Blue Chair Cafe, Bakery & Tavern

Note: This review is for the Tavern side of Blue Chair, although great things can also be said about the bakery and cafe.

Since opening just over a year ago, The Blue Chair Tavern has become an institution in the Sewanee community. The small but comfortable space is inviting with tons of character - a beautiful bar, quirky decor, and even a wall of glasses labeled and reserved for regulars. Wonderful outdoor seating. Great bar food. Grab anything on the menu and a craft beer (or two) from their impressive rotating selection and you're set. Do yourself a favor and try a pint, pitcher, or growler (to go!) of any and all of the Jackalope brews from Nashville (the Thunder Ann is especially delicious).

The people are what make this place truly special. The owner, Jimmy, and his entire staff make a point to make each customer's experience great. Don't be surprised if you see Jimmy going from table to table checking on his regulars or making a new customer feel right at home.

Five of us enjoyed two breakfasts here, plus four meals catered to our meeting at the nearby School of Theology at University of the South.  At our breakfast gatherings in the bakery and coffee shop, the coffee and O.J. appeared immediately, then menus. Our server was attentive but not cloying.  The food definitely was to our liking, as well as the "homey" setting and accessories which prompted one classmate to comment, "This is obviously owned by someone who loves this place."  Parking is convenient.  With several small shops nearby, the surroundings are pleasing and appealing.  All of us managed to avoid the attractive glass case of freshly baked pastries, not did we succumb to the "Day Old" baked treats offered for only 75 cents.
If  you'd like a break from franchise and chain restaurants, come take a seat at The Blue Chair.

Take a pass.  It's too bad, because there is some potential but definitely unrealized. The food is awful. Beef on weck was dry and tough as my grandma's heel... wings.. edible but not memorable... not worth a trip back. The staff barely has a clue, is unentertaining, and thinks a good night on the town is turning on the TV and watching reality shows. Spare me. I'll stay home next time, thanks. I'll go find out why the place across the street was packed next time.