25 Best Places to Eat in Chattanooga, Tennessee for Foodies and Travel Enthusiasts
Heading to Chattanooga? You’re in for a treat! This city might surprise you with its amazing food scene—it’s packed with everything from Southern comfort classics to bold international flavors. As a local who’s eaten… well, everywhere, I’ve put together a list of 22 must-try spots that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Ready to dig in? Let’s go!
1. Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar
- Seafood Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Brisket Nachos, Trout Almondine, Grilled Oysters, Rotisserie Chicken
Sitting right on the Tennessee River, the Boathouse is an ideal spot if you’re looking for delicious food with a spectacular view. Their menu has some standout dishes, and the Brisket Nachos are a must-try—they come loaded with cheesy goodness and plenty of smoky brisket.
The trout almondine is absolutely delicious! It is so meaty and silky, with a buttery texture that wasn’t overpowering—just perfectly balanced. The fish was flaky and infused with a lovely almond flavor that left me saying, “Wow!” On the side, the green beans were cooked to perfection—not raw, but not overcooked either. Every bite was a delightful harmony of textures and flavors!
For something classic, don’t miss the Rotisserie Chicken; it’s exceptionally juicy and packed with flavor.
Fun fact: this is where I tried oysters for the very first time! After your meal, I highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk right outside to fully soak in the beautiful riverside views.
2. State of Confusion
- Latin American Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Shrimps and Grits, Jambalaya, Peruvian Ceviche, Po Boy
Craving a mix of flavors? State of Confusion combines Latin American, New Orleans, and Lowcountry influences into one eclectic menu that has something for everyone.
Their menu features dishes from regions like Latin America, New Orleans, & the Carolina Lowcountry, offering an array of options for the adventurous palate. The Jambalaya, in particular, is one of the best entrees on the menu! It’s served on a sizzling hot skillet, so it’s warm and flavorful.
On the other hand, the Peruvian Ceviche is light, refreshing, and bursting with zesty citrus flavors. For the best experience, snag a spot on the patio—perfect for soaking up the relaxed atmosphere while you enjoy your meal.
With its lively atmosphere and creative cocktails, State of Confusion is the perfect spot for a fun night out with friends. Plus, their outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy some sunshine while indulging in delicious food.
3. Tony’s Pasta Shop & Trattoria
- Italian Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Chicken Tetrazzini, Low Country Pasta, Fusilli Pasta, Chilled Wines
Experience the warm hospitality of Italy at Tony’s Pasta Shop & Trattoria. This family-owned restaurant serves up authentic Italian dishes made with love and care.
I chose to dine here on my birthday, and the experience did not disappoint! We ordered a French rose, and it was brought to the table in a chilled wine marble holder.
It was not easy to choose what to order because all of the pasta and sauce options sounded so delicious. I decided to try the Lowcountry Pasta because I love shrimp and crawfish. Can’t wait to enjoy this dish again because I’m still dreaming about the delicious sauce!
Make sure to save room for dessert because Tony’s Tiramisu is out of this world! And remember to pair your meal with one of their many Italian wines for a true taste of Italy.
4. Taco Mamacita Northshore
- Tex-Mex Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Mexican Street Corn, Street Tacos, Margaritas, Queso Blanco
Craving tacos? Head to Taco Mamacita. I started with their famous Mexican Street Corn, which was creamy, cheesy, and a little spicy. For my main, I ordered two tacos with a side of plantains.
Here’s what I got:
- General Homeboy: Panko-crusted shrimp with sweet Thai chili sauce, cabbage, radish, green onion, and cilantro.
- Oy Vey: Tender beef barbacoa with ranchero sauce, lettuce, pico de gallo, jack cheese, guacamole, and a drizzle of chipotle cream.
The tacos were a delightful mix of bold flavors and crunchy textures. The plantains were sweet with a hint of salt, perfectly balancing the meal.
5. Honey Seed
- Brunch | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Bagel Sandwiches, French Toast, Chicken and Waffles
Brunch lovers, you won’t want to miss this one! Honey Seed truly delivers on the brunch experience. Their bagels are made fresh and piled high with a variety of tasty fillings, making them a substantial and delicious choice. If you’re craving something sweet, their French Toast is the definition of fluffy perfection. For those leaning towards a more savory option, the Chicken & Waffles dish is a standout—expect a plate of crispy, juicy chicken that is oh-so-satisfying.
6. Basecamp Bar and Restaurant
- Casual American | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Chicken Wings, Sweet Potato Fries, Mac and Cheese, Basecamp Melt
Basecamp Bar and Restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxing with friends or grabbing a casual bite. Their Chicken Wings are crispy and flavorful, while the Sweet Potato Fries are the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Don’t miss their creamy, homestyle Mac and Cheese, and the Basecamp Melt is a must-try—melty, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness.
7. Community Pie
- Pizza Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Detroit & New York Style Pizzas, Garlic Knots, Grown-Up Fried Cheese
Looking for the perfect slice of pizza? Look no further than Community Pie! This neighborhood pizzeria offers both Detroit and New York style pizzas with a variety of toppings to choose from.
Don’t forget to try their famous Garlic Knots, served with marinara sauce for dipping. And for a unique twist on fried cheese, order the Grown-Up Fried Cheese – fried ricotta with spicy honey and pistachios.
With its welcoming atmosphere and delicious food, Community Pie is the perfect spot for a casual dinner with friends or family.
8. Stir
- Modern American Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Oysters, Shrimp and Grits, Crab Bisque, Brunch & Mimosas
Step into Stir and prepare to be wowed by their modern American cuisine. Start your meal off with some delicious oysters or the rich and creamy Crab Bisque.
For a main course, try their famous Shrimp and Grits – perfectly cooked shrimp served over creamy grits with a bacon butter sauce. And don’t miss out on their weekend brunch, complete with bottomless mimosas.
With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Stir is the perfect place to gather with friends or family and enjoy a delicious meal together. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – their famous Bread Pudding is not to be missed! So come on in, we can’t wait to see you at Stir!
9. The Daily Ration
- Brunch Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Chicken and Waffles, Beignets, Mimosas
Looking for the perfect spot for brunch? Look no further than The Daily Ration! With its cozy and inviting atmosphere, this neighborhood restaurant is the ideal place to start your day off right.
Indulge in their famous Chicken and Waffles – crispy fried chicken served on top of fluffy waffles with a side of maple syrup. And don’t miss out on their delicious beignets, served hot and fresh.
10. Embargo 62
- Cuban Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Oxtail, Ceviche, Congri Rice
Transport yourself to Cuba at Embargo 62, where you’ll find authentic Cuban cuisine in a vibrant and lively setting. Start your meal off with their flavorful ceviche or the classic Cuban dish, oxtail.
And for a true taste of Cuba, don’t miss their Congri Rice – a savory mix of rice and black beans that will leave your taste buds begging for more. So come on in and enjoy a taste of Havana at Embargo 62!
11. Aretha Frankensteins
- Breakfast Restaurant | Budget: $
- Menu Highlights: Fat Stack Pancakes with Blueberry Butter, Shrimp and Grits
Absolutely one-of-a-kind and incredibly delicious from start to finish, Aretha’s is truly exceptional!
This quirky and unique restaurant is known for its delicious pancakes – try the famous Carrot Cake or Blueberry Pancakes for a sweet start to your day.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss their mouth-watering Breakfast Burrito or classic Eggs Benedict.
12. Taqueria Jalisco Ania
- Mexican Restaurant | Budget: $$$
- Menu Highlights: Margaritas and Chicken Tinga
Looking for authentic and delicious Mexican food? Look no further than Taqueria Jalisco Ania! Their flavorful and perfectly seasoned chicken tinga tacos are a must-try, along with their famous margaritas.
My go-to picks are the pork tamales and street tacos with carnitas, barbacoa, & chicken tinga. This time, I switched it up and tried the Chile Rellano, and to amp it up, I added carnitas on top.
There is a Happy Hour from 4pm – 6pm, every Tuesday to Friday! Enjoy $5 margaritas, $5 Paloma, & $2 Tecate.
Plus, the warm and inviting atmosphere of this restaurant will make you feel like you’re dining in the heart of Mexico.
13. Champy’s
- Chicken Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Tamales, Baked Beans, Fried Pickles, Gumbo
Get ready to experience some of the best fried chicken around at Champy’s! This cozy and inviting restaurant is famous for its crispy, juicy chicken, as well as its tasty sides.
Don’t miss out on their homemade tamales or mouth-watering baked beans. And be sure to start your meal with a basket of crunchy fried pickles for the perfect southern comfort food experience. Plus, their gumbo is not to be missed – packed with flavor and just the right amount of spice. Come on in and enjoy some good old-fashioned southern cooking at Champy’s!
14. Urban Stack
- American Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Whiskey Selections, Turkey Burger, Philly Burger, and French Onion Soup
Looking for a trendy spot with delicious food and drinks? Check out Urban Stack, a modern American restaurant located in the heart of downtown.
Their extensive whiskey selection is a must-try – perfect for those looking to unwind after a long day. And don’t forget to try their famous turkey burger or classic Philly burger for a mouth-watering twist on traditional favorites.
But the star of the show is their French Onion Soup – rich, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Make sure to add Urban Stack to your list of must-visit restaurants in the city! So come on in and enjoy a fun and delicious dining experience at Urban Stack.
15. Feed Table and Tavern
- Southern Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: French Dip, Sloppy Joe’s, Wagyu Burgers, and Fried Chicken
End your day on a high note at Feed Table and Tavern. This Southern restaurant offers up a unique twist on classic comfort food.
Try their tasty French Dip or indulge in their Sloppy Joe’s – both sure to hit the spot. And for the burger lovers out there, their Wagyu burgers are not to be missed. But the real star of the show is their perfectly crispy and juicy fried chicken.
With a friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and mouth-watering food, Feed Table and Tavern is the perfect spot for anyone looking to relax and enjoy some delicious southern cuisine.
16. Portofino’s Greek and Italian Restaurant
- Greek and Italian Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Bread Sticks, Gyro, Grouper, and classic Italian dishes
Looking for authentic Greek and Italian flavors? Look no further than Portofino’s – a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up delicious dishes since 1974.
Start your meal off with their famous bread sticks, freshly baked and served with marinara sauce. Then, dive into their flavorful gyro or try one of their classic Italian dishes like the Grouper Al Forno.
But what really sets Portofino’s apart is their warm and welcoming atmosphere. You’ll feel right at home as you enjoy the delicious food and friendly service.
17. Alleia
- Italian Restaurant | Budget: $$$
- Menu Highlights: Pork Shoulder, New York Strip, Bacon Wrapped Dates
Savor the rustic charm of Chattanooga with a visit to Alleia, nestled in the historic South Side neighborhood.
Their Mediterranean-inspired menu highlights local ingredients and traditional Italian cooking techniques, resulting in dishes that are both comforting and exciting.
Indulge in their signature house-made pastas, like the crowd-favorite Ravioli di Zucca, or opt for the wood-fired pizzas that are a perfect blend of crispy and chewy.
The cozy ambiance and charming decor make Alleia an ideal setting for a date night or intimate gathering with friends.
18. Tremont Tavern
- Casual Bar | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Burgers and Pub Fare
Located in the hip North Shore neighborhood, Tremont Tavern is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This casual bar offers up some of the best burgers in town and a variety of tasty pub fare.
From their classic Cheeseburger to their more unique options like the El Matador with jalapeno aioli, there’s something for everyone at this lively spot.
But it’s not just the delicious food that keeps people coming back.
19. Mayan Kitchen
- Latin American Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Pupusas, Brisket, Hanger Steak
For a taste of Latin American cuisine, head to Mayan Kitchen in the heart of downtown. Their Pupusas, stuffed with your choice of savory fillings, are a must-try. And don’t miss their Brisket and Hanger Steak dishes for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
The cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious food make Mayan Kitchen a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
20. Mezcla Cocina Y Cantina
- Mexican Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Inventive Margaritas and Tacos
Located in the Northshore neighborhood, Mezcla Cocina Y Cantina offers a fusion of Mexican and American flavors. Their inventive margaritas, like the Spicy Pineapple Jalapeno or Cucumber Mint, are a must-try.
And their tacos, made with house-made tortillas and filled with flavorful ingredients, are sure to satisfy any cravings.
With its vibrant atmosphere and delicious food and drinks, Mezcla is a top spot for a fun night out.
21. Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint
- Burger Restaurant | Budget: $
- Menu Highlights: Cheeseburger, El Matador, Truffle Fries
Looking for a killer burger? Look no further than Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint.
Their Cheeseburger is a classic favorite, but they also offer unique options like the El Matador with jalapeno aioli and the Cowboy with BBQ sauce and bacon. Don’t forget to order a side of their addictive Truffle Fries for the perfect meal.
With a laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, Jack Brown’s is the perfect spot to grab a burger and a cold beer with friends. So come on in and enjoy some tasty burgers at Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint.
For dessert, you must order the Fried Oreos!
22. Agave & Rye
- Latin Inspired Restaurant | Budget: $$
- Menu Highlights: Unique Tacos, Tequila and Bourbon Cocktails
Indulge in delicious Latin-inspired dishes at Agave & Rye. This trendy restaurant features an eclectic menu of tacos and other unique entrees, along with a wide selection of bourbon cocktails.
Their famous Smash Tacos are a must-try, which are filled with wacky ingredients that you wouldn’t think go together. Or opt for the vegetarian options which are usually loaded with guacamole.
But don’t just stop at the food – be sure to try one of their creative bourbon cocktails.
23. Massey’s Kitchen
- Greek & Italian Inspired | Budget: $$
- What to Order: Lamb Gyro, Greek Salad, Baklava
Sitting pretty on Lookout Mountain, Massey’s Kitchen is bringing a fresh twist on Greek flavors to Chattanooga. The lamb gyro? So juicy and packed with flavor, especially when paired with their crisp Greek salad loaded with tangy feta. And don’t even think about skipping the baklava—it’s sweet, flaky, and totally worth it. Great food, killer views, and a vibe that feels like a mini Mediterranean getaway. What’s not to love?
24. Nic & Norman’s
- Bar & Grill | Budget: $$
- What to Order: Bison Burger, Pimento Cheese Fries, Fried Green Tomatoes
Nic & Norman’s is a cozy spot blending casual dining with gourmet flavors. Their bison burger is a fan favorite—juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Pair it with their rich and creamy pimento cheese fries for the ultimate comfort meal. Don’t miss the fried green tomatoes, a Southern classic done right. It’s the perfect stop for a laid-back yet elevated dining experience!
25. 1885 Grill
- Grill | Budget: $$
- What to Order: Shrimp & Grits, Pimento Cheese Fritters, Salmon Patties
1885 Grill offers Southern coastal cuisine with a modern twist, creating a dining experience that feels both familiar and fresh. Their shrimp & grits are a standout, perfectly seasoned with a creamy and flavorful base. The pimento cheese fritters are crispy, gooey bites of goodness, and the salmon patties are a satisfying option for seafood lovers. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, 1885 Grill is an excellent choice for Southern-inspired comfort food.
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