Savor the Flavor: Top Restaurants in Knoxville, TN

Knoxville, Tennessee, is not only known for its scenic beauty and Southern charm, but also for its rich and diverse culinary scene. From upscale dining to hearty comfort food, Knoxville offers a wide array of restaurants that delight locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a foodie seeking gourmet experiences or someone who just enjoys a great meal with a view, you'll find plenty to love in this East Tennessee city.

Here’s a closer look at some of the top restaurants in Knoxville that showcase the city’s culinary variety and local flair. Each offers a unique experience, from elegant dining rooms to riverside patios and everything in between.

Located in the heart of downtown Knoxville, J.C. Holdway is a culinary standout that has helped elevate the city’s food reputation. Led by James Beard Award-winning chef Joseph Lenn, the restaurant serves modern Appalachian cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and wood-fired cooking.

The atmosphere at J.C. Holdway is refined yet comfortable, making it an excellent choice for a romantic evening or special celebration. Signature dishes often rotate with the seasons, but expect to find masterfully prepared meats, inventive vegetable sides, and handmade pastas. It's an ideal spot for those who appreciate a chef-driven menu and a memorable dining experience.

For a classic steakhouse experience with a touch of coastal elegance, Connors Steak & Seafood delivers. Located in the Turkey Creek shopping district, Connors offers a polished yet relaxed setting, perfect for everything from business dinners to date nights.

Guests rave about the perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, and extensive wine list. The menu also features standout appetizers like lobster dip and calamari, as well as house-made desserts that round out a satisfying meal. Connors is known for its consistently high service standards and quality ingredients, making it a top choice for fine dining without pretense.

If you’re in the mood for a gourmet burger and a laid-back vibe, Stock & Barrel on Market Square is a must-visit. This locally loved burger joint puts a creative spin on comfort food with farm-to-table ingredients and handcrafted cocktails.

The menu is packed with inventive burger combinations like the Elvis (topped with peanut butter, bacon, and fried bananas) and the Farmhouse (complete with fried egg and smoked bacon). Pair your burger with truffle fries and a barrel-aged cocktail, and you've got a meal that's both indulgent and uniquely Knoxville. The rustic interior and bustling atmosphere make it a fun, casual stop for lunch or dinner.

Tupelo Honey brings a fresh, modern approach to traditional Southern cooking. With a focus on scratch-made dishes and responsibly sourced ingredients, this downtown Knoxville staple combines hospitality with bold flavor.

Favorites include honey-dusted fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and sweet potato pancakes. The restaurant also caters to modern tastes with vegetarian and gluten-free options, and brunch here is especially popular. The bright, welcoming space and Southern-inspired cocktails create a cheerful atmosphere that works well for families, groups, or a leisurely weekend meal.

Seafood lovers will feel right at home at Chesapeake’s, a long-standing Knoxville favorite with a reputation for fresh, high-quality fare. With locations downtown and in West Knoxville, Chesapeake’s offers a traditional seafood house vibe, complete with nautical decor and a relaxed yet upscale setting.

Guests enjoy favorites like Maryland crab cakes, cold-water oysters, Alaskan king crab legs, and hearty seafood platters. The raw bar and daily catches add variety for repeat diners, and the wine list complements the coastal flavors perfectly. Chesapeake’s is ideal for a celebratory dinner, business meal, or just indulging in a seafood craving.

For an unforgettable dining experience that’s as much about the show as the food, Brazeiros delivers with its authentic Brazilian rodízio-style service. Located in downtown Knoxville, this upscale steakhouse offers a continuous tableside parade of fire-grilled meats carved to your preference.

Diners enjoy everything from filet mignon and lamb chops to Brazilian sausages and pork ribs, alongside a gourmet salad bar filled with fresh vegetables, cheeses, and house-made sides. The service is polished, the pace is yours to set, and the experience is perfect for groups and special occasions where you want to treat yourself to something unique and satisfying.

Calhoun’s is a Tennessee institution, and its riverfront location in downtown Knoxville is a standout. Offering classic Southern BBQ and hearty American fare, Calhoun’s On The River provides a winning combination of comfort food and scenic views of the Tennessee River.

The spacious outdoor patio is a favorite during warm months, ideal for enjoying ribs, pulled pork, or hickory-smoked chicken while watching boats float by. The beer is brewed locally at Smoky Mountain Brewery, and the laid-back vibe makes it a go-to for game days, family dinners, and out-of-town guests.

Tucked into the corner of historic Market Square, Oliver Royale brings sophistication and seasonal flavor to the table. The interior blends old-world elegance with modern design, and the menu focuses on creative American cuisine with global influences.

Every dish is thoughtfully crafted and beautifully plated, from small plates and artisan cocktails to entrees like duck breast, scallops, or house-made pasta. Oliver Royale is known for its ambiance and attention to detail, making it a top pick for anniversaries, date nights, or a refined evening out.

For traditional upscale dining with a rich Knoxville legacy, Copper Cellar West stands out as a longstanding favorite among locals. With a warm, lodge-like interior and a menu that emphasizes high-quality steaks, seafood, and classic American dishes, it’s the kind of place where you’ll find comfort and class in equal measure.

Menu highlights include prime rib, crab-stuffed trout, and signature house salads served with their famous cinnamon rolls. The attentive service and cozy atmosphere make it a go-to for holiday dinners, birthdays, or a dependable weekend night out.

Knoxville’s dining scene is just one of the many reasons to fall in love with the city. With so many exceptional restaurants, local flavors, and unique dining experiences to enjoy, living in Knoxville means having access to something delicious around every corner.

If you’re ready to make Knoxville your home, local real estate expert Bessie Whiteside is here to help. With her deep knowledge of the area, including the best neighborhoods near these amazing restaurants, Bessie provides personalized service to guide you through every step of the buying process.

Whether looking for a downtown condo steps from Market Square or a spacious home near West Knoxville’s dining districts, Bessie will help you find the perfect fit.

Visit bessiesellsknoxvillehomes.com to start your home search and connect with Bessie Whiteside today. Let Knoxville’s flavor be part of your everyday life.