Thanks to the rising popularity of artisan drinks and locally sourced cuisine, the cultural norms for consuming food and drink are changing faster than we can keep up, and cities with quiet voices are beginning to speak up and claim their names at the forefront of the movement. Chattanooga, Tennessee is one such city, touting a standout lineup of local bars and eateries that value the craft above all.

Easy Bistro & Bar

Elegant artwork adorns the walls of this contemporary eatery, offering an elevated yet wonderfully comfortable atmosphere. Look to their menu to find inspired dishes rooted in Americana before enjoying one of their signature cocktails such as Uncle Bo’s Library, featuring Isle of Skye scotch, cognac, Luxardo Maraschino Liquor, lemon, egg whites, and a dash of bitters.

STIR

Look no further for the ideal spot for brunch, complete with a full oyster bar and a southern flair on a few New England staples. STIR takes ice seriously but manages to stay chill about their handcrafted ice pebbles and assorted cubes designed to maintain a perfect balance in their drinks. Purified and meticulously frozen in stages, their ice is the perfect partner to a house specialty cocktail.

The Flying Squirrel

Hip is the name of the game at this funky bar filled to the brim with locally crafted furniture and décor. Aside from a strong lineup of craft beers on draft, their cocktail menu features superb infusions like blood orange whiskey and cucumber gin. Even the weather can’t stop the fun at Flying Squirrel, as outdoor seating opens up behind the bar with the simple lift of the overhead doors.

Feed Co. Table and Tavern

Wood tones and a rustic atmosphere greet you at this local favorite, serving up American classics elevated with local wagyu beef and farm-sourced ingredients second to none. Like the idea of a cereal-infused White Russian? Their Cereal Killer brunch cocktails kickstart the day with a splash of cinnamon toast sure to take you back to the Saturdays of yesteryear filled with cartoons and good times.

St. John’s Restaurant

The inspired and refined cuisine at St. John’s speaks volumes for their attention to detail. Handmade gnocchi and local butters propel the food to a class of its own, amplified by their house interpretations of classic cocktails crafted with precision and integrity. One of Chattanooga’s best restaurants for fine dining, St. John’s is a place where all lovers of food and drink will feel right at home.

The Dwell Hotel

What visit to Chattanooga could be complete without lodging? You’ll find no better place than at the Dwell Hotel, a boutique hotel outfitted with a full range of mid-century modern rooms boasting vintage décor. Stop downstairs for a quick bite at Solarium, the in-house eatery, or have a nightcap under the stars at Matilda Midnight, an exquisite cocktail bar frozen in time.