16 Best Places to Eat in Knoxville, TN for Foodies
If you find yourself in Knoxville, Tennessee – great news is coming your way. Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering adventure as we unveil the absolute best places to eat in this vibrant city.
Whether you have an insatiable craving for delectable Southern cuisine or are on the hunt for exotic international flavors, Knoxville has got you covered.
From hidden gems that only the locals know about to popular hotspots that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy, this article will be your ultimate guide to indulging in culinary excellence.
So grab a pen and paper (or simply bookmark this page), because by the end of this read, you’ll have a list of must-visit restaurants that will have your stomach rumbling!
1. Harby’s Pizza
Oh, it’s pizza time! And Harby’s Pizza & Deli is just the right place to be in Knoxville for some swoon-worthy pies that’ll have you singing for more.
What sets Harby’s apart from the rest? Think homemade dough, fresh ingredients, and an undeniable charm that’ll have you wondering why you haven’t been here sooner.
Now, let’s talk about the crème de la crème of their menu. Their popular Supreme Pizza is truly a showstopper, complete with savory meats, veggies, and all the cheesy goodness you could ever wish for.
But don’t shy away from their wide array of deli sandwiches too, as they’re equally drool-worthy!
Harby’s also has a one-of-a-kind submarine sandwich. Their signature Wedgey Sandwich is loaded with double meats, onions, mustard, and olives – it’s a must try.
2. Stock & Barrel
Nestled in the heart of Market Square, Stock & Barrel has been serving succulent burgers with a contemporary twist that will leave your palate begging for more.
With its cozy atmosphere and top-notch service, Stock & Barrel seems almost too good to be true.
Step right up to their vast menu, where you’ll find epic options like the heavenly Bernie Burger or the irresistible Black and Blue Burger.
And, fear not, dear seafood lovers, they’ve got you covered with their mouthwatering Salmon Burger. Talk about a party in your mouth!
Stock & Barrel offers not only regular buns but also gluten-free ones. Who says dietary restrictions can’t be catered to in style?
3. Sticky Rice Cafe
Ready to explore the wonders of Laotian cuisine? Venture into the vibrant world of the Sticky Rice Cafe in Knoxville.
This gem offers authentic dishes with a delightful blend of flavors, oozing a homey atmosphere that’ll tickle your curiosity and cravings.
Some favorites from the menu that you absolutely must try include the scrumptious Crab Rangoon and the mouth-watering Beef Jerky.
If you’re into soup, the Kow Pek Soup will definitely warm your heart, while the Baked Chicken is perfect for those who are fond of a hearty, sizzling option.
Sticky Rice Cafe also has a loyalty rewards program! As if you needed more reasons to visit; sign up and indulge in the deliciousness while scoring some rewards along the way.
4. Farmacy
Hold onto your hats, foodies! Enter Farmacy, a fantastic restaurant located in Knoxville.
They serve up southern comfort and brunch dishes with a farm-fresh twist. Some customer favorites are the Hot Chicken, a lip-smacking spicy delight, and the Vitality Bowl, a tasteful, healthy alternative.
And, oh, don’t even get us started on their heavenly Beignets and Churro Waffles!
Locals and visitors alike can’t get enough of their special Taco Tuesdays featuring $3 tacos and $5 margaritas; now that’s a spark of joy in your week.
5. Altruda’s
Altruda’s is a cozy Italian eatery that offers an incredible menu, making you feel like you’ve been whisked away to a charming trattoria in Italy.
When it comes to choosing a dish, it’s hard to go wrong at Altruda’s. A crowd favorite is their Fettuccine Alfredo, while others rave about the Pollo Florentine.
And, of course, don’t forget to finish your meal with their heavenly Tiramisu, which has been known to induce happy sighs and dreams of endless Italian desserts.
6. Asia Kitchen
Strolling around Knoxville with an empty stomach and craving delicious Asian cuisine? Look no further: Asia Kitchen will be your light at the end of a munchy marathon.
A beautiful blend of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Asian Fusion awaits you here; this delectable spot captures Knoxville’s foodie heart with its amazing flavors.
You’ll be elbowing each other to grab a bite of the tempting Orange Beef; it’s just one of those can’t-miss, irresistible dishes.
Equally tasty are the Vegetable Spring Rolls and Cantonese Style Roast Duck – you’ll have trouble choosing between them!
7. Cafe 4
Located in the heart of historic Market Square, Cafe 4 is a true urban retreat serving traditional Southern comfort foods with a twist.
From the fan-favorite shrimp and grits to the mouth-watering bistro steak, your options are limitless.
Their brunch menu is something of a local secret, with scrumptious dishes you’ll scribble in your foodie diary with glee.
8. Chesapeake’s Seafood Restaurant
Chesapeake’s Seafood Restaurant offers the freshest catch straight from the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific Coasts. Step into your seafood paradise filled with delightful marine flavors and sinful indulgences.
Customer favorites include live Maine lobster and superb Maryland Crab cakes. Don’t forget to explore their assorted oyster selection – a must-have for a true seafood connoisseur like yourself.
And if you’re looking to have brunch in Knoxville, their Sunday brunch will have your senses dancing with joy (calories are just a number).
Tip: Chesapeake’s offers a wonderful happy hour at their bar/lounge. Hooray for budget-friendly indulgence!
9. Bistro at the Bijou
Bistro at the Bijou is a downtown gem known for its live jazz, great food, and refreshing drinks.
Thanks to their made-from-scratch recipes and locally-sourced ingredients, your meal is sure to be a delight.
Pop into this eatery and try the customer favorites – maybe their famous burgers or wild mushroom ravioli, or even something to cater to those Atkins and paleo diets.
Bistro at the Bijou changes their menu seasonally, so you’ll never get bored with the offerings. Plus, they grow many of their own vegetables, so you know you’ll always be digging into the freshest ingredients.
10. Kefi
Are you craving something Mediterranean in Knoxville? Kefi is a charming eatery that brings the flavors of Greece right to your plate with a modern twist, making it a must-visit spot in the city.
When you find yourself seated amidst Kefi’s inviting atmosphere, you’ll definitely want to try customer favorites like succulent lamb cutlets or mouthwatering grilled octopus.
With such a tempting menu, it’s no wonder this place has quickly climbed the ranks of Knoxville’s best dining spots!
11. Stefano’s
Stefano’s is a pizza joint you’ll definitely want to swing by when in Knoxville. This gem is known for their delectable pies that will leave you drooling uncontrollably.
You simply can’t go wrong with their crowd-pleasers like the 3 Little Pigs or The Traditional.
Our top recommendation, though? Try the Windy City with extra cheese, pepperoni and mushrooms!
12. Kaizen
Craving Asian flavors? Kaizen is a restaurant tucked away in the Old City and is known for offering a unique spin on Japanese-inspired cuisine.
Customers rave about their ever-popular steamed buns (yum!) and the Roasted Duck Legs.
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, check out their Honey Fish Sauce Wings that are sure to satisfy any palate.
Kaizen frequently updates its menu; you can always look forward to new and exciting dishes when you visit.
13. The Tomato Head
The Tomato Head is where your cravings for mouthwatering pizzas, calzones, salads, and sandwiches are about to be fulfilled.
Their diverse menu offers something for everybody, including scrumptious vegan and vegetarian options.
You might want to try their creative and delectable loaded pizzas, or how about a flavorful, hearty salad? Don’t forget the appetizing hummus plate!
14. Bombay Palace
Get ready to dive into a world of bold spices and aromas when you visit Bombay Palace.
Renowned for its appetizing Indian cuisine, this place is sure to captivate your senses and leave you craving more.
Crowd pleasers include dishes like the Tandoori Chicken and the ever-so-creamy Saag Paneer.
Bombay Palace has an incredible buffet that even the savviest Knoxville foodies can’t get enough of.
With its mouthwatering dishes, charming atmosphere, and value for money, Bombay Palace is the perfect destination for a night out or a feast with friends.
15. Sweet P’s Barbeque & Downtown Dive
If you’re searching for the epitome of delicious food in Knoxville, then Sweet P’s Barbeque & Downtown Dive is the place to be.
This eatery is your go-to destination for mouthwatering, smoky delights that will leave your inner carnivore cheering for joy.
When it comes to menu recommendations, you have options aplenty. Give the scrumptious Sweet P’s BBQ Plate a try, or maybe the classic Tennessee Brisket.
Evoke the feeling of a true Southern feast with their Sweet P’s Sampler, complete with a rack of ribs, brisket, a sandwich and your choice of three sides.
Fun fact: Sweet P’s began as a humble catering company in 2005. Yes, indeed! They’ve since grown into a Knoxville favorite, earning rave reviews from locals and travelers alike.
16. Nama Sushi Bar
Knoxville has a hidden gem that’ll make sushi lovers swoon! Nama Sushi Bar has been the reigning champ of sushi in town since 2004.
With a menu that’s alive with fun, fresh, and fusion cuisine, this sushi spot is begging to win your heart and satisfy your craving.
When you’re there, don’t miss out on their customer favorites like the Stuffed Maguro or the Caterpillar Roll. And if you’re feeling daring, venture into their colorful selection of creative cocktails.
Nama has a little secret – they offer half-priced sushi nights on Mondays and Thursdays from 4pm to closing time!
