Chattanooga Downtown Food Tour: Local Favorites at Big River Grille and Easy Bistro

Officially known as the Riverfront, downtown Chattanooga is the heart of the city's dynamic redevelopment. Since the early 1990s, the Riverwalk and Tennessee Aquarium have anchored this bustling district. From fine dining to quick bites, it offers diverse eateries that draw both tourists and locals. Here's your expert guide to dining like a Chattanooga resident.

Big River Grille and Brewing Works

Atmosphere: Visitors flock here for the award-winning craft brews, celebrated at beer festivals nationwide. Savvy diners linger for the exceptional food, prepared with the same precision as the house ales and lagers in this lively, bar-style setting.

SIP:

• Iron Horse Stout: This award-winning London-style stout delivers sweet boldness with rich, roasted notes.
• Vienna Lager: A light-amber lager that's delicate, balanced, and easy-sipping with a crisp finish.

SNACK:

• Brewery Chicken Nachos: Loaded with black beans, chicken, pepper jack and cheddar cheeses, tomatoes, jalapeños, and red onions—a classic bar staple done right.

MAIN:

• Fish Tacos: A Southern twist on Baja-style tacos featuring Cajun-spiced mahi-mahi in a crisp blue corn tortilla wrapped in soft flour, topped with avocado rémoulade. Served with black beans and Spanish rice—a local must-try.
• Hazelnut Crusted Chicken: Crunchy exterior meets bright sun-dried cherry sauce, paired with white cheddar mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Easy Bistro

Atmosphere: Blending old-world charm with modern flair, Easy Bistro features sleek black-and-white décor alongside classic hex-tile floors. Daily menus highlight fresh local produce, meats, and seafood airlifted from Louisiana by Chef/Owner Erik Niel.

SIP:

• An extensive wine and beer list shines, but the mixologists' seasonal cocktails—made with house-infused syrups, liquors, and fresh juices—steal the show.

SNACK:

• Sautéed P.E.I. Mussels: Sweet, tender mussels from Prince Edward Island, perfect with the grilled crostini.
• Daily Soups: Seasonal highlights like Chilled Devotion Corn and Buttermilk Soup with cucumber, corn custard, and candied husk.

MAIN:

• Slow-Braised Beef Brisket: A cherished New Orleans family recipe from Chef Niel's childhood, a menu staple since opening.
• Oysters: Catch Oyster Hour (5-6 p.m. weekdays, weekends during brunch) for $1 select oysters from all three coasts.