Reviews

Dining at SOLE Seafood & Grill Dublin: A Seafood Tower Worth Sharing

Posted on by Corey Gasman
SOLE Seafood & Grill Dublin, Seafood Tower
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Dinner at SOLE Seafood & Grill in Dublin

By Corey Gasman

For a polished seafood dinner in the heart of Dublin, we booked a table at SOLE Seafood & Grill. Known for its elegant dining room and dramatic shellfish presentations, it has become one of the city’s most talked-about seafood restaurants.

The space feels refined and contemporary, with a buzz that makes it feel special without being overly formal. It is the kind of place you book when you want a proper night out centered around seafood.

The Seafood Tower Experience

We ordered the much-anticipated Seafood Tower (€137), a generous mix of hot and cold seafood that easily lives up to the hype.

The top tier featured warm lobster and mussels, while the lower tier showcased chilled classics like oysters, prawns, and smoked salmon. Everything tasted exceptionally fresh, and the contrast between warm and chilled elements made each bite interesting.

A special mention goes to the house sourdough bread. Do not hesitate to ask for more. It is perfect for soaking up the sauces left behind from the seafood.

Drinks and Dessert

For drinks, my wife enjoyed a glass of vintage brut Champagne (€38), while I paired the seafood tower with a New Zealand Cabernet Sauvignon. Both complemented the meal nicely without overpowering the delicate flavors of the shellfish.

For dessert, we shared the house specialty Guinness Cake. The Guinness-infused sponge was layered with white chocolate and coffee ganache, then finished with cacao nibs and toasted almonds. We ended the evening with a glass of port, which made for a smooth and satisfying finish.

House specialty Guinness Cake at SOLE Seafood & Grill Dublin

The house specialty Guinness Cake at SOLE Seafood & Grill in Dublin.

Service and Overall Experience

While the food and drinks were excellent, the service did not quite match the restaurant’s reputation. Our server appeared new and somewhat unsure, which felt unexpected for a restaurant at this price point. A more experienced server would have elevated the experience significantly.

That said, the quality of the seafood alone makes SOLE worth visiting. Come for the outstanding seafood tower and thoughtful drink pairings. Hopefully, your service experience will be smoother than ours.

Martini cocktail at SOLE Seafood & Grill Dublin Ireland

Cocktails at SOLE Seafood & Grill in Dublin.

Read my full Google Maps review:
View SOLE Seafood & Grill on Google Maps

SOLE Seafood & Grill Dublin FAQs

If you are planning dinner at SOLE, these quick answers cover the most common questions travelers ask.

Is SOLE Seafood & Grill worth it in Dublin?

Yes, especially if you love high-quality seafood in an upscale setting. The seafood tower alone makes it a memorable dining experience.

The Seafood Tower we ordered was €137. It easily serves two people and includes both hot and cold seafood selections.

The Guinness Cake is the standout dessert. Rich, layered, and balanced with white chocolate and coffee ganache, it is perfect to share.

Absolutely. The polished dining room and impressive seafood presentations make it ideal for anniversaries, birthdays, or a memorable night out in Dublin.

SOLE is centrally located in Dublin, making it easy to reach from most major attractions. You can find directions and reviews here:
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Reviews

Guinness Storehouse Review: Is Dublin’s Most Famous Attraction Worth It?

Posted on by Corey Gasman
Tasting Guinness beer on the tour in Dublin, Ireland
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Guinness Storehouse Dublin Review: What to Expect Before You Go

By Corey Gasman

If tourists and Guinness are not your thing, you might want to skip this one. Otherwise, welcome to one of Dublin’s most iconic and surprisingly well-designed attractions.

The Guinness Storehouse is a modern, immersive museum dedicated to the history, craft, branding, and cultural impact of Ireland’s most famous export. Many people refer to it as a brewery tour, but expectations matter.

This is not a factory tour. Instead, it is a carefully curated experience focused on storytelling, design, and brand legacy.

Overall, it is an excellent way to spend a couple of hours in Dublin and one I would easily recommend.

What to Expect Inside the Guinness Storehouse

The building itself is shaped like a giant pint glass and rises seven stories high inside the historic St. James’s Gate Brewery complex.

Inside the Guinness Storehouse Dublin

Inside the Guinness Storehouse at St. James’s Gate in Dublin.

The Brewing Process (Lower Floors)

The main self-guided route spans about three levels and walks you through:

  • Core ingredients like water, barley, hops, and yeast
  • The brewing process from start to finish
  • Guinness’s commitment to quality and consistency

The exhibits are interactive, clearly laid out, and easy to follow, even if you are not a beer expert.

Advertising, Design, and Pop Culture (Floor 4)

This is where the visit really becomes memorable.

Floor 4 focuses on Guinness advertising history, showcasing decades of iconic posters, slogans, and global campaigns. A media room plays some of their most famous commercials and highlights how Guinness built one of the strongest brand identities in the world.

The Tasting Room Experience

Do not skip this part.

  • Learn how to properly drink Guinness
  • Explore the aromas and flavor profile
  • Enjoy your first sample of the tour

It is short, polished, and surprisingly educational.

Gravity Bar views over Dublin

Views over Dublin from the Gravity Bar.

Gravity Bar Views (Floor 7)

The experience ends in the famous Gravity Bar, where your included pint comes with sweeping 360-degree views of Dublin.

On a clear day, you can see landmarks across the city while enjoying one of the freshest Guinness pints you will ever have. Even non-beer drinkers tend to agree that the view alone is worth the visit.

Guinness Brewery buildings from the Gravity Bar looking down

Looking down over the Guinness Brewery buildings from the Gravity Bar.

A Short History of Guinness in Dublin

Guinness was founded in 1759 by Arthur Guinness at St. James’s Gate in Dublin. One of the most famous details in Irish business history is the lease Arthur Guinness signed for the brewery.

He agreed to a 9,000-year lease at an annual rent of £45, a bold move that showed enormous confidence in both his beer and Dublin’s future. Today, that lease has become part of Guinness legend and is proudly referenced throughout the Storehouse experience.

Beyond brewing, Guinness has played a major role in Dublin’s social and civic life for centuries. The company was known early on for progressive worker benefits, including pensions, housing support, and healthcare long before they were common practice.

Guinness has also been deeply involved in charitable work across Dublin. Through modern initiatives and long-standing foundations, the company supports community development, education, social inclusion, and local arts programs, particularly in neighborhoods surrounding St. James’s Gate.

Today, Guinness remains one of Ireland’s most recognizable global brands, but its roots, responsibility, and community impact are still firmly tied to Dublin.

Costs, Tickets, and Practical Info

  • Ticket price: Usually €20 to €30, depending on season and time slot
  • What’s included: Self-guided museum entry, plus one pint of Guinness or a non-alcoholic option at the Gravity Bar
  • Time needed: About 1.5 to 2.5 hours
  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for lighter crowds
  • Location: St. James’s Gate, Dublin

Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak travel months.

Final Verdict: Is the Guinness Storehouse Worth It?

Yes, as long as you know what you are signing up for.

This experience is not about watching beer get bottled. It is about history, design, branding, and enjoying a perfectly poured pint with one of the best views in Dublin.

Rating: Five shamrocks out of five. Sláinte!

Watch Before You Visit: Netflix’s House of Guinness

Guinness’s legacy has also made its way to the screen. Netflix’s historical drama House of Guinness explores the powerful Guinness family and the business, politics, and personal tensions surrounding the iconic brewery in 19th-century Ireland. The series blends real history with dramatic storytelling, offering viewers a deeper look at how Guinness evolved from a local Dublin brewery into a global name.

For travelers visiting the Guinness Storehouse, the show adds extra context and makes the experience feel even more connected to the people behind the brand. You can find full details about the series on IMDb.

Guinness Storehouse Dublin FAQs

If you are deciding whether the Guinness Storehouse is worth your time in Dublin, these answers cover the most common questions visitors ask.

Is the Guinness Storehouse worth visiting in Dublin?

Yes, as long as you know what to expect. The Guinness Storehouse is a modern, immersive museum focused on history, design, branding, and storytelling, not a traditional brewery or factory tour.

No. This is not a factory-style tour where you watch beer being brewed or bottled. Instead, it is a curated museum experience that explains the brewing process, Guinness history, and the brand’s global impact through interactive exhibits.

Most visitors spend between 1.5 and 2.5 hours inside. You can move at your own pace, and many people linger longer in the Gravity Bar for the views.

Your ticket includes self-guided entry to the museum and one pint of Guinness at the Gravity Bar. Non-alcoholic options are also available.

Yes. Even non-beer drinkers tend to agree that the 360-degree views of Dublin from the Gravity Bar are one of the highlights of the experience.

Yes. It is one of Dublin’s most popular attractions. However, it is well designed and well run, so it feels polished rather than chaotic.

Reviews

Yee-Haw Brewing Co. Nashville Review: Beer, Tacos & Patio Vibes

Posted on by Corey Gasman
Pork Belly Tacos
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Yee-Haw Brewing Co. – Lively Brewery Stop in Downtown Nashville

423 6th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

By Corey Gasman

Yee-Haw Brewing Co. is a fun and lively stop in downtown Nashville, especially on a nice day when you can take advantage of the outdoor patio. This brewery combines craft beer, casual food, and an energetic atmosphere that works well for groups and visitors looking for a relaxed place to hang out.

The beer selection was solid across the board, with something for most tastes. We also tried the Ole Smoky Moonshine Bloody Mary, which was bold, flavorful, and a fun twist on the classic brunch cocktail. Inside, Saturday football games were playing at the bar, while a large screen on the patio made it easy to catch the action outdoors.

What We Ordered

For food, we shared White Duck Tacos and sampled three different varieties: Shrimp Diablo, Pork Belly, and Fish Tacos. Each one had its own distinct flavor, and all were enjoyable, making them perfect for sharing alongside beers.

Fish tacos at Yee-Haw Brewing Co. Nashville

Fish tacos at Yee-Haw Brewing Co. in downtown Nashville.

Atmosphere and Patio Scene

The outdoor space adds a lot to the experience. You can bring your dog, play bags, and enjoy the open air while a DJ keeps the energy high with loud music. Inside, there is plenty of table seating along with a large gift shop in the back, which adds to the laid-back brewery vibe.

If you are looking for a casual brewery in Nashville with good beer, tacos, sports on TV, and a lively patio scene, Yee-Haw Brewing Co. is a great stop while exploring downtown.

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Ole Smoky Moonshine Bloody Mary at Yee-Haw Brewing Co.

Ole Smoky Moonshine Bloody Mary at Yee-Haw Brewing Co.

Yee-Haw Brewing Co. Nashville FAQs

If you are deciding whether to stop by, these quick answers cover the most common questions visitors ask about Yee-Haw Brewing Co. in downtown Nashville.

Is Yee-Haw Brewing Co. worth visiting in Nashville?

Yes. If you want a casual downtown hangout with solid craft beer, tacos, and a lively patio scene, Yee-Haw is a great stop. It works especially well for groups and game days.

It is energetic and social, with sports playing inside and a DJ outside on the patio. Expect loud music, lots of people, and a fun hang-out-for-a-while atmosphere.

The beer list has something for most tastes, and the Ole Smoky Moonshine Bloody Mary is a bold twist if you want a cocktail. For food, the White Duck Tacos are ideal for sharing. We tried Shrimp Diablo, Pork Belly, and Fish Tacos.

Yes. The outdoor patio is one of the main reasons to visit, especially on a nice day. It is a great place to grab a table, watch a game on the big screen, and hang out with friends.

Yes, the outdoor space is dog friendly, making it an easy stop if you are exploring downtown with your pup.

Yee-Haw Brewing Co. is located at 423 6th Ave S in downtown Nashville.

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Reviews

Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar Nashville Review

Posted on by Corey Gasman
Band playing at Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar
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Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar Nashville Review

Last updated: February 2026 by Corey Gasman

Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar

Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar • 220 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

Visited: November 21, 2024 · Rating: 5/5

Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar was easily my favorite live music spot during our Nashville trip. We visited twice during a four-night stay, and both nights delivered high-energy performances with strong blues and rock covers that kept the crowd engaged from start to finish.

The Atmosphere

Located in historic Printers Alley, this bar stands out from the Broadway scene by offering a more intimate live music experience. The venue is small, which adds to its charm and creates a lively, close-up feel with the band.

The New Orleans-inspired vibe is a fun change of pace, and the wraparound metal balcony is a great place to grab a seat if you can find one. Sitting upstairs gives you a perfect view of the stage and the crowd below.

Drinks and Pricing

Drink prices are on the higher side but consistent with most downtown Nashville bars. Expect to pay around nine dollars for beers and about fourteen dollars for cocktails.

While not cheap, the quality live music and unique atmosphere make it worth it.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for live blues music in Nashville with a New Orleans flair, Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar is a must-visit. It is a great alternative to the busy Broadway bars and an excellent choice for a memorable night out in Music City.


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Reviews

Harry’s Steakhouse Playa del Carmen Review: Is It Worth the Splurge?

Posted on by Corey Gasman
Harry's rib eye steak
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Harry’s Steakhouse & Raw Bar | Playa del Carmen

Quinta Avenida 1-Lote 8B, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
February 17, 2025 · Rating: 5/5

By Corey Gasman

Harry’s Steakhouse and Raw Bar is an excellent choice for a special-occasion dinner in Playa del Carmen, especially if you want an upscale dining experience right on Fifth Avenue. It delivers a classic American-style steakhouse experience with polished service, premium cocktails, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.

Hamachi sashimi at Harry’s Steakhouse & Raw Bar in Playa del Carmen

Hamachi sashimi to start the night at Harry’s Steakhouse & Raw Bar.

What We Ordered

We started the evening with cocktails and the Hamachi Sashimi, served with tamarind ponzu, crispy onions, and radish. The crispy onions added an unexpected but welcome layer of texture and flavor that complemented the fresh hamachi nicely.

For drinks, I ordered the Lychee Margarita made with Don Julio Blanco and requested a Tajín rim. The Tajín added a spicy, savory kick that worked far better than a traditional salt rim. The margarita was well balanced and not overly sweet, which I really appreciated. My wife enjoyed a classic martini that was crisp and well executed.

Golden Roca cauliflower at Harry’s Steakhouse & Raw Bar in Playa del Carmen

Golden Roca cauliflower, flavorful but heavier than expected.

For dinner, we ordered the Jack’s Creek Rib Eye, a fourteen-ounce cut served with truffle jus. The steak was cooked perfectly and delivered on flavor, though the quality of the meat felt average for the seventy-dollar price point. This was the most affordable option from their Australian steak selection, and next time I would likely upgrade to one of their higher-end cuts.

As a side, we ordered the Golden Roca Cauliflower from the appetizer menu. It featured tempura cauliflower with vegan sriracha, mayonnaise, and herbs. Unfortunately, the tempura batter was heavier than expected and lacked crispness. The cauliflower itself was cooked al dente, which helped save the dish, but it did not stand out compared to similar versions we have had elsewhere.

Birthday Touches and Dessert

For my birthday, the restaurant surprised us with a slice of chocolate cake topped with a sparkler, which was a thoughtful and festive touch. Like all guests, we were also treated to a large cotton candy presentation at the end of the meal, a fun and very Instagram-friendly moment.

To finish things off, I ordered an espresso martini with dessert. We also enjoyed three glasses of their Cabernet Sauvignon from Baja California, which paired well with the meal.

Final Verdict

The total cost came to about $200 USD, or roughly $250 USD with tip. While it is definitely a splurge, the high level of service, energetic atmosphere, and prime Fifth Avenue location make Harry’s Steakhouse and Raw Bar one of the best spots in Playa del Carmen for a memorable night out.

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Harry’s Steakhouse Playa del Carmen FAQs

If you are planning a visit, these quick answers cover the most common questions travelers ask before booking a table at Harry’s.

Is Harry’s Steakhouse in Playa del Carmen worth it?

Yes, if you want an upscale Fifth Avenue night out with polished service, strong cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. It is a splurge, but it delivers the special-occasion experience.

For starters, the Hamachi Sashimi is a great choice, especially if you like bright, tangy flavors with a bit of crunch. For cocktails, the Lychee Margarita with a Tajín rim is worth trying if you want something balanced and not overly sweet.

We ordered the Jack’s Creek Rib Eye (14 oz) with truffle jus. It was cooked perfectly and tasted great, but the meat quality felt average for the price. Next time, we would likely upgrade to a higher-end cut.

The Golden Roca Cauliflower had good flavor, but the tempura batter was heavier than expected and lacked crispness. The cauliflower was cooked al dente, which helped, but it did not stand out compared to similar versions we have had elsewhere.

Yes. For my birthday, they brought out a slice of chocolate cake with a sparkler and the cotton candy presentation at the end of the meal. It is festive and very Instagram-friendly.

Our total was about $200 USD, or roughly $250 USD with tip. Expect it to be a splurge compared to most Playa del Carmen restaurants, especially if you add wine or multiple cocktails.

Harry’s is on Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida) in Playa del Carmen.

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Reviews

El Fogón Playa del Carmen Review | Best Al Pastor Tacos

Posted on by Corey Gasman
El Fogon, Al Pastor Tacos
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El Fogón Playa del Carmen Review: Legendary Al Pastor Tacos and Unbeatable Value

30 Avenida Nte. s/n, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
February 17, 2025 · Rating: 5/5

By Corey Gasman

El Fogón is hands down one of the best places to eat in Playa del Carmen, and it remains a must-visit for us every time we are in town. After visiting Playa del Carmen multiple times over the past twenty-five years, this spot continues to deliver some of the best al pastor tacos you will find anywhere.

For travelers wondering where to eat in Playa del Carmen, El Fogón is consistently one of the top-rated taco spots for locals and visitors alike.

Thanks to its popularity on Instagram and TikTok, El Fogón is no longer a hidden gem, so expect a short wait if you visit during dinner hours.

We waited about fifteen minutes, but the line moved quickly and the time passed easily thanks to a street musician playing bongos outside, which added to the fun local atmosphere.

Once seated, service was fast and friendly. Our waiter was genuinely happy to take care of us, setting the tone for an authentic and enjoyable Mexican dining experience. The energy here is lively without feeling rushed.

El Fogón Playa del Carmen al pastor tacos on the trompo

Tacos al pastor sliced straight from the trompo at El Fogón in Playa del Carmen.

What We Ordered

We ordered two classic al pastor tacos, a steak quesadilla, and I went all in with the Taco Loco.

The al pastor tacos were exactly what they are known for, juicy, flavorful, and perfectly char-grilled. The steak quesadilla featured tender arrachera skirt steak that was well seasoned and cooked just right.

The Taco Loco was a serious flavor bomb, essentially a burrito stuffed with a mix of their char-grilled meats and melted queso, topped with a thick slice of smoky bacon. If you are very hungry, this is the dish to order.

Taco Loco from El Fogón in Playa del Carmen

The Taco Loco at El Fogón, loaded with grilled meats, queso, and smoky bacon.

This review reflects our most recent visit, but El Fogón has been consistently excellent every time we have eaten here over the years.

Everything we tried was excellent, and it is hard to go wrong with anything on the menu. Two beers and all of our food came to about $26 USD, which is incredible value for the quality and portion sizes. We even had leftovers that made for a great lunch the next day.

El Fogón continues to be one of our favorite restaurants in Playa del Carmen year after year. If you are searching for authentic Mexican street food, legendary al pastor tacos, and great value, this place should be at the top of your list. ¡Buen provecho!

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At El Fogón in Playa del Carmen, you'll find a variety of fresh, flavorful salsas, including Salsa Verde (green), Salsa Roja (red), and Pico de Gallo, served with lime and cucumber to complement their popular tacos and Mexican dishes.


At El Fogón in Playa del Carmen, you will find a variety of fresh, flavorful salsas, including salsa verde, salsa roja, and pico de gallo, served with lime and cucumber to complement their tacos. You will also often see nopal (prickly pear cactus), a classic Mexican ingredient that adds texture and earthy flavor.

El Fogón Playa del Carmen FAQs

If you are planning a visit, these quick answers cover the most common questions travelers ask before eating at El Fogón.

Is El Fogón worth visiting in Playa del Carmen?

Yes. If you want classic tacos al pastor with bold flavor, fast service, and great value, El Fogón is one of the most reliable picks in Playa del Carmen. It is popular with both locals and visitors and consistently delivers.

Start with the al pastor tacos. They are the signature item and what most people come for. If you are hungry, the Taco Loco is a larger option. The steak quesadilla (arrachera) is also a solid choice if you want something beyond tacos.

Expect a short line during dinner hours, especially because El Fogón is popular on Instagram and TikTok. On our last visit, the wait was about 15 minutes, and the line moved quickly.

No. It is one of the best values in town for the portion sizes and quality. We ordered multiple items plus two beers and spent about $26 USD total.

See the menu image below and click to enlarge for pricing and options before visiting.

El Fogon Menu from 2026

El Fogón is located at 30 Avenida Nte. s/n, Centro in Playa del Carmen.

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Reviews

The Finch Nashville Review | Comfort Food & Cocktails

Posted on by Corey Gasman
The Finch in Nashville
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The Finch Nashville Review: Comfort Food and Craft Cocktails Downtown

Last updated: February 2026 by Corey Gasman

The Finch

The Finch • 111 10th Ave S #310, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

We had an excellent dinner at The Finch in downtown Nashville, and everything we ordered delivered on flavor, execution, and value. For a nicer restaurant right in the middle of the action, the prices felt very reasonable, especially considering the portion sizes and how well everything was cooked.

The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with plenty of groups stopping in before a night out. It does get loud, so go in expecting a buzzing dining room rather than a quiet, intimate meal.

Shrimp and grits from The Finch in Nashville

Shrimp and grits at The Finch in downtown Nashville.

What We Ordered

We started with the spicy meatballs, which were incredibly tender and packed with bold, comforting flavor.

For mains, I ordered the shrimp and grits. The dish was rich and creamy, with well-sized shrimp cooked perfectly and seasoning that stayed balanced throughout.

My wife went with the short ribs, and they were outstanding. The meat was melt-in-your-mouth tender, paired with smooth mashed potatoes and a demi-glace that tied the whole plate together.

Cocktails were just as dialed in as the food. The martini arrived crisp and ice cold, and my Old Fashioned hit the sweet spot between bourbon warmth and subtle sweetness without being syrupy.

Service and Overall Experience

Service was friendly, relaxed, and efficient. Food came out quickly, but the pacing never felt rushed, which made it easy to settle in and enjoy dinner.

If you want a casual but high-quality dinner spot downtown with comfort food that actually tastes like someone cares, plus well-made cocktails, The Finch is an easy recommendation.


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FAQ: The Finch Nashville

Do you need a reservation for The Finch?

Reservations are a good idea for dinner, especially on weekends. If you are going early or dining midweek, walk-ins can work, but peak times fill up fast.

The Finch is known for weekday happy hour specials. Check their current happy hour times before you go, since schedules can change seasonally.

Yes, The Finch is a popular weekend brunch spot. If brunch is your plan, it is worth arriving early or booking ahead to avoid a long wait.

If you want classic comfort food done right, the shrimp and grits are a safe bet. The short ribs are a great choice if you want something rich and slow-cooked. For starters, the spicy meatballs are an easy win.

It can be. The vibe is energetic and busy, especially with pre-Broadway groups. If you want a quieter meal, aim for earlier dinner reservations.

Parking is typically manageable with nearby garages and lots in the downtown area. If you are going during peak weekend hours, plan a little extra time to park.

Yes. The menu and vibe work well for groups, especially if you want a fun, social dinner before going out. For larger parties, booking ahead is the easiest move.

Reviews

Etch Nashville Review: Standout Scallops and Downtown Dining Prices

Posted on by Corey Gasman
etch sea scallops
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Last updated: February 2026 by Corey Gasman

etch

etch • 303 Demonbreun St, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

We had dinner at etch in downtown Nashville, just steps from the Country Music Hall of Fame. Location-wise, it is an easy choice if you are already in the area. Overall, the meal delivered strong execution on the main dishes, but a few details kept it from being a full five-star experience.

What We Ordered

We started with the Beet and Berry Salad. It was flavorful, but leaned much sweeter than expected. There were only a couple slices of beet compared to a larger portion of greens, and the goat cheese semifreddo read more like frozen cheesecake than traditional goat cheese. Interesting idea, but it needed more acidity to balance the sweetness from the berries and semifreddo.

The entrées were where etch really shined. The scallops were beautifully cooked, tender and buttery, and easily the standout dish of the night. They were the kind of scallops that make you pause mid-conversation.

The filet was equally solid, cooked just right and served with beef jus, a red wine gastrique, and a tarragon shallot butter that added richness without overpowering the meat.

Filet at etch in Nashville

Filet with beef jus and red wine gastrique at etch Nashville.

Service and Pricing

Service was friendly, attentive, and efficient. The kitchen was happy to split each dish onto two plates since we were sharing, which we appreciated.

That said, we did have a small pricing hiccup. We added one extra scallop and were told it would be eight dollars, but it appeared on the bill as thirteen. At sixty-four dollars for four scallops total, it definitely stood out.

The atmosphere is polished but leans a bit corporate, more business dinner than cozy night out. Pricing reflects the downtown location. Our total came to $214 before tip and $258 all in for one salad, two entrées, two glasses of wine, and one cocktail.

Final Verdict

Overall, etch is worth trying if you are already downtown, especially if scallops are your thing. The food is well executed, but you are paying premium prices for the location and overall experience.


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FAQ: etch Nashville

Do you need a reservation for etch Nashville?

Reservations are a smart move for dinner, especially on weekends or if there is an event downtown. Walk-ins can work at off-peak times, but this is not the kind of place to gamble on at prime hour.

The scallops were the standout dish and the one I would recommend first. If you want a classic steak option, the filet was well cooked and nicely layered with sauces and butter.

Yes. It is priced like a downtown Nashville restaurant. You are paying for the location and experience. If you are watching budget, save it for a planned night out.

Polished and professional. It leans more business dinner than romantic date night. Still a nice experience, just not especially intimate.

Yes. The kitchen split dishes onto two plates without issue, which made sharing easy and seamless.

Yes. It is centrally located and very close to major attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame, making it convenient if you are already downtown.

Reviews

The Mockingbird Nashville Brunch Review: Creative Dishes and Fun Cocktails

Posted on by Corey Gasman
Chicken and Biscuits
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The Mockingbird Nashville Review: Creative Brunch Downtown

Last updated: February 2026 by Corey Gasman

The Mockingbird

The Mockingbird • 121 12th Ave N A, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

Brunch at The Mockingbird in downtown Nashville stood out thanks to a creative menu, playful cocktails, and food that genuinely delivered. We visited on a Saturday morning around 10:30 a.m. While it was calm when we arrived, the dining room filled quickly as we were finishing.

What We Ordered

Service was excellent from the start. Friendly, attentive, and well paced without ever feeling rushed.

I ordered the Chicken and Biscuits, which ended up being the highlight of the meal. The chicken was perfectly crispy, the biscuits were fluffy and tender, and everything was covered in a savory gravy with just enough heat to bring the dish together.

My wife chose the Pork Belly Fried Rice, and it did not disappoint. The pork belly was crispy and caramelized, while the fried rice struck a great balance between sweet and savory flavors.

We also shared a side of tater tots with truffle aioli. The tots arrived hot and crunchy, and the aioli was rich, creamy, and full of flavor.

Pork belly fried rice at The Mockingbird Nashville

Pork Belly Fried Rice at The Mockingbird in downtown Nashville.

Cocktails and Vibe

The drinks are part of the appeal here, and the Punch in a Bag lived up to the hype. Served in a Capri Sun style pouch, it was boozy, fruity, and surprisingly well balanced. It added a playful energy to brunch without crossing into gimmick territory.

The overall vibe is relaxed, upbeat, and social. It feels fun without being chaotic.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for a fun but genuinely good brunch spot in Nashville, The Mockingbird is an easy recommendation. With creative comfort food, inventive cocktails, and a relaxed downtown atmosphere, it is a strong choice for weekend brunch in Music City.


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FAQ: The Mockingbird Nashville Brunch

Do you need a reservation for brunch at The Mockingbird?

Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch, especially after mid-morning. Early arrivals may get seated quickly, but the restaurant fills up.

The Chicken and Biscuits are the standout and a safe first choice. The Pork Belly Fried Rice is also excellent if you want something rich and savory.

It manages to be both. The cocktails are playful and memorable, but the food holds its own and never feels secondary.

Yes. Signature drinks like the Punch in a Bag are part of the experience and are well balanced rather than overly sweet.

Relaxed, social, and upbeat. It is a good spot for groups, casual celebrations, or an easygoing weekend brunch downtown.

It works well for both. You can keep it casual with comfort food or lean into cocktails and make it more of an event.

Reviews

Assembly Food Hall Nashville Review: Diverse Dining, Live Music, and Rooftop Views

Posted on by Corey Gasman
Assembly Food Hall exterior sign
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Last updated: June 2025 by Corey Gasman · Rating: 5/5

Assembly Food Hall

Assembly Food Hall • 5055 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

Assembly Food Hall is a fantastic choice in downtown Nashville for a quick lunch, casual dinner, or feeding a group with different tastes. During our mid-June visit, the place was buzzing with energy, and it is easy to see why.

This massive food hall brings together a wide range of cuisines under one roof, making it simple to please everyone in your party.

What You’ll Find Inside

The vendor lineup covers everything from Nashville hot chicken and Southern barbecue to sushi, tacos, wood-fired pizza, pho, and even a classic Philly cheesesteak.

Over several visits, I tried the BBQ, pizza, pho, and the cheesesteak, and every meal was solid. Most dishes fall in the fifteen to twenty dollar range, which feels reasonable for the quality and variety offered in such a central location.

Atmosphere and Rooftop

One of the highlights of Assembly Food Hall is the live music, which adds to the lively Nashville atmosphere. It feels very much in step with the Broadway energy outside.

There is also a rooftop bar and restaurant offering skyline views and refreshing cocktails, making it a great spot to unwind after exploring downtown.

What to Know Before You Go

This is not the place for a quiet conversation. It gets loud, especially during peak hours, and finding a table can take some patience.

That said, the hall is well organized, clean, and the ordering process is quick and efficient.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for a casual dining spot in Nashville with huge variety, bold flavors, and an energetic vibe, Assembly Food Hall is an excellent choice.

Come hungry, explore the vendors, and enjoy the convenience of having so many options in one place.


View Assembly Food Hall on Google Maps