Let’s be honest—Nashville has a reputation. Broadway, biscuits, bridesmaids in cowboy hats screaming to Taylor Swift. And spoiler alert – you will hear “Any Man of Mine” within the first hour – which, not gonna lie…I kind of love. But beyond the neon and honky-tonks, this city also delivers a design lover’s dream: aesthetic Nashville hotels, restaurants, and bars that feel as stylish as any you’d find in New York or LA.

The boots are sequined, the drinks are strong, and the music is constant. It’s fun. It’s chaos. It’s… a lot. And yeah, sometimes the clichés hit. There’s a certain magic to getting pulled onto a dance floor by a cowboy who knows what he’s doing. But beyond the neon and the noise, there’s a city with some real taste.

You don’t need another list of basic brunch spots and “hidden gems” that aren’t actually hidden. If you’ve landed here, chances are you care about the vibe. You’ve got taste. You don’t want to waste a night out at a place with bad lighting and worse cocktails. You want the fun—but you also want the follow-through.

I’m here to show you another side of Nashville—one built on good taste, not just good times. I design hotels, restaurants, and bars for a living—so if I’m telling you a spot is worth your time, it’s because it actually is.

Now before we saddle up, take a minute and grab the full guide—because no one wants to be Googling “cool Nashville bars” while sweating in cowboy boots on Broadway. You’re better than that. 🤠

Once you’ve downloaded your aesthetic Nashville guide to the best hotels, restaurants, and bars, you’re all set.

Boots up, let’s go!

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Restaurant: Union Station Hotel | 1001 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203

Ghosts, Glamour, and Gothic Charm at Union Station Hotel

Some hotels boast luxury. Some have history. And then there’s Union Station Hotel—which has both… plus a ghost named Abigail. Once a grand railway station, this Nashville landmark has seen countless travelers come and go—but one, apparently, never left.

The legend of Abigail is the hotel’s most famous ghost story. As the tale goes, she fell in love with a soldier who departed from the station below. Heartbroken after watching his train vanish, she tragically jumped from the tower. Ever since, guests have reported flickering lights, eerie whispers, and even glimpses of a shadowy figure in a flowing white dress, drifting through the corridors. Some say she’s still waiting for him to return.

Creeped out yet? Don’t be—this hotel is just as stunning as it is spooky. This hotel is drop-dead gorgeous (sorry – pun intended). With its soaring stained-glass windows, dramatic stonework, and vintage-meets-modern suites, it’s the perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary elegance.

My friend, Christy (*shoutout*) was the lead designer on the renovation, and she made room 711 extra chic and special in honor of Abigail. So if you wanna splurge with a suite treat, that’s the room to request. I love the femme tufted curves in the sofa and that epic window seat.

And speaking of suites, check out this one with its ultra-high ceilings and softly curved corners. These lovely details make it the perfect place to snuggle up after taking in the sites of Nashville.

If you go: Snag a bite at Stationairy. The soaring ceilings and original arched windows are worth it alone—but the fries are also kind of excellent.

In Case you’re Wondering…Answers to your FAQ’s

Q: Can you do a bachelorette weekend at Union Station?

A: You can—but this isn’t the pedal tavern crowd. If your crew wants design-forward suites, great lighting, a glam lobby moment, and a more grown-up take on the weekend, it’s a yes. Think matching silk sets, not sashes and tequila.

Q: Is Union Station Hotel a good spot for a romantic weekend in Nashville?

A: Absolutely. She’ll love it. You’ll look like you have taste. And no, you don’t have to light any candles or say anything deep. Just book it. You’re welcome.

Q: Which historic suite at Union Station should I stay in—and what makes each one special?

A: Room 711 (Abigail’s Room): Legendary and atmospheric, this is where the ghostly legend lives—if you’re into silent ceilings that might echo. It’s moody, mysterious, and utterly unforgettable. Conductor’s Suite: All the space, all the drama. Two-and-a-half baths, a functional kitchen with island seating, a fireplace, and room to gather. Perfect if you brought the gang or just need more room to roam.

Q: Is Union Station part of a hotel brand?

A: Yes—but it doesn’t feel like it. Union Station is part of the Autograph Collection by Marriott, which means you get all the perks (hello, Bonvoy points) without sacrificing style or personality.

Q: I’m not staying at Union Station—still worth a visit?

Absolutely. Grab a cocktail, stare up at the ceiling, and let yourself have a main character moment. It’s one of the most stunning spaces in the city—and you don’t need a room key to enjoy it.

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Restaurant: Drusie & Darr — The Hermitage Hotel | 231 6th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219

Velvet, Vaults, and Bathroom Bragging Rights

The Hermitage Hotel is old-school Nashville elegance—the kind of place where the ceilings are gilded, the columns are carved, and the staff might call you “miss” with full sincerity. It’s grand without being stuffy. Which makes the fact that Drusie & Darr lives just downstairs feel like the best kind of plot twist.

The restaurant is all soft arches, velvet curves, and chandeliers with a warm champagne glow. Designed by Thomas Juul-Hansen and helmed by Jean-Georges, it’s basically a design lover’s fever dream—with a menu to match.

Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s menu is full of flexes: yellowfin tuna tartare with avocado and ginger dressing, crispy sushi topped with spicy tuna, truffle-dusted fontina pizza, and the kind of ethereal soft scramble that makes you rethink your entire egg strategy. There’s also a killer cacio e pepe and perfectly balanced grapefruit brûlée—yes, it counts as a fruit serving.

Come for the ambiance, stay for the soft scramble with crème fraîche and caviar—because this is not your hangover brunch (unless it is, and then I love that for you).

Also: the bathrooms. Yes, I’m going there. The women’s room is a soft pink dream; the men’s is…wait for it mint green toilets and urinals. Of course I had to see it (with full permission and an all-clear, calm down). Obviously, there will be a “Who wore it better – Blush or Pistachio?” moment on Instagram. Follow me and stay tuned.

If you go: Sit beneath the arches. Get the cacio or the tuna rice. Order the cacio. Say yes to dessert (always). And if you’re into interiors? Use the restroom(s). Both of them.

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Well folks, I’ve got more Nashville hotspots to share, but those are gonna have to wait. My bags are packed, and Uber’s pulling up to make my next flight out. So check back soon…more to come here!

Or, if you’re the jet-set type and already planning your next adventure, you don’t wanna miss my top Aesthetic hotspots in New York City – check them out here.

Want to Bring an Aesthetic Look into Your Home?

It’s one thing to bask in a great space while you travel—but what if you could create an amazing aesthetic inside your own home, in a way that feels totally you? Good news: you can, and I can help!

Step one is to figure out your vibe — Take the Style Quiz.

Already if you already know your look? Let’s turn that into something real. Snag my Interior Design Styling Guide and knock out a few quick weekend wins. You’ve got this.

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