Knoxville's Best Eats [Updated 2024]

With a total of 12 restaurants reviewed, I have scoured through the culinary scene in Knoxville to bring you only the crème de la crème. From hidden gems tucked away in charming neighborhoods to trendy hotspots downtown, this list has it all.

As a food enthusiast, I have explored every nook and cranny of Knoxville's vibrant dining scene, seeking out the most flavorful dishes and memorable dining experiences. So, whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a tourist eager to discover the city's gastronomic delights, look no further.

Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey through the best eats in Knoxville!

Good Golly Tamale

Highlights
Delicious, authentic flavor
Awesome service
Creative and tasty tamales
Funky, hippie themed decor
Excellent, friendly counter service

First of all, let me just say that the flavor at Good Golly Tamale is off the charts. These tamales have a truly authentic taste that transported me straight to Mexico. Each bite was a burst of deliciousness.

What really made my visit memorable was the awesome service. The staff was friendly, attentive, and passionate about their food. They happily answered all of my questions and made great recommendations.

Now, let's talk about the tamales themselves. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they are also incredibly creative. From traditional options like the spicy pork and chicken to unique choices like the black bean and sweet potato, there is something for everyone here. Each tamale is wrapped to perfection and bursting with fillings.

As I sat in the funky, hippie-themed dining area, I couldn't help but appreciate the attention to detail in the decor. The colorful walls and quirky artwork added to the overall experience and made me feel right at home.

Lastly, I have to commend the excellent, friendly counter service. Even during the lunchtime rush, the staff was quick and efficient, ensuring that everyone got their tamales without any wait.

In conclusion, if you're looking for some of the best eats in Knoxville, Good Golly Tamale is a must-visit. With their delicious, authentic flavors, creative tamales, and top-notch service, this place won't disappoint. So go ahead and indulge in some mouthwatering goodness - your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in Pigeon Forge.

Cafe 4

Highlights
Impeccable service
Delicious food
Great recommendations
Fun and kind staff
Perfect for special events

First and foremost, the impeccable service at Cafe 4 left me feeling like a VIP. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and guided to a cozy table. The staff was not only attentive but also went above and beyond with their knowledge and recommendations.

Now, let's talk about the delicious food. Oh my, my taste buds were in for a treat! Each bite was a burst of flavor that danced on my palate. The menu offers a diverse range of options, from classics with a twist to innovative dishes that are sure to surprise and delight.

What really stood out to me, though, was the staff's ability to give great recommendations. They took the time to understand my preferences and guided me towards dishes that perfectly suited my taste. They truly took the dining experience to another level.

But it wasn't just about the food. The folks at Cafe 4 were also fun and kind. They created an inviting atmosphere that made me feel like a part of their family. Their passion for what they do shined through in every interaction, making the experience memorable and enjoyable.

Cafe 4 is not just a great spot for a regular meal, but also a perfect choice for special events. The charming ambiance and exceptional service make it ideal for celebrating important milestones or simply creating lasting memories with loved ones.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best eats in Knoxville, Cafe 4 is a must-visit destination. With its impeccable service, delicious food, great recommendations, fun and kind staff, and perfect setting for special events, it truly offers an exceptional dining experience.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Nashville.

Oliver Royale Restaurant, by Oliver

Highlights
Delicious mushroom toast
Perfectly cooked salmon
Tasty truffle fries
Amazing chocolate torte
Best pork belly

Upon entering Oliver Royale, I was immediately captivated by its charming and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant exudes a modern yet cozy vibe that sets the tone for a memorable dining experience.

The menu at Oliver Royale offers a delightful array of dishes, but a few highlights deserve special mention. To start, the mushroom toast was a blissful combination of earthy flavors and creamy textures that left me craving another bite. It was the perfect appetizer to set the stage for the feast ahead.

Moving on to the main course, I decided to try the perfectly cooked salmon. The fish was tender, flaky, and seasoned to perfection. Each bite provided a burst of flavor that was sheer culinary bliss.

No meal is complete without a side of tasty truffle fries. These crispy fries elevated the dining experience with their irresistible truffle aroma and delectable dipping sauces.

To end on a sweet note, I indulged in the amazing chocolate torte. The rich, velvety chocolate melted in my mouth, leaving me in a state of pure bliss. It was truly a divine experience for any chocolate lover.

Lastly, I must mention the best pork belly I've ever tasted. The succulent meat was accompanied by a delightful blend of spices and a heavenly caramelized glaze. It was an absolute symphony of flavors.

Overall, my experience at Oliver Royale was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of delicious food, attentive service, and elegant ambiance make it a top contender for the best eats in Knoxville. I can confidently say that dining at Oliver Royale is a must for anyone seeking a gastronomic adventure.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Knoxville.

Stock & Barrel

If you're craving a meaty and mouthwatering burger, Stock & Barrel is the place to go! The ambiance is trendy with a rustic twist, and the service is top-notch. Their diverse selection of unique burger options will leave you drooling. Don't forget to try their truffle fries, they're out of this world!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Chattanooga.

Not Watson's Kitchen + Bar

Not Watson's Kitchen + Bar in Knoxville was an absolute delight! The playful atmosphere matched perfectly with their creative menu. From the mouthwatering burgers to the sinfully delicious desserts, every bite was a flavor explosion. Don't forget to try their signature cocktails - they're unforgettable. A must-visit for foodies!

You might also want to check out the best brunch in Nashville.

Lonesome Dove Knoxville

Lonesome Dove Knoxville, nestled in the heart of Knoxville, is a wildly delicious spot for true food adventurers. Buckle up for a culinary journey filled with bold flavors and unexpected twists. Don't miss their show-stopping cast-iron quail or the tender wild boar ribs that will have you channeling your inner cowboy. Saddle up and get ready for an unforgettable feast at Lonesome Dove Knoxville!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Nashville.

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

Oh boy, was I in for a southern treat at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar in Knoxville! From the moment I stepped foot in this charming eatery, I was welcomed with warmth that could rival grandma's hugs. The menu was a vibrant love letter to southern cuisine, offering mouthwatering dishes like fried chicken and sweet potato pancakes. Each bite was a harmonious symphony of flavors that left me grinning like a possum eating a persimmon. And let's not forget the impeccable service - the staff made me feel like a VIP with their attentive and friendly demeanor. If you're looking for a taste of genuine southern hospitality, Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar is the place to be in Knoxville. Y'all won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best steak in Nashville.

Chesapeake's Seafood Restaurant

Chesapeake's Seafood Restaurant in Knoxville is a seafood lover's paradise! The freshness of the seafood is unmatched, making every bite a delicious adventure. Plus, the welcoming staff and cozy ambiance create the perfect atmosphere for a delightful dining experience. Don't miss out on their signature dishes, they're sure to satisfy your seafood cravings!

You might also want to check out the best coffee shops in Nashville.

Calhoun's On The River

Calhoun's On The River in Knoxville was a gastronomic delight. From their finger-licking baby back ribs to their creamy mac and cheese, every bite was a culinary adventure. The mesmerizing river view added a touch of elegance to this playful and vibrant eatery. It's no wonder it's a notable mention in the best eats in Knoxville.

You might also want to check out the best food in Pigeon Forge.

Yassin's Falafel House

Yassin's Falafel House in Knoxville is a delightful gem that satisfies every craving for incredible Middle Eastern cuisine. Their falafels are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the shawarmas are bursting with flavor. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it a must-visit spot in Knoxville.

You might also want to check out the best dessert in Nashville.

Jackie's Dream

Looking for some dreamy eats in Knoxville? Look no further than Jackie's Dream! This hidden gem offers a playful yet professional dining experience. From their luscious burgers to their finger-licking-good wings, every bite was pure satisfaction. Don't miss out on this flavorful eatery!

You might also want to check out the best new restaurants in Nashville.

Sweet P's Barbecue and Downtown Dive

Sweet P's Barbecue and Downtown Dive in Knoxville is a carnivore's dream come true! Their succulent, finger-licking good BBQ is like a symphony of flavors in every bite. The tender meat falls apart on your tongue, leaving you craving more. The sauce adds a tangy kick that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Plus, the laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.

You might also want to check out the best donuts in Nashville.