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Foodie Favs: Southern food in Chattanooga

Check out this list of locally loved Southern food in the Scenic City.

A vibrant table with colorful floral cloth showcases a feast of fried chicken, fries, sides, and drinks. Hands eagerly reach for the delicious meal.

Have a taste of some of the South’s most beloved menu items.

We’re back with the second installment of Foodie Favs + this time we’re tackling some of the best Southern food you can find in Chattanooga — everyone thank reader Mark M. for the suggestion. Let’s grit to it.

Champy’s, locations vary
Something readers Lori L., Cydney B., Shelby G. + Cheryl P. have in common? Their love for the fried chicken at this spot. Margie S. personally recommends trying the chicken livers.

Street view of a modern restaurant named "Public House" at dusk, featuring outdoor seating with blue umbrellas. Nearby sign reads "Meet Shop Eat." Tail lights streak by, adding motion.

Based on these recommendations, we definitely have to try the pot roast next.

Public House Chattanooga, Southside
“The fried chicken livers with grits at Public House. Yes, chicken livers are an acquired taste, but few restaurants have them on the menu and the ones at Public House are perfect!” — Harriet C.

“Public House pot roast, gravy, and mashed potatoes.” — @olivethepartypom

“Pot roast at Public House.” — @mabenson9

Southern Star, Downtown
“Banana pudding at Southern Star.” — Priscilla J.

“Southern Star! Either chicken and rice casserole or meatloaf Thursdays — both on the hot bar.” — @kellyhelton_

Uncle Larry’s, locations vary
“Uncle Larry’s whiting plate with okra and fries!” — @thecorporatefrugal

“Uncle Larry’s catfish plate!” — @goeltz1

Aerial view of a wooden table displaying four gourmet dishes: stuffed squash, mashed potatoes, a meat dish with mushrooms, and a scallop salad.

I personally also think the bottomless mashed potatoes are something very special.

Photo by Tim Cofield via 2nd American Restaurant

Bonus round: Keeping things mashed, gritty + fried
“Bottomless mashed potatoes from 2nd American.” — Missy G.

“Idk if it counts as ‘Southern’ but Main Street Meats is my favorite restaurant in town. Specifically their filet mignon with mashed potatoes.” — Jeremy C.

“Mashed potatoes at Hennen’s.” — Anonymous reader

“Shrimp and grits at 1885 Grill or Top of the Rock.” — Mike P.

“Fried squash at Canyon Grill.” — Herbet K.

“Catfish tacos and fried okra from Outpost Restaurant and Bar on the Southside.” — Breck S.

Tupelo Honey, fried chicken and greens.” — @rosenauted

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