Bea’s Restaurant celebrates 75 years of serving Chattanooga

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – One of Chattanooga’s most beloved and long-standing restaurants is marking a major milestone.

Bea’s Restaurant, located on Dodds Avenue at the foot of the ridge, is celebrating its 75th anniversary on Tuesday.

Since opening its doors in 1950, Bea’s has become a local treasure, serving up all-you-can-eat Southern meals to generations of Chattanoogans.

To thank the community for decades of support, Bea’s is offering a special deal for its big day — all-you-can-eat for just one dollar.

Ben Bradshaw, the current owner and manager, says the restaurant is more than a business — it’s a legacy.

“My great-grandmother, my grandfather, and my dad have kept it going for pretty much all their lives so far,” he explained. “It’s really meaningful to see the same families that come in here every week and get to see how they’re doing and how their families are progressing. It’s really special to be a part of this community.”

The restaurant has remained in the same family for four generations, and with its signature lazy Susans and classic family-style seating, the experience has stayed true to its roots.

Loyal customers often return not just for the food, but for the memories.

For many, Bea’s is a tradition — a place where milestones have been celebrated, and stories shared around the table.

Bradshaw emphasized that what makes Bea’s special isn’t just the fresh food or the tasty desserts — it’s the people.

“We see the same faces, the same families, and we’ve watched them grow.

It’s not just our restaurant, it’s their place too.”

As Bea’s turns 75, it stands as a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things — good food, good company, and community — leave the biggest mark.