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Where to Find Some of the Best Birria in Tennessee: Hernandez Mexican Food in Pikeville

If you're up for a bit of a drive and a whole lot of flavor, Hernandez Mexican Food is a must-visit stop tucked away in Pikeville, TN—about 45 minutes from Chattanooga. This family-owned gem has developed a loyal following thanks to its bold, authentic flavors, generous portions, and an unexpectedly charming setting in a small mountain town. Whether you're searching for true birria tacos, flavorful al pastor, or some of the best fruit juices around, this spot is worth putting on your food radar.

The Experience

From the moment you walk up to Hernandez Mexican Food, the vibes are casual and welcoming. The stand-alone building is simple and unassuming, but don’t let that fool you. Inside, the kitchen is turning out some seriously flavorful dishes rooted in Mexican tradition, with a personal twist that comes from real attention to ingredients.

Birria tacos are the star of the show—crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and served with a rich, savory consommé for dipping. Say yes to the combo plate or taco trio if you’re hungry—you’ll want more than just one. If you're not into birria (though you might become a convert), the al pastor tacos are a zesty, well-balanced alternative. For something comfort-food level indulgent, go for the BBQ carnitas fries—think loaded fries but with a smoky, tangy twist, piled high with melted cheese and seasoned pork.

What makes Hernandez really special is the use of local ingredients. It’s not just comforting food—it’s fresh and thoughtfully prepared. There's also a solid breakfast menu, with options like chilaquiles and breakfast burritos served from 8 a.m., perfect if you’re heading out for an early hike at nearby Fall Creek Falls and want to fuel up.

What to Know Before You Go

Location:
Hernandez Mexican Food is located at 48288 TN-30, Pikeville, TN 37367. It’s an easy drive from Chattanooga with scenic views along the way.

Hours:
They’re open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.
Note: They’re right on the edge of the time zone line but operate on Eastern Time—something to keep in mind if you’re cutting it close on arrival.

Seating:
There’s both indoor and outdoor seating, and while it’s casual, there’s usually a steady stream of locals and out-of-towners stopping in for a meal.

Parking:
There’s a small parking lot in front, and street-side shoulder parking nearby if it’s full.


Pricing:
Very reasonable for the quality and quantity you're getting. Most tacos range around $3–4 each, with combo plates and bigger items priced accordingly.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

Right behind the restaurant is Ciscos Fruteria, a fruit-focused dessert stand that’s perfect for rounding out your visit. They serve real fruit smoothies and colorful “antojitos” like fresas con crema (Mexican strawberries and cream) and mangonadas. It’s an easy one-two punch for a summery food crawl, and especially good on a warm day.

If you’re already making the trip out, consider pairing your meal with a visit to Fall Creek Falls State Park—it’s only about 30 minutes away and makes for a great full-day outing. Combine waterfall hikes, swimming spots, and lunch or dinner at Hernandez for the ultimate Chattanooga-area adventure.

Final Thoughts

Hernandez Mexican Food is one of those rare finds that feels like a local secret but delivers destination-worthy flavor. Whether you're hunting down the best birria in Tennessee or just want a new spot to shake up your weekend food plans, this place is a solid bet. Friendly, fast service, bold flavors, and a tinge of small-town charm make it a spot that hits all the right notes.

Families, couples, food lovers, and Fall Creek Falls visitors—this one's a great fit for all of you.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Cesario’s Pizzeria: A Family-Rooted Pizza Spot Just Minutes From Downtown Chattanooga

If you're willing to venture just 10 minutes south of downtown Chattanooga, you'll find Cesario’s Pizzeria- a welcoming neighborhood pizza joint with a strong family story and handcrafted menu that makes the drive across the Georgia border totally worth it. This spot blends traditional Italian family recipes with a modern twist, resulting in a menu that feels both comforting and new. Whether you're going for a laid-back lunch on the patio or a casual weeknight dinner, Cesario’s delivers in flavor, value, and charm.

The Experience

Cesario’s Pizzeria is located in Rossville, Georgia — just across the state line in Walker County. It’s a cozy, friendly space with indoor seating and a patio perfect for mild evenings. From the jump, you can tell this is a family-run business that puts care into everything they do. The décor is simple and inviting, keeping the focus on the food and the community feel.

The menu reflects generations of Italian-American cooking. The owners’ grandparents immigrated from Italy, and it shows — especially in dishes like the meatballs, which come from their great-grandmother’s original recipe. They're tender, flavorful, and simmered in a tomato sauce that tastes like it’s been perfected over time.

Pizza is the heart of the kitchen here, and Cesario’s has carved out their own unique style. One standout feature is their use of a "poolish" pre-ferment for the dough — a traditional technique that adds depth of flavor and a light, crisp texture to the crust. It makes their pies something special.

A fan favorite is the ability to do a half-and-half red sauce pizza — perfect for trying more of the menu in one go. The Forbidden Fruit (prosciutto, fig jam, gorgonzola) and La Dolce Vita (Italian sausage, sweet peppers, caramelized onion, and ricotta) combination is a strong recommendation from locals and first-timers alike.

If you’re stopping by for lunch, try their weekday special: a half Italian sandwich and tortellini salad for just $8. It’s a filling, tasty option if you're short on time but still want a solid meal.

They also have a small bar area with wine and rotating happy hour deals, plus classic soft-serve ice cream to round out the meal.

What to Know Before You Go

Location: 1103 McFarland Avenue, Rossville, GA 30741  
Distance from downtown Chattanooga: About 10 minutes by car  
Hours:  
Monday–Thursday: 11 AM–8 PM  
Friday: 11 AM–9 PM  
Saturday: 12 PM–9 PM  
Closed Sundays  
Parking: Free parking lot available on-site  
Pricing: Affordable – most pizzas range from $13–$20, and portion sizes are generous  
Website: cesarios.pizza  


Extra Tips or Bonuses

- If the weather’s good, grab a table on the patio — it has a relaxed, local vibe that’s perfect for unwinding.
- Save room for dessert. Their soft-serve ice cream is simple but nostalgic and hits the spot after pizza.
- If you’re making the trip, check out other spots around Walker County. You're close to historic downtown Chickamauga, hiking at Lookout Mountain Battlefield, and other hidden gems in the area!

Final Thoughts

Cesario’s Pizzeria is a great example of a destination that feels like a local secret but is welcoming to everyone. Whether you're a pizza purist, a fan of family-run businesses, or just someone looking for a tasty, low-key meal outside the usual Chattanooga circuit, this spot should be on your list. It’s casual enough for a weekday lunch and charming enough to make it a weekend night stop — especially if you're already exploring northwest Georgia.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

The Together Cafe: A Cozy Chattanooga Coffee Shop With Heart

Tucked into the Highland Park neighborhood, The Together Cafe is one of those rare spots that’s equally cozy, community-focused, and genuinely delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to work, meet a friend, or sip on something creative, this locally loved coffee shop delivers in all the right ways — and it’s doing good behind the scenes, too.

This one’s a true hidden gem, just east of downtown Chattanooga, and it’s the kind of place you’ll find yourself returning to again and again (especially once you try the cereal milk latte). Here’s everything you need to know if you’re thinking about stopping by.

The Experience

From the outside, The Together Cafe looks humble, but inside you'll find a warm, inviting space that clearly prioritizes comfort and connection. There’s a mix of seating — cozy couches upstairs, window perches downstairs, and a separate side room that adds extra space, complete with a small kids’ play area. It’s clear they’ve thought about families, remote workers, and anyone who just wants a peaceful break in their day.

The menu is creative and fun, with espresso drinks that go well beyond the usual. A longtime favorite is the cereal milk latte (yes, it tastes like the end of a bowl of your favorite childhood cereal), but don’t miss their seasonal creations. This summer, it’s the “Summer in Dubai” latte — a unique blend of Nutella and pistachio syrup with strawberry cold foam and flaky kataifi on top. It’s indulgent, refreshing, and unlike anything you’ll find at a chain coffee shop.

For non-coffee drinkers or hotter days, The Together Cafe also serves up bubble tea-style refreshers with rotating popping boba flavors. Watermelon seems to be a standout right now if you want something fruity and fresh.

What to Know Before You Go

Address:
801 S. Orchard Knob Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404  
Located in the Highland Park neighborhood, just a short drive from downtown

Hours:
Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM  
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM  
Sunday: Closed

Parking:
They offer free parking (a definite plus in this area), so you shouldn't have to circle the block.

Atmosphere:
The cafe plays soft, uplifting Christian music, and there’s a prayer wall where visitors can leave thoughts or read the reflections of others. It’s a genuinely peaceful setting that welcomes everyone.

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Community Support:
This isn’t just a coffee shop that serves good drinks; it’s also one that supports a great cause. A portion of the cafe’s proceeds goes toward nonprofits that support survivors of human trafficking, so your coffee here goes a little further.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- the upstairs nook is the best place for working or studying.
- The separate room to the side of the shop is often quieter and has kid-friendly space, making it a good pick for parents with little ones in tow.
- Check in regularly for seasonal drinks and limited-time specials — their barista team clearly has fun coming up with unexpected combos.


Nearby:
If you’re making a morning of it, Highland Park has been steadily growing its list of cool spots — consider swinging by Mad Priest Coffee just a few blocks away if you’re up for a little coffee-hopping. For lunch nearby, Main Street is close enough to reach in just a few minutes.

Final Thoughts

The Together Cafe is a spot that feels thoughtful, from its welcoming layout to its unique menu and mission. Whether you’re a Chattanooga local looking for a new regular coffee shop, or a traveler seeking an off-the-beaten-path stop with purpose, this place is absolutely worth a visit.

Families, students, remote workers, and anyone who appreciates a little personality in their coffee — you’ll feel right at home here.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!