Plan Those Valentines Dates! Fellas, here is your chance to IMPRESS- and I'm literally doing all the work for you!
- Kayla Gentry
- Feb 1
- 16 min read
People are SO different- so let's break it down by setting, by tones. What kind of vibe are you looking for, this Valentines Day? Romantic? Or is that over-rated and you're looking for something a bit different? What about the kids- will you be able to find a sitter for at least a few hours? Let's cover ALL the things. Buckle up.
Are you looking for
more of a "romantic" kind of date??
Let's explore some of those options...
STK Nashville- The Gulch⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Where: 700 12th Avenue South, The Gulch, Nashville
If you’ve been scrolling Instagram lately (especially on a Friday night 🕺), you’ve probably
seen someone out living their best life at STK — the steakhouse turned vibe machine in The Gulch. Nashville’s not short on great food, but if you want dinner with meat, music, and a mood, this place is a whole mood.
Imagine a steakhouse and then imagine a nightclub…
and then imagine them getting married and having a really stylish baby. That’s STK. It’s a modern twist on the classic steakhouse — sleek décor, DJ-driven energy, and a menu that serves up food you want and cocktails you’ll Insta-story.
Whether you’re there for a date night, a celebration, or just because your group chat said “STEAK TONIGHT,” STK sets the scene.
THINK: rooftop vibes without having to go outside — because the energy inside is already dialed up and it's FREEZZZZing out there!
🎉 The Setting: Stylish, Sultry, and Loud Enough to Laugh
Walking in? You’ll probably do a double-take (or ten). This is not your uncle’s steakhouse with bamboo placemats and soft jazz. Nope. STK is polished, trendy, and a little bit loud in the best way possible — like that friend who’s always ready to party but also orders the filet mignon.
You’ve got:
DJs spinning on weekends
Stylish crowd with smart casual to dressed-to-impress fits
Warm lighting and booths that scream “picture here”
Occasional people watching that rivals Broadway on a Saturday 😄
❤️❤️❤️ Reservation? Absolutely recommended. Especially if you want a table — not just standing room and elbow room.
🍽️ The Star of the Show: The Food 🍷
Let’s be honest: you came here thinking “steak.” And yes, STK delivers — but it also does snacks, seafood, sides, and cocktails that make your waiter at your next life event seem suddenly very boring.
Here are a few crowd-pleasers you need to know:
🥩 Steaks for Days
Signature prime cuts — from filet to NY strip — all grilled just right and begging for butter.
🧀 Tasty Starters & Sides
Lil’ BRGs (mini burgers) with truffle fries — perfect for “just a bite.”
Wagyu meatballs, short rib quesadillas, and crab & corn fritters — bites you’ll fight over.
🍤 Fancy(ish) Seafood & Classics
Maine lobster linguine or shrimp scampi — great if you’re with someone who doesn’t want just steak.
🥞 What about Brunch? Yup.
Offered on Sundays from 10:00-2:00
🍹 Happy Hour? Oh YES SIR!
During happy hour, bites start at around $3, which feels like steakhouse sorcery. Oysters, tacos, tiny wagyu delights — all in a vibe that deserves its own music playlist.
This isn’t McDonalds… and you already knew that. Expect dinner to hover in the $95+ range at dinner, especially if you’re ordering steaks, sides, and drinks. Lunch and brunch start lower, and there are deals like Steak Night America (around $69 including wine or bubbles on weekdays).
👉But here’s the secret: You’re not just paying for food. You’re paying for an experience — one where the steak arrives looking better than your holiday card photos and the vibe says “Yes, we’re here to have a good time.”
Yolan (The Joseph)- Nashville, TN ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Love Letter to Italy in the Heart of Nashville
Nestled in the elegant lobby of The Joseph Hotel in downtown Nashville, Yolan elevates Italian cuisine into a full sensory experience — one that feels both timeless and tailored to the city’s vibrant culinary scene. From the moment you step in, it’s clear you’re in for something special: an ambiance that strikes a balance between upscale sophistication and warm, attentive hospitality.
Now Let's Talk-
Popular Dishes + Standout Options⤵️
If you're like me- the million dollar question is "What would I even order from here?" I hear, some of the standout dishes are:
❤️Signature Focaccia Tasting Trio — a perfect starter to awaken the appetite.
❤️Stuzzi Tower — a towering, shareable selection of small bites blending land and sea.
❤️House-Made Pastas — seasonal favorites like Triangoli di Zucca to richly flavored Truffle Gnocchi.
❤️Wood-Fired Steaks & Seasonal Seafood — showcasing local ingredients with Italian flair.
❤️Dolci — handcrafted desserts that balance sweetness with elegance.
In addition to the à la carte offerings, Yolan often features a curated five-course tasting menu, allowing guests to explore a chef-driven progression of seasonal creations.
But Wait- There's also...👉Brunch, Aperitivo, & Espresso
Yolan isn’t just a dinner destination.
By day, Café Yolan offers a lively espresso bar, weekday breakfast, relaxed lunches, and weekend brunches — complete with house-made pastries and Italian-inspired classics.
Afternoons bring a touch of la dolce vita with Aperitivo, a convivial ritual of spritzes, Italian wines, and shareable small bites — ideal for lingering conversations before your evening meal.
Reservations & Prices💰💰💰
⭐Given its reputation and refined service, reservations at Yolan are highly recommended, especially for dinner or special experiences like the tasting menu.
❤️À la carte dinners run in the upper tier typical of fine-dining establishments in Nashville.
❤️The tasting menu has been listed around $165 per person (excluding tax/gratuity), with optional wine pairings available. A 4-course, candlelit Italian tasting menu, Feb. 14-16, 2026
❤️❤️Special events — such as wine dinners or chef’s table evenings — may carry premium pricing.
⭐ Dress code leans smart-casual to dressy, matching the restaurant’s polished vibe, and valet parking is available for guests at the hotel entrance.⭐
A Must-Visit for Italian Food Lovers!
Whether you’re a lover of classic Italian cuisine, an admirer of thoughtful wine lists, or simply looking for an unforgettable night out in Nashville, Yolan makes a compelling case. It’s more than just dinner — it’s an invitation to slow down, savor each course, and indulge in an evening that feels both personal and exquisitely crafted.
Bourbon Steak (Downtown)- Nashville, TN ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pull Up a Chair — Let’s Talk About Bourbon Steak (Downtown Nashville) 🥩
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when steakhouse royalty, luxury vibes, and Nashville charm all walk into the same room… well, you’re about to find out. Because Bourbon Steak is that place — a destination for steak lovers, first-dates, celebrations, and anyone who has ever thought, “Yeah… I deserve something amazing tonight.”
So What Is Bourbon Steak, Really?
Great question. If steakhouses were high school cliques, Bourbon Steak would be the cool kid who also happens to get straight A’s. It’s luxurious but never stuffy. Polished but never boring. It blends classic steakhouse finesse with a modern twist — all served with a view of downtown Nashville from the JW Marriott Nashville where it resides.
Imagine walking in, smelling butter-kissed steaks and fresh herbs, catching the vibe of crisp linens and soft lighting… and then realizing yes, this night is going to be worth remembering. 😌
THINK: Classy Without the Attitude
Right off the bat, the atmosphere at Bourbon Steak whispers “special occasion” — but it doesn’t throw shade at you if all you want is a really good meal. Whether you’re:
impressing a date 💑
celebrating something awesome 🎉
or finally cashing in on your “treat yo’ self” vibes 💸
—you’ll feel welcome and well-taken care of.
It’s elegant but still approachable. The kind of place where you might accidentally order wine by the bottle… and then definitely finish it.
Reservations? Yes
Reservations here aren’t just a suggestion — they’re your ticket to not awkwardly hovering near the host stand, wondering if your table might magically appear.
What You Should Order (And Why You’ll Be Glad You Did)
Okay, let’s talk food — because this is where Bourbon Steak earns all its applause.
Here are some of the fan favorites you’ll see people actually loving:
❤️ Legendary Steaks
Hand-cut prime steaks — USDA Prime beef so tender it practically asks you, “Do you even need utensils?”
Tomahawk Ribeye — AKA “I came here for something serious to chew on.”
These cuts are seared with skill so refined, you’ll wonder if they have a PhD in steak-making.
There is no awkward moment if you talk to your steak before cutting into it. It deserves respect.
❤️ Seafood That Doesn’t Play Around
Lobster Tail — buttery, glorious, worthy of an applause break.
Chilean Sea Bass — flaky, flavorful, basically the fish equivalent of a standing ovation.
❤️ Sides That Steal Scenes
Truffle Mac & Cheese (yes, you need it)
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Mashed Potatoes smoother than your best pickup line
And let’s not ignore the desserts — that final bite should feel like a mic drop.🍰
SHOW ME THE PRICE TAG!
Look — this isn’t a $12 lunch special. It’s a steakhouse experience, and that comes with a certain wine-and-dinner glow.
Expect dinner to come in around:
$65–$120+ per person for steak entrees
Lobster or specialty items carrying premium prices
Wine & cocktails adding to that “yeah, we’re celebrating” feel
But here’s the honest truth: every dollar feels planned, like it was spent on something you’ll smile about later.
The Standard at the Smith House- Nashville, TN ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Let Me Tell You About The Standard at the Smith House 🍷
(And yeah… you do want to put this one on your “special night out” list.)
Picture this: You’re trying to decide where to go for dinner that feels fancy but not pretentious, historic but not stuffy, and memorable but not so intimidating you need a tux or a translator. Enter stage left: The Standard at the Smith House, one of downtown Nashville’s most beloved steakhouses tucked inside an 1840s mansion that’s probably older than your sense of responsibility.
Let me break it down for you — with the right amount of sass.
Walking into The Standard isn’t like walking into any old restaurant. It’s like stepping into someone’s beautifully restored historic home — one where people actually want to host you for a steak dinner instead of just hanging out in the living room playing Monopoly.
The building itself is a stunning piece of Nashville history, right in downtown, just blocks from where you might have been singing Broadway karaoke earlier in the day. The vibe? Elegant. Classic. You might overhear someone order wine by the bottle and talk about the Civil War history of the place without missing a beat.
Whether you’re grabbing a drink in the courtyard bar or heading inside for dinner, the whole feel is like “fancy date night but make it comfortable.”
LETS TALK ABOUT THE FOOD.... YUM!
— because that’s why you’re here, right?
The menu reads like someone took your favorite steakhouse dishes, gave them a rich Southern accent, and said, “Yes… that’s the move.” Prices are in the range you’d expect for an upscale dinner downtown — think entrees starting around $35–$68+ before sides and drinks.
Here are some standouts you should absolutely consider (even if you’re trying to act cool about it):
❤️ Signature Entrees
The Standard Filet – Juicy, tender, and served with truffle hash cake and fried tobacco onions (YES, that’s a thing and yes, it’s amazing).
Grilled Rack of Lamb – Tender with smoky peach preserves if you want a little Southern twist on steakhouse classics.
Blackened Chilean Sea Bass – For when you want fish that’s fancy but not wimpy.
Low Country Shrimp & Grits – Southern comfort turned into dinner-party worthy gourmet.
❤️ Starters & Salads That Set the Tone
Lump Crab Bisque – Creamy, dreamy, and kind of like a warm hug in a bowl.
Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy, tangy, and way better than your grandma’s version.
Charcuterie Board – Because really… when is a charcuterie board not a good idea?
❤️ Sides (Seriously… Don’t.Skip.Them )
Loaded mashed potatoes
Creamed corn (with Benton's bacon — yes, that bacon)
Baked four-cheese macAll the things you want at a steakhouse, just… elevated.
Reservations? Yes, Please!
If you walk up without a reservation, there’s a chance you’ll get lucky — but you might also end up standing in the doorway, pretending you’re just waiting for your friend who “might be late.” Don’t do that to yourself. 😄Call ahead, snag your table, and then act like the responsible adult you totally are (even if you ordered the lobster).
Dinner service typically starts around 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday, and goes until at least 9:30 or later on weekends.
What do I wear?
Let’s be real: You don’t have to show up in a full suit, but this isn’t the place for flip-flops and gym shorts unless you really want the waiter to raise an eyebrow at you. Business casual or a step above? Perfect.
Think “I look great but I might also get a steak.”😉
Going to The Standard is like taking your taste buds to a party where elegance and comfort are both invited… and someone brought wine. You’ll walk in thinking, “Okay I’m just going to have a steak,” and you’ll walk out maybe sentimental about the truffle hash cake and definitely telling your friends you have to go back.
Whether it’s a date night, an anniversary dinner, or just a Sunday where you realize your liver and grits cravings need to be satisfied, this place makes it feel special — without making you feel like you need to speak French to order.
Go hungry.
Go eager.
Go with someone who doesn’t mind sharing bites… maybe.
_________________________________________________________________________
Are you looking for more of an "entertaining" kind of date??
Let's explore some of those options as well...
Five Iron Golf- Nashville, TN
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you’re looking for a place in Nashville where fun comes first, competition is optional, and you don’t need a single ounce of golf experience to have a great time — let me introduce you to Five Iron Golf.
This Isn’t Your Typical Golf Spot — And That’s the Point.
The moment you walk into Five Iron Golf in Midtown, it feels less like a golf course and more like a high-energy social club. Think bold murals, upbeat music, comfy lounge seating, and a buzzing bar scene — all wrapped around cutting-edge golf simulators. Whether you’re here to perfect your swing or just hang out with friends while sipping a cocktail, this place meets you exactly where you are.
And the best part? You don’t have to be “a golfer.” Truly.
First-timers, casual players, and serious golfers all coexist happily here.
Come for the Golf, Stay for the Food & Drinks
Even if you never pick up a club, you’ll still eat well here. Five Iron has a full-service kitchen and bar, so you can snack, sip, and socialize without missing a beat.
Some crowd-pleasing menu favorites include:
❤️Boneless and bone-in wings (a go-to for groups)
❤️Pizzas that are easy to share between swings
❤️Quesadillas and bar snacks perfect for grazing
❤️Craft cocktails, beer, and wine, plus frequent happy-hour specials
It’s the kind of menu that encourages you to linger — one more drink, one more game, one more laugh.
The Vibe: Social, Energetic, and Effortlessly Fun
What really sets Five Iron apart is the atmosphere. You’ll hear music, see groups cheering each other on, and notice that nobody’s taking themselves too seriously. It’s competitive if you want it to be, relaxed if you don’t. You can show up dressed casually, stay for hours, and feel like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Shriners Nashville- Nashville, TN
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nashville’s Most Entertaining Night Out😁
Okay, so imagine this: you and your crew roll up for what you thought was just “a night out,” and suddenly you’re smack-dab in the middle of the most unpredictable, hilarious, jaw-droppingly fun show Nashville has going right now. That, my friends, is Shiners — a can’t-miss, adults-only blend of comedy, cirque-style performance, quirky characters, acrobatics, and good old fashioned entertainment — all served up with a side of laughs you didn’t see coming.
So What Is Shiners?
Shiners isn’t exactly a restaurant, and it’s definitely not a bar that just happens to have live music. It’s more like what would happen if Vegas, Nashville, and a moonshine-loving hillbilly family all decided to start a party in a historic theater. You’re in for about 90 minutes of laugh-out-loud comedy, aerial feats that make your jaw drop, acrobatic stunts that make you squint and go “how?” — and characters you’ll be quoting for weeks.
And yes, because is Nashville even Nashville without some moonshine references? Right.
You’re about to meet the Shiner family reunion — a bunch of lovable, eccentric performers whose antics will keep you guessing what’s coming next.
Reservations? Do it early- seriously.
Here’s the real talk: Shiners shows sell out fast — especially Thursday through Saturday nights. So if you try to stroll in like you’re just going to “see what happens,” you might be standing out front like a sad puppy. Book your tickets ahead of time online — and if you really want to feel like Beyoncé on opening night, look into the VIP experience with private mezzanine seating. That gets you dedicated service, primo views, private restrooms (yes, really), and a bar just for your squad.
Think “VIP night” but without the velvet rope dude judging your shoes.
Bar & Bites — Because You Can’t Laugh on an Empty Stomach
Now listen — Shiners isn’t fine dining, but it definitely brings the fun in the food and drink department. Inside, there’s a full bar and concession stand serving up classic theater bites and handcrafted cocktails to keep you hydrated (or buzzed) while you watch chaos unfold onstage.
Expect fun snacks and shareables like:
Nashville hot chicken tenders (trust me, spicy, sweet, necessary)
Swedish meatballs (fancy meets comfort food)
Billowy mozzarella sticks (because duh)
Quinoa bowls and veggie options (yes, for the health-conscious in your group)
Beef carnitas tacos (for the please-and-thank-you section of your palate)
And drinks? Yeah, they’ve got a lineup of cocktails, beer, wine, and probably something with moonshine in it — because of course. The bar stays open through the show so you can sip, giggle, and maybe debate whether that acrobat just defied physics or your trust in humanity.
18+ But Still a Good Time
Fair warning: most evening shows are 18+ due to mature language and content — so leave the kiddos with grandma and bring your friends who appreciate a show that’s funny, cheeky, and unpredictable.
But if you’re desperate to bring the little ones? Shiners occasionally does family-friendly matinees — 👉check the schedule before booking so you don’t accidentally RSVP for an adults-only circus-comedy evening while your nieces think they’re going to see the Nutcracker.
____________________________________________________________
Will you have the little ones?? Looking for some memorable ideas that may not include getting out on the town??
Let's talk about some neat ideas that involve the kids...
👉 The “Fancy” Family Dinner (a.k.a. Pajamas Allowed)
Everyone dresses “fancy”… but define fancy however you want.
Your kid wears a princess dress. You wear leggings with confidence.
Light candles. Use real plates. Let them drink juice out of a wine glass.
They’ll talk about this for YEARS.
👉 Valentine’s Pizza Night (Heart-Shaped, Obviously)
Make heart-shaped pizzas. Or don’t, and call them heart-shaped anyway.
Let the kids go wild with toppings. Yes, sprinkles may appear.
No, you don’t intervene.
👉 Family Love Letter Exchange
Everyone writes notes:
“I love you because…”
“My favorite thing about you is…”
The kids’ notes will be unhinged and amazing:
“I love you because you buy snacks.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Frame it. Cry later.
👉 Movie Night, But Make It Valentine-y
Pick a movie everyone can agree on (this is the hardest part).Ideas:
Paddington (elite choice)
Toy Story
Matilda
Add popcorn, blankets, and a strict no phones rule (yes, this applies to you, patience!).
👉 Valentine’s Scavenger Hunt
Hide little notes or candy around the house with clues.
Low effort clues count:
“Look where socks go to die.”
Kids love it. You feel like Parent of the Year!!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
👉 Family Dance Party
Put on love songs.
Dance badly.
Embarrass your kids just enough to be iconic.
& for when the kids go to bed...... STOP IT.
GET YOUR HEAD OUT OF THE GUTTER!!!!!
👉 Living-Room Date Night (After Bedtime)
You didn’t go out—and guess what?
That’s a win.
Order takeout
Light candles
Eat slowly like civilized adults
Finish a conversation without interruption (rare species)
👉 Recreate Your First Date (But Indoors)
Same food. Same music. Same vibe.
Different energy because now you’re tired and wiser.
Still cute. Still counts.
👉 Valentine’s Breakfast for Dinner
Heart-shaped pancakes.
Whipped cream.
No rules.
🙈 Kids Go to Bed Early - Parent Jackpot
No explanation needed.
The MOST Important Part⤵️
Your kids don’t need a perfect Valentine’s Day.
They need time, laughter, and snacks.
Your relationship doesn’t need a grand gesture.
It needs connection, intention, and maybe chocolate.
____________________________________________________________
Are you just looking for different Galentines Day events around Nashville?
Let's explore some of these...
❤️ Valentine's Day Candle Making Experience
When: Saturday, Feb 14 from 4 pm to 6 pm CST
❤️ Love 'n Luxe: Valentine's Day Sip & Paint
When: Sunday, Feb 22 from 3 pm to 7 pm CST
❤️Valentine's Day Ice Cream Cocktail Mixology Class
When: Saturday, Feb 14 from 12 pm to 1:30 pm CST
____________________________________________________________
Still looking for the "right" gift idea for your little ones?(They deserve a treat, too!)
Let's brainstorm here... because they all can be picky...
Perfect for tiny humans, tweens, and everyone in between.
💕 Valentine’s Treat Jar
Fill it with favorite snacks, candy hearts, mini chocolate bars… and maybe one “IOU extra dessert” coupon.
💕 DIY Love Notes Box (Great Gift for HIM too!🖤)
Write little reasons you love them — one for every day of the month.
They’ll read them over and over while you whisper “parenting win.”
💕 Tiny Stuffed Animals with Personality
Nothing says “I love you (but also you’re loud)” like a plush animal they can name something ridiculous.
💕 Craft Kits
Jewelry making, painting sets, slime kits — keeping them busy = sanity preserved.
💕 Mini Game Night Bundle
Card games, dice games, or that board game you bought during quarantine and never opened.
💕 Chocolate-Covered Everything
Chocolate-covered pretzels, strawberries, marshmallows — call it research.
💕 Cute Love Pajamas
Hearts? Unicorns? Pizza slices? You decide their destiny.
💕 Valentines Basket
Throw all their favorites into a basket- perfect for teenage girls and boys.
____________________________________________________________
What if she doesn't want flowers and you would prefer to get her something she wouldn't splurge on- for herself???
Ohhhhh, let me help you sir..... THANK ME LATER.😉
🖤Cozy Croc Slippers - find them on the "ZON" (or at Dicks!)
🖤The best blow dryer EVER- ask me how I know. 😉
🖤New hair tools- DUH. Best rated Curling Iron ever--- it's STILL on my wish list.
🖤Himalayan Salt Scrub- after you have ran her hot bath and poured her some wine..
🖤Countertop Ice Maker - for that YETI, SWIG, or STANLEY you just purchased...
🖤Eye Massager with heat - guys, calm down. You will use it too. Best for migraines!
🖤Red Light Therapy mask- lets face it, we all want to feel comfortable in our own skin as we get older- Grab one here.
👉 More ideas consist of weekend getaways, luxury perfume, jewelry, a new bible (Spiral Bible), a couples massage, new kitchen appliances- and most importantly ATTENTION and ACKNOWLEDGMENT.
*Affiliate, Commissionable Links are attached- quick links provided for ease.
____________________________________________________________
While I pray you celebrate your "love" more than just once a year- I really hope this blog has brought some ideas to surface for the most romantic day of the year.
Be sure to follow along and voice any other ideas you may have for her (or him!)
I wish you all nothing but the BEST in the month of February- I pray it is full of hope and love for everyone.
Comments