Grill

contract was up and I decided to return to the Chattanooga area.”

Gehin said he is helping the Cornelison’s develop a menu and train staff. To that end the restaurant follows a “food to table” philosophy and uses locally sourced provisions whenever possible.

“I’m a bit of a foodie myself,” said Cornelison’s wife, Kim, before sampling a croque monsieur (a classic French ham and grilled cheese sandwich) on the Grill’s opening day.

Kim stressed the couple’s desire to appeal to any and everyone with an appetite and appreciation for fine dining, whether they arrive dressed in Carhartts or couture.

Complementing the pristine beauty of its surroundings, the Grill presents it fare on dark linen tablecloths amid decor that recalls Mountain Cove Farms early years when it was home to cattle — and cattlemen — who hailed from Montana.

Formerly known as The Manor House, the restaurant first opened in 2013 to serve reenactors and those attending the 150th commemoration of the Battle of Chickamauga that was staged at Mountain Cove Farm,

Perhaps it was the remote location, perhaps its was the pricing structure or perhaps it was nothing more than the usual hardships of staffing any eatery that prevented that restaurant’s success, but the Manor House was unable to attract and satisfy enough customers to be profitable.

But Cornelison thinks he can not only open The Mountain Cove Grill — and keep it open — but also turn a profit while operating it as an upscale restaurant, comparable to the J.Alexander’s or Town & Country restaurants that were fixtures on the Chattanooga-area scene for decades.

Operating with a three-year lease from the Walker County Development Authority, its initial terms are $600 per month, Cornelsion has a world-class chef,

a professional staff, a full liquor license and an intimate setting ready and welcoming for anyone.

Already the restaurant is accepting reservations for wedding parties, Valentine’s Day or other special occasions and for those wanting to try the area’s newest fine dining establishment.

“I am excited to to invite the citizens of Walker County to visit the restaurant,” Cornelison said.