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!
Wardlaw’s Lucky Eye Q, BBQ worth the drive from Chattanooga, cooking up in LaFayette Georgia
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Bubbleway: Bubble Tea, Bubble waffles, and Snow Ice: Chattanooga’s Exciting new stop for Taiwanese treats
Bubble Way: Chattanooga's New Spot for Boba, Bubble Waffles, and Taiwanese Treats
If you’re a fan of bubble tea—or curious to try new Taiwanese-inspired snacks—there’s a fresh addition to the Chattanooga food scene that’s worth checking out. Bubble Way is a family-owned shop bringing boba, bubble waffles, snow ice, and ramen to East Brainerd, and it's already become a welcoming go-to for something a little different. Whether you love a classic milk tea or want to branch out with a creamy shaved snow dessert, Bubble Way blends flavor, creativity, and comfort all in one cozy spot.
The Experience
Walking into Bubble Way feels like stepping into a bright, cheerful corner of Taipei right here in Chattanooga. The interior is simple but inviting, with cute touches and a clean layout that makes it easy to drop by for a quick sip or a more filling snack.
The menu has a great mix of familiar favorites and hard-to-find-in-Chattanooga items. Bubble tea lovers will be glad to see a wide range of options—from fruity teas like passionfruit and mango to indulgent milk teas with brown sugar and taro. You can customize your sugar level and toppings (tapioca pearls, popping boba, agar jelly, and more), making it easy to find your perfect combo.
But what really sets Bubble Way apart is the variety beyond boba. Their bubble waffles—a crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside grid of puffs—can be ordered plain or as a dessert wrapped around toppings like ice cream, fruit, and sauces. It’s fun to eat and perfect for sharing (or not sharing, we won’t judge).
Another standout is their snow ice, a light, fluffy frozen dessert that’s kind of like a cross between ice cream and shaved ice. It’s delicate, creamy, and comes with a choice of toppings. Bubble Way is the first in Chattanooga to offer this unique treat, and it’s an especially great pick on hot days or after something spicy.
Speaking of savory, there’s also ramen on the menu for when you’re in the mood for soup. Simple but hearty, it rounds out the offerings and makes Bubble Way more of a one-stop spot for snacking and meals alike.
What to Know Before You Go
Address:
7550 E Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421
Next to Papa John's!
Hours:
12pm-7pm Monday- Saturday (but check their IG / Google page as hours may have changed since this was posted!)
Parking:
Plenty of parking is available in the shared lot, though it can get busy at peak hours depending on surrounding businesses.
Menu Favorites:
Milk Tea with brown sugar boba, fruit teas, bubble waffles with Nutella and strawberries, snow ice!
I got the Immortal Peach; it was INCREDIBLE!
Prices:
Very reasonable—most drinks and desserts fall under $8, and portion sizes are generous.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Bubble Way is family-owned, and the staff is friendly and happy to walk guests through the menu if you’re new to boba or snow ice.
- Their Instagram (@bubblewayinc) is worth a follow—not just for updates but for cute drink inspiration and seasonal specials.
- Looking to make it a full outing? The shop is just a short drive from Heritage Park, so you can grab your order to go and enjoy it with a walk or a picnic.
- It’s a great alternative to coffee when you want a sweet pick-me-up in the afternoon! (though they also have coffee too!)
Final Thoughts
Bubble Way is one of those places that just makes you feel glad it exists in town. It brings a piece of Taiwanese street food culture to Chattanooga in a way that’s approachable, delicious, and fun. Whether you’re coming for the boba or staying for the waffles and snow ice, the menu has something for everyone. Families, teens, couples—really anyone with a sweet tooth or love for global flavors—will find something worth coming back for.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Experience the Excitement of a Chattanooga FC Game!
Catch the Action at a Chattanooga FC Game: What to Expect at Finley Stadium
If you’re looking for an exciting way to spend a Saturday evening in Chattanooga, a Chattanooga Football Club (CFC) game should be high on your list. Held right at Finley Stadium—where the UTC Mocs Football team plays—the matches are a vibrant local experience where energy runs high, community pride is on full display, and there’s no bad seat in the house. Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or have never seen a game before and are just in it for the fun, food trucks, and festive crowd, CFC games offer a lively and affordable night out downtown.
The Experience:
Attending a CFC game is more than just watching soccer—it’s an experience that blends sport, community, and Chattanooga culture all in one. Gates typically open an hour before the match, giving you time to grab a drink, visit a few vendors (local beer and tasty snacks are a given), and soak in the pre-game excitement. You’ll find some fans decked out in blue and navy (or whatever the theme of the game is!), waving flags and chanting with the Chattahooligans—CFC’s passionate supporter group who bring serious energy to the stands.
Finley Stadium seats more than 20,000 and has a pretty great setup no matter where you sit. Families often lounge on the grassy area (where kids can run around!), while couples and friend groups gather near midfield for great views and atmosphere. The game-day vibe is upbeat but low-stress, drawing a mix of local families, soccer enthusiasts, first-timers, and even out-of-towners looking for something fun to do.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Game Times: Most home games are on Saturdays, typically starting at 7 PM. Gates open around 6 PM. Check their official schedule for the latest dates and times: chattanoogafc.com/schedule
- Location: Finley Stadium, 1826 Reggie White Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37408
- Parking: There are multiple lots around the stadium that charge a small fee. FREE street parking may be available too. Carpooling or arriving early is best on busy game nights.
- Tickets: General admission tickets can be purchased online through Chattanooga FC’s website or at the gate (subject to availability).
Extra Tips or Bonuses:
Before the match, grab dinner or drinks nearby—Southside Social, State of Confusion, and OddStory Brewing Co. are all a short walk away and offer great pre-game stops. If you're heading to a themed night or rivalry matchup, look for promos, giveaways, or local vendor pop-ups happening on the concourse.
And if cheering with the Chattahooligans sounds like your style, don’t be shy—they love welcoming new fans. Their section is loud, fun, and full of team chants, so it’s a memorable way to experience the match.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re in town visiting or have lived here for years, catching a Chattanooga FC game is a fun and affordable way to connect with the heart of the city. It’s laid-back enough for families and exciting enough for a night out with friends. With great food, a scenic backdrop, and the camaraderie of local fans, it’s one of the best community events happening in town—no soccer expertise required.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Morning Brew Co: Ooltewah's Cozy Coffee Spot
Morning Brew Co: Ooltewah's Cozy Coffee Spot
If you're looking for a quietly stellar coffee shop in the Chattanooga area, Morning Brew Co in Ooltewah is one worth finding. Tucked into a corner of Chesterton Way, this woman-owned business started as a mobile coffee cart and has quickly become a beloved local hangout for house-made pastries, relaxed vibes, and standout espresso drinks.
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!