The Purple Daisy - Picnic Cafe

The Purple Daisy Picnic Cafe is a beloved barbecue restaurant nestled at the foot of stunning Lookout Mountain in the Historic St. Elmo neighborhood of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Located conveniently next to the famous Incline Railway, this charming cafe has been serving up what they call "world famous BBQ and Picnic fare" for years, earning recognition on both Tennessee Crossroads and the Cooking Channel. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with indoor dining featuring small tables spread throughout the room, plus a pleasant outdoor patio area that offers views of downtown Chattanooga. Their menu is packed with smoked meats, including perfectly prepared pulled pork, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and their legendary smoked chicken salad. The Rainbow sandwich has become a cult favorite - a delightful combination of chicken salad, pimento cheese, and cucumber salad on fresh bread that reviewers describe as absolutely amazing. No visit is complete without trying their famous banana pudding, which fans describe as "out of this world." The cafe also offers BBQ nachos, pulled pork nachos, chicken and pork tacos, and their famous BBQ potato loaded with meat, toppings, and perfectly baked spuds. They provide dine-in, carryout, catering for special events, and delivery through Toast. Whether you're exploring the Incline Railway, hiking Lookout Mountain, or simply seeking authentic Tennessee barbecue, The Purple Daisy delivers an unforgettable Southern dining experience with friendly service and generous portions at reasonable prices.