This was my first time at Universal Joint, and it was a good experience! Our waiter was super friendly and a really cool guy. It was a little hot inside the restaurant, but nothing too bad. I decided to get the chicken quesadilla and it was okay, but what was amazing, were the tater tots!!! Those were sooo good! I'd go back for the tots. Haha! I know their known for their burgers, so I'll have to try one out next time I go! read more

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Went here after a court hearing with some friends for dinner. We sat outside in the nice air and had a good time. I liked the seat-yourself policy but it did take a slight while (about ten minutes) before a server actually saw us. Once she came though, we ordered our food and it came about 20-25 minutes later (which was very impressive considering we were at the top of dinner hour and it was very busy). Our food was delicious, their blackened chicken pesto was superb and very good. The server acted a little cold but apart from that, it was a great meal. Probably will return again. read more

Looking for a good burger? This place has them! My husband had a basic cheeseburger and he said it was "sloppy good". I decided to try the black bean burger - let's just say there was none leftover! The fries are also quite good. I love the atmosphere - an old gas station converted to a restaurant. Good music was playing, and sports were on the tvs. Our server was friendly and efficient- and she brought the food out quickly. I would definitely return here and recommend it to others! read more

Universal Joint - Delicious and filling dinner! - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

So I ordered food to be delivered, as it was a lazy day for me. We ordered fish tacos, Philly brisket, salsa, and spicy egg rolls. The food was all really good, and it got here quickly. However I was very disappointed that we paid $8 for one and a half egg rolls. I was expecting 3 or 5 egg rolls for that price, but we got one cut in half, and another half of one. I had been here before and loved the food, so wanted to get it again. However after that, I will probably pass them by next time. The main food was good so I recommend that, but skip the apps. They are a rip off. read more

Ask before you dine if they are still adding a surcharge to the check. I was there on 9/13/23 and wasn't told ahead of time. I'm not opposed to surcharges in principle, but basic business ethics says the restaurant should have it clearly posted and/or servers should inform customers before they get the bill. The food is decent and my customer service was great, but management needs to do a better job. read more

Service was horrible. No one brought us a menu, silverware or napkins . Had to find someone to wait on us. Asked for napkins never brought any. Said they ran out of silverware. Had to eat with fingers. When asked waitress about it was told to pay bill and leave. Asked for manager was told to leave and never come back. Everyone very rude. Will never go back. read more

RUDE!!!!! HORRIBLE customer service! We were patient. We waited and waited! We finally flagged someone down after getting our own menus. We asked 3 times for our food. We had probably 10 tables come and go before us. We asked the waiter and tried to discuss the issue with the waiter and we're told with his hand out toward me that "he wasn't going to do this." I was not being rude at all. I then asked to speak to the manager. I was told he would t get the manager and they wouldn't talk to me anyways. We left. I called to talk to the manager. I was told there was no manager on duty. On a Very busy Friday night??? No manager. Mmmm ok. We left without getting out food. The waiter was a prick. The one on the phone seemed not to care at all even though they knew exactly which waiter it was. Sad to say but I won't be back. read more

Get the Bang Bang Shrimp tacos with sweet potato fries and thank me later Dog-friendly and relaxed.

Looking for a great place with outdoor seating in downtown Chatt? This is the perfect spot! It was a perfectly sunny day and this place was exactly what we were looking for. And no masks required outside! Neat little place on a corner/renovated gas station. My friend's daughter enjoyed her burrito. My daughter's brisket sandwich was pretty good. The bang bang shrimp tacos were my favorite out of the 2 types of tacos we tried. The brisket needed a little more flavor. Both came with chips & salsa which was a little mild but good. The chicken spring rolls appetizers were delicious. A little strange tasting at first with grapes but the mango chutney they came with was amazing. Friendly service. Clean establishment. Definitely recommend! read more

Food is average at best. Was trivia night when we went....person running the trivia deal seemed to have a drinking problem as she drank beer and yelled at customers. Experience was...meh. read more

Moved to Chattanooga a few years ago and found this place shortly after. Really good food at a reasonable price. Great selection of draft beers. Awesome patio! Staff is super friendly and overall just a great vibe! read more

What a cool place. We were bumming around town and wanted an afternoon snack so we stopped in randomly. The space is a probably a early 50s gas station converted into a bar/restaurant. The menu had quite the options. We shared the Old 1-2 burger with toys. Without telling them they brought the burger out, cooked to perfection (medium), just like we ordered it. Having it already prepared on two separate plates. It was VERY flavorful. Just the right amount of everything. The tots were great as well. Very crunchy and surprisingly light and not greasy. Beer is reasonably priced @ $4 a pint for domestic draft. Happy hour prices are less. I definitely recommend and definitely will be back. read more

Universal Joint - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

Ok, final answer, contestant? Alas, no. Today - my day off. Doggus on hand, wanting to go to the closest (and one of the prettiest) patios in my 'hood, heck, why not go for that great queso and salsa (cliché Cinco de Mayo girl here). Wait for it. They were out of tortilla chips. Sorry? Yes, you read that right. That's pretty much like TMac being out of chicken; just sayin'. Heck, even us being out of tortilla chips too because I probably sell our queso and chips and salsa to - no exaggeration- 85% of my tables (it is really good). Not my server's fault and Lindsey was sweet. But man. Resto mgrs. get orders daily, though not always on weekends - and there are always grocery stores nearby in a pinch - but your queso is one of the most popular items (and you sell lots of nachos too) and ... somehow you have NO CHIPS on this particular day? C'mon. #ripefforts read more

After doing a photo shoot at the old Courthouse in downtown Chattanooga, we simply walked across the street to Universal Joint Chattanooga. The first thing you notice about it is that it is in an old gas station. They have used the space beautifully. There is a large outside patio area, but it was too chilly on the day we were visiting, at least for us, there were several tables filled outside. We walked inside to find a sign informing us to seat ourselves. I love that because I can scope out the best lighting. We were able to grab a seat right be the window. Our waiter arrived almost immediately and took our drink orders, beer for the hubs, water for me. As we looked over the menu, I kept changing my mind. So many things sounded good. I was torn between the Arugula and Mushroom Quesadilla, Blackened Tilapia Tacos, a U Joint Burger, and the Grilled Chicken and Arugula Salad. Since we had eaten kind of heavy for the past couple of days, we both chose the Grilled Chicken and Arugula Salad. While we waited for our salads, I admired the rustic interior. Peeling paint and old wood added lots of charm, though all I could think about was how much I would love to photograph some of my food blog photos on the tables! The salad was very pretty. It had sliced grilled chicken, arugula, dried cranberries, mandarin oranges, and pecans. The chicken was lightly seasoned and grilled perfectly - nice and moist. The toppings were just right, not too heavy. Actually the whole salad was perfectly proportioned. I finished it all and felt satisfied. The dressing was a light lemony dressing with very finely pickled red onions. My only suggestion for this salad would be that I would like to see the pickled red onions be more of a part of the salad, part of the toppings. We were very pleased with our salad and will be back to try some of the other things I mentioned above! read more

Universal Joint - Grilled Chicken and Arugula Salad - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

Rustic, trendy, old meet new! The restaurant is in an old gas station and they've kept it rustic! The food is fresh and delicious. Very friendly staff and just a neat place for lunch. Walking distance from the gov buildings. I had the chicken salad sandwich which was very good. Chunks of chicken not shredded. Will go again! read more

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Universal Joint is one of my all time favorite spots in Chattanooga!!! It's housed in a remodeled, old gas station so the atmosphere is super cool. Sarah and Alex are always super attentive and hands down some of the best bartenders in town. I would strongly recommend stopping by. Not only is UJ the perfect place to grab a beer, but the food is amazing. I recommend the BBQ Brisket Nachos! read more

While doing jury duty at the county courthouse I had lunch on too occasions at Universal Joint. Food was good, portions were large. Like all restaurants after Covid, things are a little overpriced but it is what it is. Decor is Interesting since they basically took over a cornered gas station building. Would be a good place to meet for a beer and snacks after work. read more

The staff here is friendly, the beer is so cold, Everybody is welcome, the young and the old. The burgers are cooking, a smell so exciting, Some music is playing, a mood so inviting! You walk through the door, and sit in your chair You look to your right; your friends are all there! You laugh and you sing, reminisce on the day, A snack of u-fries, takes you far far away. To the people you've met, and the people you've lost All the best joys in life, and the high price they've cost A tear hits your eye, but it stops in its tracks A new friend has arrived, and he's come with a laugh! Just then you feel strange, and check on the time It's 20 minutes til ten, and you arrived around five! You pay out your tab, drink your very last drop Why must the day end? It feels wrong now to stop Alas! Do not fret! We will be back again, For nothing's better in life, than a beer and a friend. read more

Just stopped by for a drink after a concert and we had a blast! Our bartender Alex was so much fun and took great care of us. Lots of beer options and a really cool vibe. We would come back again just to hang out with Alex and friends! read more

I loved my burger and tots. The beef on the burger was so tasty along with their special house sauce. The tots were very light and crispy and golden brown ( not over or undercooked) ....yumm! I love the atmosphere of this old garage turned on into a restaurant. I love how they have the bar set up.... it just feels right. They also have big TV's in close proximity. I've decided that this will probably be my next game day bar. They also have outdoor seating and dogs are welcome. The wait staff was very attentive and friendly. So, guess what, I will definitely be going back very soon and may even become a regular there. read more

Universal Joint - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

I came here around 4 p.m. to finish out the work day with some beer, and it was fairly empty. I asked to make sure it was OK if I worked, and they were cool with it (some places are not friendly to laptop hobos so I always ask to make sure I'm not being rude). There aren't really a lot of outlets, but I had seven hours of battery life so I holed up at a small table near the back and kept ordering beer to make sure I wasn't freeloading. They have free wi-fi, but I found it very slow so I used my own. They have a really great beer selection, and in addition to what's on their menu they have a rotating draft list. Their food menu had a good variety of items, although I only saw a couple vegetarian options. After I finished up working I ordered the black bean burger and it was so-so. It was a little too soft for my liking (TWSS), but flavorful and not too spicy. I asked for fries and got tots instead, but I didn't mind because they had a good crunch and the perfect amount of salt. The vibe here was cool and the servers were all really friendly. One guy came over to see what I was drinking and chatted with me for a bit about different beers. The only downside, besides a lack of vegetarian options, would be the non-existent parking. They're working on being able to use one of Unum's lots in the evening, but currently it's just street parking. I walked here so it wasn't a huge deal, but my husband came to meet me at 5 p.m. and had to circle the place four times before he found a spot a block away. I imagine it would be nearly impossible to park anywhere close if you come after 6 p.m. or on a Friday/Saturday night. Universal Joint gets four stars for a great beer selection, a laid-back vibe, good service and being cool with laptops. If they could add parking and more vegetarian options they'd be a five-star place for sure. read more

Universal Joint - New happy hour menu. From 2-6 pm Monday thru Friday you can get these deals when you buy $3 worth of drinks or more. - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

ABSOLUTE RUDEST experience ever from a restaurant. The server was rude from the moment we sat down. You have to wear a mask outside in the patio area. I have no problem wearing one inside, but In 95 plus degree heat, that is a little excessive. The server kept our change, without asking, and when confronted about the change, she very sarcastically said "well I assumed you were going to tip me" (well you assumed wrong, bc attitude is everything when your a server) then told us she has been a Server for several years and she knows how things work. Well if she was in fact a server for several years, then she would have known to say/ask if we needed change and NEVER assume. (I have been a server as well.)Then she said, "well y'all are welcomed to not come back, we will remember y'all", we were shocked. Then she proceeded to walk away, we asked for a manager at this point, and as she continued to walk away, she said we don't have one they are gone for the weekend. And turned around and said and waved "bye" like a teenager. After going inside to speak with a manager, we found out that in fact there was no manager to speak with. What kind of establishment doesn't have a manager of some kind on duty or someone in charge?!?!? This was VERY unprofessional. I have worked in customer service for a major appliance company for over 16 years and If I were to speak/treat my customers like this I would not have a job!!! If I told my customers they are welcomed not to spend their money on our products, I would have been absolutely discharged IMMEDIATELY! I would not have a job. This was Very disappointing, we have been going to UJ for years and you have the best food! But I will never ever come back to such an unprofessional establishment ran by a bunch of teenagers. read more

The food was very very flavorful! I had the brisket philly sandwich with tots! Cool and chill atmosphere and great service! My friend had the southwest chicken quesadilla and she said it was ok. But I definitely recommend the brisket philly! It was delicious! read more

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thank you your food is 5/5 epic this a good meal from Kevin and Xavier and Bree/ my mom

The service was great! They came right out to take our order and with out having to ask they brought water for my sisters dog. They were so nice and I love how everything is set up. I love that they kept some of what the building originally was. It give the place so much culture and spunk. The food is amazing! If you have not been you have to stop by! read more

Universal Joint - Patio sitting. - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

What a great place! I've been going here for several months. The food is excellent and the wait staff are too! Yesterday my server Anna brightened my day. I always have a pleasant experience there. It's so nice to be able to sit outside, and with warmer days coming up, I'll be coming out of winter hibernation and will be back to my usual regular visits. Yesterday I had the Tilapia taco, and it was excellent as usual. Please support this local restaurant. Thank you Universal Joint! read more

This isn't my first time here, but my first review of Universal Joint. Universal Joint is a converted gas station in downtown Chattanooga near the County Courthouse. Inside is all concrete and noise, speech & almost everything else echos all around. I can not recommend dining in, but they do have a great patio area. I ordered sweet tea and a Southwest Chicken Quesadilla which had hardly any spice, but was loaded with chicken, corn, black beans and cheese. It's served with a small amount of mild salsa and sour creme. It was not only delicious but filling. I would have liked a little more heat to it. Prices are reasonable and service was good. read more

A former automotive service station located just off the campus of UT-Chattanooga in downtown, this place was renovated a few years back into a cool, college-esque restaurant with a great selection of signature meals (I.e. brisket tacos, Texas cheesesteak sandwiches, turkey pita club, etc.,multiple other options and several salads). They have a good rotation of craft beers and several staple beers always on tap. Quick service, great food. It's also an easy walk from campus. read more

Love this atmosphere! Inside is an old nostalgic garage feel and outside seating is in view of the courthouse and downtown. Great food and prices. Big tvs too read more

Universal Joint - Stellar gyro and tots - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

Claire was a great server! We sat on the patio with our dog. Claire was so sweet and very attentive to us as well as our pet. (she even brought us a dog bowl with water) Love the place and loved the server even more! Ask for Claire!!! read more

Had lunch here on a Sunday. It was really quite good. Staff very friendly and do an awesome job. Burgers are tasty. Tasty adult beverages too. read more

We found this place since it was one of the only restaurants opened on Sunday. The place looks like it was an old body shop about 20 years ago and converted into a restaurant with its rustic feel and tin decor, which was great and unique. Has an open floor plan and opens into the patio seating. The food was good, but expected a little more variety in the menu. Would visit again if it were one of the only restaurants open. :) read more

Universal Joint - Southern chicken salad sandwich with tots - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

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Great egg rolls. I started my night of feeding with some spicy egg rolls. They are filled with a cream cheese based filling with grapes. The grapes add a sweetness that is really addicting. I know I felt that feeling tonight as I pondered where to go for dinner. So the place was hopping with a age mixed crowd. The food is pretty den good so it made my list of best restaurants. read more

Sam is an AMAZING server! The food is incredible ! The brisket nachos and the brisket burritos are amazing. I dont each cheese but my girlfriend LOVES the queso. Great beer options as well! I go any chance I get! read more

Great food! Brisket nachos a must! Bad side.. Service is slow. Nearly non existent. We never really had a true waiter.. Good thing we didn't have plans because we would have missed any kind of appointment. Literally the lack of service is what makes this place two stars. Word to the wise order the brisket nachos and ask for a check at the same time. You at end up enjoying the experience. read more

Brisket nachos and beer. Yum. Only complaint is that the staff sucks (minus BJ who is awesome). Great for cornhole and sports... Chilly weather will cut the outdoor seating down and it will probably be mostly indoor until it warms up again, but loved it during the summer/fall/spring months. Great for groups. read more

Fun place to grab a bite. It is located in a repurposed gasoline station. Indoor and outside seating. The brisket nachos were tasty. The hummus platter was nice size. Large selection of local and imported beer. They had Corn Hole set ups and a Dunking Tank. Very fun to watch. read more

Universal Joint - Hummus plate - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

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We love UJoint. Been coming here for years. Sarah and the team are awesome. The specials are always good. Be sure to check the board when you come in. Oh. And they are pet friendly! read more

This is an old gas station that was turned into a hipster beer bar. The food is standard pub fare, burgers, wings, etc. Most, if not all, items come from the freezer and or the deep fryer. It might taste good if you are drunk. The best part of my visit was watching two weak hipsters try to separate their fighting pit bulls in the patio area. read more

Great place to hang out with friends, eat and have drinks. We got the shrimp po boy with arugula salad and the veggie quesadilla. Both were excellent. They have a good variety of beers also. read more

Universal Joint - New American Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

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