Matthew Rivers is a chef with 25 years of experience in various cuisines and restaurant styles. He is a GOTTOBENC Chef Ambassador who advocates for local ingredients. Rivers has a passion for telling the story of...
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Last updated: 9/29/2026, 3:18:30 AM
Key Information
Old Man Rivers Table and Tavern is an eco-conscious neighborhood tavern in Chattanooga, known for its elevated Southern cuisine and a full-service bar. The restaurant emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients with a menu that changes weekly, offering creative twists on classic dishes. It's a small, intimate space with a lively atmosphere.
Customer Perception
Customers consistently praise the exceptional and consistently delicious food, highlighting the creative and well-executed dishes. The intimate and bustling ambiance is also a frequent positive mention. Service is described as great, even when the restaurant is packed. The owner's presence and friendly interaction are noted as a significant positive aspect. The reasonable pricing for the quality of food is also a recurring theme.
Additional Details
The restaurant is described as 'eco-conscious' and emphasizes that they do not use freezers or microwaves, suggesting a focus on fresh preparation. The kitchen is noted for working 'magic' despite its size.
Accommodates dietary preferences with a frequently changing menu.
Best Times to Visit
The restaurant is often busy, especially between 5-8 PM, indicating peak dinner hours. Weekend evenings are likely to be the busiest. Sunday brunch is also mentioned as a popular offering.
We had refreshing drinks while we waited for dinner service to begin. Then, we had a salad for starters. My husband loved the grouper with eggplant and seasoned rice. The delicate flavors were amazing!
I thoroughly enjoyed the short ribs with roasted carrots and mushroom risotto. The meat was so tender, juicy with a sauce that seasoned it to perfection.
Our dinner ended with iced coffee and freshly made cannoli that were made while we were there. I’d highly recommend this place. It’s small but bustling with business yet the service was great. Give the chefs time to work their magic and you won’t be disappointed!
An unforgettable dining experience at Old Man Rivers Tavern!!
Old Man Rivers Tavern at the foot of Signal Mountain absolutely exceeded every expectation—this was one of those rare meals where every single dish delivers, and the hospitality makes it even better.
We kicked things off with the Shrimp Allepo appetizer, which was perfectly executed—blended, vibrant flavors with just the right amount of spice to wake up your palate without overpowering the dish. It set the tone for everything that followed. The meatballs were equally outstanding—rich, tender, and packed with flavor, clearly made with care and attention to detail.
The standout of the night, though, was the lemon ricotta ravioli, elevated even further with scallops personally added by the owner, Rivers. This dish was phenomenal—beautifully balanced, light yet indulgent, with the brightness of the lemon and creaminess of the ricotta pairing perfectly with the perfectly cooked scallops. It felt custom, thoughtful, and truly special. Thank you!
For the other entrée, the Cajun pork chop which was huge with greens and baby potatoes was nothing short of incredible. The pork chop was juicy and perfectly seasoned with a smoky Cajun kick, while the greens and potatoes complemented it with a comforting, rustic touch that brought the whole plate together.
And the drinks were just as memorable— a coconuty margarita that was smooth, refreshing, and just the right amount of tropical, alongside a nice selection of wine and beer that rounded out the experience perfectly.
Beyond the food, what really made the night stand out was the passion you can feel from the kitchen— especially with the owner’s personal touch. It’s clear this place is driven by creativity, quality, and genuine love for hospitality.
Old Man Rivers Tavern is an absolute must-visit in Chattanooga . We’ll be back—and bringing friends.
Les and Lauren Conner
5
Unlike a lot of restaurants, OMR is not just incredible, but CONSISTENTLY incredible. No matter the week or who's working. I've never had a bad bite. Each week there's something new and interesting on the menu. And even the classics I think I know, like deviled eggs, they throw a twist on and make it my new favorite food. Will there be a wait-list between 5-8pm? Probably. Because the food is that good. It has a cult following. For a reason. And it's just icing on the cake that the food is so well priced and the owner is so friendly to everyone. Can't wait to brag that I was here BEFORE they got all the foodie awards that I'm sure are coming.
5
I dropped in for dinner for two on a Saturday. The place was packed, but a very short wait to get in. The food was incredible, especially considering the size of the kitchen. They are working magic back there for sure. The front house staff is having a great time and they are super fun to chat with. The effort put into the weekly menu (plus Sunday brunch...) is crazy and their prices are totally reasonable.
5
First time we've ever been there. If you have the money... I 100% recommend that you visit this cozy little restaurant!! Seating is limited and so is parking space and it's absolutely perfect!! If you are lucky enough to even get through the door because it's so packed then you are in for a complete experience!! The food is amazing! Your food service individuals are amazing!! The owner himself was there and he did an absolutely wonderful job of taking care of his people!! The food menu changes every week. There's no freezer that they keep their food in. They don't use a microwave. Beyond those people in the kitchen cooking your food, The bartenders know what they're doing as well! Listen... I never, and I mean never give any place a completely amazing review. Go there. That's all I can say is go there!! Happiness is waiting for you!!
