Our Nashville Staycation: A Foodie Weekend
Why Nashville Is Perfect for a Staycation
Sometimes the best trips don’t require a boarding pass. For our latest staycation, we checked into Virgin Hotels Nashville—a property that blends playful design, great dining, and that signature Virgin energy that makes even a local getaway feel like a true escape. With incredible meals, a dose of culture, and plenty of time to unwind, this Nashville staycation turned into exactly the reset we needed. We visited the day after Christmas. My husband and I stopped buying each other gifts years ago. Instead, we try to take a trip or go on a staycation to celebrate. We had taken our sons to Zion National Park earlier in the month, so we decided to stay close to home and enjoy Nashville.
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Where to Stay in Nashville for a Foodie Weekend
Virgin Hotels Nashville sits right in the heart of Music Row, making it the perfect home base for a weekend of exploring, eating, and relaxing. The vibe is modern, colorful, and a little cheeky—very Virgin. The rooms are designed with travelers in mind: sliding privacy doors, plenty of outlets, and a layout that actually makes sense whether you’re working, lounging, or getting ready for dinner.
After dropping our bags, we headed out for the part of the stay I was most excited about: dinner at one of Nashville’s most celebrated restaurants.
Dinner at Yolan: Italian Fine Dining in the Heart of Nashville
If you’re looking for a special‑occasion meal—or just want to treat yourself—Yolan is the place. Helmed by Michelin‑starred chef Tony Mantuano, Yolan delivers elevated Italian cuisine with the kind of service that makes you feel genuinely cared for. We had visited Yolan a few years ago to celebrate our anniversary and it was one of my favorite meals ever. I was eager to go back. I was a little nervous visiting so soon after my trip to Rome. However, it did not disappoint and lived up to the memory in my head.
What we loved:
Handmade pastas that taste like they came straight from Italy - I loved the pasta Amatriciana
A wine list that could convert anyone into a wine person- it was huge, luckily, our waiter made a lovely suggestion in our price range
Courses that are beautifully plated without feeling fussy
Warm, attentive service that never feels rushed
It’s the kind of dinner that becomes a memory. I definitely will not wait so long to return to Yolan it was amazing!
☕ Breakfast at Common Ground: Cozy, Casual, and Convenient
The next morning, we kept things easy with breakfast at Common Ground, located right inside Virgin Hotels Nashville. It’s the perfect spot for a slow morning—bright, relaxed, and full of locals grabbing coffee alongside hotel guests.
Our picks:
Yogurt with granola
Avocado Toast with Bacon
Strong, delicious coffee (a must before a day of exploring) I had the cookie butter latte, and I am still thinking about it!
It’s exactly the kind of breakfast you want on a staycation: simple, satisfying, and steps from your room. The perfect place to start our day.
🍣 Lunch at Blue Sushi Sake Grill: Fresh, Fun, and Flavorful
For lunch, we headed to Blue Sushi Sake Grill, one of Nashville’s most popular spots for creative sushi rolls and shareable plates. It’s vibrant, lively, and perfect for a midday break. The location is fantastic at 5th and Broadway. We love heading here when downtown. So many great places to choose from. The food hall has everything, but we wanted to have a more relaxed meal. Our family also enjoys visiting Sixty Vines and Boqueria when downtown.
Highlights:
A huge menu with options for sushi lovers and non‑sushi eaters
Great cocktails and mocktails
Plenty of gluten‑free and vegan options
Rolls that are as pretty as they are delicious
It’s a great spot whether you’re on a date, out with friends, or just craving something fresh.
🎶 Exploring the National Museum of African American Music
No Nashville staycation is complete without a little culture, and the National Museum of African American Music is one of the city’s most impressive experiences. This museum celebrates the history, influence, and global impact of African American musicians across every genre—from gospel and blues to hip‑hop and R&B. I had taken my sons a few years ago, but this was my husband’s first visit. We could have spent all day here. Don’t skip the movie at the beginning, it is powerful!
Expect:
Interactive exhibits
Powerful storytelling
Music you’ll want to dance to
A deeper understanding of how African American artists shaped American culture
It’s moving, energizing, and absolutely worth the visit.
Why This Nashville Staycation Was Exactly What We Needed
Sometimes you don’t have to travel far to feel refreshed. With incredible food, a stylish hotel, and a meaningful cultural experience, this Nashville staycation reminded us why we love exploring our own backyard. It was fun for the two of us to escape downtown and enjoy our city without the stresses of homelife. We booked this weekend thanks to credit card perks from my Chase Sapphire Reserve card. I break down how we did it here -> Chase Sapphire Reserve Edit.
FAQ: Planning Your Nashville Staycation
What’s the best area to stay in for a Nashville staycation?
If you want to eat well and walk everywhere, stick with The Gulch, Midtown, or Downtown. These neighborhoods put you steps from great restaurants, coffee shops, and live music — basically everything you want for a foodie weekend without ever getting in the car.
How many days do you need for a Nashville staycation?
A 2–3 day weekend is the sweet spot. It gives you time to try a few restaurants, wander through different neighborhoods, and still slow down enough to feel like you actually “got away,” even if you never left town.
What are the best restaurants for a Nashville foodie weekend?
Nashville has no shortage of incredible food, but a few standouts include The 404 Kitchen, Husk, Yolan, Henrietta Red, and Biscuit Love. Each one brings its own spin on Southern flavors — from elevated dining to casual-but-worth-it brunch.
Is Nashville a good destination for couples?
Definitely. Nashville is full of cozy restaurants, rooftop bars, boutique hotels, and live music spots that make a weekend feel special. Whether you’re celebrating something or just need a quick reset, it’s an easy couples’ getaway.
What time of year is best for a Nashville staycation?
Spring and fall are the prettiest, but Nashville works year‑round. Winter is great for lingering over long dinners, and summer brings patios, festivals, and warm nights out.
Do you need a car for a Nashville weekend?
Not if you stay central. The Gulch, Midtown, and Downtown are all walkable, and rideshares fill in the gaps. A car only becomes helpful if you want to explore East Nashville or head outside the city center.
What should I pack for a Nashville weekend?
Think comfortable shoes, layers (the weather changes fast), and outfits that can go from daytime exploring to a nicer dinner. Nashville style is relaxed but put‑together — you’ll fit right in.
Are Nashville restaurants kid‑friendly?
Many are. Places like Biscuit Love, Assembly Food Hall, and Hattie B’s work well for families. If you’re planning a true foodie weekend, though, you may prefer adults‑only spots in The Gulch or Germantown.
Meet the Creator
Julie is a travel‑hacking expert and founder of No Point Left Behind, a site dedicated to helping travelers maximize points, miles, and cruise offers. She specializes in practical guides, family‑friendly itineraries, and strategies that make unforgettable trips more accessible.
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