Wardlaw’s Lucky Eye Q, BBQ worth the drive from Chattanooga, cooking up in LaFayette Georgia

Published on
11 August 2024

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!

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Barbie Dreamhouse Airbnb in Chattanooga: Perfect for Bachelorettes and Girls’ Getaways

If you’re planning a girls’ getaway, bachelorette, or unique stay in Chattanooga, this fully decked-out Barbie Dreamhouse Airbnb might be just the thing. Tucked just minutes from downtown and Station Street, this three-story home pulls out all the stops—Barbie-themed rooms, a 10-person hot tub, glam vanity setups, and even robes and slippers in every bathroom. The stay is surprisingly affordable when split among a group, and the thoughtful touches from the host make it feel like more than just a themed rental—it’s a full experience. Keep an eye on their new Instagram, @barbiehousechatt, for a peek inside.
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Stay in Chattanooga’s Very Own Barbie Dreamhouse Airbnb

If you’ve ever daydreamed about living in your own Barbie Dreamhouse—think plush pink décor, matching robes, and picture-perfect spaces—the Barbie House Chattanooga might be exactly the getaway you didn’t know you needed. Tucked just minutes from downtown, this three-story Airbnb is a themed girls’ weekend paradise and one of the most memorable stays you’ll find in the Scenic City. Whether you're planning a bachelorette party, mother-daughter weekend, or just looking to treat your group to something unforgettable, this place delivers charm, fun, and plenty of glam in every room.

The Experience

Walking into the Barbie House Chattanooga feels like being transported into every Instagram fantasy you've ever scrolled past—but this time, it’s real. The entire home is thoughtfully designed around a Barbie aesthetic, with bold color palettes, retro-chic furniture, and just the right amount of sparkle. It’s not subtle, and that’s the point.

There are multiple themed bedrooms, a full kitchen with—you guessed it—a pink fridge, glamorous vanity spots perfect for getting ready before a night out, and whimsical details in nearly every corner. The house comfortably sleeps 10 guests, and every bathroom comes stocked with robes and slippers for that full pampered vibe.

The standout feature for many? The massive 10-person hot tub, which makes a perfect spot to unwind after dinner or kick off a celebratory toast with the crew. Add in tons of photo-ready backdrops and you’ve got yourself a guaranteed hit for girls’ weekends, birthday celebrations, or bachelorette parties.

What to Know Before You Go


Location: The Barbie House is located in Chattanooga, less than 5 minutes from Station Street—a local nightlife favorite known for spots like Westbound, Reagan’s Bar, STIR, and Boneyard.

Booking: The house is listed on Airbnb under @ksbarbiedreams. Pricing varies by season and dates but typically ranges from $400 to $600 per night. For a group of 10, that breaks down to approximately $40–60 per person per night—pretty reasonable considering the amenities and location.

Capacity: Sleeps up to 10 people

Amenities include:
- 10-person hot tub
- Themed bedrooms and décor
- Full kitchen with pink appliances
- Robes and slippers in each bathroom
- Vanity areas for getting ready
- Private parking

You can find more photos, booking info, and updates on their Instagram at @barbiehousechatt.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Since it’s so close to downtown, you won’t need to drive far for fun. Station Street is packed with nightlife, and you’re just a short Uber ride from the North Shore, Southside, and downtown attractions.
- If you’re planning a special occasion like a bachelorette, consider pre-ordering balloons, décor, or meals—some local vendors offer themed packages that can be delivered to the house ahead of your stay.
- Bring a camera or make sure your phone has space—there are tons of Instagrammable moments in every room, and your group will probably want a full photo shoot.
- Split the stay with friends to stretch your budget. With 10 people, it’s one of the most cost-effective (and fun) group Airbnb stays in town.

Final Thoughts

The Barbie House in Chattanooga isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s part of the experience. With thoughtfully curated spaces and so many fun details, it invites you to embrace the theme and enjoy a playful but still comfortable stay. Guests rave about the responsive host, clean spaces, and overall vibe. If you’re the type who loves themed experiences, close-knit weekends with friends, or simply want something unique for your next group gathering, this Airbnb is a hidden gem.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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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.


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!

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The Experience

Stepping into Morning Brew Co feels like walking into a warm, neighborhood café somewhere in Europe—until the sounds of southern conversation remind you you’re still happily in Tennessee. The shop has a welcoming, minimalist design with soft lighting and thoughtfully curated decor. It’s the kind of place where you could meet friends on a Saturday or hunker down with your laptop and a pastry during the week.

The drink menu covers all the classics and then some. Their espresso drinks are reliably well-crafted, from rich lattes to slightly sweet specialty combinations (keep an eye on their seasonal drink specials—often rotating and always interesting). If you're skipping caffeine, they also offer fresh teas, fruit-forward refreshers, and matcha.

One of the real highlights, though, is the food. House-made pastries like danishes, bagels, and European-style crepes are available daily, and they’re not just an afterthought. This is the kind of place where you’ll definitely want to budget room for something buttery or flaky.

Morning Brew Co also offers mobile coffee catering throughout the Chattanooga region for events like weddings, parties, and office gatherings—still staying true to their roots as a coffee cart.

What to Know Before You Go

Location: 6011 Chesterton Way, Suite 111, Ooltewah, TN 37363  
Hours: Monday–Friday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM  
Anniversary Celebration: Saturday, June 28 | 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM  
Parking: Free lot available directly in front of the shop  
Note: Online orders and group pickups are not eligible for the $1 deal on Saturday

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Morning Brew Co is set up for outdoor seating
- If you’re making a day of it, Awaken Church and a few local boutiques are nearby—perfect for wandering before or after your coffee stop.
- Looking to avoid the Saturday crowd? Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience and a chance to try their full menu without the rush.

Final Thoughts

Morning Brew Co is exactly the kind of thoughtful, well-run local coffee shop that makes you want to become a regular. The kind baristas, flavorful options, and intentional food make it a standout in Ooltewah’s growing coffee scene. Whether you're a local looking for a new go-to, or just passing through on your way to or from the city, this is one to add to your list.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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