If you want to see a city quickly—really see it—come walk and eat (and drink) with me. Nashville is one of those cities everyone thinks they know. You know: bachelorette parties on Broadway, honky-tonks blasting music from morning to night. And sure, that has its place. But Nashville is so much more now, rich with history, and increasingly exciting on the food and cocktail front. Nicknamed the “Athens of the South” (yes, that Parthenon—don’t judge my wobbly cartwheel), Nashville really does blend its deep musical roots with its famous, classic Southern hospitality. I was only in town for 48 hours, but boy did I get a taste. I landed in Nashville for a very specific reason: to see Holly Graham of World’s 50 Best Tokyo Confidential at a pop-up at Silo in the Canopy by Hilton Nashville in The Gulch (perfectly located). The lobby was transformed into a disco-ball–decked, Tokyo vibe. Award-winning bartender Holly Graham brought her Tokyo Confidential knowledge and techniques. The standout for me? A Kara-gerita—a blend of tequila, mezcal, jalapeño, shio koji, and washed in chicken fat (yes, chicken fat). Dinner that first night was at Etch Nashville with Chef Deb Paquette, a true national icon and one of the first women in Tennessee certified as an executive chef. And of course, it was my first night, you know I was going to Broadway. I am not a total snob! You have to. Everyone has their honky-tonk of choice. We went to Friends in Low Places, started upstairs in the private club, and the beat of Frankie Rae & the Canyon Band brought us down to the main floor for a night of great music.   Day 1: Put on Your Walking Shoes! 8 miles | 24,000+ steps After a fitful night of sleep (those Canopy beds are so comfortable!) out on the town we went. Breakfast was a choose-your-own-adventure situation: Five Daughters Bakery (those donuts) and a stop at the Goo Goo Shop to make my own Goo Goo Cluster. If you know, you know. We walked down to Vanderbilt University and wandered our way around the gorgeous campus. I toured the historic Hermitage Hotel, because if you’re going to understand Nashville, you need a visit to this classic. Late lunch and much-needed hydration came courtesy of SS Gai Street Thai—grilled peanuts, pounded charred eggplant, and that Southern fried chicken. Also, fresh coconut water straight from the coconut. Exactly what my body needed. Back to the hotel for a quick costume change, then we kicked off the evening with a stop at Bad Idea, and let’s be honest, starting with a Bad Idea is always a good idea. Gorgeous cocktails, smart wine list. I was thrilled to finally sit up at the bar at Peninsula. The Iberian-leaning menu is thoughtful and playful, and that Spanish tortilla? So creamy, sitting under a brûléed top. Chef Jake Howell’s James Beard award so well-deserved. Day 2: Not as Much Walking, but a Whole Lot of Eating - 20,000+ steps We woke up bright and early and walked our way over to Baby Chan for a variety of their baked goods. Obsessed with the curry egg tart with Japanese curry chili crisp and the chocolate cookie with seaweed and sesame. Knowing we had a 2 p.m. lunch, we rushed back to the Canopy for a quick wardrobe change and headed to the 12 South neighborhood. It’s one of Nashville’s most charming areas, dotted with boutiques, murals, coffee shops, and great restaurants... like... Locust by Chef Trevor Moran, where we had lunch and truly one of the best meals I had in 2025. The intimate dining room is situated around the open kitchen. It’s almost dinner (lunch) and a show as you marvel at the chef and team deftly taking care of each table with incredibly smart dishes. Bubbles (a Crémant) started our meal, followed by house-canned sardines, caviar with anchovies, and a playful beef tartare where you made your own hand roll. All dishes were precise but not precious. Dessert sealed it: it looked like a soufflé, but milk + egg + ice— the perfect finish. Later that evening, we started with a pre-dinner cocktail at Four Walls, followed by bubbles at Geist (holiday market vibes were everywhere). You can’t go to Nashville and not stop at Henrietta Red, which we did for another snack before being spoiled rotten by Chef Matt Atkinson & the team at the gorgeous The Patterson House. Before jetting out of town, we snagged a cappuccino from Frothy Monkey and made our way to the airport. Nashville isn’t one thing anymore—and that’s what makes it exciting. In 48 hours, I walked more than 44,000 steps, ate incredibly well, had a drink or two, and barely scratched the surface. If you want to see a city fast? Walk. Eat. Drink. Repeat. — With me.

Taylor Berry I had the chance to attend a special preview of La Dolce Vita, a new summer event at the Waldorf Astoria. It took place on Thursday, June 26th at the hotel’s beautiful location on Pennsylvania Avenue. From the moment I walked in, I knew it would be a night to remember. The Waldorf Astoria looked amazing. The building itself was glowing in the evening light, and inside, Peacock Alley had been turned into a stunning Mediterranean-style space. There were lemon trees, bright flowers, and a vintage white Vespa set up as a photo spot. It felt like stepping into the Amalfi Coast. The event started at 6:00 PM, and we were welcomed with summer cocktails made with house-made limoncello. I tried the Limoncello Spritz first, which was light and refreshing. Then I had the Limoncello Sour, which was smooth with just the right amount of citrus. Both drinks were delicious and perfect for a summer evening. Next came the food. We got a preview of the new La Dolce Vita Afternoon Tea menu. Some of my favorites were the Waldorf Fabergé Egg, Crispy Lemon Polenta with fig and prosciutto, and a creamy Limoncello Cheesecake. Each bite was full of flavor and beautifully made. There were also small plates of Southern Italian dishes. I really enjoyed the Fritto Gnocco, Salted Burrata, Caponata, and Italian meatballs. These dishes gave the event a cozy, home-style feel while still being elegant. The setting felt warm and inviting. Guests were smiling, taking photos, and enjoying the bites, drinks, and beautiful decor. As the evening came to a close around 7:30 PM, I took a final look around and knew I would be back. The soft lighting, fresh lemon scent, and joyful atmosphere made it an experience I will not forget. I highly recommend visiting. It is the perfect way to enjoy a taste of summer in the city.

Taylor Berry On April 3rd, I had the chance to attend the exclusive preview of Bloomroom at Hi-Lawn, located in D.C.'s Union Market District. From the moment I stepped inside, I knew this event was going to be something special. Bloomroom isn’t just a pop-up—it’s a full sensory experience that blends stunning floral visuals, creative cocktails, and delicious seasonal food into one unforgettable evening. Walking into the 50-foot Dome felt like stepping into a different world. There were flowers everywhere—some real, some projected—and the lights and colors made it feel like spring all around me.     A Local Artist’s Blooming Vision: The visual story was brought to life by Chris Pyrate, a D.C.-born artist known for his signature cherry blossoms and bold, floral style. His work was the centerpiece of the experience, and it was amazing to see it animated and projected all around the Dome. His designs were bright, energetic, and full of life—just like spring itself. As the visuals began to play across the Dome’s surface, we were taken on a journey. It started right here in Washington, D.C., with cherry blossoms in full bloom, but then we traveled far and wide. We visited flower markets around the world and places that have inspired Pyrate’s art. It felt like a beautiful global adventure, all told through color, pattern, and motion. Every corner of the Dome came alive thanks to the work of Laura Alice, an Australian digital artist who used animation and projection-mapping to make everything feel dynamic and real. It was like watching a painting come alive, with petals fluttering and flowers opening right above your head.     A Taste of Spring: The food and drinks were just as impressive as the visuals. Everything was clearly inspired by spring, with bright colors, fresh ingredients, and floral touches in every bite and sip. I had a few things off the menu, but the two standouts for me were the shrimp bites and the spiked lavender lemonade. The shrimp bites were perfectly crispy and full of flavor. They were served with a light, herb-infused sauce that added just the right touch of freshness. It was one of those dishes where you instantly want to go back for seconds. As for the drinks, the spiked lavender lemonade stole the show for me. It was the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and floral. The lavender wasn’t too overpowering—it just gave the drink a calming, aromatic note that made it feel really special. It was refreshing and fun, and honestly, I could’ve sipped on those all night. Other people around me were enjoying creative cocktails like the Cherry Blossom Float (a boozy cherry soda float) and grapefruit & sage gin and tonics, which also looked and smelled incredible. It was clear that a lot of thought had gone into matching the flavors and colors of the food and drinks with the art all around us.     Spring on Every Level: One of the things that made Bloomroom so special was how it brought spring to life in so many different ways. You could see it in the artwork, taste it in the food, and feel it in the atmosphere. Everything was tied together—from the color of the cocktails to the edible flowers on the plates to the blossoms floating across the Dome’s ceiling. Even the small plates celebrated the season. I saw dishes featuring hibiscus, rose, beets, and English peas, all prepared in ways that looked just as good as they tasted. The chefs, Nathan Beauchamp and Sam George, really leaned into the theme, and you could tell they were having fun with the menu. It was fresh, vibrant, and very spring-forward.     A Local Celebration: Another thing I loved about the event was the connection to local D.C. talent. Partnering with Chris Pyrate, a local artist with such a strong style and voice, gave the entire experience a personal and meaningful touch. His cherry blossoms are already a familiar part of the D.C. art scene, but seeing them brought to life in this immersive way added a whole new dimension to his work. I also appreciated how the event made space for both visual and culinary storytelling. There was no rush—it was a 90-minute experience that unfolded at the perfect pace, letting you enjoy each moment as it came. You could sip your cocktail, take in the visuals, try something new to eat, and simply enjoy being surrounded by beauty.     Don’t Miss Out: If you’re in the D.C. area, Bloomroom is absolutely worth a visit. The pop-up runs until May 18th, and it’s open Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets start at $35, which includes entry and a reserved dining area. Trust me, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience that combines art, food, and spring in a way that’s both exciting and relaxing. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out, a date idea, or just something a little different, Bloomroom delivers. It’s visually stunning, incredibly tasty, and deeply creative. You don’t have to be an art lover or a foodie to enjoy it—you just have to be open to a night that feels a little magical.     I’m so grateful I got to be part of Bloomroom’s preview night. It was a celebration of the season, of D.C. talent, and of the power of creativity. From the incredible floral visuals to the fresh, seasonal food and drink, everything came together in the most joyful way. Bloomroom is more than an event—it’s an escape, a celebration, and a reminder that spring is a time for color, life, and beauty in all its forms. So if you’re looking to step into something special this spring, don’t wait. Grab your tickets, bring a friend, and get ready to bloom.🌸🌸🌸

"Gratitude" doesn't even begin to cover it—I’m still buzzing from an unforgettable escape to Medellín, Colombia, where I soaked up the city’s energy while indulging in the luxury of El Cielo Hotel.  Medellín is pure magic—a city that hums with color, creativity, and that famous paisa warmth. The lively streets burst with art and music this place doesn’t just welcome you—it pulls you into its rhythm. Every morning, I woke up wrapped in luxury at El Cielo Hotel—plush beds, invigorating showers, and breathtaking city views right from my room. I kickstart the day with a brisk uphill walk to Provenza, a lush, green oasis buzzing with life. The sights, sounds, and scents make it a sensory adventure—and the perfect warm-up for the delicious escapades that awaited me. Everywhere I turned, there were irresistible bites calling my name. I couldn’t resist stopping at nearly every corner stand for those soft, chewy pandebono, warm and bursting with melty cheese. But the true culinary magic? That came courtesy of Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos and his visionary restaurants, all within steps of my stay: -A 21-course gastronomic journey at Elcielo Medellín
 -Bold, vibrant vegan creations at Kai -Soul-satisfying Italian classics at La Sere 
 -The cozy charm of his bistro right in the hotel lobby Each meal was an experience—flavors, textures, and creativity came together in unique and inspiring ways. Medellín’s lush beauty set the perfect backdrop for a journey through Colombian agriculture, coffee, and spirits. I wandered through the enormous chrysanthemum fields at Jardines de San Nicolás, taking in the vibrant blooms while learning about the country’s rich agricultural traditions. From there, it was on to Finca Félicité, where I sipped, swirled, and savored Colombia’s finest coffees—each tasting unlocking new depths of flavor. And, of course, no deep dive into Colombian culture would be complete without an Aguardiente education—a spirited adventure exploring the country’s signature liquor, complete with tastings to bring the experience full circle. Exploring the vibrant sights and tastes of Medellín was made even more special by the incredible group of people I had the pleasure of sharing it all with. From feasting our way through the city’s best bites to discovering hidden gems, it was an unforgettable adventure.  Another highlight? Every night, as I returned to my room at El Cielo, I was greeted with a sweet surprise—Colombian chocolate, waiting for me to indulge in. It was the perfect end to each day, a little taste of heaven to keep the magic of Medellín lingering long after the day had ended.

Taylor Berry I had the amazing opportunity to attend an exclusive media event celebrating the opening of The Ruxton early March. The restaurant is located in downtown Harbor East Baltimore and most definitely does not disappoint. Once guests step inside, The Ruxton instantly radiates refined elegance. Nestled in the heart of Baltimore's vibrant Harbor East neighborhood, the restaurant exuded a timeless charm that effortlessly merged with contemporary sophistication. The event passed out hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktails and included captivating entertainment at The Ruxton as we toasted to the beginning of an new, unforgettable culinary and cocktail experience. I particularly loved their fantastic seafood selection, including crab claws and flavorful shrimp. Just like the other restaurants owned by The Atlas Group, The overall vibe was one of sophistication and class. Whether savoring a sumptuous meal, enjoying a handcrafted cocktail, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, guests couldn't help but feel welcomed to a world of luxury and refinement at The Ruxton. Experience the newfound delight of The Ruxton, now welcoming the public to indulge in its offerings. Be sure to make a reservation to secure your spot!

Anna-Alexandra Rojo Wildman We had the pleasure of exploring the Monet Immersive Experience, which has taken the place of the Van Gogh experience that was in the Rhose Island Center space this past year. For fans of the Van Gogh exhibit, this Monet iteration is just as fun, if not more so.  After an introduction to Monet, his life, and the Impressionist movement, enter a reproduction of his work space in Giverny. With paintings all over the walls and charming quotes from the artist, you feel as if you've stepped into his home.  From there, you pass though a curtain to the gardens, featuring the famous Japanese Bridge spanning a charming animated pond.  Next, enter a dynamic room where you can enjoy a variety of different works projected on the walls (and floors), from his early characatures to the train station, to his paintings of Venice, and much more.  Pull up a chair, or lay back on a cushion, and take it all in (or, in our case, tour the room on the heels of a newly walking small human).  Don't miss the fun VR experience that takes you *into* Monet's paintings before you hit the crayons to create your own masterpiece at the exit of the show.  Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience: 524 Rhode Island Avenue NE; Open to and thoroughly enjoyed by all ages, but full immersion and VR is best experienced by guests older than 16 months. Tickets can be found here.  

Taylor Berry I recently had the pleasure of visiting ARTECHOUSE DC for their Beyond the Light Exhibit, a collaboration between ARTECHOUSE and NASA. This unique partnership integrates artistic expression with scientific inquiry, resulting in an out of this world showcase that celebrates human imagination and the boundless mysteries of the universe.  The exhibition serves as a testament to the extraordinary intersection of art and science, offering visitors a journey through discovery and innovation. Through visually stunning installations and immersive experiences, ARTECHOUSE and NASA invite guests to embark on a voyage of exploration, illuminating the intricate relationship between light and our understanding of the cosmos. The exhibition centers on a 26-minute stunning cinematic journey displaying how we have observed and experienced light throughout history. The exhibit also includes six supporting installations that explore the moon, heliophysics, climate science, earthdata, etc. Additionally, ARTECHOUSE DC has a stylish bar offering themed drinks inspired by the exhibit, where you can explore a selection of handcrafted cocktails. You can Indulge in these meticulously crafted beverages as you immerse yourself in the exhibition's narrative, adding a unique dimension to your museum experience. ARTECHOUSE DC serves as the perfect destination for an enriching mid-week excursion with friends or a date night experience. Secure your tickets before the exhibit closes March 3rd, and embark on a journey that transcends the boundaries of imagination!

Anna-Alexandra Rojo Wildman Brunching with the babes has taken on a whole new meaning these days, but it is still a fun time wherever we go!  We had the pleasure of trying out the new bottomless brunch at King Street Oyster Bar in City Ridge NW. Just a short walk from home, there were plenty of reasons for us to go back to this fun neighborhood spot.  While I simply dug in to the bottomless food options, hubby took part in the bottomless brunch cocktails, with sipping options including a variety of margaritas, mimosas, bloody mary, and a frozen espresso martini that looked super fun. (Did I mention it's walking distance from home?! And with locations in Leesburg, Middleburg, Potomac, and NoMa, it may just be walkng distance for you, too...)  Among the bountiful small plates offered, we particularly loved the crab eggs Benedict (and so did baby, for that matter). We also smapled the chicken & waffles, breakfast taco, hangover sliders, pitaya bowl, and avocado smash.          After eating our fill, I couldn't help but try an order of the buttermilk pancakes...because I need that sweet fix! I didn't snap a pic, but let me tell you, they were fluuuuufffyyy. Baby nibbled on a few bites while enjoying some reading time before we finished up our meal.        King Street Oyster Bar; 7 Ridge Square NW; Sunday brunch available 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bottomless is $35/person for food, $55 for food and drinks. A la carte brunch is also available.

Taylor Berry Washington, D.C. is known for its vibrant events, and I recently had the pleasure of attending a truly memorable one: The AJ Madison Showcase Event hosted by Modern Luxury DC, and Sponsored by Bloomingdales. This event not only showcased appliances by AJ Madison, but also provided an unforgettable experience filled with delicious food, great drinks, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.  From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in for a treat. The organizers demonstrated a remarkable level of attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the event was carefully thought out. From the elegant decorations, to the precisely curated culinary offerings, it was clear that they had a deep understanding of what would captivate and delight the attendees. Beyond the appliances and culinary delights, the creative flourishes added an extra layer of charm to the event. The station for creating a personalized flower bouquet added a creative touch and allowed guests to take home a unique keepsake. There were numerous photo opportunities strategically placed throughout the venue, allowing guests to capture their favorite moments. The amazing women-owned cocktail company named Cocktail Curations created amazing unique cocktail options. One cocktail I particularly liked was the espresso martini with egg white foam on top with a printed logo on top with ink made by beets! The AJ Madison Appliance Showcase in Washington, D.C., exceeded all expectations, providing me with a truly remarkable and enjoyable experience.The event proved to be an extraordinary event that combined the best of culinary excellence, state-of-the-art appliances, and a warm and inviting atmosphere. It was an evening filled with delicious food, friendly interactions, and a genuine sense of community. From exploring the latest appliances to indulging in the creative ambiance, every aspect of the event was thoughtfully curated to create an unforgettable experience. I left the showcase feeling inspired and appreciative of the AJ Madison and Modern Luxury DC brand's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. I can't wait to see what they have in store for their future events. This showcase event was a shining example of what can be achieved when meticulous planning and creativity converge, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to be part of it.

Rachel Zardus It has been a fast and furious end of summer and start to fall, but not too busy for me to step out and experience one of DC’s newest restaurants, Taffer’s Tavern. (Like Nycci says, The List Associates really do have all the fun 😉) Nestled between Penn Quarter and Mount Vernon Triangle and just a short walk from the Chinatown Metro Stop, Taffer’s Tavern is sure to become a frequented neighborhood spot. Its warm and welcoming atmosphere, creative cocktails, and delicious menu made for the perfect casual night out—a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the work week.      Of course, I had to start with one of their infamous cocktails. A sweet and spicy twist on a classic favorite – I went with the Mangorita, and it did not disappoint! Their Crafted Cocktail menu is a must-try, and perfect for a cozy night of drinks with friends.      The menu was expansive and everything sounded delicious. We started with the coconut-crusted shrimp served with their own Asian sweet chili dipping sauce and the strawberry almond salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette and topped with ricotta cheese, toasted almonds, and quartered strawberries. Is your mouth watering yet?  Next up was the parmesan-crusted flatbread with roasted mushrooms, fresh ricotta, and parmesan cheeses, topped with fresh arugula, honey, and smoked sea salt. This one lit up all the right taste buds. Yes, it was as good as it sounds. Honorable mention goes to the hush puppies – not something I would typically order, but I am SO glad I did.   The sweet finish came not only in the form of dessert (I mean come on, look at that raspberry drizzle) but also in the gracious hospitality of everyone at Taffer’s Tavern. I felt so comfortable and welcomed by all staff, who really made this experience what it was! Needless to say, I will definitely be back, with friends and family in tow. . .  Check them out here.