Knoxville Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Knoxville. Your complete guide to dining in Knoxville.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Knoxville! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Knoxville has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Knoxville's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Knoxville like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Knoxville offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Knoxville.
The Kennedy
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 1136 reviews.
📍 430 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Stock & Barrel
Highly rated American in Knoxville with 4.6 stars from 4730 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 35 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Calhoun's On The River
Highly rated American in Knoxville with 4.3 stars from 7115 reviews.
📍 400 Neyland Dr, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Cafe 4
Highly rated American in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 6525 reviews.
📍 4 Market Square, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
The Brass Pearl
Highly rated Seafood in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 374 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 24 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
71 South
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 840 reviews.
📍 3726 Sevier Heights Rd Suite 200, Knoxville, TN 37920, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Barrelhouse BBQ Smokehouse- Santa Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.9 stars from 1077 reviews.
📍 621 Lamar St, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Farmacy
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 1172 reviews.
📍 5018 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Not Watson's Kitchen + Bar
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.6 stars from 2615 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 15 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Harvest
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 459 reviews.
📍 5200 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Southern Grit
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.6 stars from 956 reviews.
📍 126 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
STIR
Highly rated American in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 757 reviews.
📍 217 Willow Ave, Knoxville, TN 37915, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Knoxville.
Three Rivers Market
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.6 stars from 1434 reviews.
📍 1100 N Central St, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Marble City Market Food Hall & Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 675 reviews.
📍 333 W Depot Ave Suite 110, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Babylon International Market
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.9 stars from 405 reviews.
📍 3925 Western Ave, Knoxville, TN 37921, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Janta Farmers Market Knoxville
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.4 stars from 116 reviews.
📍 8459 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Trader Joe's
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 2885 reviews.
📍 8001 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Fresh Market
Highly rated Bakery in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 540 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 4475 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Holy Land Market
Highly rated Mediterranean in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 1099 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3601 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine
Whole Foods Market
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.3 stars from 2211 reviews.
📍 6730 Papermill Dr NW, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Knoxville.
Knoxville Food Tours
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 5 stars from 32 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Knoxville.
Cafe 4
Highly rated American in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 6525 reviews.
📍 4 Market Square, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Treetop Coffee Shop
Highly rated Cafe in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 130 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1206 Kenesaw Ave, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Awaken Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 496 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 125 W Jackson Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Summer Moon Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Knoxville with 4.6 stars from 382 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 104 N Campbell Station Rd, Knoxville, TN 37934, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Just Love Coffee Cafe - Knoxville
Highly rated Cafe in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 125 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1710 Cumberland Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Hey Bear Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 974 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 9036 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37923, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Capybara Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 314 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2457 University Commons Way, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Seed Coffee Co
Highly rated Cafe in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 133 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2558 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Knoxville.
Signature Dish
A must-try Knoxville specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Knoxville dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Knoxville with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Knoxville specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Knoxville creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Knoxville classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Knoxville specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Knoxville dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Knoxville with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Knoxville specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Knoxville.
Radius Rooftop Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.4 stars from 654 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 507 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Five Thirty Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.6 stars from 670 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 530 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
The Vault
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 225 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 531 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Preservation Pub
Highly rated Pizza in Knoxville with 4.4 stars from 1328 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 28 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Pizza cuisine
Boyd’s Jig and Reel
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 1711 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 101 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Space Bar
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 227 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 179 N Seven Oaks Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Knoxville's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Knoxville vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Knoxville is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Knoxville offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Knoxville specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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