Nashville Christmas Pop-Up: Buddy’s Bar

One of the things I love most about holidays in a city is the pop-up culture. Christmas pop-ups in particular really get my heart going, especially when they’re tied into beloved pop-culture touchpoints. So, when we saw that Dream Hotel had put up their Holiday themed pop-up bar, and it was Elf themed, we knew we had to stop by.

Located in the Parlour Bar at the Dream Hotel in downtown Nashville, Buddy’s Bar is a cute little holiday stop for a drink before or after your dinner at Stateside Kitchen. It’s a smaller spot with a mix of lounge and bar seating; more on the cozy than the crowded side.

The theming doesn’t hit you over the head with Elf references (as opposed to Hidden Bar’s Christmas Vacation themed pop-up). Similar to the rest of the building, it relies on modern takes on classic decor that reminds you of all the sparkly Christmas memories that give you the warm and fuzzies. Fear not, there is a giant cut out of Will Ferrell as Buddy to take photos with.

Of course, the real reason we come to pop-ups is for the special menus. Buddy’s Bar came through with a good selection of well-named beverages. Highlights included Son of a Nutcracker, Smiling’s My Favorite, and Bye Buddy, Hope You Find Your Dad. I ended up getting the Cotton Headed Ninny Muggins, which was basically extra spiked egg nog in a clear ornament (that you could take home!).

Overall, I recommend for a more relaxed pop-up experience. You’ll walk away feeling a little more festive.