Nearby Restaurants

Take a bite out of Knoxville! Enjoy dinner before the show or unwind afterward at one of downtown Knoxville's favorite eateries. With choices ranging from classic barbecue to sumptuous sushi, you're sure to find something to please your palate.

Barley's Taproom & Pizzeria, 200 E. Jackson Ave., 865-521-0092
Barley’s has a menu full of pizza, calzones, pastas and sandwiches for casual and tasty dining. The downstairs bar has 40 taps featuring the South's best selection of American craft-brewed beers.

Bistro at the Bijou, 807 S. Gay St., 865-544-0537
Located in the same building as the Bijou Theatre, Bistro at the Bijou specializes in classic Southern cuisine served in an intimate, romantic environment. Located within easy walking distance of the Tennessee Theatre.

Butcher Shop, 800 World’s Fair Park Dr., 865-637-0204
Serving up steaks, slow-roasted prime rib, seafood and more since 1983.  Cook your own steak on the open-flame grill or have it professionally prepared just the way you like it. 

Calhoun’s on the River, 400 Neyland Dr., 865-673-3355
Experience the “taste of Tennessee” at this Knoxville classic. Enjoy award-winning barbecue, hickory-smoked ribs and handcrafted beers while sitting on their patio overlooking the Tennessee River. 

Chesapeake’s, 500 Henley St., 865-673-3433
Chesapeake’s prides itself on serving the best fresh fish and seafood in a handsome nautical atmosphere. 

Crown & Goose, 123 S. Central Ave., 865-524-2100
The Old City’s newest addition is a British gastropub, and it offers incredible food in a warm and cozy setting.  In warmer months, enjoy the outdoor courtyard.  Free parking is available in the lot directly across the street.

DaVinci's Pizza, 113 S. Central Ave., 865-637-5040
Inexpensive, good, and open late – what more could you want?  Enjoy a pre- or post-show dinner at the Old City establishment.

Downtown Grill and Brewery, 424 S. Gay St., 865-633-8111
Located only a block away from the Tennessee Theatre.  The Brewery has a rich history, told not only by its well-worn hardwood floors, but through its pictures of Knoxville history that dress the walls.  With its copper and mahogany bar, tempting menu and fine craft-brewed beers, it is easy to see why this has become a downtown Knoxville staple.

Koi, 19 Market Square, 865-521-3888
Thai fusion in a hip, urban setting  on Market Square - just a short walk from the Tennessee Theatre.

La Costa, 31 Market Square, 865-566-0275
Knoxville’s first certified Green restaurant uses local meats and veggies and all organic ingredients. Inventive Spanish-inspired cuisine with a definite Southern twist. Don’t miss their excellent margaritas. Located on Market Square, just a brief walk from the Theatre.

Manhattan's Bistro, 101 S. Central Ave., 865-525-2333
Filled with an eclectic array of antiques, this unique bistro and bar specializes in steaks plus offers a selection of tantalizing appetizers and desserts.

Melting Pot, 111 N. Central Ave., 865-971-5400
Dip into something different with fondue several ways . . . cheeses, entrees including steak and seafood, and of course, chocolate. 

Mirage, 718 S. Gay Street, 865-521-5588
Just a short walk from the Tennessee Theatre, Mirage specializes in Mediterranean food. Plus, a hookah bar is available in the evenings.

Nama, 135 S. Gay St., 633-8539
Within walking distance of the Tennessee Theatre, or take advantage of their valet parking.  Nama’s creations are a fusion of Japanese, Korean, Spanish, and American cuisine, wrapped up into a nice sushi experience. This is not just sushi for sushi’s sake. 

Oodles Noodle Bar, 18 Market Square, 865-521-0600
Inventive Italian-inspired cuisine, or you can create your own pasta dish from their selection of ingredients. Oodles is best known for their macaroni and cheese, which is not to be missed. Located on Market Square a short walk from the Theatre.

Pasta Trio, 119 S. Central Ave., 865-540-3970
You'll feel like you've stepped into an authentic Italian trattoria when you enter this romantic, intimate bistro. Wine bottles line every surface and candles and twinkling lights provide the only illumination here. Even better than the atmosphere is the spectacular food. Those with a taste for something spicy should not miss the Jamaican jerk shrimp with angel hair pasta, whose creamy sauce has a definite bite to it. Or go with the blue crab and Boursin cheese pasta – you won't be disappointed! Bring a bottle of wine and make sure you have reservations for a date you won't soon forget.

Patrick Sullivan’s, 100 N. Central Ave., 637-4255 and

Patrick Sullivan's Back Room Bar-B-Que, 106 N. Central Ave., 865-637-4255
Patrick Sullivan’s was founded in 1888 and is located in Knoxville’s Old City. Legend has it that many notorious figures have dined there, including Buffalo Bill Cody and members of Butch Cassidy’s gang. Today, guests can enjoy the historic charm of the saloon while digging into pan-seared pepper steak, prime Colorado beef, jumbo shrimp or a tasty pasta creation.

Regas, 318 N. Gay St., 865-637-3427
A Knoxville tradition, Regas has been where local residents have celebrated special occasions since 1919. Enjoy fine food ranging from prime rib to lobster to lamb chops with cranberry port while relaxing fireside in the sumptuous dining room. Top off your meal with Regas' signature red velvet cake.

Ruth's Chris Steak House, 950 Volunteer Landing Ln., 865-546-4696
Ruth's Chris Steak House serves the finest aged, corn-fed USDA Prime beef. Broiled in a trademark 1800° oven & served on a plate heated to 500 degrees, your steak is presented sizzling hot at your table. Additionally, the menu includes select fresh seafood & other meat entrees, including seasonal specialties like foie gras, buffalo strip & scallops. A variety of fresh-cooked vegetables, including seven kinds of potatoes, salads, homemade desserts & an extensive selection of over 100 domestic & imported wines complete your dining experience. Ruth's Chris never fails to please!

Sapphire, 428 S. Gay St., 865-637-8181
A trendy, modern martini bar and restaurant less than a block away from the Theatre. The potato chips topped with truffle oil and asiago cheese are a favorite.

Tomato Head, 12 Market Square, 865-637-4067
Consistently ranked as one of Knoxville's favorite restaurants in various local polls, Tomato Head's menu consists of unpredictable takes on Italian and Southwestern dishes, ranging from nonconformist pizzas to whimsical soups to burritos. Using the finest fresh vegetables, produce and herbs, the Tomato Head prepares inventive and tasty concoctions that delight both carnivores and vegetarians seeking more than the traditional salad. Try the goat cheese sandwich or a wood-fired pizza with pesto, walnuts, chicken and roasted garlic . Enjoy the ever-changing display of local artwork or catch a performance by local singers, poets or theater troupes.

Trio Cafe, 13 Market Square, 865-246-2270
A fast, friendly, and casual café on Market Square specializing in custom hand-tossed salads as well as Southern favorites like shrimp & grits.  Everything here is made from scratch.

Taste of Havana, 16 Market Square (inside World Grotto), 865-226-2962
Cuban food at its best. Offering Cuban bread, coffee and a full bakery. Located on Market Square, a short walk from the Tennessee Theatre.

January 2009

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