After living in Nashville for six months, I have taken a liking to Speakeasy bars. Broadway bars can get so crowded and hectic, which is why I enjoy low key bars where I can sit and have a conversation. When I heard Chattanooga was getting a Speakeasy, I was beyond excited. Two of my favorite things, London and speakeasies. I went to the Grand Opening of London Calling to the public on December 28th and let me just say this place completely exceeded my expectations.
For those of you who don’t know, Speakeasy Bars are often small and either hard to find or have a clue you must find to enter. These bars are inspired by the hidden spots to get a drink during the Prohibition in the 1920s.
You can tell how much thought, creativity, and detail was put into this bar to make it an unforgettable experience. Customers enter through Red telephone booth. After buzzing in via the telephone, you will be lead to a second secret door marking the actual entrance to London Calling. This door will lead you into the bar with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, original hardwood floors, and antique furniture. The bar serves cocktails, wine, beer, and a small food menu. The playlist consists of all-British tunes, from the Stones to the Beatles to some of today’s popular U.K. bands.
The owner James Heeley, an English Native has been in the process of creating London Calling for the past few years. He has always dreamed of opening a unique bar. Originally from Greenwich, England, he has worked his way up in the bar scene from dishwasher since he was thirteen.
The drink menu can be found on the website. All of the art featured on the menu is by local artists in Chattanooga. The menu also includes a grid describing each drink from classic to adventurous, breezy to boozy, and delicate to bold.
Location
715 Cherry Street
Chattanooga, TN 37402
Contact
(423) 635-3737
Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Thursday: 3PM-1AM
Friday & Saturday: 3PM-3AM
Sunday: 3PM - 1AM
“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.”
- Samuel Johnson
