Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga, Tennessee is overflowing with natural beauty. From most Chattanooga vacation rentals, it’s easy to access hiking trails, fishing spots, and boating opportunities. If you prefer to stay closer to town, the city offers a wealth of kid-approved attractions, which incldes an excellent aquarium and railroad museum that offers train rides. The restaurant scene is family friendly, as well. Check out these dining establishments for great menus and child-friendly environments.
1. Good Dog
For your little hot dog fans, Good Dog is a must-visit restaurant in Chattanooga. The menu features hot dogs, brats, and sausage with several vegan and gluten-free options. Keep it simple with a hot dog and ketchup, or go for a house specialty such as the Chicago-Style Italian or the Southern-inspired Pimiento Cheese. A selection of loaded fries rounds out the meal. Service at Good Dog is fast and friendly, and the low-key dining room welcomes children.
2. Public House
If you’re seeking a foodie-approved menu and a relaxed setting, the Public House fits the bill. Run by a former fine-dining chef, this cozy restaurant specializes in responsibly sourced meats and vegetables. Get into the spirit of the South with a plate of shrimp and grits, or satisfy your comfort-food craving with braised pot roast. The restaurant also features an affordable kids’ menu that includes a first course, entree, and dessert.
3. Terminal Brewhouse
After a visit to the Chattanooga Choo Choo, walk over to the Terminal Brewhouse for a hearty meal. With a wide variety of bar foods and Southwestern-inspired dishes, there’s something for even the fussiest eater. Kid-friendly standouts include the pizza rolls and pot roast nachos. For bigger appetites, the restaurant offers creative steak and chicken meals and delicious pizzas. Regular diners love the Buffaloaf, a bison meatloaf loaded with spices and veggies.
4. Rembrandt’s Coffee House
Take a break from a walking tour of the Bluff View Arts District at Rembrandt’s Coffee House, which is a great light-lunch option. Kids can choose from simple soups, salads, and sandwiches, with the promise of a rich pastry for dessert. A full coffee menu gives you a burst of energy during a long day of sightseeing. Try to get a table outside, where the babbling fountain and fairy lights create a magical atmosphere.
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5. Broad Street Grille
If your kids are ravenous in the morning, head straight for the Broad Street Grille. Here, an enormous breakfast buffet serves up a wide variety of fruits, cereals, and hot foods to satisfy the biggest appetite. On weekdays, the restaurant features an affordable lunch buffet with a theme that changes daily. On a Southern Style day, you can choose from dishes such as smoked brisket and loaded mashed potatoes and close out the meal with peach cobbler.
6. Lupi’s Pizza Pies
A Chattanooga favorite, Lupi’s Pizza Pies is one of the best places in the city to grab a slice. Regulars love the eatery for its fresh ingredients and ultra-welcoming environment; parents love the buzzing, kid-friendly atmosphere. Design your own pizza using the extensive list of toppings, or opt for an enormous calzone. If you want to eat at your Chattanooga vacation rental, Lupi’s also offers a take-and-bake option.
7. Champy’s
Casual and friendly, Champy’s Famous Fried Chicken is a popular spot for Chattanooga families and college students. The fried chicken takes center stage, but the menu also includes salads for those looking to cut calories. Be sure to check out the Southern sides, and try the local favorite sausage, cheese, and pickle plate. If you’re looking for easy ordering, opt for a family meal. The walls at Champy’s are decorated with a milieu of unusual objects, so your little ones have plenty to look at.
8. The Blue Plate
The Blue Plate is located close to the Tennessee Aquarium and the local IMAX theater, so it’s a convenient spot for a mid-day break or an early dinner. Cozy round booths make it easy to corral your little ones, and a large outdoor seating area is fun on cool days. The menu offers classic diner food, from all-day breakfast to fried chicken dinners. A simple kids’ menu provides manageable portions of chicken tenders, egg sandwiches, grilled cheese, and more.
9. Taco Mamacita
Satisfy your Mexican-food cravings at Taco Mamacita, a family-friendly restaurant located just north of the Tennessee River. Delight your kids with the Nacho Mama, which features huge tortilla chips loaded with cheese and toppings. For foodies, the imaginative taco selection is a taste-bud explosion; try the Baja Fish or the General Homeboy, which overflows with panko-breaded shrimp. If you have room, the Mexican street corn makes the perfect side dish.
10. Southern Star
When you’re exploring Chattanooga’s downtown area, plan a meal at Southern Star. A classic Southern “meat and three” eatery, the restaurant enables you to choose a meat and three side dishes from the daily specials. For light eaters, a selection of salads and sandwiches is available. Young diners receive Wikki Stix with their kids’ menus for hours of non-messy fun.
11. Slick’s Burgers
Loaded with vintage decor and down-home charm, Slick’s Burgers is fun for the whole family. Place your order at a vintage travel trailer and head outdoors, where the fully fenced-in eating area keeps kids safe while they explore. Burgers are cooked perfectly, and the unusual topping options satisfy even the most discerning foodies. If you’re a fry fan, the truffle fries and the spicy fire fries make a filling starter.
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