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Thursday, October 29, 2026Oct 29

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Restaurant Scene: Best places to get a festive cocktail in Chattanooga

Common House is opening its doors to non-members for the Christmas Bar. Staff photo by Lyric Lewin.
Common House is opening its doors to non-members for the Christmas Bar. Staff photo by Lyric Lewin. Common House is opening its doors to non-members for the Christmas Bar. Staff photo by Lyric Lewin.

What do a blender, a nursing home and a fillet of salmon have in common? Nothing, except that they are all related to my childhood Christmas traditions. (Don’t worry about it.)

I love the idea of a Christmas tradition, an activity or ceremonial reading or meal that’s been passed down through generations. It’s a sweet touchstone to return to again and again.

This year I frequented multiple Christmas pop-ups, or temporary menu and theming situations, and loved the festivity of the string lights, the creative cocktails and the outlandish mugs (Santa’s head!). It was so enjoyable that I may just have to add this to my canon of Christmas traditions. If you’re looking for a pop-up to frequent with a friend, check out any of these options, and if you hear of one I haven’t mentioned, let me know!

  photo  The mug game at No Hard Feelings is top. Staff photo by Lyric Lewin.
 
 

No Hard Feelings

— Location: 806 Broad St.