes in my mom’s beef stew.

I spent about $18 on this meal (including tip) which I did not consider to be bad at all, especially considering I had enough to take home for lunch the next day. Korea House may not look like a hot commodity on the outside, but the food tastes better than Pilot Pete looks if you give it a chance. (Btw that’s a Bachelorette reference for those of you wondering who I’m talking about.) So, the next time you find yourself with no plans on a Friday night, you should definitely take the time to eat at Korea House. And with its intimate seating arrangement, you might even make a new best friend who can provide you with plans for the next Friday night. 🙂