Knoxville, Tennessee’s original capital and one of the largest cities in the South, is known for its eclectic mix of Appalachian culture, urban sophistication, and rich history. The city’s culinary delights reflect this melting pot of influences, from raw tuna steaks to barbecue to fried catfish, all served with a side of the city’s culture and history. You also find more delesious food in Knoxville, TN. Here we introduce some foodie guides for Knoxville, TN.
Bistro at the Bijou
In addition to being nestle in one of the oldest buildings in Knoxville. The Bistro at the Bijou has hosted five American presidents throughout the course of its former life as a frontier hotel and tavern. A 19th century painting known as ‘Miss Lil’ hangs behind the bar. The Bistro now offers a wide selection of delicious dishes for theatregoers and those visiting for the food and ambiance. From brunch through dinner, you can order sandwiches, comfort food, steak, and seafood.
Shuck Raw Bar & Ale
Shuck Raw Bar & Ale offers fresh seafood in an ultra-modern setting on Gay Street. This trendy restaurant features fish tacos, hand-selected oysters, and raw tuna, which will satisfy seafood lovers of all tastes. Also on the menu are po’ boys, a classic Southern sandwich with grouper, shrimp, crab or oysters, homemade tartar sauce, romaine lettuce, and tomato on a hoagie bun. There is an extensive drinks menu available, including wine, specialty cocktails, and a variety of ales and lagers.
The Crown & Goose
Knoxville’s first London-style gastropub, The Crown & Goose, is located on South Central Street in the Old City. The pub offers oysters, fresh seafood, British classics, and award-winning cheese boards. In case guests cannot decide, Chef Jeffrey DeAlejandro recommends the Confit Duck Leg, two confit duck legs with barley risotto, spinach, and parmesan broth, and the Creekstone Ribeye & Chips, 12 oz. Topped with balsamic and red wine reduction and grilled onions. Served with French fries. The dishes are prepared with locally sourced ingredients and paired with a wide range of drinks from all over the world.
Stock & Barrel
Knoxville residents frequent Stock & Barrel for the best burger in town. In addition to serving excellent burgers, Stock & Barrel aims to promote local sustainability by sourcing all beef from Mitchell Family Farms in Blaine, Tennessee; and bread, cheese, and bacon from other local suppliers. Other items on the menu include fried green tomatoes with goat’s cheese in balsamic reduction and a white cheddar pimiento cheese dip. Burgers and Bourbon is Stock & Barrel’s tagline, and the bourbon selection does indeed live up to it.
Bistro by the Tracks
The Bistro by the Tracks combines continental cuisine with a Southern flare to offer a fine dining experience in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Chester Miller created unique dishes, such as his butter-poached shrimp and scallion in tomato cream served with crispy grits and cornmeal-crusted catfish, as well as crayfish, red beans and rice, and remoulade. Miller’s exceptional dishes will be complemented perfectly by the wine list at Bistro by the Tracks; the restaurant has also received Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. Bistro by the Tracks is open for lunch and dinner.
Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner & Show
Visitors with an adventurous spirit should travel a short distance from Knoxville to Pigeon Forge for a unique cultural experience known as the Dixie Stampede. This family-friendly show features horse-riding stunts, Bluegrass and country music, and a North and South rivalry theme based on the American Civil War. During the dinner show, a four-course meal is served on a fixed menu that includes a vegetarian option. The Dixie Stampede is a fun, light-hearted event that gives insight into Southern culture and history.
Café 4
With a menu including breakfast, lunch, and dinner (plus a gluten-free option), Café 4 offers something for everyone. The menu is made with locally sourced ingredients and includes a variety of dishes: You will find fried chicken and waffles as well as the Café 4 strawberry salad, steak roquefort, and a mac & cheese bar. The cafe also has a bakery with many sweet treats. Cafe 4 is a top romantic restaurant in America, according to Gourmet.com, for its intimate ambiance. It is located in Market Square and features live music in The Square Room.
The French Market
Knoxville’s premier crêperie is The French Market. Located on Gay Street, The French Market specializes in savoury and sweet crêpes made with a batter imported directly from France and a variety of fillings. As well as serving baguettes, croissants, soups and salads, The French Market also serves dinner on Thursday through Saturday in a cozy, friendly setting.
The Grill at Highlands Row
Highlands Grill dates back to the time of Prohibition in America (1920-1933). There was alcohol serve at the restaurant, but only if a patron know the owner. Now that all diners can be treate equally and freely, The Grill at Highlands Row continues to provide hospitality. The menu features local delicacies like shrimp and grits and fried pickles, as well as gourmet steaks and crab cakes. The restaurant is locally owne and sources many of its ingredients locally. The Grill’s (completely legal) moonshine cocktail is a nod to its speakeasy past, and is perfect to enjoy on the patio. While taking in some of the beautiful weather Knoxville has to offer during the spring and summer.
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