Back in early May, we asked our readers to share their favorite local restaurants with international food offerings to help us make an “eat around the world” guide without having to leave Chattanooga. As always, y’all pulled through.
Check out these spots recommended by our readers + some of our personal favorites, as well.
Thailand
Thai Esan, 4330 Ringgold Rd. | Try out the spicy noodle offerings, along with other Asian dishes such as pho, curry, and stir-fry — suggested by Kevin S.
Sweet Basil Thai Cuisine, 5855 Brainerd Rd. | This spot offers “authentic Thai cuisine + delicious tasting fresh sushi.” — suggested by Cindy H. + Laura F.
India
India Mahal Restaurant, 5970 Brainerd Rd. | Features Northern Indian cuisines like Biryani rice specialties. — suggested by Cindy H.
Apna Kitchen, 5908 Ringgold Rd. | Apna’s mission is to “provide an authentic Indian food experience, with every dish on our menu featuring time-honored family recipes passed down through generations.” — suggested by Robby E. + Alice M.
Sitar Indian Cuisine, 200 Market St. | One of Editor Kristen’s go-to’s for take-out, she recommends trying out the Saag Panir.
Korea
Han-Mi, 3103 Broad St. | Offers traditional Korean dishes with an “American twist.” — suggested by Cindy H.
Latin America
Conga Latin Food, 26 E. Main St. | This spot specializes in Latin American cuisine offerings like tostones, choripanes, sweet plantains, and empanadas.
Mexico
El Rey Restaurant & Taqueria, 6219 Lee Hwy. | Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, the tacos from this spot are top-tier in our opinion — suggested by Wallace and Nancy B.
Taqueria Jalisco Ania, 1639 Rossville Ave. | This spot is Editor Kristen’s go-to for Mexican cuisine, you can’t go wrong with the street-style tacos + the Oaxacan Old Fashioned.
La Alteña, Various locations | Editor Haley is a frequent diner at the 314 W. Main St. location + loves all of its offerings including the steak Mexico City street-style tacos.
Cuba
Embargo 62, 301 Cherokee Blvd. | This local spot aims to offer “the most authentic experience possible off the island” by using fresh ingredients + native Cuban flavors.
Jamaica
Irie Jamaican Cuisine, 3224 Dayton Blvd. | This recently-opened Red Bank restaurant is “a happy place where you can indulge in traditional Jamaican dishes + enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience.” — suggested by Rick S.
Spain
Amada Tapas & Wine, 1413 Chestnut St. | Enjoy Spanish-style tapas + sips from a Spanish-forward wine list.
Italy
Boccaccia Ristorante Italiano, 3077 Broad St. | Many of our readers shared their love for this restaurant offering authentic Northern Italian dishes.
Portugal
Bela Lisboa Restaurant, 417 Frazier Ave. | “I’ve been to Portugal and they totally nail the relaxed vibe and the cuisine. The menu is great, but I always make sure to order octopus and a glass of Vinho Verde.” — Rachel G.
Bonus: Editor Kristen urges you not to skip out on dessert at this spot, the Portuguese ice cream is amazing.
Greece
Opa! Greek Restaurant, 249 River St. | Enjoy a meal from James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Borodimo who was born and raised in Greece.
Have a local restaurant we should add to our guide? Let us know and we’ll add it to our list.
