Cesario’s Pizzeria in Rossville: A family-owned pizza spot with unique slices!

Chattanooga has a brand new kind of veterinary clinic, and it’s one that’s rethinking the entire experience for both pets and their parents. Vetopia Animal Health, located in Hixson, was designed with a clear vision: to create a true “utopia” for animals, owners, and the veterinary staff who care for them.

“Vetopia is this idea of a utopia for pets, people, and the people that work in the veterinary industry,” explains Dr. Bello, who co-founded the clinic with her husband Jerren.

From the beginning, the goal wasn’t just to build another vet office.

“It was always my dream to have a place where people could bring their pets and we could give them the care they deserve," said Bello. And what better city than Chattanooga to do it?”

A New Approach to Veterinary Care

One of the biggest ways Vetopia sets itself apart is by focusing on collaboration and transparency.

“Our biggest differentiator is we try to involve the pet owner as much as possible,” says Dr. Bello. “I talk them through what I’m seeing step by step, so they’re a part of it.”

This approach extends beyond the exam table.

“We wanted to create a space where it was calming. Animals felt secure. People felt like they had the space to feel whatever emotions they wanted to feel.”

Better Pet Care Through Better People Care

The clinic’s motto, “better pet care through better people care,” speaks to the heart of its mission.

“Better pet care through better people care means we can’t forget pets come with people- and if we don’t care for those people, we’re not doing them a service.”

That focus on people extends to Vetopia’s staff as well.

“I really wanted to create a place where people came to work and they absolutely loved what they did and they left feeling like they accomplished something great every day.”

When I visited the vet for the first time with Mailbox (my dog), I truly saw this mission played out. The employees love their job, I as a pet parent felt very cared for, and Mailbox honestly loves his visits to the vet!

The Experience for Pet Parents

From the moment Mailbox and I walked through Vetopia’s doors, I could tell this wasn’t going to feel like a typical vet visit (and I've been to many vets in Chattanooga!) I was greeted, offered complimentary coffee (and it was actually FIRE coffee- I really liked it as someone who's not in to a lot of coffee!), and was taken back to a themed waiting room.

Each exam room has its own unique destination-inspired theme, which immediately gave us a sense of calm. During Mailbox’s check-up, I noticed how different the process felt compared to other clinics. I was actually taken to the back and got a behind-the-scenes look at what Vets do! 

"I think our biggest differentiators is we try to involve the pet owner as much as possible," Dr. Bello told me. "So I know a lot of people are like, 'oh, they took my dog to the back...' and nothing bad happens to your pet in the back, I promise, but I understand like as I've gotten older, and I have a kid, that there is this kind of 'mysteriousness' about what's going on back there, and why is it taking so long. And so the idea with Vetopia was, why don't we just have the owner be present for the appointment as much as possible? Not only so that they feel more comfortable and their pets feel more comfortable, but I think it's really important for people to see what we do behind the scenes, because I think that it gives more value to what we as an industry provide."

It was neat seeing firsthand the team caring for my sweet fur baby. And rather than rushing through, Dr. Bello carefully walked me through everything she was seeing. That level of transparency made me feel empowered and connected- like I was truly part of Mailbox’s care.

Vetopia has also invested in technology to make that collaboration seamless. Screens and tablets in the exam rooms allow pet parents to see diagnostics in real time.

And honestly? The vibe is just different. With cozy touches, a coffee machine, and music playing softly in the background, it feels nothing like a sterile, intimidating clinic.

“We want it to feel like you’re not at a hospital, but you’re just hanging out in your living room… It’s a really relaxed, upbeat vibe. Most of the time we have good tunes going on, so it’s just like a fun feel.”

Mailbox certainly picked up on that- instead of being anxious like he has been at other clinics, he wagged his way through the visit. It truly felt like a place designed for both pets and their people to feel comfortable.

Family-Owned, Not Corporate

At a time when many veterinary clinics are being bought by large corporations, Vetopia is proudly family-owned.

“Family owned was really important to us… a lot of hospitals are being bought by corporate entities, and people feel like they’re losing that family feel. We wanted this to be the opposite.”

Dr. Bello says building Vetopia with her husband has made the journey even more meaningful.

“At the end of it, being able to step back and the two of us know that we did this together- it just makes it that much sweeter.”

A Vision for the Future

Vetopia isn’t just focused on one clinic- it’s about becoming part of the community.

“My bigger vision for Vetopia is to be super involved in the community- community outreach, helping the pets of Chattanooga. One day maybe opening another location, but the goal is to support Chattanooga and the pets as much as we can.”

Vetopia Info:
address: 1043 Executive Drive, Suite 104, Hixson, TN 37343

Contact: (423) 644-2125, info@vetopia.vet

Website: https://www.vetopia.vet/

Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Saturday–Sunday: Closed

TLDR?

Dr. Bello sums it up best:

“The one thing I’d want Chattanooga to know about Vetopia is that we care as much about them as we do their pets. We want this to be a collaborative experience.”

With its people-first philosophy, calming environment, and family-owned approach, Vetopia is ready to become a true second home for Chattanooga’s pets and their parents.

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To watch some of my interview with Dr. Bello and hear more about Mailbox's and my experience, check out my Instagram reel on @webbchatts!

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StateMint Sale in Chattanooga: Your Guide to Affordable, Stylish & Sustainable Shopping

If you love thrifting and the thrill of scoring designer deals, you’ll want to make room in your calendar for the StateMint Sale in Chattanooga. Held a few times a year and back this August in an even bigger space, this multi-day shopping event is one of the best spots in town to pick up gently-loved (and sometimes brand-new!) clothing, shoes, and accessories—all at a fraction of retail prices.

Why visit? In short: brands you love, prices you’ll like even more, and a setup that makes secondhand shopping feel easy and even enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to support a more circular (and budget-friendly) fashion cycle in our community.

The Experience

StateMint isn’t your typical consignment store—it’s a pop-up consignment event that turns a large venue into a highly organized shopper’s dream. When you walk into Restoration Southside (a venue often used for weddings and events), you’ll find neatly categorized racks of women’s and men’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and even athletic wear. Expect styles from modern staples like Lululemon, Madewell, Free People, Nike, Anthropologie, and boutique brands, as well as some well-kept designer finds sprinkled in. Sizes for women typically range from XS up to 4XL, with a solid variety for men as well.

Volunteers and staff keep things running smoothly, with dressing rooms, helpful signage, and plenty of space to browse without that cramped, chaotic feeling. You can easily spend an hour (or three) looking through the organized racks of clothing and accessories. If you're shopping early in the day, the coffee truck parked outside makes it an extra pleasant experience—grab a latte before diving in.

What to Know Before You Go

Dates: August 5–9, 2024  

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Location: Restoration Southside, 3146 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37408  

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Hours:  
- Monday through Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM  
- Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM (Half-Off Day — many items marked down!)  

Admission: FREE  
Note: A ticketed charity pre-sale typically happens the evening before the public sale starts. Keep an eye on @statemintchattanooga on Instagram for updates on how to get early access next time.

Parking: Free parking is available at the venue, but it can fill up quickly on busy days. Carpooling or arriving early can help avoid a long walk.

Payments: Most shoppers pay via credit/debit, and while some consignors accept Venmo, not all do—so it’s best to bring a credit card.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Bring a shopping bag or tote to carry your haul—StateMint doesn’t provide bags.
- Half-Off Day (Saturday) is a great chance to scoop up your favorites at an additional discount if they’re still around.
- Follow @statemintchattanooga on Instagram for sneak peeks of standout pieces, seller spotlights, and reminders during sale week.

If you’re coming from out of town or making a day of it, consider grabbing lunch nearby at a Southside favorite like Bluegrass Grill, Taqueria Jalisco, or Heaven & Ale for a post-shopping bite and a local beer.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re updating your wardrobe ahead of the new season, hunting for budget-friendly workout wear, or just love the hunt of a good deal, the StateMint Sale is definitely worth a visit. It’s well-run, community-focused, and way more fun than scrolling sale sections online. Locals and visitors alike will enjoy the curated selection and clean setup—and knowing they’re keeping stylish pieces in use a little longer.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Where to Find Some of the Best Barbecue Near Chattanooga: Wardlaw’s Lucky Eye Q in Lafayette, GA

If you’re the type of person who’s always on the hunt for good barbecue, you’ll want to add this one to your list—and maybe even mark the calendar so you don’t miss your window. Located just over the state line in Walker County, Georgia, Wardlaw’s Lucky Eye Q is a small-town BBQ gem that serves up big flavor. It’s only open three days a week, but those in the know make the drive for ribs, brisket, and sides worth talking about. The spot is run by Robert Wardlaw, who’s been honing his craft since he was 16 years old, and now shares his slow-cooked recipes with the public. Whether you're a local or visiting Chattanooga, this place is worth the detour.

The Experience

Walking into Lucky Eye Q feels like dropping in on a local favorite—because that’s exactly what it is. The restaurant is located right in downtown Lafayette, Georgia, at 103 N Chattanooga Street. It’s simple and unassuming from the outside, but once you’re inside, the savory smell of smoked meats hits right away. There’s limited seating indoors and a casual vibe that keeps the focus on the food.

Robert Wardlaw is often on-site himself, tending to the smoker and greeting customers. He’s been cooking with the same recipes for years, and the pride really shows in the quality and flavor of his food. His attention to detail sets this place apart from your average roadside BBQ stop.

The five-meat sampler is a favorite because it gives you a little bit of everything. From the smoky ribs to the melt-in-your-mouth brisket, the meats are well-seasoned and cooked just right. The grits have earned their own fan following—creamy, savory, and unlike the usual side offerings at most BBQ spots. Sides like baked beans, collard greens, and mac-and-cheese round out the meal. Don’t skip the banana pudding for dessert—homemade and as classic as it gets.

What to Know Before You Go

Location:
Wardlaw’s Lucky Eye Q  
103 N Chattanooga St, Lafayette, GA 30728  
(Approximately a 35–40 minute drive from downtown Chattanooga)

Hours:
Open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 11 AM–2 PM and again from 5 PM–8 PM  
Closed Sunday–Wednesday  

Phone: 706-200-8427  
Website: wardlawsluckyeyeq.com  
Parking: Free street parking available nearby  

They don’t always post a full menu online, so go early if you're set on specific meats or sides—once they’re out, they’re out. It’s walk-in only; no reservations taken.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Make a Half-Day of It: Lafayette has a quaint downtown area with a few shops and spots to explore before or after you eat. If you're already heading into Walker County, consider a short hike at nearby Rock Town Trail or check out the Pocket Recreation Area—it’s nature-heavy and peaceful.

- Bring Cash Just in Case: While they do accept cards, small-town joints sometimes experience tech hiccups, so having a backup is a good idea.

- Outdoor Seating: Lucky Eye Q sometimes offers outdoor picnic-style seating when the weather’s right. Call ahead or check their social media to see if that’s available.

- Portion Sizes: The servings here are generous, so if you’re not a big eater, consider splitting an order or coming hungry.

Final Thoughts

Wardlaw’s Lucky Eye Q is the kind of place that reminds you why people get passionate about barbecue. It’s personal, packed with flavor, and made with care. If you’re in Chattanooga and have a few free hours on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, take the drive down to Lafayette and treat yourself. It’s a perfect stop for barbecue lovers, road trippers, and anyone curious about the food scene just beyond city limits.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!