Whiskey Thief

Imagine an elegant evening with a bird's-eye view: Whiskey Thief is the first true rooftop cocktail lounge in Chattanooga, located on the top floor of the sophisticated The Edwin Hotel. This spot in the USA quickly earned a reputation as one of the city's most photogenic points, thanks to breathtaking panoramic views of the Tennessee River and the famous pedestrian Walnut Street Bridge.

The bar gets its intriguing name from the traditional tool distillers use to "steal" a whiskey sample from a barrel. The interior harmoniously combines industrial chic with comfort, offering guests both a spacious outdoor terrace and a stylish indoor area. An atmosphere of relaxed luxury prevails here, where every element—from the lighting to the furniture—invites leisurely conversation.

Whiskey Thief is famous for its impressive collection of over 100 types of whiskey and expertly crafted cocktails. It is the perfect place for those seeking aesthetic pleasure, high-quality drinks, and the best sunsets in Tennessee. Please note that entry is restricted to guests aged 21 and over.

For details regarding your visit or information about special events, you can contact the venue directly. We also recommend checking the official website to view the current seasonal cocktail menu before your visit.

The main activity at Whiskey Thief is, undoubtedly, tasting. You can embark on a true journey through the world of spirits, choosing from over a hundred types of whiskey, or trust the mixologists' expertise by ordering one of their seasonal cocktails. The menu is updated regularly using fresh local ingredients, and drinks can be paired with exquisite light bites in the style of Tennessee bar cuisine.

Many guests come here for the visual delight. Watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand is a must-do. The terrace offers magnificent views of the Bluff View Art District and the Hunter Museum, as well as the flow of pedestrians across the historic bridge. It is an ideal spot for a romantic date or a quiet meeting with friends away from the city noise.

Since the bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis and has no reservation system, finding the perfect spot becomes a bit of an adventure. If you plan to visit on weekdays (Sunday through Thursday), look out for happy hours from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, when you can try signature drinks at especially attractive prices.

Finding Whiskey Thief is easy, as it is located in the heart of Chattanooga at 102 Walnut St. The bar is situated on the roof of The Edwin hotel, which is a prominent landmark in the waterfront district. It is just a few minutes' walk from major tourist spots such as the Walnut Street Bridge or the Hunter Museum of American Art.

If you are arriving by car, the hotel offers valet parking services, which is very convenient in the busy downtown area. You can also use city buses that serve central stops, after which the walk to the venue takes no more than 5–10 minutes. From Chattanooga Airport (CHA), the easiest way to get there is by taxi or Uber—the trip takes about 20 minutes depending on traffic.

The history of Whiskey Thief began relatively recently, in 2018, when the stylish boutique hotel The Edwin opened in Chattanooga. The opening of this bar was a significant event for the city, as it set new standards for "rooftop culture" in the region, offering guests not just drinks but an aesthetic experience with panoramic views.

The bar's name—Whiskey Thief—has deep historical roots and refers to the traditions of distilling in the USA. A "whiskey thief" is a specialized tool, a long tube used by master distillers to take samples of the spirit directly from the barrel during maturation. This name emphasizes the venue's respect for local craftsmanship and the heritage of the state of Tennessee.

The design and concept of the lounge were developed to celebrate the artistry of Tennessee whiskey producers. Since its opening, the bar has become a magnet for both locals and tourists wishing to experience modern Southern hospitality in a sophisticated setting.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and the views, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2.5 hours for your visit. This is enough time to sample a couple of signature cocktails, enjoy some snacks from the local menu, and, of course, watch the city transition from daytime hustle to evening lights.

The venue is especially popular in the hours leading up to sunset. If you plan to watch the sun dip behind the Tennessee River, it is worth arriving a bit early, as reservations are not accepted and the best spots along the edge of the terrace fill up quickly.

The establishment welcomes guests daily, with a schedule that varies by the day of the week. From Monday to Thursday, the bar is open from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM. On Friday, the hours are extended until midnight (4:00 PM – 12:00 AM), allowing you to fully enjoy the start of the weekend.

On Saturday, the doors open earlier—at 2:00 PM—and guests can relax until midnight. The Sunday schedule (2:00 PM – 9:00 PM) is perfect for those who want to end the week with a quiet evening on the roof. Don't forget the "happy hours" from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and Sundays.

The bar's location in the historic center makes it easy to combine evening relaxation with a tour of the city's iconic landmarks. A stroll through the neighborhood after visiting the terrace is a great way to end the day.