Chattanooga's Top New Food and Drink Hotspots: Must-Visit Spots Since 2017
Over the past decade, Chattanooga has experienced remarkable growth as the Scenic City. It draws a steady stream of visitors and new residents, fueling an exciting wave of fresh dining and drinking venues. Indulge in gourmet burgers, local brews, or artisanal cappuccinos at these standout establishments that opened since early 2017.
Frothy Monkey
Frothy Monkey has quickly become a cornerstone of Southside's historic Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner daily, this 4,500-square-foot full-service restaurant caters to every diner—whether at the bar, booth, table, or community table. Signature dishes include the farm breakfast, Royale or Crab Cake sandwiches for lunch, and dinner options like tortellini, trout, or quesadillas. Late-night bites are available from 9 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Pair meals with premium coffee, craft beers, wines, or cocktails. With its impeccable design and delicious cuisine, Frothy Monkey has solidified its status as a Southside staple in just its first year.
Moe’s Original Bar B Que
Steps from the Tennessee Aquarium, Moe’s Original Bar B Que delivers authentic Southern barbecue. Founded by three Alabama natives passionate about BBQ, blues, college football, and whiskey, it features slow-smoked meats with time-honored Southern sides and desserts. Must-tries include the pulled pork sandwich, smoked chicken platter, Southern fried catfish, or chicken wings.
Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint
For the perfect beer-burger pairing, head to Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint in the revitalized Tomorrow Building. Ranked 11th best burger spot in America by Business Insider, this Virginia-based chain offers over 100 global craft beers alongside Wagyu beef burgers with inventive twists. Highlights: The Elvis (peanut butter, mayo, Applewood bacon, cheese) or The Greg Brady (mac 'n' cheese, Martin's BBQ potato chips). Enjoy daily burger specials with endless combinations.
The Tap House
At the base of Lookout Mountain in St. Elmo, The Tap House introduced 30 beer taps to the neighborhood. Near 1885 Grill, it rotates local and international brews with light fare like paninis, sandwiches, hummus, and charcuterie. Family-friendly with board games, plus trivia Wednesdays at 7 p.m. and Bingo Thursdays at 7 p.m.
Chatter Box Cafe
Kentucky transplant Brandon Ellis poured his passion for food and community into Chatter Box Cafe. The evolving menu highlights seasonal ingredients and hours-smoked meats from his hardwood smoker—brisket, ribs, chicken wings, and more, tender and perfectly seasoned. Open Thursdays through Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., at 19th and Market Streets. Track the pop-up food truck via Facebook and Instagram: "Follow the smoke."
Chattanooga's allure is clear in its expanding culinary landscape. Venture out this weekend to savor these new favorites—whether burgers, BBQ, or craft brews, your cravings await.
