806 Broad St.

Coming off the street into a chic bar is hard to pull off, but it works here. Just down the road on the opposite side is a non-haunted (we think) hollowed-out historical building that hosts one of Chattanooga’s newest and coolest bars. Take a seat and enjoy the fresh air of the open garage door wall, grab a drink, a small snack or two, and enjoy at the perfect spot to wind the day down.

Menu is subject to change, and as they say here: “Get Over It.”

719 Cherry St.

If live music fits your vibe, you are in the right place here. Cherry Street Tavern is a sweet dive just off the main stretch that will have you feeling right at home in a cozy tucked-away bar known for shows up front and sometimes the alleyway in the back! The owners here captured that classic dive with a small touch of honky tonk that is sure to give you a taste of that classic Tennessee vibe.

818 Georgia Ave.

Founded by a Chicago transplant turned Chattanoogan, Lil Mama’s specializes in Hoagies that hit the spot like no other sandwich shop around. From OG Chicago-style to personal twists. You will not be disappointed in the offerings here or the local artists' tags and graffiti on the wall that gives this place a truly unique look.

526 E MLK Blvd.

It seems that every year I see a group of filmmakers from out of state or even the country discover the truly delicious taste of what fried chicken can be. What you’ll find here at Champy's is that classic southern fried chicken with all the fixins’. Trust me when I say you will not leave here on an empty stomach. For those truly looking for a local spot that reflects the area, then look no further than Champy’s. Oh, and did we mention they have a whole Tamale building out back?

1012 Market St.

Self-described as “a dynamic center of activity for the famous & infamous alike,” The Pickle Barrel boasts a dive bar-like interior with a renovated rooftop patio that overlooks part of the city that stands as a haven on a nice summer night and an atmosphere that is tough to beat.

510 Broad St.

Established in 1979, this Chattanooga staple is one that you would be hard-pressed to find a better steak in a sack elsewhere (the gyro is also nothing to scoff at). One of the best spots in the downtown area to grab some lunch, Ankar’s always gives you that homemade feeling of joy when you take a bite of one of their house specials.

825 Houston St.

Nestled just off MLK Blvd., Bitter boasts a cozy dive bar aesthetic mixed with gastro-pub food that will satisfy your appetite for whatever you’re craving. Whether it’s their selection of brunch foods or a late-night affair, they have it all. Upstairs there is a new offering presented by friends at Bitter; Dilemma, a Japanese-inspired cocktail bar that will not leave you wanting for other options.

205 Manufacturers Road & 114 W Main St.

A staple in the area for years now, Mean Mug is your classic coffee stop, ‘nuff said! Outside of the delicious coffee, the food options outweigh plenty in an already diverse area. Whether you are stopping in for mid-day lunch or kicking in the door of your day, the recommendation of this joint could not be higher.

1634 Rossville Ave.

This is your all-killer, no-filler kind of dive bar. Your cool uncle that showed you your favorite metal band in bar form. This is no question a favorite among the backyard-feel outdoor crowd, with a great selection of beer and a choice of tiki drinks that warm your heart. This is the standard feel-good kind of dive.

26 Station St.

“Boneyard is sick!” Not much needs to be said as you scroll through their website. With a similar backyard feel, this place is a dream dive bar amongst locals looking to kick back and grab some grub with a bit more invention during the night. Live music abounds, and also some killer eats. Boneyard continues to be a favorite for out-of-towners and locals alike.

508 Broad St.

So it turns out Belinda Carlisle was right Heaven is a place on Earth. That place is called The Dragon and it's one of the many exciting new editions to our city that we owe to our brilliant friends at the Snapdragon Cannabis Company. Not only does it feature a dab bar and the only cannabis-infused cocktail lounge in our fair city.

Even the space itself is gorgeous covered from head to toe in amazing local artwork and staffed by kind and knowledgeable folks who have helped us in no small way treat a lot of the anxiety that goes into doing something like, say, creating and running a film festival.

715 Cherry Street

Right off the main street of Market, there lies Cherry Street Tavern, and right next door—a mysterious British phone box. Entering the code of this not so kept secret bar will net you entrance into a cozy tucked-away gem that plenty of people frequent any night. Inside is all you would want in your speakeasy-type joint, with the added vibe of a tiki bar that inspires a fun mix of eclectic drink options. Heading out back, there is also a quaint and quiet patio to nurse your buzz.

The Dwell Hotel 120 E 10th St.

Not your standard hotel bar, Matilda Midnight is tucked away in one of the city's most frequented small boutique hotels, The Dwell. Known for its themed rooms and midcentury vibe, the Dwell is an excellent getaway tucked into the heart of downtown. Matilda Midnight is no exception to the theme of good vibes and good service. Here, you get craft cocktails that will knock you off your feet and a certain feel of being in a Suzuki Yakuza film from the 60s. You can’t go wrong with mood lighting and a classic cocktail here.

1501 Long St.

Located at the Five Witts Brewing (also worth noting here for their excellent Czech Pils), Egg Man Bagelry is a stop that locals cannot recommend enough. This menu is something that may have you leaving more full than intended. From a Surf and Turf-themed bagel to your classic Egg and Cheese, whatever you choose, you will not leave dissatisfied.

1110 Market St.

With its self-professed unpretentious and comfortable vibe, Two Ten Jack is a go-to for many people to take in Japanese-style yakitori, sushi, or other Izakaya fare right here in Chattanooga. With rare Japanese beers and a kitchen staff fully equipped to prepare Japan-inspired comfort food incorporating local ingredients, you won’t want to skip out on this inspired neighborhood pub-style eatery.

231 E MLK

Just down the street from the city center lies a den as longstanding as some of the buildings around it. JJ’s boasts comedy shows, live music, open mic nights, and Afroman on the back patio once in 2009, as told by my cousin Steve. This is one of Chattanooga’s most diviest dives that is as clear cut as any bar around. JJ’s is guaranteed to make you feel at home no matter when you walk in. Ample beer selections abound here!