Downtown Knoxville has exploded with incredible restaurants over the past few years. From quick bites to white tablecloth experiences, the city center has it all. But with so many options, how do you choose?
Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite or a visitor trying to make the most of your trip, this guide is here to help. We’ve curated a list of downtown Knoxville restaurants to suit every taste and occasion, from date night destinations to family-friendly spots.
We’ll break down the best restaurants by location, type of food, and atmosphere. Plus, we’ll point out the best patios and give you the lowdown on parking, so you can focus on enjoying your meal.
“At A Glance” Favorite Restaurants In Downtown Knoxville
Downtown Knoxville has a ton of great restaurants, and it can be hard to choose! Here are a few favorites to get you started. They’re all award-winning, locally acclaimed, and easy to get to.
- Yassin’s Falafel House: Featured as “The Nicest Place in America” on Good Morning America, Yassin’s is a must-try for delicious and authentic Middle Eastern food.
- Potchke Deli: Named one of USA Today’s Best Restaurants, Potchke serves up amazing Jewish deli classics.
- [Insert Restaurant Name Here]: [Brief description of cuisine and highlights, mentioning if it was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives].
- [Insert Restaurant Name Here]: [Brief description of cuisine and highlights].
- [Insert Restaurant Name Here]: [Brief description of cuisine and highlights].
One of the best things about dining downtown is how easy it is to get around. Most restaurants are within walking distance of hotels and parking garages, so you can explore different options without having to drive all over town.
Favorite Downtown Knoxville Restaurants By Location
Downtown Knoxville’s dining scene is as diverse and exciting as the city itself. From bustling Market Square to the historic Old City, here’s a breakdown of some can’t-miss spots, organized by location:
Market Square Favorites
Market Square is a hub of activity, buzzing with energy and offering a wide range of cuisines. With its outdoor seating and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to people-watch while enjoying a delicious meal.
Here are a few standouts:
- Petro’s Chili & Chips: A Knoxville classic, serving up delicious chili-topped chips in a casual setting.
- Myrtle’s Chicken + Beer: Southern comfort food at its finest, featuring crispy fried chicken and a great selection of local brews.
- Stock & Barrel: Gourmet burgers made with locally sourced ingredients. Expect a wait, but it’s worth it.
- Soccer Taco: A fun and festive spot for authentic Mexican street food with a soccer theme.
- Ruby Sunshine: New Orleans-inspired brunch dishes that are sure to start your day off right.
Gay Street Favorites
Gay Street offers a more upscale and diverse culinary experience, with a mix of fine dining and international flavors.
Don’t miss these gems:
- KoPita: Delicious Mediterranean street food in a fast-casual setting.
- Oliver Royale: A sophisticated spot for classic French cuisine with a modern twist.
Where To Eat On Union Avenue
Union Avenue is a central thoroughfare with a mix of dining options, perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.
- Cafe 4: A popular spot for American comfort food with a modern twist, located inside the historic Mast General Store.
Where To Eat In The Old City
The Old City is known for its unique character and vibrant nightlife, and its dining scene is no exception. Expect a mix of trendy restaurants and lively bars.
Check out these favorites:
- STIR: Known for its craft cocktails and fresh oyster bar, STIR is a stylish spot for a night out.
- Urban Bar: A lively bar and restaurant with a diverse menu and a great selection of drinks.
Downtown Knoxville’s Best Patios
When the weather’s right, there’s nothing quite like dining al fresco, and luckily, downtown Knoxville boasts more than 60 restaurants with patios where you can soak up the sun (or stars) while you eat. Whether you’re looking for a casual spot to grab a beer or a romantic setting for a special occasion, you’re sure to find the perfect patio in downtown Knoxville.
Before you head out, it’s worth considering what you’re looking for in a patio experience. Are you bringing your furry friend? Do you want a stunning view? Or maybe you just want a place to people-watch. Here are a few of our favorite downtown Knoxville patios, with something for everyone:
- Balter Beerworks: This popular brewpub has both a front and back patio, perfect for enjoying their extensive beer selection.
- The Brass Pearl: If you’re an oyster lover, The Brass Pearl’s patio is a must-visit.
- Calhoun’s on the River: Enjoy stunning river views from Calhoun’s expansive outdoor deck.
- Chesapeake’s: Discover Chesapeake’s hidden courtyard, complete with colorful umbrellas for a touch of whimsy.
- Chivo Taqueria: Grab a seat on Chivo’s small patio and watch the world go by.
- Emilia: For a romantic Italian dining experience, Emilia’s patio is hard to beat.
- J.C. Holdway: This James Beard Award-winning restaurant boasts a patio on a quieter street, perfect for a more intimate meal.
- Kaizen: Enjoy your meal under a pergola at Kaizen, which also features a projector screen for entertainment.
- Nama Sushi Downtown: Head to Nama’s wrap-around patio for happy hour and delicious sushi.
- Not Watson’s: This bustling patio is a great spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
- Pour Taproom: Keep it casual at Pour Taproom’s patio, complete with large picnic tables.
- Vida: This romantic patio is located in the Holston Building next to Krutch Park, offering a beautiful setting.
Other Notable Patios
Looking for even more options? Here are a few other patios worth checking out:
- Tupelo Honey: Relax on Tupelo Honey’s “extended front porch” patio and enjoy some Southern cooking.
- Side Hustle: This large courtyard patio features BBQ and live music.
- PostModern Spirits: Sip on cocktails while overlooking Jackson Ave from PostModern Spirits’ patio.
South Knoxville: Restaurants Right Across the River
Don’t limit yourself to downtown! Some of Knoxville’s best restaurants sit just across the river in South Knoxville. And they’re easy to get to by car or even on foot.
For example, you could check out Alliance Brewing Company on Sevier Avenue, which features a wide selection of craft beers and tasty pub fare. Or, if you’re in the mood for something more upscale, try SoKno Taco Cantina, known for its innovative tacos and lively atmosphere. Both are local favorites!
The best part is, South Knoxville is just a short drive or walk from downtown, making it easy to expand your culinary horizons.
In Conclusion
From fine dining to quick bites, Downtown Knoxville offers a diverse and vibrant restaurant scene. Whether you’re craving upscale Southern cuisine, authentic international flavors, or a casual pub experience, you’ll find it here. And with a range of atmospheres and price points, there’s something for every taste and budget.
We encourage you to explore and discover the many culinary gems that Downtown Knoxville has to offer. Venture beyond your usual spots, try new restaurants, and explore different neighborhoods. You might just find your new favorite place!
Knoxville’s culinary landscape is constantly evolving, and the city is rapidly emerging as a true culinary destination. So, come hungry and get ready to experience the best that Downtown Knoxville has to offer – there’s truly something for everyone!