With warm weather comes enjoying your meals outside. Head to these patios to enjoy beautiful views and refreshing, cool breezes in Tennessee. Add these restaurants to your next trip itinerary.
While you’re visiting Rock City Gardens in Chattanooga, grab a bite at Café 7. Dishes burst with flavors and are as delicious as the views. You can see seven states while noshing on Southern cuisine. Share a plate of deviled eggs and Southern spring rolls. Savor the brisket salad, shrimp & grits, catfish, pulled pork barbecue, burgers, po’boys, and mouthwatering sides like sweet potato fries, potato salad, coleslaw and house-made chips. Café 7 has seasonal hours. The full service restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily May to Labor Day; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays Labor Day through October. The counter service with a limited menu is offered 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays-Sundays January through March.
Lookout Winery - Chattanooga
You don't have to book a trip to Italy to see spectacular views while lounging on a patio, devouring a pizza and wine. Just go to Lookout Winery in Chattanooga. This Italy-inspired winery provides wood-fired pizza made with flour imported all the way from Tuscany. Sip on white, red or blend wines while taking in the Tennessee River and mountains stretching out before you.
McCloud Mountain Restaurant & Lodge – LaFollette
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the McCloud Mountain Restaurant in LaFollette - about 40 miles north of Knoxville - where the daily special is always the gorgeous view of the Cumberland Mountains. Guests get a panoramic view where you can see as far as the Smoky Mountains. The menu consists of a variety of dishes from steaks to burgers, brisket tacos, fried green tomatoes and grilled chicken salad. Have your meal on the expansive patio as you take in this gorgeous East Tennessee area. Reservations are required.
Cliff Top Grill & Bar - Gatlinburg
Take a chondola up to Anakeesta in Gatlinburg for a meal with a beautiful view of the Great Smoky Mountains. You’ll want to start with the Bavarian pretzels or the ultimate nachos; then, order the brisket mac & cheese, the Smokehouse Stacker – half-pound angus beef with pulled pork, bacon, cheddar and barbecue sauce, the grilled chicken Caesar wrap, or the Greenbrier chicken salad – greens tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, cheddar cheese and grilled or fried chicken. Enjoy the sunshine and a meal among the clouds.
Balter Beerworks – Knoxville
Balter Beerworks in Knoxville makes everything from scratch, including their brews. After exploring the trails in and around Knoxville, end your day with a cold beer and seasonal plates. Dig in to potato chip nachos, blackened fish tacos, fish & chips, a quinoa veggie burger or a refreshing Mediterranean salad. Pair your meal with a variety of beers ranging from IPAs to pale ales, porters and more. Wine and cocktails are also available.
The Blacksmith – Jackson
Dine on the patio of this historic restaurant that was first a livery and blacksmith shop in 1840. Since then, it’s been a fish market and other businesses, but now The Blacksmith in Jackson has brought new life to the building. High-quality ingredients make up the dishes at The Blacksmith. Start with the meat and cheese board – salami, prosciutto, brie, gouda, Wisconsin muenster, Kalamata olives and baguette slices. Dine on a fresh salad, juicy burger or steak, grilled salmon or pork ribeye. Finish off your meal with a thick slice of cheesecake or chocolate cake.
Majestic Grille – Memphis
Go to this former silent picture house, originally constructed in 1913, where you can dine on crafted dishes for brunch, lunch or dinner and sip cocktails while silent movies and classic movies brings to life the cinematic glory of the silver screen. For a breath of fresh air, dine outdoors on The Majestic Grille's beautiful patio. If coming for an afternoon lunch, enjoy the spinach and artichoke dip and then enjoy the seared tuna or chophouse salads, roasted chicken flatbread, turkey wrap, veggie burger or even cheese ravioli and barbecue ribs (you are in Memphis, after all).
The Mockingbird – Nashville
This modern diner, driven by the culinary expertise of Food Network's Maneet Chauhan, serves up a bit of everything at The Mockingbird in Nashville as it blends upscale dishes with a relaxed atmosphere. Start your meal with the Tatchos – tater tots topped with lamb chili, beer cheddar, scallions and crema or the grilled cheese with whipped brie, chimichurri and jalapeno jam. Dig into the chicken fried chicken thighs, the double cheeseburger, the ricotta gnocchi and more. Save room for dessert as The Mockingbird’s milkshakes are what will make your summer unforgettable.
The Restaurant at Short Mountain Distillery - Woodbury
Take a tour of Short Mountain Distillery, located on 300 acres of a working farm in Woodbury, about 54 miles southeast of Nashville. Then, head on over to The Restaurant for southern comfort food, moonshine cocktails and sweeping views of the Tennessee farm. It's a quiet, romantic atmosphere that's perfect for a weekend jaunt.
Rooftop Bars in Tennessee
The Chattanoogan - Chattanooga
Relax at one of Chattanooga’s only AAA Four Diamond-rated full-service hotels, The Chattanoogan. With over 199 renovated rooms and suites, guests are instantly greeted by upscale decorations and state-of-the-art amenities which include a fitness center, spa, pool and meeting rooms. Located in the heart of downtown, you can easily stroll to some of the area's top attractions and restaurants. Have a relaxing day of pampering at The Spa at the Chattanoogan with its peaceful, cozy ambiance and an array of services provided including massages, facials, body scrubs, pedicures and manicures. Discover the picturesque beauty of downtown Chattanooga and the surrounding Smoky Mountains with a handcrafted cocktail and delicious food at the High Rail, The Chattanoogan’s premiere rooftop spot. Dive into their Honey Cornbread Madeleines, sip on a Blackberry Spritz and top it all off with their Hot Brownie S’mores. Their splendid dishes and fun ambiance will leave you feeling happy and energized.
The Edwin Hotel - Chattanooga
Kick back and bask in the southern hospitality of Tennessee at The Edwin Hotel. Overlooking the Tennessee River, the hotel welcomes guests with noteworthy amenities such as deluxe mattresses, Smart TVs, free WI-FI, a rooftop pool, and numerous dining options. Unwind at the hotel’s lavish AMA Spa with services ranging from massages, eye treatments and body wraps. Relish in the views, tapas and drinks at Chattanooga’s first rooftop cocktail lounge, Whiskey Thief. Known for their outstanding trademarked drinks, sip on one of their classic barrel-aged maple old fashioned cocktails while basking in the setting sun. If you're feeling a little hungry, try out a selection of their small plates. They provide their guests with a variety of options so that you can capture the taste of Tennessee including hot fried chicken and sweet habanero glazed wings.
Westin Chattanooga - Chattanooga
Sit back in style with the conveniently placed Westin Chattanooga. Only minutes away from Chattanooga’s top attractions such as the Tennessee Aquarium and Tivoli Theatre, you can fully immerse yourself in the city's wondrous views, rich culture and outdoor adventures. Within the hotel, guests can dine on some of Chattanooga's finest cuisine, hit up their 24-hour fitness center, dive into the heated pool and so much more. Delight your taste buds at one of the hotel’s three dining options: Paloma Bar de Tapas; Alimentari Cucina; and Alimentari Bar. At Paloma Bar de Tapas, enjoy a range of different tapas including croquettes, tortilla de patatas and calamari fritos while sipping on a selection of their Spanish wine. Looking to take in Chattanooga’s breathtaking views and dine on a lovely meal? Look no further than Alimentary Cucina e Bar. Situated on the top of the Westin, spend your evening feasting on Italian cuisine and savoring a glass of wine at the bar’s rooftop firepits. It is the perfect evening to recharge while hanging out with friends and family.
Hyatt Knoxville Downtown - Knoxville
Slow down and discover the vibrant and exciting downtown Knoxville at the sleek and modern Hyatt Knoxville Downtown. Enjoy all the amenities on-site ranging from free breakfast, restaurant, a fitness center and meeting facilities, but also the convenience of being only steps away from the area’s bars and restaurants. Enjoy one of the spacious suites that includes a living room and spacious work area which caters to your perfect workcation getaway. Exhale your worries away from the week at the top of the Hyatt at the Five Thirty Lounge for signature, seasonal cocktails, and shared plates in a laid back, welcoming atmosphere. Feel inspired and right at home on the rooftop patio with lounge seating surrounded by a fire pit or at a table that overlooks the downtown skyline.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Knoxville Downtown - Knoxville
Jump start your weekend in Knoxville at the beautiful Embassy Suites in the fun, artsy downtown area. Walking distance to some of the areas top attractions including the Tennessee Theatre, Museum of East Tennessee History and Neyland Stadium, it provides guests with a stress-free weekend in the Marble City. With a coffee house, two restaurants, free breakfast, fitness center and spa in the hotel, guests can get a taste of Knoxville before they even leave their hotel. Take in the sweeping views and southern allure at the Embassy Suites rooftop bar, Radius Roof Top Lounge, and pool. An ever-popular, posh spot for both guests and locals with its sleek modern furnishings and inviting patio, will have you toasting to a cocktail while overlooking the Sunsphere or catching some rays at the outdoor pool.
The Memphian Hotel - Memphis
Rest and spend the weekend in Memphis’ Overton Park at The Memphian Hotel. This newly opened hotel will provide you an oasis and a home away from home. With thoughtfully designed rooms, chic furniture and state-of-the-art amenities, you feel relaxed and ready for your Memphis adventure. Fill your cup at the hotel's coffee-to-cocktail bar, Complicated Pilgrim. It is your one-stop shop for flavorful coffee, scrumptious baked goods, farm-to-table dinner and fun mixed drinks. Revel in The Memphian’s rooftop hotspot, Tiger and Peacock, while surrounding yourself in the sights and sounds of Memphis. Whether looking for a girls' night out or a new place for date night, spend the evening indulging in one of the rooftop's signature cocktails and snacking on one of their many small plate options.
River Inn of Harbor Town - Memphis
Escape for a mini vacation at the romantic River Inn of Harbor Town. Located right along the Mississippi River, relish in the energy and charm that is downtown Memphis while getting all the luxury of a European-style hotel. With exquisite decorations including chandeliers, oriental rugs and fresh flowers, the boutique-style hotel does not disappoint with its 28 rooms, restaurants, and libraries on each floor. Venture to the top of the River Inn of Harbor Town to the Terrace at the River Inn. With grand views of the river and beyond, enjoy a delicious meal while catching the breeze off the water. Dine on everything from a filet mignon to pimento cheese balls while savoring one of their handcrafted cocktails such as a River Rum Punch, Espresso Martini or a Tennessee Peach Tea.
Thompson Hotel - Nashville
Chill out in one of Nashville’s hottest neighborhoods, The Gulch, at the Thompson Hotel. Located in the heart of some of Music City’s best restaurants and shops, the Thompson Hotel provides its guests with an upscale, sophisticated stay. During your getaway at the Thompson, take advantage of the hotel’s three eateries, finely furnished amenities, spacious suites, spectacular views of downtown Nashville and fun hotel packages. Whether looking for a stress-free weekend taking in the music downtown or finding that much-needed time to catch up on sleep, check out one of their many package options including the Sunday Funday, Denim Days and Rise & Dine Bed and Breakfast. Savor Music City’s neon lights and picture-perfect skyline at L.A. Jackson, the posh rooftop bar at the Thompson Nashville. Whether looking to grab a drink while catching the sunset across Middle Tennessee, to kick start your night out with some appetizers and drinks, or end the evening with a nightcap, L.A. Jackson provides a starlit oasis amongst the Gulch's creative spirit and endless buzz.
The Graduate Hotel - Nashville
Getaway for your most unrivaled girls’ weekend yet at the Graduate Nashville where you can feel like Dolly Parton for the day at the Dolly-inspired rooftop, feel like a queen in their charming boutique rooms inspired by some of Nashville's greatest stars and get the ultimate tour of Nashville in their White Limo Experience. Start your day off by catching up on some emails at Poindexter, the Graduate's very own coffee house and cafe. Hit your stride at the 24-hour fitness center with its Matrix machine, Peloton bikes and yoga mats. Then, venture up to the pool where you can chill on their pink lounge chairs while sipping on your favorite drink. Doll up for an Instagram-worthy rooftop experience at White Limozeen. With a comprehensive menu of appetizers, small and larger plates, plus an array of cocktails including Cosmos, Martinis and Palomas, it will have you wanting to spend "9-to-5” surrounded by the perfect-picture ambiance and Nashville’s downtown skyline.
Ole Red - Nashville
Soak in Nashville's nightlife on Ole Red's The Lookout rooftop bar featuring stunning views of Lower Broadway, curated music and delicious drinks and food. The laidback yet glamorous vibe features a curated menu of cocktails, wine, craft beer and snacks Nashville hot shrimp and smoked wings, salads, burgers and entrees like chicken fried steak and half rack ribs.
Margaritaville Island Hotel - Pigeon Forge
Venture out to East Tennessee for a weekend of charming southern hospitality, sweeping mountain views and relaxation at the Margaritaville Island Hotel in Pigeon Forge. The minute you walk into the lobby doors, you will feel transported to your dream escape with beach-inspired décor and incredible amenities including spacious suites for the whole family, a rooftop pool, a lobby bar and a soothing spa. Relax your day away with an array of spa treatments such as nail services, signature massages, facials and comprehensive spa packages. Retreat to the hotel’s rooftop pool and Chill Bar for a day filled with sun-soak fun and delicious food when you get hungry. Whether wanting to make a splash in the pool, collect some rays on the rooftop loungers or curl up with a good book on the cabanas, it's the ideal day for the family.
Soak up the sunshine, a light breeze and dine on a filling southern meal. Explore more places to have a meal and take in a view in Tennessee.
Enjoy These City Parks in Tennessee
Add these parks to your vacation must-visit list, all located in your favorite Tennessee cities.