The Tennessee Aquarium is one of Chattanooga’s most visited attractions, drawing families, couples, and groups from across the country. Located along the scenic Tennessee River, it’s home to everything from playful otters to mesmerizing jellyfish, making it a must-see stop on any Chattanooga trip.
But after hours of exploring, most visitors leave with one question: Where should we eat?
The good news is that downtown Chattanooga is packed with dining options within walking distance or a short drive from the Aquarium. Whether you’re looking for quick snacks, local flavors, or a sit-down meal with big portions, this guide covers the best options to make your visit complete.
Casual & Quick Options Near the Aquarium
If you need something fast before heading to your next attraction, these nearby restaurants are great choices:
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Maple Street Biscuit Company – Famous for Southern-style biscuits, hearty sandwiches, and comfort food done right. It’s casual, affordable, and kid-friendly.
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Mellow Mushroom – A quirky pizza spot known for its stone-baked pies and fun, artsy décor. Great for groups or families looking to share a pizza after the Aquarium.
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Clumpies Ice Cream Co. – Not a full meal, but a Chattanooga classic. Their handcrafted ice cream is perfect for an afternoon treat on a hot day.
Local Flavors & Southern Classics
For travelers who want to experience Chattanooga’s food culture, these restaurants showcase regional favorites:
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Bluewater Grille – Just a short walk from the Aquarium, this restaurant offers fresh seafood in an upscale but approachable setting. Ideal for date nights or families wanting a sit-down dinner.
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Sticky Fingers Ribhouse – A local barbecue staple. Their ribs, pulled pork, and smoked wings pair perfectly with Southern sides like mac and cheese or baked beans.
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Public House Chattanooga – A farm-to-table restaurant with Southern-inspired dishes and seasonal ingredients. A great pick if you want something refined but still regional.
Why Tourists Love City Cafe Diner
Just a few minutes from the Tennessee Aquarium, City Cafe Diner has become a Chattanooga tradition for both locals and visitors. It stands out for several reasons:
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Something for Everyone: With a menu boasting more than 300 items, it’s easy to find meals for all tastes — from breakfast plates to steaks, pasta, burgers, and vegetarian options.
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Desserts You’ll Remember: Their in-house bakery offers over 80 cakes, cheesecakes, and pies made fresh daily. Many tourists stop by just for dessert.
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Portions That Impress: Serving sizes are famously generous, making it a great option for families or groups.
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Open 24/7 Downtown: If your Aquarium visit extends into an evening exploring downtown, City Cafe Diner is open late (and all night), making it one of the most reliable food spots in the city.
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Group-Friendly: With spacious seating, it’s easy to bring in larger parties without worry.
For tourists, City Cafe is often the most convenient and versatile choice — especially if you want a late-night meal after a full day of sightseeing.
Pairing Food with Chattanooga Attractions
The Tennessee Aquarium is centrally located, making it easy to plan a full day around downtown. Nearby attractions include:
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Walnut Street Bridge – One of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, perfect for scenic views and photos.
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Coolidge Park – A family-friendly spot with fountains, green space, and a historic carousel.
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Hunter Museum of American Art – Overlooking the Tennessee River, this museum features a mix of classic and contemporary works.
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Chattanooga Riverwalk – A beautiful riverside walking and biking path that connects several attractions downtown.
Pair these with a meal at one of the restaurants above, and you’ll have a full Chattanooga experience in one day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are there restaurants within walking distance of the Tennessee Aquarium?
Yes. Maple Street Biscuit Company, Bluewater Grille, and Mellow Mushroom are all within walking distance. City Cafe Diner is just a short drive or 10-minute walk away.
Q: What’s the best restaurant for families with kids near the Aquarium?
City Cafe Diner is a top choice because of its massive menu and kid-friendly atmosphere. Maple Street Biscuit Company is also popular for families looking for quick, casual food.
Q: Where can I get dessert after the Aquarium?
City Cafe Diner’s dessert case is famous, with 80+ cakes and cheesecakes baked fresh. Clumpies Ice Cream is another favorite for a sweet treat nearby.
Q: What’s open late near the Tennessee Aquarium?
City Cafe Diner’s downtown location is open 24/7, making it the best late-night dining option near the Aquarium. Most other nearby restaurants close earlier in the evening.
Q: Do these restaurants take large groups or tour buses?
Yes. City Cafe Diner and Sticky Fingers Ribhouse are both group-friendly and can accommodate larger parties. It’s best to call ahead for groups of 10 or more.
Final Thoughts
Downtown Chattanooga offers no shortage of places to eat after visiting the Tennessee Aquarium. From Southern barbecue to handmade pizza to late-night cake and coffee, there’s something for every taste and schedule.
If you want the widest variety, generous portions, and a restaurant that’s open no matter what time you finish exploring, City Cafe Diner is a local favorite that delivers every time.
City Cafe Diner – Downtown Chattanooga
511 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
(423) 634-9191