The Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant offers more than just a meal; it provides a unique dining experience steeped in rich history and Southern charm. Nestled in the heart of Chattanooga, Tennessee, this iconic venue has transformed an old railroad terminal into a vibrant culinary destination.
The restaurant’s menu is a delightful tapestry of classic Southern flavors blended with contemporary twists, designed to satisfy a diverse range of palates. Whether you’re a local looking for a comforting favorite or a traveler eager to explore regional cuisine, the Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant Menu promises a journey of taste and tradition.
From hearty breakfasts to elegant dinners, the menu showcases the best of Southern cooking, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance complements the food perfectly, with vintage railcars and nostalgic décor setting the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Guests often find themselves savoring every bite while soaking in the historic atmosphere, making each visit a memorable occasion. This culinary landmark continues to honor its roots while evolving to meet modern tastes, striking a perfect balance between past and present.
Understanding the menu at Chattanooga Choo Choo means exploring a range of thoughtfully curated dishes that highlight the region’s culinary heritage. Every meal is crafted to evoke warmth, comfort, and a sense of place, reflecting the spirit of the South.
From appetizers to desserts, the menu offers something for everyone, ensuring that diners leave with both satisfaction and stories to share.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Introduction
The appetizer selection at Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant sets the tone for an exceptional meal. Designed to awaken the palate, these starters blend classic Southern ingredients with innovative preparation techniques.
Whether you prefer something light or crave bold flavors, the appetizer menu presents a variety of options that cater to different tastes.
Among the favorites are dishes that showcase fresh produce and savory spices, providing a perfect balance between tradition and creativity. These starters are ideal for sharing, encouraging guests to sample multiple flavors before diving into the main course.
Each appetizer is thoughtfully paired with house-made sauces and garnishes that enhance its distinct character.
For those seeking healthier choices, the menu includes options that are rich in nutrients without compromising on taste. From crisp salads to grilled selections, the appetizers cater to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can find a delicious beginning to their meal.
Popular Starters
- Southern Fried Green Tomatoes: Served with a zesty remoulade sauce, these crispy, tangy slices offer a true taste of the South.
- Smoked Chicken Wings: Seasoned with a signature blend of spices and paired with a house-made BBQ sauce for that perfect smoky kick.
- Loaded Potato Skins: Topped with cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and scallions, these are a hearty and satisfying choice.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
“Appetizers are the first step in the culinary journey at Chattanooga Choo Choo, thoughtfully crafted to excite and prepare the palate for what’s to come.”
Entrées: Hearty Southern Classics and Modern Delights
The entrée section of the Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant Menu offers a wide range of dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions of the South with a contemporary flair. From succulent meats to flavorful vegetarian options, the entrées are designed to satisfy hearty appetites while showcasing quality ingredients.
Many dishes feature slow-cooked methods, such as braising and smoking, that bring out deep, complex flavors. The menu emphasizes local sourcing, ensuring that each plate bursts with freshness and authenticity.
Whether you prefer a classic comfort dish or something more adventurous, the entrées deliver both taste and substance.
Portion sizes are generous, making them ideal for sharing or for those who enjoy a substantial meal. The balance between richness and freshness is carefully maintained across the menu, providing an enjoyable dining experience without overwhelming the senses.
Signature Entrées
- Slow-Smoked Baby Back Ribs: Glazed with a tangy house BBQ sauce, served with traditional Southern sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
- Chicken and Dumplings: A comforting bowl of tender chicken simmered with fluffy dumplings, reflecting classic Southern home cooking.
- Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter: A light yet flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with seasonal vegetables and rice pilaf.
- Vegetarian Jambalaya: A vibrant, spicy rice dish filled with fresh vegetables and Creole seasonings, perfect for plant-based diners.
| Entrée | Main Ingredients | Cooking Style | Accompaniments |
| Slow-Smoked Baby Back Ribs | Pork ribs, BBQ sauce | Slow smoking | Coleslaw, baked beans |
| Chicken and Dumplings | Chicken, dumplings, broth | Simmering | Seasonal greens |
| Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter | Salmon, herbs, butter | Grilling | Rice pilaf, vegetables |
| Vegetarian Jambalaya | Rice, vegetables, spices | Sautéing | Side salad |
Sandwiches and Burgers: Casual Comfort Food
The Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant Menu includes a robust selection of sandwiches and burgers designed for casual dining with bold flavors. These dishes embody the spirit of Southern comfort food, perfect for a laid-back meal without sacrificing quality or taste.
Each sandwich is made with freshly baked bread and high-quality fillings, ranging from classic smoked meats to inventive vegetarian options. The burgers are crafted from premium cuts of beef, seasoned and cooked to order, ensuring a juicy and satisfying bite every time.
Accompaniments such as crispy fries, tangy pickles, and creamy sauces elevate these familiar favorites, creating a well-rounded and indulgent experience. This section of the menu appeals to guests looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and convenient.
Highlights from the Sandwich and Burger Menu
- Choo Choo Pulled Pork Sandwich: Slow-cooked pork shoulder smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, served on a toasted brioche bun.
- Classic Cheeseburger: Juicy beef patty topped with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and house-made pickles.
- Fried Green Tomato BLT: Crispy fried green tomatoes combined with bacon, lettuce, and mayo on toasted sourdough.
- Black Bean Veggie Burger: Packed with spices and vegetables, served with avocado and chipotle aioli.
“Our sandwiches and burgers are a celebration of Southern flavor, crafted with fresh ingredients and a lot of heart.”
Salads and Soups: Fresh and Flavorful Choices
For those seeking lighter fare, the Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant Menu offers a variety of salads and soups that balance freshness with rich, complementary flavors. These dishes provide a refreshing contrast to the heartier options on the menu while still delivering satisfying taste and texture.
The salads incorporate a mix of crisp greens, seasonal vegetables, and unique dressings, often featuring house-made vinaigrettes and toppings like candied nuts or artisan cheeses. Soups are crafted daily, emphasizing local ingredients and traditional recipes with a modern twist.
These options are perfect for a midday meal or as a starter to a larger dinner. Guests appreciate the care taken in preparing these dishes, which highlight both health-conscious choices and indulgent comfort.
Featured Salads and Soups
- Chattanooga Caesar Salad: Classic romaine with creamy Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons.
- Southern Harvest Salad: Mixed greens topped with roasted sweet potatoes, pecans, dried cranberries, and goat cheese.
- Tomato Basil Soup: A rich, velvety soup made from fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, served with artisan bread.
- Chicken and Andouille Gumbo: A hearty soup with tender chicken, smoky sausage, and Creole spices.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Serving Style |
| Chattanooga Caesar Salad | Romaine, Parmesan, croutons | Creamy, savory | Cold salad |
| Southern Harvest Salad | Greens, sweet potato, pecans | Sweet, nutty, tangy | Cold salad |
| Tomato Basil Soup | Tomatoes, basil, cream | Rich, herbal | Hot soup |
| Chicken and Andouille Gumbo | Chicken, sausage, spices | Spicy, smoky | Hot soup |
Desserts: Sweet Southern Indulgences
Closing the meal on a high note is the dessert menu at Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant, which celebrates classic Southern sweets with a sophisticated presentation. Each dessert is crafted to bring nostalgic flavors to life while offering something fresh and memorable.
The desserts range from rich, chocolatey treats to fruity and creamy options, ensuring there is something to satisfy every sweet tooth. The use of local ingredients, such as fresh berries and pecans, enhances the authenticity and quality of each dish.
Portion sizes are generous but balanced, allowing guests to enjoy a decadent finish without feeling overly indulgent. Whether paired with coffee or a dessert wine, these selections provide a perfect conclusion to the dining experience.
Signature Desserts
- Pecan Pie with Bourbon Whipped Cream: A Southern classic elevated with a hint of bourbon and light, airy cream.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla ice cream.
- Peach Cobbler: Made with fresh, local peaches and a flaky crust, served warm with cinnamon ice cream.
- Banana Pudding: Layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers topped with whipped cream.
“Desserts at Chattanooga Choo Choo are not just sweets; they are heartfelt celebrations of Southern tradition and culinary craftsmanship.”
Beverages: Complementing Every Dish
The beverage menu at Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant is thoughtfully curated to complement the diverse flavors found throughout the menu. From handcrafted cocktails to non-alcoholic refreshments, the drink selection enhances the overall dining experience.
Cocktail offerings showcase Southern-inspired mixes featuring local spirits and fresh ingredients. The wine list includes carefully selected bottles from both regional and international vineyards, ensuring excellent pairings for every entrée.
For those preferring non-alcoholic options, the restaurant offers a variety of fresh juices, craft sodas, and specialty coffees.
Seasonal beverages are also a highlight, incorporating ingredients that reflect the time of year and local harvests. This commitment to freshness and creativity makes the Chattanooga Choo Choo beverage menu as dynamic and inviting as the food.
Popular Drink Choices
- Sweet Tea Mule: A refreshing twist on the classic mule, blending sweet tea with ginger beer and lime.
- Blackberry Bourbon Smash: Fresh blackberries muddled with bourbon, mint, and lemon juice.
- House-Made Lemonade: Tart and sweet, made with freshly squeezed lemons and natural sweeteners.
- Local Craft Beer Selection: Rotating taps featuring Chattanooga and Tennessee breweries.
| Beverage | Type | Flavor Notes | Pairing Suggestions |
| Sweet Tea Mule | Cocktail | Sweet, spicy, citrus | Grilled Salmon, Southern Harvest Salad |
| Blackberry Bourbon Smash | Cocktail | Fruity, smoky, minty | Slow-Smoked Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork Sandwich |
| House-Made Lemonade | Non-alcoholic | Tart, sweet | Chicken and Dumplings, Vegetarian Jambalaya |
| Local Craft Beer Selection | Beer | Varies by brew | Classic Cheeseburger, Fried Green Tomato BLT |
Kids’ Menu: Delicious and Nutritious Options for Young Diners
Recognizing the diverse needs of families dining together, the Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant offers a dedicated kids’ menu filled with dishes that are both flavorful and nutritious. These selections are crafted to appeal to younger palates while maintaining the high standards of the overall menu.
The kids’ menu balances classic favorites with healthier alternatives, incorporating fresh ingredients and balanced portions. Each dish is designed to be approachable and satisfying, encouraging children to enjoy a variety of tastes without overwhelming spices or complex flavors.
Parents appreciate the thoughtful presentation and the options that accommodate common dietary restrictions, making mealtime stress-free for families visiting the restaurant. The kids’ menu reflects Chattanooga Choo Choo’s commitment to hospitality and inclusivity for diners of all ages.
Favorite Kids’ Dishes
- Mini Chicken Tenders: Crispy and tender, served with a choice of honey mustard or BBQ sauce.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, made with real cheddar and baked to perfection.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic and comforting, served with a side of fresh fruit or veggies.
- Cheeseburger Sliders: Small, juicy patties topped with melted cheese, perfect for little hands.
“The kids’ menu at Chattanooga Choo Choo is designed to delight young diners with familiar flavors, quality ingredients, and balanced nutrition.”
Conclusion: A Culinary Journey Rooted in Tradition and Innovation
The Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant Menu is a remarkable blend of Southern tradition and contemporary culinary innovation. Each section of the menu is meticulously curated to offer guests a diverse array of options that celebrate local ingredients, bold flavors, and heartfelt hospitality.
Whether indulging in slow-smoked ribs, savoring fresh salads, or enjoying a sweet pecan pie, diners experience the unique charm and warmth that define Southern cuisine.
Beyond the food itself, the restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity shines through every dish, drink, and dessert. The thoughtful approach to menu design ensures that there is something for every palate and occasion, from casual lunches to special celebrations.
Chattanooga Choo Choo stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Southern cooking, inviting guests to embark on a memorable culinary journey.
With a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that honors both history and innovation, the Chattanooga Choo Choo Restaurant remains a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. Its commitment to excellence and community creates a dining experience that transcends the ordinary, making every meal a celebration of flavor, culture, and connection.
