Lunch experiences in Chattanooga blend practical sightseeing with memorable meals. The standout Ocoee River rafting trip combines thrilling whitewater action with a relaxing riverside lunch – a perfect mix of adventure and dining. We love the Southside Food Tour for its well-paced 3-hour exploration of local flavors, particularly the stops at craft distilleries and family-owned restaurants. The Amish community tour offers an authentic culture, featuring homestyle cooking and local wine sampling in a peaceful countryside setting.
These experiences are straightforward to book and reasonably priced for what you get. Most tours accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.
Let’s explore Chattanooga’s top lunch experiences, rated for value and authenticity.
Key Points
- The Southside Food Tour offers a 3-hour guided culinary experience visiting 5 food and drink establishments, including restaurants and a distillery.
- For an immersive cultural experience, the Amish Community Visit provides a private tour with a picnic-style lunch and wine tasting at Morrison Vineyard.
- While the Ocoee River Rafting Adventure does not include a dedicated lunch, it provides a thrilling outdoor activity with scenic views and moderate physical fitness requirements.
- Accessibility and health considerations should be carefully evaluated, as the Ocoee River Rafting and Amish Community Visit may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility or certain dietary restrictions.
- Booking and cancellation policies vary across the experiences, so it’s important to review the details to ensure a smooth and flexible planning process.
Full River Rafting Adventure on the Ocoee River / Catered Lunch
The Ocoee River’s Full River Rafting Adventure offers an exhilarating whitewater experience complemented by a catered lunch. This 5.0-rated activity, recommended by 99% of travelers, boasts a Badge of Excellence. The experience includes private transportation, a guide, personal flotation devices, helmets, and paddles. Lunch is also provided, making it a complete package.
The meeting point is at 869 US-64, Ocoee, TN 37361, USA, where equipment and training are provided at the Outpost. Participants then board a bus that takes them to the river and returns them to the starting point after the activity.
While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it does require a moderate level of physical fitness. The maximum group size is 50 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
Priced from $115.00 per person, the activity offers a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking options, including free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the event.
Read our full review: Full River Rafting Adventure on the Ocoee River / Catered Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Chattanooga: Southside Food Tour With Lunch
On a 3-hour Southside Food Tour, participants can discover the vibrant flavors of Chattanooga’s culinary scene. The tour is limited to just 8 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Along the way, guests will visit 5 different food and drink establishments, including restaurants, a distillery, and more. They’ll savor a variety of offerings, from mocktails and kombucha to Mexican cuisine and burgers.
A trained guide will provide historical context about the area and its culinary offerings, enhancing the experience. Stops include the family-owned Taqueria Jalisco, the Airstream-based Slicks Burgers, the nationally recognized Gate 11 Distillery, the USDA-certified Main Street Meats, and the 60-tap Fountainhead Taproom.
Priced from Kč 3,089 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows participants to reserve their spot and pay later.
However, it’s not suitable for those with food allergies, so it’s important to check availability and make necessary accommodations.
Read our full review: Chattanooga: Southside Food Tour With Lunch Review
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Amish Community Visit:Swimming, Hiking , Lite Lunch, Winetasting
Situated just 150 miles from Atlanta, the Amish Community Visit in Chattanooga offers a unique opportunity to take in the tranquil lifestyle of the Amish people.
This private tour starts at 11:30 AM and includes transportation to and from the attractions, as well as the services of a local guide trained in First Aid and CPR.
Participants can expect a picnic-style lunch featuring fresh, organic ingredients such as turkey meat, flatbread, hummus, nuts, and seasonal greens. The tour also includes 6 or more wine tastings at the nearby Morrison Vineyard.
While the experience isn’t wheelchair-accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness, it’s a chance to explore the Amish community and the surrounding natural beauty.
However, recent reviews suggest that some travelers were disappointed with the depth of the Amish cultural experience and felt the tour didn’t offer good value for money.
It’s essential to have realistic expectations and be prepared for a mixed experience.
Read our full review: Amish Community Visit:Swimming, Hiking , Lite Lunch, Winetasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does the Lunch Service Start and End?
Lunch service typically starts around 11 AM and ends around 3 PM, though hours may vary by restaurant. Many establishments offer a daily lunch menu or specials during this window to accommodate diners seeking a midday meal.
Can I Substitute Items in the Pre-Set Lunch Menu?
Yes, many restaurants in Chattanooga allow guests to substitute items on their pre-set lunch menus. It’s best to check with the restaurant ahead of time to see if they offer this flexibility.
Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available?
Many Chattanooga restaurants offer vegetarian and gluten-free options on their lunch menus. Diners can often substitute items or request customized dishes to accommodate dietary needs. It’s best to inquire about availability when making a reservation or when ordering.
How Much Time Is Allotted for the Lunch Portion of the Activity?
Most lunch experiences allot an average of 60-90 minutes for the lunch portion of the activity. This allows time for ordering, eating, and any additional activities or discussions planned during the meal. The exact duration may vary depending on the specific event or hotel.
Is Parking Available at the Lunch Locations, and Is It Free?
Parking is usually available at the lunch locations in Chattanooga, and it’s often free. However, it’s a good idea to check the specific details for each restaurant, as availability and pricing can vary. Planning ahead can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable lunch experience.
Recap
The Chattanooga region offers a variety of exceptional lunch experiences. From a catered meal after an Ocoee River rafting adventure to a guided food tour of the Southside, there’s something to suit every palate. For a more unique option, visitors can explore an Amish community, enjoy a light lunch, and even try some local wine. Regardless of preference, these lunch experiences provide a delicious way to fuel up during a day of exploration in Chattanooga.