Statemint Chattanooga Returns: Ultimate Local Thrifting

White Duck Taco Shop in Chattanooga: Playful Tacos, a Frozen Cheerwine Margarita, and a Whole Lot of Local Charm

There’s a fresh flavor on McCallie Avenue that's quickly becoming a local favorite — White Duck Taco Shop has opened its Chattanooga location, bringing with it a globally-inspired menu, relaxed vibe, and food that’s both playful and seriously satisfying. Tucked between Missionary Ridge and downtown, this locally owned taco bar is the kind of spot you’ll want to revisit with friends, family, or coworkers — especially on a sunny afternoon when the patio is in full swing.

What makes it worth a visit? Think outside the standard Tex-Mex menu — here, tacos range from Chicken Tikka Masala to crispy Pork Belly, all served on fresh flour or corn tortillas with generous fillings and bold flavors. Pair that with a frozen Cheerwine margarita and a shady patio, and you’ve got something special.

The Experience

Walking up to White Duck Taco Shop, the first thing you’ll notice is the architecture — modern-industrial but welcoming, blending local design details with clean lines and plenty of outdoor space. The building has a breezy, open-plan feel, with a spacious patio out back complete with shaded seating and a grassy lawn area perfect for kids to stretch their legs.

Inside, the ordering process is simple: head to the counter, order a few tacos (they come out quick!), and grab a drink while you wait. If it’s your first visit, definitely chat with the friendly staff — they’re happy to explain the rotating taco options and suggest pairings. The menu pulls ingredients and flavors from around the world. Some of the standout options include:

- Bangkok Shrimp — light, creamy, with a bit of a citrus bite
- Pork Belly — rich and crispy, balanced with a fresh slaw
- Chicken Tikka Masala — crowd favorite with warm spices and tender chunks of chicken
- Buffalo Chicken — for those who love a little heat and vinegar
- Steak & Cheese — a comfort classic reimagined taco-style

Don’t skip the sides — the Street Corn Salad goes fast and for good reason. The Chips & Queso hit the table quickly, making it easy to snack while you wait for the main event.

Drinks range from local beers to non-alcoholic sodas, but the frozen Cheerwine margarita deserves a shoutout. Sweet, nostalgic, and surprisingly balanced, it might just be the sleeper hit of the drink list.

What to Know Before You Go

Location: 1519 McCallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404
Hours: Open daily, 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Pricing: Tacos are $5.25 each. Most people are satisfied with 2–3 plus a side. Very reasonable for the flavor and portion.
How to Order: Counter-service. Fast and efficient.
Website: https://whiteducktacoshop.com/
Instagram: @whiteducktacochattanooga for updates, taco specials, and a behind-the-scenes look at how it all comes together.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Great for families: The grassy play area gives little ones space to move while parents enjoy food at a shaded outdoor table.
- Plans are in the works for an onsite brewery and live music stage — exciting additions that will only enhance the community vibe.
- For a fun date night or casual weekend hangout, grab tacos here and then head up the ridge or towards downtown for dessert or drinks.
- Nearby: The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus is close by, as well as Sculpture Fields at Montague Park—making it easy to turn taco night into a full afternoon outing.

Final Thoughts

White Duck Taco Shop hits that sweet spot between casual dining and adventurous flavor. With its creative menu, breezy atmosphere, and thoughtful design, it’s a welcome addition to Chattanooga's ever-growing food scene. It’s a great pick for families looking for something relaxed, couples wanting a low-key meal with quality drinks, or locals in need of a reliable go-to spot with new things to try.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

100 Ramen & Hibachi & Sushi Bar just opened by the Aloft Hotel in Hamilton Place- and they've got some cool grand opening deals I'm sharing below! There's a big menu with lots of Japanese variety, and it's a great mix of comfort food and healthy options (they’re even right next door to Crunch Fitness, so it’s basically balanced, right?).

Address: 2090 Hamilton Place Boulevard, Chattanooga, TN

My First Visit

I went in to give it a try, and here’s the rundown:

• Shrimp Hibachi – fresh, sizzling, and loaded with flavor.
• Gyoza appetizer – the perfect comfort bites
• ‍Chicken Katsu Donburi- not many places have this around town, I was a big fan!

• Boba Tea – I love fruit boba tea!! And popping pearls! I got the mango, and it was great! And okay, confession: I’m usually not a milk tea person. But their ZangZang Boba Tea? Surprisingly good.
• Tonkotsu Ramen – my personal favorite of the night. Rich, hearty, and exactly what you want in a bowl of ramen.
• Sushi – beautifully crafted by Kevin, the sushi chef. Nothing here is pre-made, so yes, it may take a little longer if he’s busy- but the results are so worth it.

I got to talk to the owners and they told me they’re aiming to be a healthier, quick, intentional option while still giving you all the fun of a full ramen + hibachi + sushi + boba lineup.

Grand Opening Deals You Don’t Want to Miss!!

This Friday (August 22) is the Grand Opening, and they’re going big with the deals! Be sure you've followed their page (@100ramenandbar_chatt ) and commented on my recent @webbchatts post about them!

✨ The first 20 people who show up (and prove they shared + commented on my Instagram post) get a FREE bowl of ramen.
✨ From 11 AM to 4 PM, everything on the menu (except alcohol) is half off if you’ve shared + commented + followed them!!
✨ Can’t make it Friday? use the coupon below for 20% to use any other day in August!

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I’ll be there too, hanging out and trying more dishes- so come say hi, grab some food, and let’s support this new locally owned spot together!!

(Free parking- it's Hamilton Place!)

Check out their website: https://taste100.com/order/100-ramen-bar-2090-hamilton-place-boulevard
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And if you want more insider Chattanooga finds, be sure to follow me on Instagram @webbchatts — I’m always sharing the best new spots, events, and hidden gems around the Scenic City! THANKS!!!

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Water Lantern Festival at Chester Frost Park: An Unforgettable Summer Evening in Chattanooga

If you’re looking for a unique, meaningful way to spend a summer evening in Chattanooga, circle July 12th on your calendar. The Water Lantern Festival is returning to Chester Frost Park for one night only, and it's a beautiful celebration of hope, connection, and community — all set to music, with glowing lanterns drifting peacefully across the water.

It’s one of those events that’s hard to describe until you’re there, watching thousands of hand-decorated lanterns light up the lake at sunset. Whether you go with family, friends, or your significant other, it’s the kind of night that sticks with you.

The Experience

When you arrive at Chester Frost Park for the Water Lantern Festival, you’re greeted with a relaxed, welcoming festival atmosphere. There’s live music playing, local food trucks serving dinner and treats, and booths where you can grab your materials and start decorating your lantern.

Each guest receives a lantern kit included with their ticket. The idea is simple but powerful: you write a message, a dream, a memory, or a dedication on your lantern — whatever’s on your heart — and then release it onto the water as the sun goes down. As the lake starts to fill with lanterns, the view becomes more magical by the minute.

The event particularly shines around sunset. The gentle glow of thousands of lanterns floating silently across the water, accompanied by soft music and the hum of conversations, creates a reflective and emotional ambiance that’s hard to replicate at any other event in the city.

The festival is also a Zero Waste event, designed with care for the environment. All lanterns are made from eco-friendly materials, and a dedicated cleanup crew ensures everything is removed from the water afterward.

What to Know Before You Go

Date & Time:
Saturday, July 12, 2024  
Gates typically open in the late afternoon, with lantern launch at sunset.


Location:
Chester Frost Park  
2318 N. Gold Point Circle, Hixson, TN 37343  
This scenic park is about 25 minutes from downtown Chattanooga and offers plenty of green space and lakeside views.

Parking:
Plenty of parking is available on-site.  
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Tickets:
Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Every ticket includes:
- Entry to the festival
- One floating lantern kit with a commemorative drawstring bag
- Marker for decorating your lantern
- LED candle
- Access to live music and food trucks

Food & Drink:
There are several food vendors and food trucks on site, so come hungry or plan on grabbing dinner while you’re there. Vegetarian and kid-friendly options are often available.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Great Photo Ops: Bring your phone or camera — the lantern launch at twilight is a photogenic moment you’ll want to remember.
- BYO Blanket or Chairs: There’s plenty of space to spread out, so bring a blanket or lawn chairs for comfort.
- Sunset Timing: Be sure to be there well before sunset to decorate your lantern and find a good spot by the water.
- Make a Day of It: If you arrive early, Chester Frost Park has swimming areas, picnic spots, and walking trails — worth making a full day date or family outing.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a unique date night, a creative way to reflect on meaningful moments, or just a serene evening outdoors, the Water Lantern Festival offers something for everyone. It’s one of those rare events that feels both festive and personal — creating space for celebration, remembrance, and community. And when the lanterns begin to float out across the water together… there’s something really special about that shared experience.

Highly recommended for families, couples, friend groups, and anyone who loves slowing down and connecting with others in a beautiful place.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!