As a new year slips in, residents of Chattanooga have been shocked by the announcement that Mt. Vernon restaurant will be closing. Located on Broad street for the last 60 years, the iconic restaurant will be no more as 2018 looms. Mt.Vernon Restaurant is the latest in a slew of closing eating establishments. Last April the 212 Market closed after 25 years of business. With so many landmark eateries shuttering their windows, it led us to reflect about some of Chattanooga’s most infamous eateries.
Ceasing operations in 2005, the Town and Country Restaurant was renowned statewide as one of the ultimate destinations for those seeking to partake in a traditional Southern meal. The restaurant boasted almost 60 years in the Chattanooga hospitality market, and was a pioneer for family style food in the city. From it’s out of this world blue dressing, to its large selection of salads, soups, and common entrees, the Town and Country Restaurant served as the backdrop for family brunches, get together and celebrations for almost every family in Chattanooga.
In the bustling 1960’s and 1970’s, Loveman’s Luncheonette was where it was at. Serving the vibrant downtown of Chattanooga, Loveman’s served the downtown throngs of workers for decades. From lunch dates, to lunch meetings, Loveman’s was one of the most iconic lunch destinations for a fast and fresh Chattanooga lunch. Located in the basement of what was once a department store, the luncheonette was known for their tried and true variety of comfort food and must-have luncheon items.
While Krystal Burgers may still be around, the home of the original Krystal Burger on Cherry street has been vacated for decades. Starting in 1932, the burger joint became quick to gain infamy for its homemade delicious burgers, that were so good that they were even rumored to be served on actual china. The upscale burger palace included a counter waitress, real flatware and even 5 cents hamburgers. The Krystal Burger changed formats however in the mid 1970’s to adapt to the growing fast food trend sweeping the nation.
Fehn’s tops our list of the best restaurants that shaped Chattanooga. Located down the street from what was the girls’ prep school, this establishment thrived during Chattanooga’s heyday. Known for its extra special chicken as well as its home cut fries; the online community has tried to recreate the recipe time and time again. With fried chicken being one of Chattanooga’s staples, it’s not hard to imagine that the restaurant catered to the blue-collar worker as well as Nooga’s upper crust.
With so many new establishments taking up shop, it’s not hard to see that certain trends have always prevailed in Chattanooga. Home-style foods, burgers and Southern fried chicken remain staples in Chattanooga’s foodie landscape of today. If you’re looking to take part in your own slice of Chattanooga history, then visiting any of our decades old establishments should be just the ticket to fulfil your sense of Nooga nostalgia.
