Thick with mountain town charm, Knoxville is a city that’s a must-visit for anyone who makes their way to Tennessee. From charming locals to a surprisingly funny history of streaking cropping up at local sports events (to the point that the city gained the unfortunately hilarious title of Streaking Capital of the World), this city is as entertaining as it is welcoming.
The restaurants that call Knoxville home are unlike any other, taking hospitality and good flavor seriously. Here are four of the best places in the city, and why you should give them a try!
Cafe 4
Average Affordability: very affordable.
What The Locals Think: it has 4.5 stars out of 5.
Where To Find It: downtown.
We all need a little southern comfort food from time to time, and Cafe 4 takes this very seriously. With homestyle favorites like pecan pie, and biscuits and gravy, you’ll get to dig into foods that will remind you of lazy summer days when you were younger. Even if you’re not from the south, this food will soothe a part of your mind that craves the perfect mix of salt and savory. Their food constantly wins awards and is worth a visit.
Calhoun’s on the River
Average Affordability: decently priced.
What The Locals Think: it has 4.4 stars out of 5.
Where To Find It: downtown.
Tennessee barbecue, delicious salty sides, and fun mixes of classics make Calhoun’s a restaurant locals keep coming back. Although it’s a local chain, every restaurant under this name works hard to be your favorite chain. The burgers are ground in-house, and all of the food has a fresh and delicious flavor you can’t find in most chain restaurants.
Chesapeake Seafood Restaurant
Average Affordability: prices on the upper end.
What The Locals Think: it has 4.5 stars out of 5.
Where To Find It: downtown.
Although seafood is loved internationally, the East Coast of the USA does it differently. The cozy and fun seaside decor adds a quirky touch to this slightly more expensive eaterie. Offering classics like lobster and calamari and staple foods that they’ve served since they opened, this is a restaurant that evokes a kind of nostalgia in its customers.
Tupelo Honey
Average Affordability: surprisingly great value.
What The Locals Think: it has 4.4 stars out of 5.
Where To Find It: downtown.
The only complaint we could find about Tupelo honey was that the food was too good to stop and take pictures for the review! This popular eatery offers modern twists on the southern comfort foods we all know so well. With mouth-wateringly delicious sweet and spicy ribs and customer service that makes you feel like you’re being welcomed home, you’ll want to start searching Knoxville real estate on first taste. There’s a quality about Tupelo Honey that makes it impossible to try without telling other people they have to eat there too. It’s one of a kind and a top choice for anyone who’s in the area.
Although Knoxville isn’t the most significant city out there, its restaurants offer the best food you’ll taste. The next time you’re in town, try one of these local favorites, and you’ll never want to leave again!