Whether you have lived in Knoxville all your life or just moved here, there are some restaurants you just have to check out. Here is a list of some hidden gems within Knoxville that you need to check out! 

 1. Peter Kern Library

Once a well-kept secret, this sophisticated speakeasy resides behind the Oliver Hotel lobby. The only way you will know you have found the right place is the red light above the door. The room itself is in oblong with a large portrait of Peter Kern, builder of this former bakery/confectionery on one end, and a gas fireplace on the other. The drink menus are presented in old World Book Encyclopedias, and cocktails are named after literary characters. This is a great spot to grab a drink before or after hanging out in Market Square. 

2. Pero’s on the Hill

Opened by former college roommates, Sammy Peroulas and Chandler Goff. With a variety of Greek, Italian, and American fare served in a charming restaurant. Pero’s offers live music on the weekends, daily specials, and an undeniable ambience on the patio. Pero’s also focuses on finding hidden gems to feature in their wine selection. 

3. Nick & J’s Cafe

Open for breakfast and lunch only and closed on Sundays, everything is made fresh daily from fresh ground beef and locally bought chicken and eggs to fresh market produce. Najwan Natour is the owner/operator and named Nick and J’s after his children. Najwan’s own father comes into the restaurant every morning to prepare the daily specials. Member Sable Weander says, “Nick and J’s Cafe - great food & service, fun to sit at the counter and watch them cook.” Make sure to stop by the next time you are off Lovell Road. 

4. Sam & Andy’s

Sam & Andy’s – a Knoxville staple since 1946! Frequented by local celebrities, the restaurant has two locations – Farragut and Fountain City. As you walk into both locations, you take a walk down memory lane as the walls are filled with memorabilia from athletes, Knoxville’s history, and other local celebrities. Locations are open for lunch and dinner.  If you’re craving a mouth-watering burger, check out the SEC Burger or a membership committee personal favorite, the Pizza Burger.  

5. Jackie’s Dream

Quoted as “the Best Soul Food in Knoxville,” Jackie and her wonderful restaurant family serve up Knox Hot Chicken, Fried Chicken, Meatloaf, Catfish, Fried Okra, and Mama’s Mac & Cheese along with other delicious food daily.  Jackie worked in the food industry throughout Knoxville for years as she pursued her dream of owning her own soul food restaurant.  Jackie’s Dream is located in North Knoxville.  When you enter Jackie’s, you feel like you’re home having a meal with family! 

6. Chez Guevara

Chez Guevara offers traditional Mexican fare and margaritas that help put away your troubles!  The eclectic atmosphere is a great place to gather with friends. Member Scott Beasly says, “Chez Guevara has an amazingly unique atmosphere.” Chez Guevara is located in West Knoxville in the back far corner of the Trader Joe’s shopping center.

About the Authors

Kelsie Crittendon currently works for the Family and Consumer Sciences department at University of Tennessee Extension. She serves as Membership Chair for Young Professionals of Knoxville and as President of Knoxville Rotaract Club. Kelsie moved to Knoxville in 2015 and made the easy choice to make it her forever home. She enjoys going on new adventures with her fiance and their three dogs.

Courtney Dyer currently works for TeamHealth as a Clinical Sourcing Consultant. She serves as Membership Co-Chair for Young Professionals of Knoxville and is a member of Sigma Kappa Sorority advisory board. She enjoys going on adventures with Australian Shepherd, Bogart, traveling, and playing competitive tennis.