Having one of our cubs be born the day before Thanksgiving, we always promised that we would put birthday first and holiday second when they both land on the same day. And this was the year! But where does a family go to celebrate the birthday boy on Thanksgiving? It was all about Nashville’s Pinewood Social and bucking holiday tradition. And this place was the perfect fit! We had never been before and we were excited to finally check it out.

The entire space is one large warehouse room laid out in such a wonderful way. From a coffee bar and lounge space to a full-size bar, bowling alley, and even an outdoor area complete with a swimming pool and bocce ball – Pinewood Social has this amazingly eclectic and urban vibe without any of the touristy chaos.

We loved that the menu was simple and sophisticated all at the same time. It made it feel a little more special with it being Thanksgiving, but easy to manage with little ones. They did offer a special plate for the day to enjoy the traditional holiday foods, but we found ourselves gravitating to the burgers and club sandwiches. Not to mention, the soft pretzel appetizer was a huge hit!

And even with dietary choices that we make from low carb to gluten-free options, we were so pleased with how accomodating they were for Blair, the Bearded Gent, and me. Blair simply ordered the cheeseburger without a bun and the chef made it possible for her to have steamed broccoli as well despite it not being on the menu. It was perfect and we were able to enjoy the day without lamenting over blood sugar numbers. A perfectly straight line while we soaked in our afternoon at Pinewood Social.

And the birthday boy claimed that it was the best cheeseburger he has ever had. I have to admit, I agree with him. It makes all the difference eating local where menu items are cooked fresh! 

After we ate, we had a bowling lane booked for the kids to enjoy. Seriously, vintage bowling lanes in the back of the space complete with lounge seats, TV screens to watch the football game, and the option to enjoy food there as well.

We seriously had such a good time! The space is beautifully lit with natural light and completely family-friendly.

If you are in town and want to see the usual sights and sounds of Nashville, the location of Pinewood Social is just down the street and around the corner from Broadway. We loved that it is set away from the busyness though!

It was cold and raining on Thanksgiving, but we made sure to drive the kids down Broadway to take in the scene. One of these days the Bearded Gent and I plan on going honky-tonking – wink!

This was completely outside of our usual traditions for the day. However, it was so nice to find a spot to celebrate Owen turning 10 and make it special. Who knew that Nashville’s Pinewood Social and bucking holiday tradition would be just what we needed this year?! It ended up being the perfect fit to celebrate as a family!

*Sidenote: Make sure and make reservations. They book up fast!

It was also nice to get up to the city and experience something new! Everything closed down shortly after moving to Tennessee. And we opted out of a lot to keep the kids away from the abnormal. So we still have so much we need to do and see! Of course, our style is more the outskirts and small-town spots which probably isn’t too surprising. This also means I am planning on creating more resources for visiting the area and our family’s favorite spots. I have been surprised I get asked as often as I do by all of you who find yourself visiting. I need to up my game! Wink!

In the meantime, you can always get a peek of Tennessee here.

Have you ever been to Nashville? If so, what have been your favorites and must-dos?