The weather is cooling down and there is a chill coming off the river, but don’t worry, we have found just the dishes to warm your belly and your soul. Welcome to the ultimate pasta and noodle adventure through Chattanooga, with local dishes that you simply can’t re-Fusilli! Whether you're a fan of spaghetti, ramen, or good ol’ mac and cheese, there’s a noodle out there just waiting to bowl you over. The pasta-bilities are endless - so, grab your spork and let’s dive into a slurp-worthy celebration of everyone’s favorite comfort food. 

Han-Mi: Rabokki 

Han-Mi, meaning Korean-American, brings authentic Korean flavors to South Broad Street, sharing family recipes passed down through four generations. Blending traditional Korean spices with American cuisine, Han-Mi offers a unique fusion of flavors. Their Kim Chi Ramen warms you from head to toe. Their Rabokki (a Korean street food that is ramen and tteokbokki in one dish) is a standout dish because of their perfectly made tteokbokki – chewy rice cakes. The two come together simmered in a glorious mix of sweet, savory, spicy broth.

Aji Peruvian: Tallarin Saltado 

These Peruvian stir-fried noodles are comprised of flat noodles sauteed with steak, tomatoes, onions and mushroom-soy sauce. Over 1 million Peruvians claim Chinese or Japanese heritage, so the Asian influence in the stir-fry is very apparent. With extremely fresh ingredients and loads of vegetarian options, Aji Peruvian is a gem, and these noodles are completely addictive. It is definitely worth the trip to Ooltewah! 

Tony’s Pasta Shop: Pick Your Pasta 

Do not fill up on bread! Though servers will bring you almost unlimited piles of delicious, freshly warmed bread to dip in golden pools of olive oil, do not be deterred from your path toward some of the most famous noodles in Chattanooga. These house-made pastas covered in rich, creamy sauces are known throughout the city – and everyone’s guaranteed favorite is the build-your-own option. My go-to is usually the fettucine with Basil Pesto Cream, grilled chicken, and veggies. 

 The setting is beautiful, as Tony’s Pasta Shop & Trattoria has deep roots, the building originally served as the carriage house for Mayor T.C. Thompson in 1908. Thompson, a prominent business and civic leader, left a legacy that includes being the namesake of our Children's Hospital. His mansion was later restored as part of Bluff View Inn, and the carriage house became the perfect spot for a family-owned restaurant. Tony’s Pasta Shop opened its doors in December 1994, starting as a small gourmet grocery with just a few dine-in seats. Over the years, there have been several renovations to accommodate more guests with Sicilian recipes in a welcoming, casual atmosphere. 

Ernest Chinese: Dan Dan Noodles

Dan Dan Noodles are the perfect blend of bold flavors and textures, combining the richness of pork, the creaminess of peanuts and sesame, and the fiery kick of chili oil. This iconic Sichuan dish gets an added depth from the tangy, umami-packed fermented mustard greens, which balance the heat and make every bite an explosion of flavor. Nestle yourself into a booth or under the glittering string lights on the heated patio at Ernest Chinese and let the rich spices of Chinese cooking ignite on your tongue like the flickering embers of a campfire. 

Il Primo: Ricotta Cavatelli, Brussels Sprouts, Bacon, Sundried Tomato 

Opened in spring 2014, Il Primo is Nathan Lindley’s tribute to North Chattanooga, offering a truly cozy American-Italian dining experience. Inspired by traditional Italian restaurants of the Northeast, it serves rich, comforting dishes with a blend of Italian and American influences. Il Primo doesn’t take reservations, but limited seating is available for early arrivals, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal in a laid-back environment. They hand-make many of their pastas, so ask your server to guide you to a flavorful selection or take our recommendation and go with the sumptuous ricotta cavatelli. 

Kai Bistro: Korean Street Ramen  

Kai Bistro offers a diverse menu featuring Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, and Hawaiian cuisines, blending traditional flavors with contemporary ingredients for a fresh, approachable take on Asian fusion. Owned by Chen Miao, whose family was among the first generation of Asian-American business owners in Chattanooga, the restaurant bridges the gap between authentic Asian dishes and modern tastes. Miao’s Korean Street Ramen is a spicy staple on the ever-changing menu. They have a rotating list of fresh daily veggies for toppings and many proteins, including sausage, spam, chicken and ribeye, and different spice levels, so you can truly choose your own adventure. 

Southside Social: Stoner Mac

Indulge in a bowl of comfort with Stoner Mac from Southside Social! This creamy mac and cheese is loaded with grilled chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and crispy bacon, all tossed in a zesty Cajun cream sauce. It is the ultimate dish to savor while enjoying the lively atmosphere at Southside Social, which includes a 10-lane bowling alley, pool and ping-pong tables, and a back patio with firepits. Enjoy your Mac fireside for the perfect cozy experience before heading inside for foosball or darts! 

Clever Alehouse: Get In My Belly 

Clever Alehouse brings creativity to the plate with its lineup of udon noodle dishes, with bold Asian-inspired flavors. Get in My Belly combines tender five-spice pork belly and honey gochujang sauce. The sweet heat from the gochujang melds beautifully with the fresh crunch of kimchi slaw, while green onions, cilantro, and Thai basil. The I Love Plummm noodles pair Asian plum BBQ sauce with garlic butter-poached mushrooms, for a sweet and savory fusion.