Best Restaurants in Knoxville

Have a hankering for a good burger or some slow-smoked barbecue? This city has you covered. How about some hand-thrown pizza with unusual toppings or some Middle Eastern fare? Ditto on that as well. Rule of thumb: Salivate for it, and chances are you'll find it in Knoxville, Tennessee. It's as easy as that.

Burgers and Bourbon at the Stock and Barrel

Burgers and bourbon. How could you go wrong? Funny thing is, The Stock and Barrel's menu for the bourbon is longer than the one for the burgers and other delectable edibles. If after reading the list of liquors, which includes the potent Wild Turkey, you find nothing to your liking, keep looking. You'll find lists of ryes, Irish and Canadian whiskeys and Scotch. Can't make up your mind? Order from a list of sampler trays and try several. When it’s time to chow down, choose from appetizers like house-fried pickles or fried green tomatoes. Burgers have fun names, like the Elvis, made with peanut butter, fried bananas and bacon, and the Ring of Fire, heavy on the habanero and jalapeno peppers. Cap off your meal with the surprisingly delicious dessert that is the bourbon peanut butter pie.

Middle Eastern Flavors at Holy Land Market and Deli

At Holy Land Market and Deli, you'll find lamb kebabs, falafel and hummus. If you're not that adventurous, try a New York-style corned beef or meatball sandwich. Take a seat at the outdoor tables or get your food to go. If you're a foodie and love to cook, check out the grocery section. You'll find dates, perfect for a sweet snack, and fragrant spices to experiment with.

Southern Comfort at Dean's Restaurant and Bakery

In the mood for pulled pork dripping with barbecue sauce? What about fall-off-the-bone tender St. Louis-style ribs, equally slathered with the spicy mixture? Or mac and cheese made with white cheddar and a big scoop of banana pudding? All of this adds up to Southern comfort food at Dean’s. The meats are smoked over a wood fire, and the breads are made in-house. Wander over to the bakery counter and salivate over a slice of red velvet or German chocolate cake. The same goes for the coconut, chocolate and lemon meringue pies. If you just can't eat another bite, take home some cookies or brownies for later. Tempting, isn't it?

Pizza and More at Tomato Head

The name itself is a kick. Visit Tomato Head and sample made-to-order pizzas, mile-high sandwiches and both hot and cold salads. Meat-eaters and vegetarians are well-looked-after here. Meat-free appetizers include hummus with assorted veggies and fresh bread with pesto or homemade dressings. Enjoy a warm bacon salad or go for a Greek salad piled high with veggies and feta cheese. As for those pizzas, why not try something unusual, such as avocado and spicy Andouille sausage or blue cheese and walnut? Not to worry, pepperoni and cheese is on the menu if you must indulge.

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