3 Fun Hole in the Wall Restaurants in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Nestled amidst Chattanoogaā€™s scenic beauty lie hidden gastronomic treasures that most guidebooks wonā€™t spill about. Dive into these three unassuming nooks and crannies of the city, where the walls might whisper tales as captivating as the flavors on your plate. Missing them? Thatā€™s a Chattanooga chagrin waiting to happen! šŸ½ļøšŸ¤«

Uncle Larryā€™s

At Uncle Larryā€™s in Chattanooga, if youā€™re fishing for a mouthwatering meal, youā€™ve got the right bait! Just remember, patience is the key ingredient while you wait for those made-to-order marvels.

Photo: Sande F.

Food Highlights:

  • Tomato and cucumber salad (A refreshing twist!)
  • Hush puppies (because, why bread when puppies exist?)
  • Perch (Petite but oh-so-delicious)
  • Fried catfish (Even for the not-so-catfish enthusiasts)
  • Fries (Classic sidekick!)
Pork chop perfection! Photo: Katrina C.

Atmosphere:
This cozy nook is small, but itā€™s like stepping into a warm, jovial home. The ambiance? Think of your fun-loving Uncleā€™s living room during a family get-together. And the customer service? Itā€™s like a hug from your favorite relative.

Side note: An evening visit might just earn you some bonus treats (strawberry cake, anyone?), thanks to Uncle Larryā€™s generous kin. And if you leave without leftovers, youā€™re either a food wizard or just really, really hungry! See you at lunchtime? šŸ˜‰šŸŸ

Marshaā€™s Backstreet Cafe

In the heart of Chattanooga, Tennessee, lies a diner straight from an ā€™80s sitcom. Welcome to Marshaā€™s Backstreet Cafeā€”where every bite is a nostalgic trip and every regular might just have their own barstool.

Oh Mama! Photo:

Food Highlights:

  • Sandwiches (that might make you ditch dinner plans)
  • Chili Cheese Dog Lunch Special (2 dogs for, rumor has it, $10)
  • Upgraded fruit sides (think banana, grapes, strawberries, and a zesty orange wedge for a mere $2 more)
  • Hand-breaded Chicken Tenders served with hand-cut fries (Theyā€™ve got ranch, but honey mustardā€™s a unicornā€”rare but legendary.)
  • Chicken Salad (So good, it might just break your grandmotherā€™s heart.)

Atmosphere:
A buzzing hive of chatter, echoing with the clinks of soda refills. The type of place where first-timers are treated like theyā€™ve been coming for years and the regulars? Well, they probably have a special handshake. If walls could talk, theyā€™d probably ask for a refill too.

In short? If Marshaā€™s Backstreet Cafe isnā€™t on your radar, recalibrate. Because Yelpā€™s not the only one giving it five starsā€”your taste buds will too!

5032 1/2 Brainerd Rd Chattanooga, TN 37411

Bluegrass Grill

Right across from Common House, youā€™ll find the delightful Bluegrass Grill, a place thatā€™s more than just a breakfast joint. Itā€™s a restaurant with heart, soul, and a mission. Dive into the backstory, and youā€™ll walk away with a renewed faith in the American spirit.

Food Highlights:

  • Eggs Benedict
  • Honey wheat pancakes complemented with an egg and sausage
  • Bacon sampler plate showcasing a variety of flavors, including an intriguing coffee bacon
  • Mushroom and cheese omelet served with potatoes and a biscuit
  • Open-faced omelet

Atmosphere:
Guests rave about the swift and friendly service, whether itā€™s the accommodating host, the kind waitress, or that guy whoā€™s just too sweet with kids.

Itā€™s a hub of happiness even on the busiest of days. And speaking of little ones, theyā€™ve got them covered with a basket of toys to keep them entertained. Word of advice? Weekday mornings are a tad less crowded, but no matter when you go, those mouthwatering biscuits are a must-try!

A whole bunch of other spots you should try!

Zarzourā€™s Cafe

Zarzourā€™s Cafe is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up delicious food since 1918. Located on Rossville Avenue, this hole-in-the-wall restaurant is known for its homemade burgers, chili, and meatloaf. In addition to its delicious food, Zarzourā€™s is also known for its friendly service and welcoming atmosphere.

Mikeā€™s Hole in the Wall

Mikeā€™s Hole in the Wall is another great hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Chattanooga. Located on Cherokee Boulevard, this restaurant serves up a variety of delicious dishes, including burgers, wings, and sandwiches. In addition to its great food, Mikeā€™s is also known for its extensive beer selection, making it a great spot to grab a drink with friends.

The Bitter Alibi

The Bitter Alibi is a funky little restaurant located on Houston Street in Chattanooga. This restaurant serves up a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and tacos. The Bitter Alibi is also known for its extensive beer selection, with over 40 different beers on tap. In addition to its great food and drink, The Bitter Alibi is also known for its eclectic decor and laid-back atmosphere.

Tremont Tavern

Tremont Tavern is a popular spot for locals looking for a great meal. Located on Hixson Pike, this hole-in-the-wall restaurant serves up a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Tremont Tavern is also known for its extensive beer selection, with over 20 different beers on tap. In addition to its great food and drink, Tremont Tavern is also known for its friendly service and welcoming atmosphere.

Tonyā€™s Pasta Shop & Trattoria

Tonyā€™s Pasta Shop & Trattoria is a family-owned Italian restaurant located on Broad Street in Chattanooga. This hole-in-the-wall restaurant serves up a variety of delicious Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and calzones. In addition to its great food, Tonyā€™s is also known for its friendly service and welcoming atmosphere.


As your taste buds bid adieu to Chattanoogaā€™s clandestine culinary corners, remember: the best flavors often lurk in the unlikeliest of spots. With bellies full and secrets shared, youā€™re now part of an exclusive club. Wear that foodie badge with pride, and maybeā€”just maybeā€”keep the secret sauce of these spots to yourself. After all, some stories are best savored in hush-hush delight! šŸ¤šŸ“

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