Knoxville restaurants

Knoxville Restaurants and Tennessee Food Hot Spots

Looking for great southern food with a view in Knoxville? Calhoun’s On The River is your spot. It’s not just about the amazing scenery. They serve up all your southern favorites, like BBQ and fried green tomatoes. Right on Neyland Drive, Calhoun’s is a must-visit in Knoxville. And when visiting nearby spots like Market Square or Gay Street, easy parking makes it a no-brainer to stop by.

Key Takeaways

  • Calhoun’s On The River offers the perfect blend of southern cuisine and scenic waterfront views.
  • Located on Neyland Drive, this restaurant is a staple in Knoxville’s dining scene.
  • Knoxville’s downtown area, including Market Square and Gay Street, is packed with outstanding dining options.
  • Economical parking makes it convenient for visitors to enjoy Knoxville’s culinary delights.
  • Local eateries and vibrant food scenes in Knoxville rival those in Asheville and Nashville.

Best Restaurants in Knoxville, TN

Knoxville boasts an array of dining experiences, spanning from budget finds to upscale places. For a special evening, J.C. Holdway comes highly recommended for fine dining.

Tomato Head welcomes families with a variety of dishes, mainly focused on vegetarian meals. Pub enthusiasts will enjoy Pretentious Beer Co. for its lively setting and drinks.

For coffee lovers, Old City Java and K Brew offer some of the best brews. Meanwhile, Calhoun’s on the River provides a beautiful riverfront setting, perfect to enjoy the city’s scenic views.

  • Old City Java – Ideal for a cozy coffee break.
  • K Brew – Known for its specialty coffee blends.
  • The French Market – Perfect for a delightful breakfast.
  • Cafe 4 – A go-to spot for a pleasant brunch.

If you’re looking for “popular restaurants near me,” Knoxville’s Old City is full of unique gastronomic delights. The French Market is praised for breakfast and lunch. Cafe 4’s brunch is a must-try.

In Knoxville, you’re spoiled for choice with top dining options, ranging from the charming Old City to upscale venues. Whether you seek a unique coffee house or high-end dining, there’s something new to discover. Knoxville promises a great culinary adventure, from dawn till dusk.

Looking for a place in Knoxville with great views and Southern food? Calhoun’s On The River is your spot. It’s located on Neyland Drive, offering more than just food. With its scenic Tennessee River views and tasty meals, it’s perfect for anyone.

Key Takeaways

  • Calhoun’s On The River is a premier waterfront dining spot in Knoxville.
  • The restaurant offers stunning views of the Tennessee River.
  • Its menu features a variety of classic Southern flavors.
  • Located on Neyland Drive, it’s easily accessible and ideal for a relaxing meal.
  • Calhoun’s provides a memorable dining experience that transcends traditional restaurant visits.

Stock & Barrel

Ever wondered where Knox County’s best burger meets an amazing bourbon selection? Stock & Barrel is your spot, right in Market Square’s heart. It’s not just a local favorite. Its commitment to local ingredients makes its burgers famous throughout Knoxville.

This comfy eatery is known for its high-quality fare. Both casual folks and food enthusiasts love it here. The long waits you might encounter talk to its local popularity. But they’re definitely worth it to taste Stock & Barrel’s special dishes.

Key Takeaways

  • Stock & Barrel is celebrated for offering Knoxville’s best burgers.
  • Located in Market Square, it has become a go-to spot for both locals and tourists.
  • The restaurant emphasizes using local ingredients, adding to its reputation for quality.
  • A thoughtfully curated selection of bourbons complements their mouthwatering burgers.
  • Expect substantial wait times, reflecting the venue’s popularity and exceptional dining experience.

The French Market Creperie

Have you ever dreamed of trying true French dishes without going to France?
In the bustling Market Square, The French Market Creperie brings a bit of Paris to you. It’s famous as one of the best Knoxville eateries. Here on Clinch Avenue, you can find the perfect place if you love European food. The French Market Creperie is ideal for a fancy breakfast or a snack in the middle of the day.

best Knoxville eateries

Key Takeaways

  • Located in Market Square, offering a distinct French dining experience in Knoxville.
  • Specializes in both sweet and savory crêpes.
  • Highly praised for its authentic ambiance and menu.
  • Prime destination for breakfast or a mid-day European-style treat.
  • One of the best Knoxville eateries for those seeking a taste of France.

Tupelo Honey

What makes a brunch spot that everyone loves in Knoxville? Tupelo Honey is the answer.

This restaurant brings “New South” flavors from Asheville to Knoxville. It’s known for amazing biscuits and a kids’ menu with treats like sweet potato pancakes. Tupelo Honey is a must-visit place on Market Square, especially for families.

Key Takeaways

  • Originates from Asheville, offering authentic “New South” cuisine.
  • Famous for its irresistible house biscuits and kids’ menu including sweet potato pancakes.
  • Located in the bustling Market Square, a prime spot for Knoxville’s food scene.
  • Open daily, making it ideal for both weekend brunches and daily meals.
  • Provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for family dining.

Emilia

top dining spots in Knoxville

What makes Italian dining unforgettable? Emilia, in Market Square, is a must-visit spot. It takes you to Italy with its regional dishes and wonderful setting. This place is famous for its fresh bread and handcrafted pastas, standing tall in Knoxville’s dining scene.

If you’re looking for a perfect spot for a romantic night out or a family feast, Emilia’s menu won’t disappoint. It’s beloved by those who enjoy good Italian food and anyone exploring Market Square’s dining options.

Key Takeaways

  • Emilia is located in the vibrant Market Square, making it accessible for both locals and tourists.
  • The restaurant specializes in Italian cuisine with house-made pastas and freshly baked bread.
  • Emilia’s cozy and brick-walled space is perfect for intimate dinners and family gatherings.
  • It offers a refined, yet accessible, menu appealing to gourmands and casual diners alike.
  • Emilia has established itself as one of the top dining spots in Knoxville, renowned for its high-quality Italian dishes.

J.C. Holdway

Can you imagine Knoxville serving Southern food at its finest? It’s all thanks to a James Beard Award-winning chef at J.C. Holdway. This restaurant on Union Avenue shines with its mix of local flair and unique cooking. Dive into small plates or enjoy a cocktail at the bar. J.C. Holdway is ready to take your taste buds on a thrilling journey.

Key Takeaways

  • J.C. Holdway features the culinary excellence of a James Beard Award-winning chef.
  • Located on Union Avenue, it’s a staple of fine dining in Knoxville.
  • Experience Southern cuisine with a unique wood-fired twist.
  • Offers a variety of small plates and an impressive bar experience.
  • Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

Lakeside Tavern

Is there anything better than amazing food with a view of the lake? Lakeside Tavern lets diners explore this idea with fancy meals and a peaceful lake atmosphere. It’s known in Knoxville for top-notch service and an elegant feel. Here, your meal becomes more than just eating – it’s an experience mixing great food and beautiful sights. Special events or just a laid-back dinner, Lakeside Tavern brings together fine dining and nature’s beauty. This ensures each trip is unforgettable.

Key Takeaways

  • Offers a blend of upscale dining and picturesque lakeside views.
  • Known for exceptional service and a sophisticated atmosphere.
  • A top choice for celebratory occasions or leisurely meals.
  • Provides a culinary experience that marries refinement with natural beauty.
  • A standout among Knoxville restaurants, perfect for creating memorable dining experiences.

Cafe 4

What makes a long-time staple like Cafe 4 stand the test of time in Knoxville’s ever-evolving dining landscape?

Cafe 4 is well-known in Knoxville for its American dishes, especially its early breakfast. Situated in a cozy Market Square, it’s a favorite for many. People love the quality it serves and dining outside in its lovely patio area.

Its inviting atmosphere in Market Square draws a crowd every day. This beloved spot mixes elegance with a laid-back feel, making meals enjoyable for everyone.

Key Takeaways

  • Renowned for its early breakfast offerings
  • Consistently delivers quality American cuisine
  • Offers a warm outdoor patio experience
  • Located in the heart of Market Square
  • An inviting atmosphere perfect for all occasions
  • Maintains a top position in Knoxville restaurant reviews

Tomato Head

What makes a spot loved by locals in a changing downtown food scene? Tomato Head in Knoxville has withstood time, staying popular despite changes downtown.

best Knoxville eateries

It serves not just delicious pizzas and calzones but also many options for vegetarians. The unique Kepner Melt sandwich shows their originality and keeps people coming back. If you’re in town, whether a resident or a tourist, it’s a top spot for any meal.

Key Takeaways

  • Tomato Head is a must-visit among the best Knoxville eateries.
  • The menu features a wide selection of pizzas and calzones.
  • Numerous vegetarian options are available.
  • The unique Kepner Melt sandwich is a crowd favorite.
  • Located in vibrant Market Square, it’s perfect for all meal occasions.

The Plaid Apron

Do you love eating where the food is as local as it gets? At The Plaid Apron, that’s exactly what you get. It’s in Knoxville, a special place that truly values its food and its people.

This spot is a big deal among the Knoxville restaurants. They really care about using ingredients from the area. It’s all about fresh and local at The Plaid Apron.

Every meal you get here is a nod to Knoxville’s farming roots. They’re all about celebrating that and they do it well. This place shows how being smart about food can also be delicious.

Key Takeaways

  • Embodies farm-to-table dining with fresh, local ingredients.
  • Reflects Knoxville’s agricultural heritage and innovation.
  • Offers a unique artisanal dining experience.
  • Supports sustainability and community values.
  • A must-visit for those seeking quality and ingenuity in their meals.

Brazeiros Churrascaria – Brazilian Steakhouse

Step into Brazeiros Churrascaria and feel like you’re in Brazil, right in Knoxville. This spot merges Brazilian cuisine with special dining. It’s more than eating out; it’s a lively experience with grilled meats served right to you. Accompanied by a mix of gourmet salads and South American sides, Brazeiros spices up Knoxville’s food scene.

Brazilian steakhouse experience

Key Takeaways

  • Brazeiros Churrascaria offers an authentic Brazilian steakhouse experience in Knoxville.
  • Diners enjoy a variety of grilled meats served tableside.
  • The menu features gourmet salads and traditional Brazilian sides.
  • It brings a vibrant alternative to local Knoxville cuisine.
  • Brazeiros exemplifies the global culinary influence within the city.

Knox Mason

Ever thought about what a chef’s touch does to a city’s food scene? Knox Mason does just that. It’s a top restaurant in Knoxville, led by the city’s finest chef. He mixes local flavors with new methods brilliantly.

Knox Mason’s menu is a mix of old Southern tastes and new food frontiers. They pick the best local ingredients to make Tennessee’s dishes stand out. This blend of the known and the fresh makes eating here unforgettable, standing Knox Mason among Knoxville’s greatest.

Key Takeaways

  • Knox Mason is celebrated for its innovative use of regional ingredients.
  • Helmed by Knoxville’s best chef, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience.
  • The menu honors Southern traditions while embracing culinary innovation.
  • Located in Knoxville, it stands out among popular restaurants near me.
  • Each dish promises a memorable gastronomic journey.

Aubrey’s

Looking for a place with great vibes and food for the whole family? Welcome to Aubrey’s in Knoxville. It’s known for its welcoming vibe and tasty American dishes.

Aubrey’s is famous for being a place where everyone can find something they love. The menu mixes classic comfort food with healthy meals. So, whether you want a juicy burger or a fresh salad, Aubrey’s has you covered.

Key Takeaways

  • Aubrey’s is one of the top dining spots in Knoxville.
  • It offers a family-friendly dining experience.
  • The menu features a mix of American classics and healthful options.
  • Aubrey’s is known for its welcoming atmosphere and reliable quality.
  • The restaurant is a community cornerstone for casual American cuisine.

Chesapeake’s

Chesapeake’s brings the taste of the sea to Knoxville, even away from the coast. It specializes in fresh seafood, creating a high-end dining space. Known for its varied seafood dishes, it lets seafood lovers enjoy the flavors of the ocean in Tennessee.

This place offers a wide range of seafood, from tender oysters to rich lobster dips. This choice ensures every visitor gets a taste of the sea. The restaurant’s dedication to quality means each dish feels like a trip to the beach.

Chesapeake’s elegant design matches its top-notch menu. This creates a sophisticated yet enjoyable dining experience. It’s known in Knoxville for its exceptional service and careful touch, making it a top spot for seafood.

Customers love Chesapeake’s for its food and unique Knoxville experience. It’s a place for quality seafood dining in a fancy setting. This shows the best of Knoxville’s dining, with a bit of coastal magic.