Top of The Rock

Should you ever have a pretty day with 4 hours or more to kill and want to enjoy the beauty of Tennessee…this is your destination.   Top of the Rock is a fairly new scratch-restaurant and brewery located a little over an hour south down I-24 in Jasper….at the literal top of a Tennessee mountain.   It boasts insane views of the Tennessee Valley with seating for any vibe you may have that day: firepits, bars, igloos, dining, or just out in the sun catching some Vitamin D.   They have a limited selection on tap but what they do have is outstanding.   Their food is above par for a brewery type setting and the nacho appetizer will easily feed a crew of 4.   The service is very friendly and I would recommend reservations if you’re going during the normal popular hours. Be specific on what kind of seating you would like (outdoor with a valley view, indoor with a booth, etc).

If you’re an outdoorsy type, plan a day hike in the surrounding areas or visit the unique University of the South in Sewanee (think Hogwarts) and end it with a leisurely meal and fresh brew at this stunning place.    

Some tips for the newbie:  Very casual vibe so come as you are. If you get car sick around curve….a warning that it is a road that has been carved out of the side of a mountain…sit on the side facing the mountain and not the bluff.   There is a gated community past the restaurant that is still building so you may get stuck behind a construction truck or two on the way to the restaurant.  Be patient.   Check out all the outdoor areas they have.  One is just as stunning as the other and it’s a great way to walk off the food!