Because you’re visiting Knoxville, barbecue is your only option, right? Biscuits are your messiah, no? You love explaining to locals that yes, you do want vegetables—actual vegetables—after they overhear ‘foodie’ and assume you only want pulled pork. Again. Let’s fix that.
Schakolad Chocolate Factory
$$ | (865) 675-2626 | WEBSITE
Along with misconceptions that chocolate shops are only for special occasions and that quality chocolate has to be overly sweet, is the idea that chocolate lovers have to settle for mass-produced treats. Places like Schakolad Chocolate Factory. Luckily this Knoxville spot isn’t only serving some of the best chocolate in Tennessee, but it has plenty of fresh, not-too-sweet options too.
You’re in good hands no matter what you choose—but if you leave without trying the Dubai chocolate cup with pistachio, you’re doing it wrong.
Bojangles
$ | (865) 337-5609 | WEBSITE
Bojangles, a fast-food favorite in Knoxville, is one of the simplest decisions for a satisfying breakfast in Tennessee for all the right reasons. Firstly, you can always count on the Bacon Egg and Cheese biscuit or the Sausage Gravy biscuits, which are customer favorites. Secondly, it’s affordably priced, particularly considering the fresh, hot quality. And thirdly, the drive-thru service is remarkably efficient, even at peak times.
Q Korean Steakhouse
$$ | (865) 474-1486 | WEBSITE
Q Korean Steakhouse is a bustling spot serving sizzling Korean BBQ delights: marinated beef cooked on built-in table grills, a good selection of meats and sides, and those must-try Bon Chans. The crowded tables, especially by 7 pm on weekdays, and the occasional confusion with side dishes add to the lively, authentic charm. Head here for date night, mates night, or just a solo feast of awesome food—attentive servers like Bree ensure it’s a memorable experience that’ll be around for a long time.
Wings Xpress
$ | (865) 357-9464 | WEBSITE
Wings Xpress is the David Attenborough of wing joints. If you don’t like it then you’re probably a bit weird. Between the great atmosphere and excellent lemon pepper wings, it’s pretty much impossible to not like this Knoxville spot. On the menu, you’ll find things like garlic parm wings, BBQ wings, and our favourite thing here, the ranch fries. There’s also a very good catfish dinner, with tasty seasoning and batter that can feed a group without breaking the bank.
Brother Wolf
$$ | (865) 247-4729 | WEBSITE
This lively and charming restaurant in Knoxville specializes in Italian-inspired fare with plenty of vegetarian options. It’s a vibrant, casual space that’s just as good for a long catch-up with friends as it is a perfect date night. The menu features delectable dishes like the popular pesto gnocchi and the Focaccia Osteria Stella, both praised for their rich flavors. Vegetarian diners are well-accommodated with flavorful options like the Arancini and Salumi e Formaggi.
The drink menu is equally impressive, with mixologists crafting unique cocktails like the refreshing pear ginger cocktail and the inventive Hot Honey Peach. As far as fun, flavorful dining experiences go, Brother Wolf delivers. The friendly, attentive staff and vibrant decor make it a highly recommended spot for a delicious, good-value meal.
Chick-fil-A Homberg Drive
$ | (865) 330-0044 | WEBSITE
This fast-food favorite on Homberg Drive is bustling morning to night, as everyone lines up for consistently good chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and breakfast items like chicken biscuits. And it’s all reliably satisfying. The drive-thru is so efficient with its two lanes that it keeps cars moving swiftly, much like the cheerful staff who will likely greet you with genuine warmth during your visit.
Kennedy Grill
Finding a food truck with genuinely fresh ingredients that doesn’t leave us clutching a greasy paper bag in regret is rare. Enter Kennedy Grill, a fantastic food truck in Knoxville. Their incredibly delicious (yes, delicious) dishes are all made with high-quality ingredients, including our favourites, the well-planned Billy cheese steak and the Arnold wrap with naan, pepper jack, and pesto.
The portions are generous enough for leftovers, the service is kind and patient even if you arrive late, and the owner is so nice he’ll chat with you while you wait. It’s affordable, too—most items hover around $12–$15, served from a clean, cheerful truck with a couple of picnic tables nearby. Everyone should try it and become a frequent flyer.
Delicias colombianas
$$ | (865) 851-9544 | WEBSITE
Knoxville’s Delicias Colombianas is ‘100% authentic’ and feels like a cross between a family kitchen and a vibrant Colombian market stall. The charming sit-down spot serves delicious, generous plates, like a mountain of Bandeja Paisa with perfectly grilled steak. Grab a table, order a soda, and watch the friendly staff work as cumbia music plays and you take your first savory, satisfying bite of the tender Churrasco.
Big Kahuna Wings – West Town
$ | (865) 337-7463 | WEBSITE
Big Kahuna Wings – West Town claims to be a must-visit for wing lovers, and you only need one taste of their perfectly seasoned, dry-rubbed traditional wings to know they’re completely right. The West Town spot makes delicious burgers with big, juicy patties and their fire rub seasoning—with just the right amount of heat and a perfectly crispy outer layer that stays tender inside—is one of the best wing options in Knoxville.
El Charro Mexican Restaurant
$ | (865) 584-9807 | WEBSITE
The traditional Mexican food at this longtime Knoxville favorite doesn’t have a mysterious fusion twist in sight. El Charro serves up consistent enchiladas, chimichangas, and carnitas—and it adds up to a truly satisfying meal that stands out from the crowd. Come to this welcoming, family-owned restaurant when you fancy switching up your usual dinner rotation, but still want to wipe a plate of chicken soup clean.
Chaiyo Thai & Sushi Bar
$ | (865) 249-8081 | WEBSITE
While many opt for takeout at Chaiyo Thai & Sushi Bar, a beloved spot in Knoxville, it’s worth staying to savor the generous plates of Drunken Noodle, Pad Thai, and rich red curry fresh, and to enjoy the quick, friendly service. We commend you if you can finish the surprisingly large portions.
As one regular mentioned while boxing up leftovers, “It’s always nice to have some for lunch tomorrow.” Just note there might be a short wait during peak lunch hours, but it’s worth it—for both the accessible, flavorful dishes and the clean, welcoming atmosphere.
Habaneros Mexican Restaurant
$ | (865) 247-0391 | WEBSITE
This bright and bustling restaurant in Knoxville serves food inspired by Mexico. Which means the fajitas, especially the shrimp, steak, and chicken mix, are spectacular. Juicy steak, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked shrimp are made for wrapping in warm, soft tortillas. Give us chips and a bowl of their fresh salsa and we’re happy.
A good portion of the menu at Habaneros is family-friendly which is the best part of a meal here anyway, so order the fajita platter, and get more chips than you can feasily eat.
Taco Bar
$ | (865) 415-9271 | WEBSITE
Taco Bar is a neighborhood gas station that serves Mexican fare from one compact and brightly lit space in Knoxville. The menu is full of the kind of stuff that makes you go all lovey dovey for fresh and excellent ingredients. The chipotle steak tacos feature no less than 5 component parts, and these are what you should be coming here, and coming back here, for. Not just because they’re a steal at around $8, but because the steak is addictively smoky and the mole chicken is always tender.
Bearden Hill Fieldhouse
$ | (865) 851-4750 | WEBSITE
Looking for that perfect spot to unwind with friends can get exhausting, but Bearden Hill Fieldhouse has nailed it. This Knoxville bar is mostly about cold drinks and good food (bar a couple of standout dishes) and instead of serving you mediocre bar snacks, there are seriously delicious cheesesteak wraps packed full of ingredients, and fried okra that’s nicely crisp on the outside and perfectly fried.
The place is buzzy, even on weeknights, and it’s a relaxed spot to have a late-night catch-up over excellent nachos and a wide selection of drinks.