Annual Food & Drink Issue
The greater Chattanooga area has a wealth of vibrant neighborhoods – and their restaurants are part of what makes them unique. Here, we’re featuring dishes from destination restaurants in nine local neighborhoods, as well as tips for a good night out after a delicious dinner at each locale.
Photography by Lanewood Studio
East Brainerd
Photos by Rich Smith
USDA Prime, bone-in 40-oz. ribeye, sweet potato casserole, fresh steamed broccoli
“After an early dinner at Ruth’s Chris, head to Ooltewah to enjoy an outdoor concert under the stars at Cambridge Square – it’s the perfect night out.”
–Roger Burrows, Executive Chef
Rossville
heirloom tomato compote, “toum” garlic sauce, preserved turnips, mint salad
“As Rossville continues to grow, we are one of the only date night spots in town. We recommend coming here and sharing a few small plates and even splitting an entrée, all while trying some mead and sipping on some cocktails. It’s a cozy spot with a romantic indoor ambience, as well as a relaxed outdoor seating. Our menu is made for sharing either on a date or surrounded by friends and family.”
– Khaled AlBanna, Executive Chef
Cleveland
beet & horseradish foam, shaved local vegetables, pomegranate barbecue
“Cleveland, the ‘Gateway to the Ocoee,’ has a lot to offer. True is within walking distance of downtown Cleveland, so we recommend you start with pre-dinner cocktails here on a Friday night on the patio and listen to live jazz. Stay for dinner, then walk down the breezeway for a nightcap at The Diving Mouse.”
– Meghann Tipton, Chef de Cuisine & Denise Spier, Sous Chef
Downtown
smoked half chicken, roasted acorn squash, fire-roasted corn, cranberry beans, Alabama white sauce
“Whitebird is only footsteps away from the Walnut Street Bridge, which is the perfect date night stroll. ‘The Walking Bridge’ is a popular spot to simply relax and enjoy the natural and urban beauty of Chattanooga, or catch a glimpse of one of the many annual events held in the city and on the river.”
–Bill Simmons, Hotel General Manager
Riverview
dry-aged Simpson Farms grass-fed beef meatballs, braising sauce, spaghetti
“After sharing a meal here, enjoy a walk through Riverview Park before visiting one of our neighboring pubs, Tremont Tavern or Rosecomb.”
–Oscar Ixcot, Head Chef
Northshore
(45-55 days) thin-sliced dry-aged ribeye, chilled local vegetables, fried egg, bibimbap sauce served in a hot stone pot
“After eating at Zaya 1943, I like to walk off the food with a sunset stroll through Coolidge Park to the Walnut Street Bridge. Stopping in at Totto Sushi & Grill for a nightcap is always a perfect ending to an evening in Northshore.”
–Shawn Lee,Head Chef
West Village
Main Street Meats andouille, broccoli rabe, garlic, chili, pecorino
“The best thing to do after a meal at Easy is to walk down the street to No Hard Feelings and have a cocktail. Cool place, great people, and fantastic libations just one block away from the restaurant.”
–Joe Milkenkovich, Chef
Southside
house chorizo, green tomato broth, chili oil, red beans & rice
“With the Southside continuing to grow, there are so many things to do after dinner at St. John’s. One of my recommendations would be to head down to Station Street and catch a show at The Comedy Catch.”
–Patrick Sawyer, Executive Chef
St. Elmo
Photos by Rich Smith
house-made classic bechamel and meat lasagna, thinly sliced prosciutto, cantaloupe
“Before having a candle-lit dinner at Boccaccia, it’s always nice to walk around downtown St. Elmo to enjoy the charming shops and sights to see. One can also spend the afternoon taking a pre-dinner ride up the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway to enjoy stunning views of the city.”
–Alana Zoanni, Co-owner
