If you’re hungry to explore the culinary landscape beyond downtown Chattanooga, Northgate – Big Ridge should be at the top of your list. This welcoming northside neighborhood boasts an impressive mix of restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and food trucks—each adding its own flavor to the area. Whether you’re craving sushi, smoky barbecue, gourmet coffee, or an old-school slice of pie, Northgate – Big Ridge is packed with local favorites and hidden finds. Let’s dig into the best eats this neighborhood has to offer!
Northgate Mall: A Hub for Tastes of All Kinds
Anchoring the neighborhood is Northgate Mall off Hixson Pike, where you’ll find a little bit of everything. While chain options like Panera Bread and Chick-fil-A serve as quick, reliable picks, don’t skip these unique local offerings:
- Sushi Nabe – For over a decade, Sushi Nabe has brought fresh rolls, comforting noodle bowls, and beautifully crafted tempura platters to Hixson Pike, next to the mall. It’s approachable, mid-range, and beloved for its friendly staff and consistently high-quality seafood.
- El Mesón – Just a block from the mall on Ashland Terrace, El Mesón stands out for hearty Tex-Mex plates, sizzle-in-your-ear fajitas, and generous margaritas. The atmosphere is festive—the perfect spot for a jovial family dinner or a laid-back weeknight meetup.
- New China Buffet – This all-you-can-eat staple on Highway 153 serves up classic Chinese-American favorites. Come hungry for the endless General Tso’s, steamed dumplings, and an epic dessert bar.
Beyond the Basics: Local Icons and Hidden Gems
While the mall brings in lots of foot traffic, Northgate – Big Ridge’s most memorable dining moments are tucked along Hixson’s busy thoroughfares and side streets.
- Chatt Smoke House *(Hixson Pike near Gold Point Circle)* – Barbecue aficionados swear by Chatt Smoke House for their tender pulled pork, moist smoked chicken, and tangy house-made sauces. Their hushpuppies and mac and cheese are local legends. Prices are reasonable, and the easygoing, picnic-table atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for lunch or a casual takeout dinner.
- Delia’s Mexican Grill *(Hixson Pike & DuPont Pkwy)* – Beyond its colorful exterior, Delia’s offers a refreshing take on Mexican classics, with a menu heavy on fresh salsas and house-made tortillas. Local tip: don’t miss the pozole on weekends!
Sweet Spots: Bakeries and Cafés You’ll Crave
Early risers, dessert enthusiasts, and coffee lovers are spoiled for choice in Northgate – Big Ridge.
- The Bread Basket *(Hixson Pike just north of the mall)* – This storybook bakery is famous for generous cinnamon rolls, fluffy loaf breads, and their legendary strawberry cake. It’s the best spot in the neighborhood for picking up a special breakfast or a sweet treat for any celebration.
- Rembrandt’s Coffee House Express *(Inside Northgate Mall)* – A petite sibling of Chattanooga’s iconic arts district café, Rembrandt’s Express serves bold espresso drinks, rich pastries, and light breakfast bites—ideal for a mid-shopping caffeine fix.
- Mr. T’s Pizza & Ice Cream *(Ashland Terrace outpost)* – What began in downtown’s St. Elmo has become a neighborhood favorite in Big Ridge. Classic, gooey pizzas and malts served in a fun, retro-inspired space make this a top pick for families or anyone craving comfort food with a sweet finish.
Food Trucks & Friendly Faces
Northgate – Big Ridge locals know that the best bites aren’t always inside brick-and-mortar restaurants. On weekends, look for popular food trucks in the Northgate Mall parking lot, around the Walmart Supercenter on Highway 153, or parked at local breweries and community events.
- Rolling J’s Mobile Bistro – Famed for loaded burgers and creative daily specials, this truck is a fixture at neighborhood events and always draws a crowd with its juicy, inventive takes on American classics.
- Taqueria Jalisco – Authentic Mexican flavors at wallet-friendly prices. Regulars love their street tacos, with tender carnitas and fresh salsas that pack a punch.
Local Color: Traditions and Unique Offerings
The Northgate – Big Ridge area reflects Chattanooga’s spirit of hospitality and Southern tradition—with a twist. Every autumn, local churches and schools host chili cook-offs and pie contests, while neighborhood favorites like The Bread Basket and Chatt Smoke House often feature seasonal specials (think: pimento cheese-smothered brisket or pumpkin rolls in the fall).
You’ll also find cuisine diversity, from sushi to Southern meat-and-threes, reflective of the families that call this area home. The friendly, welcoming vibe is consistent across every table and counter, whether you’re ordering a quick breakfast at a bakery or settling in for an evening at a bustling Mexican grill.
Neighborhood Flavor Clusters: Where to Start Your Food Adventure
To hop from one delicious spot to another, start at the intersection of Hixson Pike and Northpoint Boulevard. Within a mile, you’ll find classic institutions like Chatt Smoke House, The Bread Basket, and Delia’s, plus a rotating selection of food trucks and sweet treats. Head up Ashland Terrace toward Big Ridge for more hidden gems—Mr. T’s for pizza and ice cream, and El Mesón for Tex-Mex tradition.
For those who love variety, Sunday brunches and Friday night dinners in Northgate – Big Ridge can be a real adventure. Follow the friendly crowds, ask a local what their favorite is that week, and you’ll be quickly welcomed into the area’s evolving food story.
The Northgate – Big Ridge Dining Experience: Come Hungry, Leave Happy
Whether you’re a longtime local, a traveler in search of authentic tastes, or a Chattanooga foodie looking for something new, Northgate – Big Ridge offers up a buffet of options, each with its own personality and charm. From slow-smoked barbecue to bakeries brimming with nostalgia, there’s something to satisfy every craving and every budget. The next time you’re on the north side of the river, take a detour to Hixson Pike and discover why this neighborhood’s food scene is one of Chattanooga’s best-kept (yet most flavorful) secrets.