Golden Corral Gunbarrel Rd was once a popular buffet spot in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The location offered all-you-can-eat favorites like steak, fried chicken, and dessert bars. But like many Golden Corral locations, the Gunbarrel Rd restaurant faced challenges. In this article, we’ll dig in to the top 5 things to know about Golden Corral Gunbarrel Rd, including why it closed, what replaced it, and where to find similar buffets today.
1. The Rise and Fall of Golden Corral Gunbarrel Rd
The Golden Corral on Gunbarrel Rd opened as part of the chain’s expansion in Tennessee. It became a favorite for families and large groups thanks to its affordable pricing and wide variety of dishes.
- Key facts:
- Opened in the early 2000s as one of three Chattanooga locations.
- Offered breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets.
- Known for its steak nights and chocolate fountain.
Read more about Golden Corral’s Chattanooga locations on Yelp.
2. Why the Gunbarrel Rd Location Closed
The Golden Corral on Gunbarrel Rd closed permanently after struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Buffets faced extra challenges due to health concerns.
- Main reasons for closure:
- Pandemic hit buffets harder than other restaurants.
- Changed customer habits with more takeout orders.
- Property sold for $2.75 million in 2021.
See the property sale details for 1808 Gunbarrel Rd.
3. What Replaced Golden Corral Gunbarrel Rd
After Golden Corral closed, the property changed hands twice. The building remains vacant as of March 2025, but new businesses have opened nearby.
- Current status:
- Property sold to Four Musketeers LLC in 2021.
- Later resold to CFT NV Developments LLC.
- Nearby, new restaurants like Popeyes have opened.
Learn about new East Brainerd restaurants in the area.
4. Use Assembo.ai to Visualize Restaurant Concepts
Assembo.ai lets you create realistic images of restaurant layouts and food displays. This tool helps visualize what new businesses could look like in the former Golden Corral space.
- How to use it:
- Upload floor plans or photos of the space.
- Try different decor and seating arrangements.
- See how buffet setups would look.
Try Assembo.ai’s restaurant visualization tools today.
5. Where to Find Buffets Near Gunbarrel Rd
While Golden Corral Gunbarrel Rd is closed, several alternatives exist for buffet lovers in Chattanooga.
- Top options:
- Battlefield Parkway Golden Corral (still open).
- Chinese buffets like Formosa.
- Pizza buffets at CiCi’s.
Check current buffet options in the Tennessee Valley.
Final Thoughts
Golden Corral Gunbarrel Rd served Chattanooga for years before closing during the pandemic. The property has since sold twice, and while the building remains empty, new dining options have emerged nearby. For those missing the buffet experience, other Golden Corral locations and alternative restaurants still operate in the area. The story of this location shows how restaurant trends continue to evolve.