As the CMB resident coffee shop expert and lover of all things caffeinated, it seemed natural for me to write our review post for a new Chattanooga coffee hot spot, Frothy Monkey! The Chattanooga Moms Blog contributors were invited to spend a morning checking out Frothy Monkey and all it has to offer.
We could not have been more well take care of. They made sure we had a spot with plenty of tables tucked away in the back corner (I’m not sure if that was a kindness or a strategic move on their part, but either way it was smart and appreciated) and excellent service with a number of people checking in on us and bringing us napkins throughout the morning.
Frothy Monkey originated in Nashville in 2004 and the brand is now a staple there. Their goal is to expand the idea of what a coffee shop is and does, with chef-driven food menus in addition to an expanded drink menu which includes coffee, tea, beer, cocktails, and wine (more on the beer and wine part later). They also have a bakery in Nashville, and a roasting company that began roasting their own Frothy Monkey coffee in 2014.
The Southside space (located beside Stir, attached to the Chattanooga Choo Choo lobby) is gorgeous, large and open with plenty of natural light and an abundance of seating. The baristas are in the center of the room, so you can watch the coffee action happening and they can also keep an eye on all of their patrons to know who needs a refill and when to clear away dishes and trash.
The menu is extensive and unique; most of the contributors tried something different and no one was disappointed. I was particularly taken with the selection of seasonal specialty drinks, including the Hummingbird latte (espresso, steamed milk, house made pecan syrup, hint of banana, topped with pecans and dried pineapple garnish) or, if coffee isn’t your thing, try the Sparkling Raspberry Matcha (house made raspberry syrup, amai matcha, lemon juice, and sparkling water). I was impressed by the food menu as well, offering not only the usual coffee shop fare such as pastries and granola, but also a full and extensive menu of breakfast, lunch, AND dinner items (including a Little Monkeys menu for the kiddos)! There’s even a late night menu with some options only available between 9pm and midnight for you night owls.
A lot of the contributors, myself included, were excited to learn about their Wine Programming, so much so that we are trying to plan a night out to check out Wine Down Wednesday. For $15 you get three wine pours and snacks (they also offer a beer flight if you’re not a wine drinker) from 5-7pm on Wednesday nights. If you’re looking to spice up date night, try the five course Wine Love Dinners on select Saturdays between 6pm and 9pm.
I’m always excited to learn about new places in our amazing and vibrant cities, even more so when they are ones that cater to families. While Frothy Monkey was fun, bright, open and family-friendly during the morning hours, I can see how it would be equally fun for girls’ night or a quiet evening out. The only drawback was lack of easily accessible parking — be prepared for a bit of a walk if you have little ones in tow. However, being right next to the Choo Choo meant there was plenty of entertainment even once we finished our coffee and snack. It would also be a great starting off point for other downtown adventures since you can catch the shuttle from the Choo Choo and ride it down to the library, museum, or aquarium. It’s always good to start off your day with some delicious coffee and a giant cookie!
