2nd american restaurant
Comfort Food with Culinary Refinement
The Heart of the Space
Housed in a historic building that has been carefully reimagined, the restaurant balances modern refinement with architectural character, creating an atmosphere that feels both intentional and welcoming.
At the heart of the space is the striking, large-scale sculpture that anchors the central bar. More than a decorative element, it serves as a visual focal point and sets the tone for the dining room, reinforcing the restaurant’s commitment to artistry, craftsmanship, and experience. The layout offers a range of seating options, allowing guests to enjoy an intimate meal or a lively evening without sacrificing comfort.
Celebrated Chef Daniel Lindley
A creation of local chef Daniel Lindley, 2nd american celebrates nostalgia through the family-style meal experience. Located at 1601 Cowart Street in Chattanooga’s Southside neighborhood, 2nd american opened to rave reviews in October 2024. According to the Chattanooga Times Free Press, Mr. Lindley is a six-time nominee for the James Beard Foundation and represents his vision of elevating what “American cuisine” can be.
The Menu
The menu emphasizes well-prepared comfort-forward dishes made with quality ingredients. Appetizers, entrées, and sides are designed for sharing, encouraging a communal dining experience. Standout offerings include vegetable-forward starters, thoughtfully seasoned proteins, and classic accompaniments. Whether you’re visiting Chattanooga or you live just down the street, 2nd american feels like a restaurant that wants to both impress you and welcome you, and it succeeds at both.
The Latest Dish
Over the holidays, my husband and I were in the mood to try something new. After securing our reservation, we were excited to experience the restaurant everyone in our family had been buzzing about. As soon as we walked through the door, the large, towering sculpture at the center of the bar immediately caught my attention. It anchored the room beautifully, setting the tone and establishing a strong sense of place.
The hostess initially seated us at a table near the door. While it was lovely, I was concerned the opening and closing might make the area cold. I asked if it might be possible to move further into the restaurant, and the gracious response only reinforced our positive first impression. Without hesitation, we were relocated, and from that moment on, it felt like an invitation to relax, savor the flavors, and enjoy a truly memorable date night.
We started with the spaghetti squash fritters, followed by the beer can chicken and beef short rib . We shared the house salad and, of course, couldn’t get enough of the signature mashed potatoes. Our server was meticulous in her timing and she helped create a wonderful dining experience.
The evening was everything we hoped for, and we’re already looking forward to our next visit.
