Securing a prime table at Knoxville’s top steakhouses can feel like wrangling a prized heifer. But with our 2026 guide, you’ll bypass the waitlists and discover eight carnivorous sanctuaries where every cut—from dry-aged ribeyes to butter-tender filets—promises a reservation-worthy experience worthy of your finest steak knife.
LongHorn Steakhouse
$$ | (865) 693-8700 | WEBSITE
If you spot a group of Knoxvillians in the wild, odds are they’re headed to a steakhouse. Right now, the steakhouse that best encompasses Knoxville is LongHorn. Not only does this American grill in the city make steaks, salads, and French onion soup deserving of their own murals, but the varied menu works as an ode to the region’s love for hearty comfort food. Also, the staff talks to tables with genuine Southern hospitality. No other chain in the world could replicate this meal.
Copper Cellar West
$$$ | (865) 673-3422 | WEBSITE
Sometimes, you need a classic steakhouse where you can settle in and feel truly taken care of. And this polished Knoxville institution has that vibe—plus a lineup of dishes you’ll dream about between visits. The dining room stays consistently busy, so don’t show up without calling ahead. People return weekly for the rich French Onion Soup, the tender Beef Stroganoff, and servers like Kristi and Brady who make you feel special.
They also have a decadent brownie with strawberry crepes and white chocolate sauce—perfect for celebrating that special occasion you booked the table for.
Connors Steak & Seafood
$$$ | (865) 966-0933 | WEBSITE
Dining at Connors Steak & Seafood in Knoxville is the closest you can get to being a local foodie legend. There’s consistently amazing food, a packed house with an accommodating hostess, and favorite dishes like the lobster bisque and strawberry spinach salad. The fried green tomatoes are a must-try, and the steaks are cooked perfectly every time. When you need a reliably great meal in Knoxville—and are okay with a bustling atmosphere that delivers five-star quality—this is the spot.
Texas Roadhouse
$$ | (865) 584-4150 | WEBSITE
Most people come to Texas Roadhouse for things like the perfectly-seasoned grilled shrimp, plentiful cheese fries, or rattlesnake bites (the best in town). But the steakhouse does everything well, so it’s no surprise that they make a great Texas onion, too. The crispy petals are topped with deliciously tangy dipping sauce to give it some flavor, and the generous portion keeps all the crunch intact. Split it, along with the flavored rice, and you’ll still have room for a dessert to end your night.
The Chop House
$$ | (865) 531-2467 | WEBSITE
The Chop House in Knoxville balances classic elegance with hearty indulgence, like the $48 prime rib served with creamy horseradish and au jus. The dining room has thoughtful touches like framed vintage steakhouse prints along the walls, and you’ll hear smooth jazz that makes you feel you’ve stepped into a timeless supper club.
Everyone’s savoring plates of expertly prepared steaks like the Delmonico with rich blue cheese butter, petite pork chops glazed in a sweet reduction, and special medallions swimming in a peppercorn and mushroom sauce. It’ll all leave you thoroughly satisfied—we’ve been known to reserve our next anniversary dinner before finishing our last bite of warm, amazing bread.
Outback Steakhouse
$$ | (865) 281-0999 | WEBSITE
The meals at Outback Steakhouse are solid—after all, steak is their comfort zone. They typically have a range of grilled options (and sometimes seafood specials) and they’re all satisfying. And by satisfying, we mean that we raved about the grilled shrimp so much that our family started calling us the shrimp squad.
You can expect the service to be warm, for it to be delivered with genuine, attentive care like remembering drink refills, and to appreciate the staff’s hospitality mission after one visit.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
$$$$ | (865) 546-4696 | WEBSITE
Ruth’s Chris Steak House has a lot of things going for it, but there’s one standout: the best steaks in the entire city. Sure, they serve dishes like zucchini fries with red pepper ranch, seared Ahi tuna, and goat cheese and artichoke dip, but that’s not what a night free of cooking should be about. Head to the elegant spot by the Tennessee River for a few glasses of seasonal cocktails that are as good as the sunsets.
It’s our go-to spot when we really need a dinner that makes us feel like Knoxville royalty.
Ye Olde Steak House
$$ | (865) 850-4179 | WEBSITE
This classic Knoxville steakhouse offers a menu that includes things like a perfectly cooked prime rib that’s incredibly tender, a lineup of steaks featuring filet mignon and New York strip, and other favorites like kaboob and grilled shrimp. It’s the kind of place that starts to feel like a celebration after a few bites, especially since the friendly staff makes you feel so welcome that you may end up planning your next special occasion before dessert arrives.
While a meal here will run you about $85 (and more with the worthwhile $45 wine selection), an evening at the traditional spot is more than worth it. Whatever they serve you, you’ll be replaying every savory moment in your mind all week like a delicious memory.