Chattanooga Chow: Savoring the Best Bites and Booze in the Scenic City

Chattanooga, with its picturesque beauty, outdoor escapades, and quaint downtown area, has become a hotspot for tourists. However, this Tennessee city has a lot more to offer than just its natural wonders. Chattanooga's culinary scene is just as exciting, with a wide range of festivals, events, and local dishes that celebrate the flavors of the South.

Wine Over the River and The Tennessee Whiskey Festival 
If you're a fan of wine or whiskey, Wine Over the River and the Tennessee Whiskey Festival are two events that should be on your radar. Held annually in October and September, respectively, these festivals bring together local distilleries, wineries, and food vendors. Wine Over the River is hosted on the historic Walnut Street Bridge and offers over 100 different wines from around the world, live music, and food trucks. The Tennessee Whiskey Festival, on the other hand, takes place at the First Horizon Pavilion and features a variety of whiskeys, bourbons, and scotches, alongside live music and food vendors.

Chattanooga Margarita Festival
For tequila enthusiasts, the Chattanooga Margarita Festival, held every August, is the perfect event to sample some of the best margaritas in town. The festival offers a sample passport that includes 12 mini margaritas from different vendors, and participants get to vote for their favorite.

Burger Week
Burger lovers should mark their calendars for April's Burger Week, where over 20 different restaurants offer their unique take on the classic burger. From gourmet burgers with unique toppings to classic cheeseburgers, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Burger Week also offers discounts and deals at participating restaurants, making it the perfect opportunity to explore Chattanooga's culinary scene.

Southern Food in Chattanooga
In addition to these exciting festivals, Chattanooga has a wide range of Southern cuisine to offer. Whether it's BBQ or hot chicken, there are plenty of delicious dishes to try. Some local favorites include pork belly burnt ends at Edley's BBQ, fried chicken at Champy's Famous Fried Chicken, huge pancakes and syrup at Aretha Frankenstein's, meat and three sides at Bea's Restaurant, and delicious oysters at Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar. These dishes represent the rich culinary traditions of the region and are not to be missed.

Chattanooga's food and drink scene is truly a hidden gem in the South, with a diverse range of options to suit any taste. Whether you're a whiskey lover, tequila enthusiast, or just looking for a delicious burger or plate of Southern comfort food, Chattanooga has something to offer everyone. So next time you're in town, be sure to check out one of these exciting events or local restaurants to experience the best of the city's culinary offerings. Come hungry and get ready to explore the city's vibrant food and drink scene.