19 Best Southern Restaurants in Knoxville

1
Cafe 4

Cafe 4 Southern • $$
4 Market Square, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Fried Chicken and Waffles
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Market Square Breakfast
Warm Pimento Cheese Dip
White Chicken Flatbread
Fried Chicken & Waffles
Strawberry Field Salad
Truffle Parmesan Fries
Parmesan Truffle Fries

“What an amazing place! Our server Anna was such a ray of sunshine. Also, we had the best chicken we’ve ever had at this place— licked the plate clean. The white cheddar grits were amazing, as were the maple glazed carrots and garlic mashed potatoes. Not a bad thing that we ordered. They’re also amazing with food allergies— my mom is a celiac and they made everything gluten-free. I’m not from town but one day, I need to come back here for that chicken. Thanks Cafe 4!“

4.8 Superb657 Reviews
Jackie's Dream Southern • $
1008 E Woodland Ave, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken Wings Collard Greens Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Legs & Thighs Green and Mac & Cheese
Nanny Mary's Fried Green Tomatoes
Nashville Hot Chicken
With Mashed Potatoes
Banana Pudding
Honey Bun Cake
Meatloaf Meal
Fried Catfish
White Beans

“This has to be the best kept secret in KTown! Right behind Fulton hs football stadium. As I look around seeing people eat, everyone is smiling, laughing and just waiting for a glimpse of the owner, miss Jackie, as she tends to her "family" dinners.....her voice just echos a mixture of comedy and LOVE And everyone is keyed in. What a wonderful place!!!!“

4.7 Superb357 Reviews
J.C. Holdway American • $$$
501 Union Ave, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Hearth Roasted Shrimp Grits Andouille Sausage Preserved Tomatoes & Shellfish Emulsion
Slow Cooked Farm Egg Potato Gnocchi Chicken Confit & Hen of the Woods Mushrooms
Valrhona Chocolate Cake Salted Caramel Coffee Ice Cream
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Smoked Onion Jam
Chicken Wings with Alabama White Sauce
Oysters on the Half Shell
Grilled Ribeye Steak
Crispy Potato
Arugula Salad
Grilled Okra

“I have never tasted such flavorful food in my entire life. I didn’t know food COULD be this good. This was my 30th birthday dinner place of choice, and I do not have one complaint. The details with the dated menu and birthday card impressed me. The food impressed me even more. I had the scallion hushpuppies as an appetizer — the sauce that’s paired with them absolutely sealed the deal with my tastebuds. I also had the slow cooked egg gnocchi, which was a classy spin on chicken and dumplings. Based on the description, I was hesitant. But it was highly, HIGHLY recommended by our waitress, so I took a leap. My gosh, I was tilting the bowl and drinking even the very last drops of the broth. I simply cannot wait to come back here and try new things. Thank you, chef!“

4.9 Superb95 Reviews
Farmacy Southern • $
5018 Kingston Pike, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Chicken and Waffles and in the Bowl Is Black and Blue Fries
Strawberry Cream Cake
Biscuits and Gravy
Small House Salad
Brussels Sprouts
Lunch Hot Chicken
Salmon Sandwich
Fried Chicken
Vitality Bowl
Mac and Cheese

“DISCLOSURE: I started this review after my first visit. I have since returned to sample dinner. Ype, it's that good. Prepare thyselves because the goodness of the Lord.Is.Here! From the menu to the delightful wildflower honey served with hot tea, you can tell someone who truly loves food and community is behind this place Y'all. Everything we ate was delicious!!! Well, save for the fruit tea. Could have been a bad batch but what I had was not sweet. My splenda-guzzling tablemate liked it. So do what you will with that. Brussel Sprouts - Candied bacon, PEARS and Pepper Jam Vinaigrette! First of all, where has Pepper Jam Vinaigrette been all my life??? Cuz my goodness! Churro Waffles with roasted banana pudding. Listen. I do NOT like a super sweet breakfast dish. But THIS. I was iterally willing to fight my Mama for bites! Haha. I kid, I kid. Waffles are lihgts & airy dusted with cinnamon sugar and topped with berries piled on roasted banana pudding. That BP is amazing. If I ever save room for dessert, I am ordering a portion of BP. On my 1st visit, I also had the biscuit sandwich. Can't remember the dish's name, but I do remember that dry arse biscuit. Nobody's perfect - I would circle the menu before trying that again. Second visit was planned specifically to hit lunch. Tried the black & blue fries. While the name is confusing (no beef but pork), this is a TOP TIER appetizer! You gotta try this! Get a little of everything in your first bite and thank me later. I cannot remember my entree only because I am pretty sure we ordered 2 and shared. I know one of them was the STAR - Maybe the meatballs??? I will confirm after my next visit. Cuz, TRUST that I will return. Service - very friendly Ambiance - Gaines approved! Iykyk“

4.4 Superb180 Reviews
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken Southern • $
3101 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken Baked Beans Coleslaw
Fried Green Tomatoes
Gus's Fried Chicken
Fried Pickle Spears
Sweet Tea Goodness
Sweet Potato Pie
Chocolate Chess
Chicken Dinner
Fried Pickles
Potato Salad

“Went to a Gus's while I was in Kentucky and could not stop thinking about how good the chicken was. Come to my surprise when I found out there was a Gus's in Knoxville!!!! I was so pumped. I wasted no time to get there and it was everything I expected and more. Same great service and same flavorful fried chicken ! Thank you for another awesome experience Gus's. You are forever in the rotation of nights out ?“

4.7 Superb127 Reviews
Gus's World Famous fried Chicken - Lovell Rd Chicken • $
126 Lovell Rd, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

2 Piece White Chicken Dinner with Mac N Cheese and Greens
2 Piece Chicken Dinner with Mac N Cheese and Greens
4 Tenders Fries Mac & Cheese
Chocolate Chess Pie Slice
Sweet Potato Pie Slice
Fried Green Tomatoes
3 Tenders Plate
Fried Pickles
Honey Mustard
Potato Salad

“Colonel Sanders might as well stay out of Knox. This is some of the best fried chicken I have ever had. I got the 3 piece dark with fries and mac and cheese. The chicken is juicy with a crispy, super well seasoned breading. the breading does have a little kick, but nothing to make the brow sweat. The mac and cheese sent my brain back to my grandmas house as a kid and the fries were well seasoned and crispy. Customer service was…*chef’s kiss*. I will be sending all of my guests from my hotel to this lovely local spot. ??“

4.5 Superb151 Reviews
Ola's Southern Cuisine 2 Soul Food • $
7220 Chapman Hwy #109, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Was the Red Velvet Waffle Didn
OMG Fried Chicken Wing Meal
Fried Chicken Wings
Chicken and Waffles
PBJ Lamb Chop Meal
Shrimp and Grits
Seafood Boil Tray
Chicken & Waffle
Shrimp & Grits
Curry Chicken

“The best catfish I've had in years. My companion about licked their plate clean. Great tunes playing. Very friendly staff. The food is made to order, so expect to wait for it. Well worth the wait. If you are ANYWHERE nearby, make the time to go eat here. A special thank you to Chef Blaac. That man is making his family proud with his cookin'. His friendliness and welcoming demeanor can't be beat.Yes, we will be eating here more.“

4.9 Superb58 Reviews
Corner16 American • $$
1640 Bob Kirby Rd, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Fried Green Tomatoes Appetizer
Bacon Wrapped Burnt Ends
Chicken Tender Platter
Chicken Salad Sandwich
Chicken & Dumplings
Rocky Top Hot Brown
Sweet Potato Fries
Smothered Chicken
California Chicken
Peanut Butter Pie

“My boyfriend and I have been coming here since we first moved to the area and every single time our service has been stellar. Tonight, we were accidentally left alone for about 10 min after we first sat down, and both managers noticed quickly and promptly apologized and were so sweet and understanding. We were offered a free appetizer and were quickly served with our amazing dinner after ordering. We were both so impressed with you guys! Thank you again ❤️“

4.4 Superb185 Reviews
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar Southern • $
1 Market Square, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Fried Green Tomatoes with Goat Cheese Grits
Chicken and Waffles with Siracha Honey
Salt & Pepper Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Buttermilk Fried Chicken Benedict
Tupelo Shrimp & Grits GF
Heavenly Banana Pudding
Southern Chicken blt
Traditional Breakfast
Biscuits and Jelly
Sriracha Honey

“We had a 1:00 reservation for brunch and were seated right on time. It was busy but not crowded or too loud. The food was all tasty and fresh. The coffee could be a little stronger but everything else was done really well. Recommend the fried green tomatoes served on goat cheese grits, so delicious!“

4.3 Superb342 Reviews
Corner16 Southern • $
9637 Kroger Park Dr, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Club with Pimento Cheese
Wedge Salad and Grilled Chicken
Bacon Wrapped Brisket
Seared Ahi Tuna Salad
Fried Green Tomatoes
Grilled Chicken blt
Rocky Top Hot Brown
Brisket Burnt Ends
California Chicken
Peanut Butter Pie

“Corner16 accommodated a party of 20 for my 50th birthday and were so gracious and easy to work with! The food was amazing, as always. Destiny was a Class A pro! Our food was fresh hot correct and the drinks were great. Highly recommend!!!“

4.2 Good131 Reviews
Myrtle's Chicken and Beer Southern • $
13 Market Square, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Dark Meat Tomato Pie and Mac and Cheese
Buttermilk Cheddar Drop Biscuits
Fried Pimento Cheese Fritters
Rib & Chicken Tenders Combo
Signature Chicken Pot Pie
Fried Chicken & Waffles
Waffle Cut Sweet Fries
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Chicken and Waffles
Chicken Fried Steak

“Wowowow. The Myrtle’s Tomato Pie is the best I’ve ever had, and first place I’ve found in Knoxville to have it. Amazing drinks and food. Quick service.Parking: Park at Market Square garage for the cheapest, easiest parking right next to the square“

4.2 Good114 Reviews
Maple Street Biscuit Company Breakfast • $
9314 Kingston Pike #112, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Retro Biscuit Fried Chicken
Maple Chicken Biscuit
Side of Sausage Gravy
Fried Green Tomatoes
The Squawking Goat
The Five and Dime
Biscuit and Gravy
Risky Biscuit
Waffles
Hash

“Welcoming environment with easy to follow menu. Price between $-$$ based on individual or family. Highly recommended for fast and efficient service. The menu includes variety styles with the flavor profile to match! The seating offered multiple options for single or family style dining . Would highly recommend for great service and food!Note: they place your name under dream spot to road trip it was fun hearing the places called out :) definitely added some new locations based off what was called out“

4.2 Good105 Reviews
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store American • $
5001 Central Ave Pike, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Meatloaf Dine in: Yes Outdoor seating: No Takeout: Yes Delivery: No Curbside pickup: Yes
The Cracker Barrel's Country Boy Breakfast
Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake
Grandpa's Country Fried Breakfast
Momma's French Toast Breakfast
Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken
The Barrel Cheeseburger
Cracker Barrel Sampler
Southern Fried Chicken
Chicken Fried Chicken

“I recently enjoyed Momma's Pancake Breakfast at Cracker Barrel and it was a delightful experience. The pancakes were fluffy and cooked to perfection, accompanied by rich, creamy butter and a generous serving of maple syrup that added just the right amount of sweetness. The portion was hearty and satisfying, making it a great start to the day. The ambiance of Cracker Barrel, with its cozy, homely feel, complemented the meal perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a comforting and delicious breakfast option.“

4.1 Good205 Reviews
Sullivan's Fine Food Southern • $$
7545 S Northshore Dr, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Meatloaf Green Beans Mashed Potatoes
Fried Corn on the Cob
Fried Green Tomatoes
Northshore Salad
Rocky Top Burger
Strawberry Cake
Chicken Tenders
Signature Salad
Shrimp & Grits
Voodoo Burger

“First time coming here, the greetings when you walk in were very welcoming, the waitress was very helpful and brought out everything in a timely manner, the food was fresh and delicious, highly recommend Sullivan's ?Vegetarian options: Fresh“

4.3 Superb43 Reviews
Order Up Cafe American • $
First Horizon Plaza, 800 S Gay St Suite P-365, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Cookies

“Food is good. I eat here often since I work in the building. The new paper containers are awful though. They break down when moist food is placed in them so you end up eating bits of paper container along with your food. I stopped ordering omelettes because of this issue. The oil/butter on the eggs turns the container to mush. I understand wanting to be earth friendly but, maybe there is another alternative.“

4.5 Superb11 Reviews
Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen American • $
8390 Kingston Pike, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Cheddar's Legendary Monster Cookie
Grilled Chicken Pecan Salad
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Honey Butter Croissants
Ribs & Chicken Tenders
Monte Cristo Sandwich
Hot Fudge Cake Sundae
Santa Fe Spinach Dip
Homemade Onion Rings
Chicken Fried Steak

“I had the Dijon Chicken, and my wife had the Meatloaf. Both were very good, but my wife did not care for the green beans, and I thought the "loaded" baked potato was misrepresented. A "loaded" baked potato usually includes bacon, but bacon costs an additional $0.50. Anywhere else, this would be a "plain" baked potato with cheese.I don't have a problem paying $.50 more for a loaded potato, but if it doesn't include bacon, it isn't loaded.“

4 Good122 Reviews
Horn of Plenty Market Southern • $
9132 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville

Customers` Favorites

Meatloaf Mashed Potato Platter
Chicken Fried Chicken
Chicken and Dumplings
Cowboy Baked Beans
Maple Pecan Pie
Smoked Meatloaf
Banana Pudding
Fried Catfish
Baby Back Ribs
Pulled Pork

“Q: How can any food business be open 20 hours weekly?!A: Let me tell you, because they sell out of their freshly made, high quality BBQ, that's why. Yes, they sell out of product by 3pm. Of course, I had to try it. The brisket is outstanding, nice bark. The ribs are fall off the bone. Ok, the cheese biscuits were tasty, could it get better? Yeah, banana pudding.They open at 11, do yourself a favor and get there before 3. I am 100% going back the next time I am in town. They are THAT good.“

4 Good67 Reviews
Tussie Mussie Bar •
1109 White Ave, Knoxville

“Service 10/10Drinks 10/10Food 9 /10Really enjoyed the Monkey Finger and Johnny Appleseed drinks. The 8:55 PM ritual was fun and the free sample was tasty. Burger and chicken sandwich were great and the side salads were well worth the upcharge. Waitress was attentive and friendly. worth the visit.“

4.1 Good15 Reviews
Chef Mo's Cafe Cafe • $
131 E Moody Ave, Knoxville

“Fantastic Food ... Sunday Brunch was Delicious and very tasty Lots of items to choose from. Several meats' baked Salmon steak and peppers baked chicken with this amazing gravy ' Oh the fried cabbage and turnip greens ? mashed potatoes sweet potatoes Rolls and cornbread much more and the desserts banana pudding chef Moe's house made brownies and this other desert everything is just Dreamy and Delicious.Thank you Chef Moe ?️“

4.1 Good14 Reviews
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