Chattanooga Earns A Top 3 Spot as a Dining Destination in the US According to Condé Nast Traveler
Photo by Jay Wennington on Unsplash
In The Know with Gino…
In a significant nod to its burgeoning culinary scene, Chattanooga has been ranked as the third-best food city in the United States, according to the readers’ choice list published by Condé Nast Traveler. The publication praised the Scenic City for its diverse and innovative restaurants, showcasing local favorites that cater to a variety of palates.
Chattanooga offers a compelling dining experience that is both rich in tradition and forward-thinking. The city is home to a vibrant mix of old and new, perfectly illustrated by stalwart establishments like St. John’s, which has been delighting diners with its elevated New American fare for nearly 25 years, as well as Calliope, an inventive eatery renowned for its remarkable Levantine cuisine.
St. John’s, with its elegant white tablecloth setting, has garnered a loyal following for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. Guests are treated to a menu that honors classic techniques while incorporating contemporary flair to create dishes that are both familiar and exciting.
Conversely, Calliope blends tradition with creativity, offering dishes that reflect the cultural tapestry of the Levantine region. Among the highlights are the fried rice with lamb confit and delightful fluffy bowls of whipped feta paired with shatta hot sauce. This innovative approach has captured the hearts—and taste buds—of both residents and visitors alike, making it a must-try destination in the city.
The recognition from Condé Nast Traveler comes as no surprise to locals who have long championed the Scenic City’s culinary potential. The ranking not only highlights the exceptional dining options available but also brings national attention to the city’s growing reputation as a food destination.
As tourist foot traffic increases in Chattanooga, food enthusiasts are flocking to explore its many culinary offerings, driven by the excitement of discovering hidden gems amid a backdrop of stunning Tennessee scenery. From quaint cafés to upscale dining, the city’s vibrant restaurant scene is a testament to the creativity and hardworking spirit of its chefs and restaurateurs.
As more people venture to experience Chattanooga’s culinary delights, the city’s place on this prestigious list ushers in a new era of gastronomic exploration—further solidifying its status as one of the most intriguing dining cities in the country.
SOURCES: Condé Nast Traveler & NOOGAtoday
