“So…where should we go for lunch?”
I hear that question all the time.
These are the downtown Knoxville restaurants I return to again and again. They’re all within about a 10-minute walk of the studio, most are locally owned, and they’re listed in roughly the order I visit them myself.
Stock & Barrel
Creative burgers, hand-cut fries, and an outstanding selection of craft beer and whiskey. The fun, rustic atmosphere makes it a great place for lunch with coworkers or meeting a client.
If it’s your first visit: Try the Elvis Burger at least once. My personal favorite is the Bernie—even if I don’t necessarily agree with the politician it’s named after.
KoPita
Authentic Mediterranean cuisine featuring shawarma, falafel, hummus, fresh salads, and house-made pita. One of my personal favorites. The menu is a little different because many dishes are designed to be shared, making it a great option if you’re with friends or coworkers.
My go-to: If I’m by myself, I’ll order two or three side dishes instead of one entrée. I get to try several things and usually have lunch ready for tomorrow.
The French Market Creperie
Authentic French crêpes, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. The funky, eclectic, French-inspired atmosphere makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a little neighborhood café rather than downtown Knoxville. It’s a great place when you’d rather slow down and enjoy lunch than rush through it.
Don’t miss: The Monte Cristo with a side of fries. The fries are every bit as good as the sandwich.
Potchke
Jewish deli favorites and Eastern European-inspired comfort food. If you’re looking for something different from the usual sandwich or burger, this is one of Knoxville’s most unique lunch experiences. Save room for dessert—their babka is to die for. Potchke is known for its house-made babka and bialys, which have become signature menu items.
My go-to: The Lox Bialy. And if there’s babka available, I’m taking a piece home.
Tomato Head
Creative sandwiches, pizza, salads, and some of the best vegetarian and vegan options downtown. It’s one of those places that’s easy to recommend because everyone can usually find something they’ll enjoy.
I usually order: The Kepner Melt on wheat with corn blue chips and a small side of hummus.
Soccer Taco
Fresh tacos, burritos, quesadillas, bowls, and Mexican street food. Fast, affordable, and consistently good when you’ve got another meeting coming up.
My go-to: The Speedy Gonzales. The name fits.
Yassin’s Falafel House
Fresh Mediterranean favorites, including falafel, shawarma, gyros, hummus, and pita sandwiches. Beyond the food, Yassin and his team have built a reputation for giving back to Knoxville. Supporting them feels like supporting the community, too.
I usually order: The Spicy Chicken Pita. If I’m in more of a grazing mood, the Vegetarian Plate is another favorite.
Tupelo Honey
Modern Southern comfort food with chicken, shrimp, biscuits, bowls, and seasonal specialties. If you’ve never been before, it’s worth experiencing. One of the reasons I keep going back is that the menu changes more often than most restaurants.
Don’t skip: The biscuits. They’re one of the reasons Tupelo Honey has become so well known and try the honey, of course.
My go-to: The Shrimp & Grits. It’s the dish I keep coming back for.
Save Room for Dessert
Kilwins
Premium ice cream, handmade fudge, chocolates, caramel apples, and other sweet treats. It’s one of those places that’s hard to walk past without going inside.
Every. Single. Time: Toasted Coconut ice cream.
Mast General Store
Old-fashioned candy, nostalgic treats, toys, gifts, and outdoor gear. I usually end up wandering into the candy section where you can mix and match dozens of favorites by weight.
A friendly warning: It’s more expensive than you might expect… apparently, gummy bears get heavier when you’re having fun, but the variety of what you get makes it worth it.
Cruze Farm Ice Cream
Local, small-batch soft serve with rotating flavors. Since the flavors change regularly, every visit is a little different.
My go-to: Whatever flavor they’re serving that day… with cookie dough on top. That part never changes.
Ham’N Goodys
Fresh cookies, cakes, sandwiches, and classic Southern baked treats. A Knoxville favorite that’s perfect for taking something back to the office—or home if you don’t feel like sharing.
Don’t leave without trying: The Salted Caramel Tea Cake.
Help Keep This List Current
One of the perks of photographing people from all over East Tennessee is getting great restaurant recommendations.
Have a favorite I should try? Send me a message. There’s a good chance it’ll make its way onto this page.
Notice that one of these restaurants has closed or moved? Please let me know. I’m probably already bummed that it closed… but simply forgot to update this page.
Enjoy downtown Knoxville—and if this guide helps you discover a new favorite, I’d love to hear about it.