Chattanooga’s Weekend Brunch Scene: A Melting Pot of Music and Food
In the heart of Chattanooga, weekends are turning into a delightful dance of flavor and sound. Local bars and eateries are inviting music lovers and brunch enthusiasts to come together for a unique experience that’s more vibrant than simply turning on the radio. As city restaurateur Scottie Bowman of The Big Chill and Grill puts it, experiencing music live creates a communal vibe that’s hard to replicate at home.
Brunching with a Beat
Since 2014, The Big Chill has made Sundays a special occasion by hosting brunches that are equal parts delicious and entertaining. Every other week, friends gather around tables piled high with Monte Cristos, chicken fried steak, Eggs Benedict, and shrimp and grits. They sip on daiquiris while enjoying performances from local artists like Chad Yates, who brings a rich mix of energy to the atmosphere. “I think a lot of people feel the same way about music as I do,” Bowman shares. “It really brings people together.”
The brunch crowd is a mix of regulars and fans of the artists, creating an effortless opportunity to meet new friends and enjoy lively conversations. “You can just always be comfortable,” Bowman explains, highlighting the establishment’s unique ability to act as a melting pot within Chattanooga.
Talented Local Artists
A performer on a mission, Chad Yates—46, passionately embraces the local music scene, which he describes as nothing short of eclectic. Whether you’re a fan of country, hip hop, rock, jazz, or reggae, you’ll find artists covering almost every genre. Inspired heavily by legends like Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard, Yates mixes classic country rarities with his original tunes, including crowd favorites like “Honey, Take Your Mans”.
“Chattanooga has an extremely diverse and talented pool of artists,” Yates says, noting that several musicians have moved beyond local stages to record contracts and notable writing deals. “There’s some great talent here,” he adds proudly.
The Brunch Crowd
When the weather is warm, the community comes alive at local restaurants. While some patrons are early risers enjoying their brunch, others roll in later, easing into their Sundays after a night out. The atmosphere creates a perfect recipe for a lively brunch scene. Yates mentions that the more enjoyment the audience experiences, the more he feeds off it as a performer. “It’s as if we’re all part of one big celebration,” he explains.
Yates typically performs for about two to three hours each week, earning around $100 an hour. His goal? To invoke emotions through his music. “It’s pretty powerful,” he reflects, recognizing the ability of a song to make someone feel happy, sad, or even mad.
Another Local Gem
Across town near the Incline Railroad, 1885 Grill in St. Elmo serves as another hot spot for local music with a rotating group of artists performing each Sunday. Lex Phillips, assistant to the managing partner, describes how diners enjoy Southern favorites like fried chicken and waffles and North Carolina rainbow trout hash as they sway to the sounds of alternative, indie, jazz, and country tunes. “We love to take care of a mixed crowd,” Phillips notes, observing that Sundays often turn into a ‘Sunday, Fun Day’ experience for many.
It’s common for residents and visitors alike to wait upwards of 45 minutes to get into these beloved venues. “Everyone in the Chattanooga music scene is such a big family, and it’s incredibly cool to see,” Phillips adds with a smile.
Join the Fun!
When you’re ready for a new weekend adventure filled with good food and great music, look no further than these local hotspots. For music fans and brunch lovers, it’s a perfect way to enjoy all that Chattanooga has to offer. Be sure to check out what’s on the menu this weekend and find out more about the live music schedule at places like The Big Chill and 1885 Grill!
