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The Pulse

@chattanoogapulse

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Chattanooga's home for arts, entertainment, and culture since 2003.
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Last Tuesday morning administrators of the Tennessee Aquarium unveiled a bold and ambitious plan to improve animal care and conservation. Aquarium CEO and President Andy Wood said construction has already started for a 3,100 square foot and state of the art animal hospital being constructed on the third floor of the River Journey building. The new $5 million animal hospital will be staffed by current and new animal care specialists and veterinary team specializing in the treatment, care, and husbandry of aquatic fish and animals. The new animal hospital is part of a new partnership that will help train future veterinarian and technicians thanks to their new partnership with the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine (UTCVM) in Knoxville and Chattanooga State Community College’s Veterinary Technology Program. Aquarium Director of Animal Health Dr. Chris Keller, who has been with the aquarium for nearly four decades, said the animal hospital would also share data and knowledge gathered during care with other organizations throughout the world. by @chattanoogapulse
Hayde Bluegrass Orchestra, or Hayde for short, is a seven-piece acoustic band hailing from Oslo, Norway, sitting at the intersection of traditional American bluegrass and Norwegian folk music, a soundscape that is at once hauntingly beautiful and upbeat, layered with rich vocal harmonies that echo the Appalachian South and melodies that capture the spirit of Scandinavian folk music. Their music has been dubbed Nordicana, and they have garnered a devoted and wide fan base since forming in 2013 by playing thoughtful, soulful, lyric-driven songs that are transportive, blending soundscapes from multiple genres while still feeling rooted in something familiar. Fronted by lead vocalist Rebekka Nilsson, the band has garnered much critical acclaim and attention, including Rebekka winning the 2022 IBMA Momentum “Vocalist of the Year” award. The band’s debut album, Migrants, released in 2021, reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Bluegrass Albums chart and stayed there for 11 straight weeks. The debut album also earned a Norwegian Grammy nomination, the Spellemannprisen. In 2022 and 2023, Hayde earned back-to-back “Band of the Year” nominations at the IBMA Momentum Awards. While they have earned awards and received much critical acclaim, their breakthrough came with their hit cover of the gospel and American folk song, “Wayfaring Stranger,” which saw them grow their social media presence and establish a foundation for an international following. While the outfit did break through with some stunningly beautiful covers, they also have a knack for delicate and tender songwriting, and that much is evident on their second studio album, entitled HAYDE., set for release on March 5, 2027 through Adhyâropa Records. Read the full story at chattanoogapulse.com 📸: Marthe Thu. by @chattanoogapulse
Lake Lure is a small, serene mountain town tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and, as I came to find out, is approaching its 100th anniversary as a town in 2027. Situated in the hickory nut gorge in Western North Carolina, Lake Lure is known for its combination of incredible mountain scenery, outdoor recreational activities, and its connection to one of the most iconic films of the eighties, Dirty Dancing. Lake Lure is also home to incredible memories for my family and me, and so many others, as it is the perfect day trip and getaway for any season, but especially for fall. The foliage peaks in late October, and as the leaves all change from green to red, yellow, and brown, the vibrant mountain town comes alive. My entire extended family met up in Lake Lure this past weekend for one of the best trips of our lives, taking in the incredible scenery, tasty food, and making memories that will last a lifetime. Home to the legendary Chimney Rock State Park, Rumbling Bald Mountain Peak, and the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, the Jewel of the Mountains offers no shortage of awe-inspiring nature to explore. by @chattanoogapulse
Departing from Delano, Tennessee, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s picturesque Hiwassee Loop train ride is a 50-mile round-trip experience lasting roughly four hours and thirty minutes, meandering into the lower Hiwassee River Gorge through mountain slopes and stunningly beautiful historic bridges before ultimately reaching the rare Hiwassee Loop by Farner, Tennessee, where the track spirals and climbs over itself. As one of the Southeast’s most scenic rail excursions, the Hiwassee Loop was completed in 1898 near Bald Mountain, connecting multiple regions, while also functioning as a way of improving the railroad’s ability to climb the mountains and the steep Appalachian terrain, replacing switchbacks, cutting trains’ travel time by roughly two hours. In 2001, freight service on the train ended after mining in the Copperhill area came to an end. Now, in 2026, the historic rail line is operated by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum for scenic excursions and train rides. Folks are able to kick back and relax while enjoying the awe-inspiring nature surrounding them while traveling aboard restored vintage train cars with expansive, panoramic views. I got the opportunity to take a ride on the historic Hiwassee Loop train in the premium 1877 Dome Quad car, and I’d argue that in peak fall, immersed in foliage and with the leaves slowly drifting down, this is one of the most serene and breathtaking experiences you can have if you’re someone who loves autumn scenery, especially during peak foliage. As the yellow and crimson leaves slowly tumble down off the trees above, the journey begins along the banks of the river in the Cherokee National Forest before ultimately climbing the mountainside far above the river at the famous Great Hiwassee Loop near Farner. The ride is continuous with no layovers, and the conductor narrating is as charming and southern as an individual can get. Full story available at chattanoogapulse.com by @chattanoogapulse
Five Chattanooga restaurants were recognized at the second annual Michelin Guide of the American South ceremony held on Oct. 21, 2026, in Nashville at The Pinnacle. For a second consecutive time all three of Erik and Amanda Niel's Chattanooga restaurants — Easy Bistro & Bar, Main Street Meats, and Little Coyote — were recognized. Easy Bistro and Main Street Meats received their second recommendations. Little Coyote earned its second consecutive MICHELIN Bib Gourmand. This award recognizes restaurants that offer exceptional food at a great value. Also receiving their second consecutive recommendation is The Rosecomb in the Riverview district. The Rosecomb owners Chloe Wright and Ryan Smith said they were honored in receiving a second recommendation. 2nd American earned its first Michelin Guide recommendation this year as did their sister restaurant 5th & Taylor in Nashville. by @chattanoogapulse
This week our search for the best tacos in Chatt Town brought us to a truly unique dining experience at Tulum Modern Mexican Cuisine. Never heard of it? That’s because it opened only a short time ago. It’s located by Northgate Mall in the building which was once El Meson. The family closed this location and kept El Meson at Hamilton Place Mall. Tulum owner Alejandro Leon created a lively, elegant environment. Every inch inside is Instagram ready. From the colorful paintings by the entrance door of a tiger and a bird, to the selfie stations and the gorgeous blossoming tree in the middle of the dining room. Outside is a stunning outdoor patio area and a colorful sign spelling out “Tulum.” Did you know the real Tulum municipality is situated in the Riviera Maya region, bordering Playa del Carmen/Solidaridad to the north, Felipe Carrillo Puerto to the south, and the state of Yucatán to the west? Now you do. Wood top tables are contrasted with bright white booth seating. A full-liquor bar extends the length of the interior with big screen TV’s hanging above showing soccer, football and other channels. The menu is extensive. Their cocktail menu is also quite large. They offer a flight of mini-Margaritas of mango, strawberry, blueberry and lime. They also have different flavors of Mojitos which is one of my favorite cocktails. As is their espresso Martini. But you definitely come here for the ambiance. Every single customer commented on the interior. Most had their cell phones out snapping photos or making Tik Tok content. I know I did as well. The menu has everything you expect from a Mexican restaurant. The food is reasonably priced. Some of the cocktails are a bit pricey. My Mojito, for example, was the most expensive part of my lunch at $11.79, where as my guacamole was $7.99 and the Street tacos are $3.25 each. There is also an upcharge if you pay with cards instead of cash. Tulum Modern Mexican Cuisine is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays until 10 p.m. and Sundays until 9 p.m. Tulum Modern Mexican Cuisine 248 Northgate Mall Drive. Chattanooga, TN 37415 (423) 531-4093 https://www.tulummodernmexicancuisine.com/ $$$ - $$ by @chattanoogapulse
This past year must have seemed like a wild rollercoaster ride for Sean Alexander. First, he took over the space in the NorthShore neighborhood once occupied by the iconic Long Horn Restaurant. That classic America Diner style restaurant opened in 1959 and was a busy local eatery until it closed in February 2024. After renovating much of the interior but keeping the triangular roof and exterior façade everyone was customed to seeing, Alexander opened Build-A-Salad in early 2026. For a while he had a steady stream of health conscience clients. And then his rollercoaster began to free-fall. Shortly after he opened Build-A-Salad, news started spreading about people becoming ill from tainted lettuce. Within weeks the 2026 multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce and a few other fresh produce items forced Alexander to close in August. Alexander is not one to give up and he quickly pivoted. I peeked my head inside the door of what was becoming Zeek’z House of Gyro in late September. Alexander said they were ready to open, just waiting for their final health inspection. This Chattanooga location would soon welcome customers. I told him I’d be back once he opened. I did. The place was busy with folks seated at the counter, tables, and outdoor patio. I asked my server if it’s been this busy since they opened earlier this month. She said it has been extremely busy. Alexander was working in the kitchen, adjusting the outdoor patio table covers, greeting customers and was far too busy for me to try and strike up another conversation with him. Zeek’z House of Gyro 129 N. Market Street Chattanooga, TN 37405 (423) 602-5010 Zeek’z House of Gyro $$ - $$$ by @chattanoogapulse
Family fun, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, a rodeo, and more await visitors at this year’s Little Debbie Hamilton County Fair. The Fair returns to McDonald Farm in Sale Creek Nov. 6–8, 2026, for Veterans Day weekend. Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Deputy Director and Fair President Karen Shostak said this year’s midway amusement rides will offer double the fun. “We’ve doubled up on the rides this year,” she said. “Thanks to our partnership with EPB, we are able to offer all the midway rides free to the public as part of their access pass, which is a big deal.” Parking is free, and passes also provide access to lumberjack shows, live rodeo performances, pig races, fireworks, and an incredible lineup of live musicians. Food purchases and midway games are additional expenses beyond admission. Shostak said visitors can expect plenty of great fair food. Discounted advance passes are available now. A three-day adult pass is $16, and a three-day youth pass is $14. Advance single-day passes for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday are $10 for youth and $12 for adults. Once the Fair opens, a weekend adult pass is $20. As always, children 10 and under are FREE. Little Debbie Hamilton County Fair • Dates: Nov. 6–8, 2026 • Hours: Opens Friday at 5 p.m.; closes Sunday at 7 p.m. EST • Location: McDonald Farm, 16705 Coulterville Road, Sale Creek • Passes and information: http://www.hamiltontnfair.com by @chattanoogapulse
Ford's Garage is firing up the grill to thank the everyday heroes who keep our communities safe! In honor of National First Responders Day on Wednesday, October 28, Ford's Garage is treating first responders to a complimentary meal at participating restaurants nationwide. Eligible first responders can choose between: • A FREE American Standard Burger entrée, one of Ford's Garage's classic favorites. • Up to $16 off any other entrée on the menu. The offer is available to law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency rescue personnel, dispatchers, and emergency room doctors and nurses. Known for its vintage automotive-inspired atmosphere, prime burgers and chef-driven comfort food, Ford's Garage is inviting these dedicated professionals to pull into the Garage and enjoy a well-deserved meal. Offer Details: Available Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at participating Ford's Garage locations for dine-in only. Valid service identification required. One offer per eligible first responder. Ford's Garage 2102 Hamilton Place Blvd. by @chattanoogapulse
Beginning in 2017 and going strong each year since then, local artist and woodworker Andrew Nigh creates a large-scale wooden sculpture at Sculpture Fields in Montague Park. At nightfall, the wooden sculpture is set ablaze for a ceremonial burn, illuminating the evening sky and lighting up all of Montague Park. The immersive spectacle is entitled Fire Up the Fields and has rapidly turned into a staple art and music festival in Chattanooga’s Southside community. This year’s festival is happening on Saturday, October 24th, and will bring creatives, art, and music lovers of all walks of life together for a night unlike any other, forging together Chattanooga’s creative and outdoors identities. The evening will also feature incredible live music performances, a host of incredibly tasty food trucks, and a bar under the stars, allowing folks to drink, eat, and dance their hearts out, all building with high energy towards the burning of the awe-inspiring massive wooden sculpture created by Andrew Nigh. In detailing how the event got started, acclaimed artist Andrew Nigh mentioned Sculpture Fields reaching out to him to create a fire sculpture, which he had done several of already. Nigh went on to discuss how perfect a setting Montague Park is for this type of art, and that the event has rapidly grown into a beloved annual tradition. “Back in 2017, Sculpture Fields approached me about creating a fire sculpture for their anniversary celebration. At that point, I had already created and burned more than a dozen sculptures around Chattanooga, so I was excited about the opportunity. Sculpture Fields was the perfect setting for this type of art, and the response to that first burn was incredible. What started as a one-time anniversary celebration quickly grew into an annual tradition, and it’s been exciting to see how the event has evolved over the years.” Nigh mentioned how fire art and the final burn bring a sense of harmony to his creative practice, suggesting that a fire sculpture completely transforms the night while engaging all of your senses, creating a performance where the structure is the stage and the fire is the dance. by @chattanoogapulse
Now in its sixth year, the Association for Visual Arts’ staple art festival, Between the Bridges, is poised to take over Coolidge Park this weekend, Saturday, October 24th, and Sunday, October 25th. The festival has grown into a flagship arts event for the Northshore community in Downtown Chattanooga, giving visual artists a chance to sell their work and exhibit it in front of hundreds of Chattanoogans. This year’s festival features over 55 local artists, whose artwork spans from painting and jewelry to photography, stained glass art, and even printmaking. Serving as a stepping stone for so many emerging and established artists, Between the Bridges is a larger investment in Chattanooga’s creative community and allows artists to network with other artists while connecting with potential buyers in a larger, festival market environment. This year’s event will feature Potter’s Alley, done in partnership with Scenic City Clay Arts, where there will be a dedicated section highlighting local ceramic artists and handmade pottery. Other partners for this year will include the H*Art Gallery, the Photographic Society of Chattanooga, and The Chattery, to name a few. Read the full story at chattanoogapulse.com by @chattanoogapulse
This week our search for the best tacos in Chatt Town brought us to El Metate Hixson. El Metate has two other locations in Soddy Daisy and on Signal Mountain. They also have one in Dunlap and one in Knoxville. Their Street Tacos are made with hand-pressed corn tortillas made in-house daily, topped with cilantro and onions, and your choice of asada (steak), Al Pastor pork, or pollo (chicken), or chorizo (Mexican sausage), or carnitas (shredded pork). El Metate is another Mexican Restaurant where the menu goes on for days and you’ll find everything you’d expect to find on the menu plus a few extras items you don’t see quite often. For example, they have burritos, fajitas, quesadillas, tacos, appetizers, soups, salads, birria, chimichangas, enchiladas, vegetarian options, desserts, lunch combinations, lunch specials, seafood, chicken, steak and pork options. Burritos are quite common, but their Hawaiian burrito is not something I see on every menu. It’s a 12-inch flour tortilla stuffed with rice, beans, grilled chicken, steak and shrimp, topped with cheese sauce, chorizo and grilled pineapple. El Metate Hixson 5922 Hixson Pike Hixson, TN 37343 (423) 842-1400 Soddy Daisy 9332 Dayton Pike #1 Soddy Daisy, TN 37379 (423) 332-3190 Signal Mountain 1238 Taft Highway Signal Mountain, TN 37377 (423) 886-0054 https://www.elmetatemexicanrestaurants.com/ $$ - $$$ by @chattanoogapulse

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