Fine Dining In East Tennessee: A Guide to Restaurants in Knoxville

When an East Tennessean wants to eat out, he or she definitely has options. Knoxville has almost every chain restaurant along with some  beloved  local favorites and world renowned restaurants. With all of these choices there are some standouts.

For an elegant dinner, Knoxville offerings range from the nationally renowned steakhouses Ruth’s Chris and Fleming’s to the local treasures of the Orangery and Copper Cellar. Fresh seafood can be enjoyed a Bonefish or Chesapeake’s.  At these intimate venues, patrons enjoy exceptional food and wine all in an intimate setting.
The local flavor is also shown in the family owned Connor Concept restaurants and Calhouns. These East Tennessee favorites all feature recipes that have been passed down through the generations.
Along with local flavor, Knoxville has numerous international options. Naples and Bravo’s reflect the finest food from across Italy.   P.F. Chang’s and Nama provide quality Asian dining.  Mexican food can be enjoyed at Cha Cha and Aubelos and many more.
Along with the different types of food, Knoxville also offers different venues.   East Tennesseans can enjoy a nice dinner anywhere from the vibrant downtown or along the peaceful Tennessee River or right in the local neighborhood.
All of these restaurants are perfect for a Saturday night, weekday treat or nice lunch/brunch. The best thing about Knoxville restaurants is most of the time you do not have to worry about long waits and  long term reservations.  Most of these charming places you can walk right in and enjoy. 

Rossini Festival 2008 - Knoxville Tennessee

European flair took over downtown Knoxville on Saturday, April 19th, during the Rossini Festival.  This East Tennessee tradition celebrates the sounds of classical Opera and the tastes of Italian cuisine. The festival was filled with activities ranging from world-renowned opera performances, wine tasting, and art exhibitions. 
The crowds filled Gay Street
Flickr photo by Jon Gustin

Walking down Gay Street on     Saturday, you might have forgotten you were in Knoxville because it was  transformed into a classic Italian Street fair.  People soaked up the culture from noon to nine.  There were three different stages spotlighting various different entertainment.  People took in one of the performances while strolling through the Artesian Market. It was one tempting walk!  The area was flooded with the smells of authentic Mediterranean food.  It truly was a day for the whole family because kids loved playing in the special children area.
The festival culminated in a grand production of Tosca on Friday night and Sunday at the newly renovated Tennessee Theatre. This vibrate show about the life of famous Opera singer Floria Tosca, mesmerized the audiences with a tale of lust, love greed, corruption and mystery.
The Rossini Festival is just one of many exciting cultural activities happening this spring in East Tennessee.  The third annual Jazz Festival starts on April 25th and is a can’t miss event for jazz lovers. The event will blend classic and modern jazz together for extraordinary weekend filled with unforgettable performances.