Knoxville has quietly become one of the more interesting food cities in the region.
Alongside its long‑time barbecue and meat‑and‑three institutions, a newer wave of restaurants has embraced seasonal ingredients, global influences, and modern Southern cooking.
These five spots capture the city’s current momentum.
1. J.C. Holdway
J.C. Holdway brings wood‑fired, Southern‑influenced cooking to downtown Knoxville in a refined but welcoming space.
With its open kitchen and glowing hearth, the restaurant feels both elegant and cozy.
The menu changes with the seasons, but you can expect dishes centered on locally sourced meats and vegetables kissed by the wood fire—whole fish, roasted chicken, charred veggies, and inventive small plates.
Techniques are modern, but the flavors lean familiar and comforting.
The wine list and cocktail program support the food without overshadowing it, making it a great choice for a special night out.
2. Knox Mason
Knox Mason offers a contemporary take on Appalachian and Southern fare in an intimate, brick‑lined setting.
It feels like a neighborhood bistro that just happens to have a serious chef behind it.
The kitchen focuses on local farms and producers, turning regional staples—pork, greens, cornmeal, seasonal vegetables—into polished dishes.
You might find house‑made sausages, carefully braised meats, and thoughtful sides like heirloom grits or seasonal vegetable medleys. It’s rooted in tradition but never stuck in it.
3. A Dopo Sourdough Pizza
A Dopo specializes in naturally leavened, wood‑fired sourdough pizzas in a clean, modern dining room that feels casual but considered.
It’s the kind of place you can visit with kids, a date, or a group of friends and feel equally at home.
Pies are built around simple, high‑quality ingredients—good tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, seasonal vegetables, and cured meats.
The crust has that ideal mix of chew and char. Salads, small plates, and gelato round out the menu, while a tight wine and beer list keeps things easy to navigate.
4. OliBea
OliBea is a bright, cheerful breakfast and brunch spot in the Old City, and it shows off Knoxville’s more relaxed, creative side. The room is casual, often busy, and full of locals.
The menu puts a Southern spin on morning staples: biscuits, breakfast tacos, grits, and egg plates with local sausage, bacon, and seasonal veggies.
There’s an emphasis on from‑scratch cooking and regional suppliers, so even a simple plate of eggs feels a bit special. It’s a place where you can taste that extra bit of care in what might otherwise be standard brunch fare.
5. Kaizen
Kaizen is a small, Asian‑inspired spot with a playful menu and a laid‑back vibe. The room is cozy and often packed, giving it the feel of a neighborhood secret that everyone actually knows about.
The kitchen pulls from Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian influences—think bao buns, dumplings, noodle dishes, and seasonal specials that riff on street‑food favorites. Flavors are bold but balanced, with plenty of options for sharing. The drinks list is compact but thoughtful, making this an easy choice for an informal but memorable night out.
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