Discovering Chattanooga: Sunday Market Adventures and Local Finds at the First Horizon Pavilion

VTX Club House: Chattanooga’s Newest Spot for Bourbon, Cigars, and Golf Simulators  

If you’re looking for an upscale-yet-inviting spot to unwind downtown, VTX Club House on Georgia Ave just opened its doors—and it's bringing something fresh to Chattanooga’s nightlife scene. With a stylish public lounge, a sleek cigar bar, live music, craft cocktails, and members-only perks like indoor golf simulators, this place is designed for those who enjoy the finer things without a pretentious vibe.  

The Experience  

Stepping into VTX Club House feels a little like discovering a secret jazz club—but more modern, with a thoughtful mix of dark woods, leather seating, moody lighting, and a curated soundtrack to match the space. The first floor is completely open to the public (no membership required), and there’s plenty to explore even if you’re just dropping in for a drink.  

At the heart of the ground level is a well-appointed bar serving bourbon-forward cocktails, wine, and a full food menu. There’s also a luxe cigar lounge that feels intimate but spacious, with ventilated design that keeps things comfortable. Cozy couches and seating nooks invite you to settle in with a drink or light meal, whether you’re here for date night, happy hour, or a solo evening out.  

On Friday nights, live music adds even more energy to the space. Talent and genres may vary, but the vibe leans smooth, soul, and jazz-oriented—perfect for a relaxed yet polished night out.  

Upstairs is reserved for VTX members and offers even more amenities: private cigar and bourbon lounges, meeting spaces, a theater room, and three indoor golf simulators. Membership starts at various tiers, with the Gold Level at $300/month offering full access to all amenities, personal lockers, and curated member events.  

What to Know Before You Go  

Location  
VTX Club House  
415 Georgia Ave  
Chattanooga, TN 37403  

Hours  
Monday: Closed  
Tuesday–Thursday & Sunday: 11 AM – 11 PM  
Friday–Saturday: 11 AM – 1 AM  

Parking  
Nearby street parking is your best bet, with several paid lots within walking distance. Shayna: Add your own tip about the best nearby parking options.  

Reservations  
No reservation is needed for the public lounge area. If you're considering a membership, you can schedule a private tour through their website.  

Membership  
Open to the public downstairs, with a bar and food main lounge with live music, cigar room store, and outdoor bar. Memberships offer access to the upstairs level and premium experiences- including the golf.  Check here for membership options: https://www.vtxclub.com/our-memberships


Extra Tips or Bonuses  

- Looking to grab dinner before or after your visit? VTX serves food on site, but for a full meal nearby, you’re just a few blocks from Public House, Easy Bistro, or Old Gilman Grill.  

- If cigars are a big draw for you, ask the staff for recommendations—they're knowledgeable and friendly, and the cigar lounge rotates selections regularly.  

- The golf simulators upstairs are pro-level with multiple courses and swing tracking, so it’s just as fun for experienced golfers as it is for beginners. Occasionally, they host members-only tournaments or viewing nights in the theater room.  

- Great photo ops? The interior design is sharp and photogenic, from the low-lit bar shot to the leather reading chairs near the front windows.  

Final Thoughts  

VTX Club House is carving out something unique for Chattanooga—a polished space that blends bourbon, cigars, conversation, and entertainment without being exclusive. Whether you’re curious about membership or just want to find a new weekly hangout spot, the public lounge alone is worth a visit.  

Couples, downtown professionals, and small friend groups will especially enjoy the relaxed yet refined vibe. And if you’ve been looking for a city lounge that goes beyond the usual bar lineup, this might hit the mark.  

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

A Feast for the Senses

The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a towering two-story dry-aged meat locker, a full bar, modern décor, and even a live plant wall. It’s an impressive setting that sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. Upstairs, there’s a private event space that’s ideal for celebrations like birthdays, engagement parties, or Friendsgiving gatherings.

Zaya is open for both lunch and dinner on weekends and dinner during the week, making it a versatile option whether you’re planning a fancy date night or a group celebration. They’re even open on Thanksgiving, offering a special feast that’s perfect for the holiday season.

The Steak That Melts in Your Mouth

Zaya specializes in premium Korean steakhouse-style dining, and their attention to detail is second to none. Their Butcher’s Feast is a must-try, featuring a variety of hand-selected meats cooked tableside by expert servers. Every bite of steak is so tender you won’t even need a knife.

Standout dishes include:

1. The Zaya Steak: Bursting with flavor.
2. Dry-Aged Tomahawk Steak: Exceptionally rich and tender.
3. Delmonico Steak: A fan-favorite that’s absolutely mind-blowing.
4. A5 Japanese Miyazaki Wagyu: The star of the show. This world-class Wagyu literally melts in your mouth and is a must-try for any steak lover. (It is expensive…but WORTH IT atleast once in your life!)

More Than Just Steak

The meal is served family-style, creating a fun and communal dining experience. In addition to their premium steaks, Zaya offers a wide selection of appetizers and sides that pair perfectly with the main dishes. (The glazed sweet potatoes are SOOO GOOOD!)

‍Plan Your Visit

• Location: 300 Cherokee Blvd, Unit 125, Chattanooga, TN 37405
• Hours:
  • Tuesday–Thursday: 5 PM–10 PM
  • Friday–Sunday: Lunch (11:30 AM–2:30 PM), Dinner (5 PM–10 PM)
  • Closed Mondays.
• Special Events: Zaya is open on Thanksgiving with an exclusive feast menu, perfect for celebrating the holiday in style.

Zaya Korean Steakhouse delivers on every level. With an award-winning reputation and unforgettable flavors, this is the place to impress anyone.

For more Chattanooga dining recommendations, 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!