New food options are available at the Chattanooga Zoo. (Photo: Contributed)

The Chattanooga Zoo has a new restaurant and renovated gift shop.

“It’s a brand-new restaurant,” Hannah Hammon, Chattanooga Zoo marketing and communication director, said. “It’s in the same area as our food services were before, but it’s been renovated with a little cosmetic work.”

Visitors will see new tables and chairs, and notice a “new vibe,” she also said.

Patrons will order and get a buzzer to notify them when the food is ready. All the food is cooked to order, Hammon also said.

The food service area has been revamped. (Photo: Contributed)

The menu includes items such as salads, burgers, chicken fingers, fries and frozen bananas. And there’s plenty for children, such as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

The zoo partnered with Denver-based Service Systems Associates for the restaurant and retail experience changes.

Changes at the gift shop include renovations and new vendor items, Hammon also said.

There’s merchandise exclusively created for the Chattanooga Zoo, handmade items that support conservation initiatives, pieces created by locals, children’s books and clothing.

This partnership comes at a time of growth and advancement at the Chattanooga Zoo, according to a news release.

The goal of this partnership is to create an exceptional visitor experience, according to a news release.

“We’re excited to have SSA manage our culinary and retail operations at the Chattanooga Zoo,” CEO Dardenelle Long said in a prepared statement.  “We wanted a partner that had an exceptional track record in visitor services, and we were pleased to find that with SSA. As our zoo continues its growth, it is important to us that we find partners that are committed to our mission and will support our goals.”