The Family Story Behind Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant in Chattanooga
Jan Marshall and her husband Andy own Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant in downtown Chattanooga.
Puckett's delights patrons with exceptional food, genuine Southern hospitality, live local music performances, and classic Southern dishes. It has earned a stellar reputation in the community.
Below, Jan shares the Marshall family's deep ties to Chattanooga and their commitment to supporting local elements.
Don't miss Puckett's live music schedule, featuring shows every Friday and Saturday night.
Can you tell us about your connection to Chattanooga?
When our family considered opening a new Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant, Andy and I were drawn to Chattanooga, one of our favorite destinations. Our bond with the Scenic City dates back to family trips with our three children—Claire, Emily, and Cliff—for soccer games, state championships, and visits to the Tennessee Aquarium.
How did you choose the location for downtown Puckett's?
Four or five years ago, we searched for the ideal spot in Chattanooga. The River City Company alerted Andy to a space near the Tennessee Aquarium. Our team spent months renovating it into an authentic Puckett's.
Your restaurant features many local antiques. How did you source them?
As a family-owned business, we prioritize local sourcing. I shopped throughout the Chattanooga area, including downtown antique shops. Favorites include The Knitting Mill, Gateway Antiques, Southside shops, and those in South Pittsburg.
Can you tell us about the photography displayed in the restaurant?
Chattanooga treasures Tracy Knauss's photographs. The family photos at the front entrance depict one family near Lookout Mountain, beautifully restored by Knauss. I sourced the iconic Johnny Cash photo with the Chattanooga sign from the Chattanooga Library Archives. Celebrating the outdoors and Tennessee River, we added a one-man racing scull from the Lookout Rowing Club on the ceiling. Chattanooga staples like MoonPie, Coca-Cola, Little Debbie, and a Volkswagen hood from a Southside art gallery complete the collection.
You have five Puckett's locations across Tennessee. Who oversees the Chattanooga restaurant?
We're proud of General Manager Max Stephenson, a 10-year team member from the Monteagle Mountain and Sewanee area. Max cherishes Chattanooga, and our son Cliff—a UTC alum and first-year manager here—helped launch it.
What do you love most about Chattanooga?
One of our favorite aspects is its walkability. Andy and I enjoy daily walks along the river, across the Walnut Street Bridge, through Bluff View Arts District, and back to Puckett's.
Puckett's hosts local musicians every Friday and Saturday. Your thoughts?
Chattanooga's vibrant music scene impresses us. Music is central to the city, and we prioritize showcasing local talent on our stage.
Anything else you'd like to share?
Our family is thrilled to bring Puckett's to Chattanooga. We love this vibrant, welcoming city and seek ways to engage, supporting Northside Neighborhood House, Little Debbie IRONMAN, River Gorge, Kidney Foundation of the Greater Chattanooga Area, Riverbend Music Festival, and more. Thank you, Chattanooga, for the warm welcome—we look forward to serving you!
