The Absolute Best Fish in Chattanooga [Updated 2024]

With a deep passion for fish and an extensive background in the field, I have had the pleasure of sampling and reviewing a remarkable collection of fish dishes in Chattanooga. In this comprehensive article, I will be sharing my top recommendations based on my firsthand experiences.

Having reviewed a total of 12 impeccable fish dishes across various restaurants, I have carefully evaluated each establishment on factors such as freshness, taste, preparation methods, and overall dining experience. So, whether you are a Chattanooga local or just visiting, join me on this culinary adventure as I unveil the absolute best fish the city has to offer.

Let's dive in!

1885 Grill

Highlights
Wait well worth it
Best gumbo outside Louisiana
Grilled pork chop perfect
Fantastic fried green tomatoes
Phenomenal mushroom and grits

Where do I even begin with 1885 Grill?! From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement. The wait for a table was a bit lengthy, but let me tell you, it was completely worth it.

As a fish aficionado, I had high hopes for their seafood options, and boy, did they deliver! While their menu boasts a range of delicious dishes, the gumbo truly stole the show. I've had gumbo before, but this was on a whole other level. It had just the right balance of flavors, with a rich and hearty broth that instantly transported me to the bayous of Louisiana.

But the surprises didn't stop there! The grilled pork chop I ordered was perfection on a plate. Juicy, flavorful, and cooked to absolute perfection. Paired with a side of fantastic fried green tomatoes, it was a match made in food heaven.

And let's not forget about the mushroom and grits. Phenomenal doesn't even begin to describe it. The creamy grits combined with the earthy flavors of the mushrooms created a flavor explosion in every bite. It was a unique dish that I haven't seen anywhere else in Chattanooga.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best fish in Chattanooga, 1885 Grill is a must-visit. Their commitment to quality, bold flavors, and creative dishes puts them on another level. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in the best gumbo outside of Louisiana, savor a perfectly grilled pork chop, or experience the phenomenal combination of mushrooms and grits. Your taste buds will thank you.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Nashville.

Scotties On The River

Highlights
Excellent service
Nice variety of draft beer
Excellent food
Amazing crab bisque
Great FABB sandwich

Walking into Scotties On The River, I was immediately greeted by the sight of a rustic yet cozy atmosphere. The staff was incredibly friendly and provided excellent service throughout my entire dining experience.

One of the first things that caught my attention was the nice variety of draft beer they had on tap. As a fish enthusiast, I always appreciate finding a place that pairs good food with good drinks.

Speaking of food, the menu at Scotties On The River did not disappoint. They pride themselves on offering excellent food, and let me tell you, they deliver. The star of the show for me was their amazing crab bisque. The flavors were rich, the crab was tender, and every spoonful was a delight.

For those wanting a heartier option, the Great FABB sandwich is the way to go. It's a fish lover's dream, with a generous portion of perfectly grilled fish, crispy bacon, and tangy tarter sauce, all sandwiched between fresh bread. It truly hit the spot.

Overall, my experience at Scotties On The River was a delightful one. The combination of their excellent service, great drink selection, and truly delicious food made it a standout for me. If you find yourself in Chattanooga and craving some top-notch fish, make sure to pay Scotties On The River a visit.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Knoxville.

STIR

Highlights
Phenomenal food
Extensive drink selection
Lively atmosphere
Excellent cocktails
Delicious fried green tomatoes

Let me start by saying that STIR is a true gem when it comes to finding the best fish in Chattanooga. From the moment I stepped foot into the restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat.

The menu at STIR offers a plethora of options for every seafood lover. The phenomenal food they serve is a testament to their commitment to quality and taste. From their perfectly seasoned and tender fish dishes to their mouthwatering shellfish platters, every bite is a delightful journey for your taste buds.

But it's not just the food that impressed me at STIR. The extensive drink selection is something worth mentioning. They have a wide variety of wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails that perfectly complement the flavors of their dishes.

The lively atmosphere at STIR adds to the overall dining experience. The restaurant is bustling with energy, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Whether you're in for a romantic date night or a lively gathering with friends, STIR has got you covered.

Speaking of cocktails, I have to give a special shout-out to their mixologists who craft some of the best cocktails in town. Each sip was a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly paired with the seafood offerings.

Lastly, I cannot end this review without mentioning the delicious fried green tomatoes that I had as an appetizer. The crispy coating and the tangy flavor of the tomatoes made it a definite highlight of the meal.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best fish in Chattanooga, you simply cannot go wrong with STIR. Their attention to detail, phenomenal food, extensive drink selection, and lively atmosphere all contribute to a dining experience that is simply top-notch. So, go ahead and dive into the culinary delights that STIR has to offer – you won't be disappointed.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Chattanooga.

Volcano Crab & Bar

Volcano Crab & Bar is a delightful seafood joint that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering fish dishes combine to create a dining experience that is truly out of this world. Don't miss their crab legs and seafood boils, which are explosively delicious. This hidden gem is a must-visit for any seafood lover in Chattanooga.

You might also want to check out the best fish and chips in Nashville.

Mystic Lobster Roll Company

The Mystic Lobster Roll Company in Chattanooga is a fish lover's dream. With their mouthwatering lobster rolls and fresh seafood options, this hidden gem took me on a flavorful journey. Don't miss out on their delicious lobster bisque either. Seafood aficionados, this is a must-visit spot!

You might also want to check out the best fish and chips in Knoxville.

Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar

Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar is an absolute gem when it comes to finding the best fish in Chattanooga. With their playful yet professional ambiance, their menu offers a tantalizing selection of perfectly cooked and seasoned fish dishes. From their crispy fried snapper to their delicate grilled trout, every bite is a flavorful adventure. The restaurant's dedication to sourcing fresh, sustainable seafood truly shines through in each dish. Plus, their raw bar is a seafood lover's dream, with an assortment of oysters, clams, and shrimp that are as luscious as they are fresh. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or a curious first-timer, Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar should be on the top of your list when exploring the fish scene in Chattanooga.

You might also want to check out the best brunch in Nashville.

Blue Orleans Seafood Restaurant - Cajun & Creole Cuisine

Blue Orleans Seafood Restaurant - Cajun & Creole Cuisine in Chattanooga is a fish lover's paradise. The bold and spicy flavors of their Cajun and Creole cuisine are a delight to the taste buds. The fresh seafood options are extensive and expertly prepared. The crawfish étouffée and blackened catfish are a must-try. Don't miss out on their gumbo either, it's a true taste of Louisiana. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff make for a wonderful dining experience. Blue Orleans is definitely a top contender for the best fish in Chattanooga.

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Nashville.

Pier 88 Boiling Seafood & Bar Chattanooga

As I walked into Pier 88 Boiling Seafood & Bar Chattanooga, I knew I was in for a treat. The playful yet professional atmosphere immediately drew me in and made me excited for what was to come. The menu was bursting with options, but I knew I had to try their fish. And boy, was I glad I did! The fish was incredibly fresh and cooked to perfection. The flavors were bold and tantalizing, leaving me wanting more with each bite. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, happily answering all my questions. Overall, my trip to Pier 88 Boiling Seafood & Bar Chattanooga was a delightful experience that I will certainly be recommending to any fish lover in search of the best Chattanooga has to offer.

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Uncle Larry's

I must say, Uncle Larry's is a hidden gem when it comes to finding the best fish in Chattanooga! The playful atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel right at home. But let's talk about the star of the show – the fish! From the first bite, I could taste the freshness and flavor that made my taste buds dance with joy. Whether you prefer it grilled, fried, or blackened, Uncle Larry's has it all. The portions were generous, leaving me feeling satisfied and content. The presentation of each dish was impeccable, truly a feast for the eyes. I highly recommend trying their famous Catch of the Day – you won't be disappointed. So if you're in Chattanooga and looking for the perfect place to satisfy your fish cravings, make sure to drop by Uncle Larry's. It's truly a fish lover's paradise!

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Bonefish Grill

Bonefish Grill in Chattanooga is a fish lover's dream come true! From their perfectly crisped Bang Bang Shrimp to their mouthwatering wood-grilled fish, every bite is a flavor explosion. The friendly staff and chic atmosphere create the perfect setting for enjoying Chattanooga's best fish.

You might also want to check out the best food in Pigeon Forge.

The Juicy Crab Chattanooga

The Juicy Crab Chattanooga in Chattanooga is a hidden gem when it comes to fish. The seafood here is absolutely finger-licking good. From melt-in-your-mouth Cajun shrimp to succulent snow crab legs, this place is a seafood lover's paradise. Don your bib and prepare to dive into a flavor explosion like no other. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this delicious delight!

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Red Lobster

Let me just say, the fish at Red Lobster in Chattanooga is the real deal. From their mouthwatering lobster tail to their delicate salmon, every bite was a seafood sensation. With their playful yet professional service, it's no wonder they're one of the top spots for fish lovers in Chattanooga.

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