Lotz To Look At Inside!
1 / 10

Aretha Frankensteins

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A quirky Chattanooga breakfast institution famous for its inch-thick pancakes and unique punk rock-meets-horror decor in a converted home.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Lotz To Look At Inside!

Aretha Frankensteins

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A quirky Chattanooga breakfast institution famous for its inch-thick pancakes and unique punk rock-meets-horror decor in a converted home.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Legendary pancakes and a vibe you won't find anywhere else!"

TIP

Arrive Early

Beat the crowds and long wait times by arriving early, especially on weekends.

Share Generous Portions

Portions are large, so consider sharing dishes, especially the renowned inch-thick pancakes.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Open·Closes 3PM

Cuisine

American Diner

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(423) 265-7685

Address

518 Tremont St, Chattanooga, TN 37405, USA

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monstrous Inch-Thick Pancakes

Monstrous Inch-Thick Pancakes

Indulge in famously thick and fluffy pancakes, often topped with house-made blueberry melange. A must-try for any visitor!

TikTokBut First, Brunch - A Guide to Chattanoogas Hottest Brunch SpotsGoogle Review+2
Quirky Punk Rock Ambiance

Quirky Punk Rock Ambiance

Immerse yourself in a unique punk rock and horror movie-themed decor with concert posters and vintage cereal boxes.

18 Best Restaurants In Chattanooga, TennesseeGoogle Review+1
Cozy Outdoor Dining

Cozy Outdoor Dining

Enjoy your meal on the spacious patio or in the cozy interior, surrounded by funky design elements and a welcoming atmosphere.

21 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Chattanooga, TennesseeGoogle Review
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🥞 𝐀𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐚 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐬 - in the heart of North Chatt, you can find this converted home making the fluffiest pancakes & waffles
@movingtochattanooga
63 likes • 2.7K views

Arrive Early

Beat the crowds and long wait times by arriving early, especially on weekends.

Share Generous Portions

Portions are large, so consider sharing dishes, especially the renowned inch-thick pancakes.

My first time visiting Aretha’s Frankenstine. I give it a 10/10 the food was amazing and the aesthetics was everything! From the wall art ranging from old tv shows, cartoon characters, even cereals plus more. This hidden gem in Chattanooga has the best breakfast will be back to try the shrimp and grits soon! Make sure to visit and try their legendary pancakes. #foodtiktok #fyp #hiddengems #chattan...
@morganespey
11 likes • 313 views
The pancakes were 🔥. #arethafrankenstein #chattanooga #chattanoogatn #chatttown423 #nooga #foodie #tennesseefood
@a_pilj
18 likes • 1.7K views

Parking Strategy

Parking can be limited; circle the block or walk from nearby areas if needed.

Don't Miss Toppings

Enhance your pancakes with house specialties like the sweet blueberry melange.

Have you seen a bigger pancake?? #pancakes #arethafrankensteins #chattanoogafoodie #chattanoogatourism #chattanoogafoodscene #chattanoogatn #breakfastdate #breakfastspot #comewithme
@laurak8_01
43 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Arrive Early

Beat the crowds and long wait times by arriving early, especially on weekends.

Share Generous Portions

Portions are large, so consider sharing dishes, especially the renowned inch-thick pancakes.

Parking Strategy

Parking can be limited; circle the block or walk from nearby areas if needed.

Don't Miss Toppings

Enhance your pancakes with house specialties like the sweet blueberry melange.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Aretha Frankensteins is a beloved spot for its unique atmosphere and famously thick pancakes. Diners rave about the quirky decor and generous portions, making it a memorable experience. While the food is generally praised, some reviews mention flavor inconsistencies and parking challenges.

"The best pancakes you will ever have and I am an unofficial pancake connoisseur. They’re fluffy and huge. We bought a mix to take home. All of their other food is good and hearty. You get big servings. The restaurant is cute and funky. There isn’t a lot of seating so plan accordingly. We got there right after opening and when we left all tables were full."

Brooklyn Daniel

"Cory was our service and he was fantastic, friendly, and attentive. There is about enough street parking for the amount of seating inside. Decor is fun and whimsical. Would definitely recommend as an experience.
Shrimp and (spicy) grits were tasty, would be amazing if they were spicy cheese grits (maybe next time). Biscuit was butter and fluffy. Pancakes were fluffy and thick. Food is good enough that I would bring people here for the experience, but probably not good enough that I'd want to fight for parking for myself."

Nom Nom Nom

"Tried a quirky and quaint place for breakfast today. Have heard great things about this local eatery. Ordered the shrimp and cheese omelette and my wife ordered the sod buster omelette. The service was excellent, the food was hot and the coffee was on the money. Outdoor dining on the wrap around porch. Located in a quiet part of old town Chattanooga. The eatery is really geared for smaller crowds since it’s in a former home. I suggest getting there early since it fills up fast and the wait times can be up to an hour or more. Our wait time, for 2 people, was 12 minutes.
If you are tired of eating at the same old restaurant chains, try this place out. They offer some unique dishes and southern cooking. It’s just a nice place with honest food."

Evan Lapinski

What People Like

Incredibly thick and fluffy pancakes
Quirky, punk rock-meets-horror decor
Generous portion sizes

What People Dislike

Potential for long wait times
Limited parking
Occasional lack of flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

The restaurant is most famous for its inch-thick pancakes, which are incredibly fluffy and can be topped with various house-made melanges like blueberry.

TikTokBut First, Brunch - A Guide to Chattanoogas Hottest Brunch Spots+1

Yes, especially on weekends, the restaurant can get very busy, leading to long wait times. It's advisable to arrive early.

18 Best Restaurants In Chattanooga, TennesseeGoogle Review

The restaurant has a unique and quirky atmosphere, described as punk rock-meets-horror movie, with concert posters, Frankenstein memorabilia, and vintage cereal boxes.

18 Best Restaurants In Chattanooga, TennesseeGoogle Review

Yes, diners consistently mention that the portion sizes are generous, particularly for the pancakes and other breakfast items.

But First, Brunch - A Guide to Chattanoogas Hottest Brunch SpotsGoogle Review

Parking can be a challenge in the residential neighborhood. It's recommended to circle the block or be prepared to walk a short distance.

21 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Chattanooga, TennesseeGoogle Review

Yes, Aretha Frankensteins offers a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccinos, and café lattes.

Chattanooga—You Wouldn’t Think Great Golf, But…

Mentioned in

Featured in these publications

choosechatt.com

But First, Brunch - A Guide to Chattanoogas Hottest Brunch Spots

Tucked away in a residential neighborhood in Northshore sits Aretha Frankensteins – a delightfully unassuming establishment that delivers on portions and taste. Although Aretha’s has a generous breakfast menu featuring omelets, biscuits, and a customizable breakfast burrito, it’s the monstrous inch-thick pancakes that make this spot famous. Order a stack to share – and top it with the house-made blueberry mélange if you’re feeling fancy – and you’ll be sure to leave with a full stomach and a smile.

Visit Source →
Southern Living

18 Best Restaurants In Chattanooga, Tennessee

Located in a former home in a residential neighborhood in North Chattanooga, Aretha Frankenstein's is the most memorable spot for breakfast in town. The restaurant is equally known for its quirky punk rock-meets-horror movie decor (the interior is plastered with concert posters, Frankenstein memorabilia, and vintage cereal boxes) as its ridiculously thick and fluffy pancakes and waffles. The dining room is tiny, and waits can be long on weekends, but the experience, and the pancakes, are worth it.

Visit Source →
Journeyz

21 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Nestled in the residential area of Tremont, you could easily mistake Aretha Frankenstein for just another house on the block and you may need to circle the block a few times to find a parking spot. But, one bite of their pancakes will have you wondering why you haven’t stopped by sooner. The restaurant looks like an ordinary house from the outside with a spacious patio perfect for outdoor dining in the warmer weather, and the inside’s funky design is like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

Visit Source →
theaposition.com

Chattanooga—You Wouldn’t Think Great Golf, But…

For breakfast (or evening beers) cross over the river (by car, or by the Walnut Street pedestrian bridge) to Aretha Frankenstein’s, a kitschy-cool restaurant in the hip North Shore district. Served in a cozy room with pop culture, rock and punk memorabilia adorning the walls, the huge breakfast portions include Slim or Fat Stack Pancakes, airy Belgian waffles called the Elephants Gerald, ten different omelets, and SuperDave’s Scramble with jalapeños, mushrooms and potatoes.

Visit Source →
Peter's Big Adventure

Peter vs. Chattanooga: Local's Edition

Address: 2518 Tremont St, Chattanooga, TN 37405Hours: [7:00am – 12:00am | Everyday][ Bar + Restaurant ]. It's hard to find a single list of bars or restaurants in Chattanooga that doesn't include Aretha Frankenstein's. It would seem that this place is one of this city's most famous places, right up there with the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Visit Source →
CoChatt

Best Breakfast in Chattanooga [My 5 Favorite]

They even have the pancakes packaged and sold in stores around the Chattanooga area. I am not sure if they are sold in other regions of the USA but they are here. When I visit this great breakfast restaurant I always get the pancakes and a traditional egg and bacon but I also come prepared to wait but let me tell you it is absolutely worth the wait.

Visit Source →
Chris and Sara

Chattanooga Weekend Itinerary for a Couple's Getaway

If you're looking for a heartier breakfast consider grabbing a bite at Aretha Frankensteins which is famous for it's 1 inch thick pancakes (they're amazing, just prepare for a bit of a carb coma afterwards),or The Daily Ration which hosts a variety of breakfast classics including breakfast burritos, fried chicken and grits, chilaquiles, and more.

Visit Source →
To Tennessee

Chattanooga's Best Breakfast Restaurants Spots [2025 Guide]

Upon entering Aretha Frankensteins, I was immediately captivated by its unique ambiance. The punk rock decor created an edgy and vibrant atmosphere that instantly set it apart from other breakfast spots in Chattanooga. This is certainly a place where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast while listening to the sounds of punk classics.

Visit Source →
www.timesfreepress.com

Breakfast is the specialty at these Chattanooga-area restaurants

Aretha Frankensteins serves monster pancakes — the kind that put a little wonder in your mouth. When owner Jeff Brakebill started his pancake empire, it was just a small eatery in a little house in a North Chattanooga neighborhood. Now, his pancake mix is sold in funky, eye-catching boxes in stores and online throughout the U.S.

Visit Source →
www.fattonysbarandgrill.ca

Chattanooga on a Budget: The Ultimate Guide to Cheap Eats

Aretha Frankenstein’s serves hearty and creative breakfast dishes at reasonable prices. Their pancakes are a local favorite and a great way to start your day with cheap food Chattanooga visitors will surely love. Plus, their coffee is excellent and affordable.

Visit Source →
Timberroot Vacation Rentals

Chattanooga Restaurants | Places to Eat While on Vacation

Located in a sleepy residential neighborhood, their thick pancake stacks and loaded breakfast biscuits never disappoint. Plus a box of their pancake mix makes a perfect Chattanooga souvenir. Step into this eclectic restaurant for a top tier dining experience.

Visit Source →
Family Destinations Guide

Best Breakfast in Chattanooga, TN (2024) — 30 Top Places!

518 Tremont StChattanooga, TN 37405(423) 265-7685 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. This laid-back cafe is a culinary find serving amazing breakfast dishes such as pancakes, omelets and waffles, plus coffee, hot chocolate and other beverages.

Visit Source →
Stacker

Highest-rated Brunch Restaurants in Chattanooga, According to Tripadvisor

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (509 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (3.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (3.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 518 Tremont St, Chattanooga, TN 37405-4153- Read more on Tripadvisor

Visit Source →
brunchexpert.com

Mornings Made Delicious: Exploring Chattanooga's Premier Brunch Hotspots for Food Lovers

Aretha Frankensteins for Brunch Chattanooga is a great place to visit for a unique breakfast experience. The food is good, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy. It’s a great spot to visit with friends or family.

Visit Source →
thetorgersonteam.com

7 Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Chattanooga

No list of Chattanooga’s hidden restaurant gems is complete without Aretha Frankensteins. I hesitated a but in including it because of it’s long wait times and basically nonexistent service … but the pancakes are just so good.

Visit Source →
LemonHearted

Chattanooga City Guide

This spot was a recommendation based solely on getting these pancakes. They aren’t a fluffy light consistency, they almost have more of a corn bread feel. I did like them and was absolutely stuffed until dinner time.

Visit Source →
Restaurant Clicks

21 Best Brunch Spots in Chattanooga, TN

518 Tremont St, Chattanooga, TN 37405Phone: 423-265-7685 Visit Website. A post shared by Aretha Frankensteins (@arethafrankensteins). Another one of my favorite places for brunch in the city is Aretha Frankensteins.

Visit Source →
have-kids-will-travel.com

17 { MORE } Great Restaurants in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Aretha Frankenstein’s is located off the beaten path on Tremont Street in Chattanooga. This unique restaurant is actually located in an old house full of funky decor. They offer delicious food in generous portions.

Visit Source →
RootsRated

19 of the Best Restaurants in Chattanooga with Outdoor Seating

A post shared by Mik🌈 (@mikailarummage) on Aug 31, 2017 at 6:55pm PDT. Aretha Frankenstein’s is a funky Northshore hot spot. The made-from-scratch, thicker-than-grandma’s buttermilk pancakes are worth the wait.

Visit Source →
Scary Mommy

Things to Do in Chattanooga With Kids

At Aretha Frankenstein’s, you can choose from pancakes, omelets, and biscuits for breakfast. And if you love the pancakes, you can buy the mix to go. Lunch brings quesadillas, burritos, and sandwiches.

Visit Source →
Florida Man on the Run

Your Guide to a Fantastic Weekend in Chattanooga

Last, but certainly not least, for the best full breakfast experience in town you’ve gotta head to Aretha Frankensteins. It’s a wonderful, quirky, small-time breakfast spot that I love!

Visit Source →
epb.com

40 Fun Things You Must Do In Chattanooga, TN

Enjoy an insanely great breakfast featuring a short stack of pancakes made famous by Rachael Ray at local-favorite Aretha Frankenstein’s.

Visit Source →
Adventure & Wanderlust

Aretha Frankenstein’s, Chattanooga’s Best Pancake

So, Timmy looks at me and says, “What about Aretha Frankenstein’s?. ” So, I said what the heck let’s go.

Visit Source →
6AM - NOOGAtoday

Brunch in Chattanooga, TN: Our guide to the best brunch restaurants in the city

Visit Source →
Garden & Gun

Where to Eat

Visit Source →
Restaurant Observer

15 Best Restaurants in Chattanooga, TN [2024 Updated]

Visit Source →
Blonde Atlas

best restaurants in chattanooga

Visit Source →
Living & Local

Chattanooga, Tennessee Travel Guide // 48 Hours in the Scenic City

Visit Source →