Where to Eat and Drink Around Market Square
Market Square has been the heart of downtown Knoxville for over 100 years. It’s a walkable hub filled with local restaurants, cafes, and bars offering something for every taste, from hearty breakfasts to handcrafted cocktails. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, here are some of the best places to eat and drink in and around Market Square.
Breakfast & Brunch
The Brass Pearl
24 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Known for fresh oysters and seafood, The Brass Pearl also serves an upscale brunch with coastal flair. Expect shrimp and grits, benedicts, and champagne cocktails.
Cafe 4
4 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
A modern Southern spot offering dishes like chicken and waffles, pimento cheese grit bowls, and loaded biscuits. The patio is perfect for brunch on sunny days.
Not Watson’s Kitchen + Bar
15 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Known for American comfort food, their brunch menu includes chicken biscuits, mimosas, and stuffed French toast in a lively, casual setting.
Oliver Royale
5 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Located inside the Oliver Hotel, this upscale spot offers refined brunch items with seasonal ingredients and artisan cocktails in a stylish setting.
Ruby Sunshine
37 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
A New Orleans-based brunch chain known for its decadent benedicts, breakfast tacos, and signature drinks like spiked cold brew.
The Tomato Head
12 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
A Knoxville staple offering a variety of brunch options including huevos rancheros, breakfast pizza, and fresh-squeezed juices. Great for vegetarians.
Tupelo Honey
1 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Southern-style brunch favorites like fried green tomatoes, chicken and biscuits, and sweet potato pancakes. Great mix of traditional and creative dishes.
Coffee Shops
Coffee & Chocolate
327 Union Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902
Just a block from Market Square, this cozy cafe serves house-made chocolates, specialty coffee drinks, and pastries.
Mahalo Coffee Roasters
513 Union Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902
Bright, modern coffee shop known for its smooth espresso, pour-overs, and friendly atmosphere. Great for a quick pick-me-up or casual meeting.
Lunch Spots
Kabuki House Sushi
32 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Fast-casual sushi and Japanese dishes. Great for a quick lunch roll combo or teriyaki plate in the heart of the square.
Petro’s Chili & Chips
28 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
A local favorite offering bowls of chili layered over chips with cheese, sour cream, and your choice of toppings. Quick, filling, and budget-friendly.
Soccer Taco
9 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
A lively sports bar serving Mexican favorites like tacos, fajitas, and margaritas. Great place to watch a game while grabbing lunch.
Subway
25 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
If you’re looking for a familiar and fast option, this Subway offers standard sandwiches and salads in a convenient spot.
The Lunchbox
18 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Serving sandwiches, wraps, and salads made with local ingredients. A quieter lunch spot with a strong following of regulars.
Tommy Trent’s Sports Bar
36 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
This casual bar and grill offers burgers, wings, and pub fare. A solid option for a laid-back lunch with a cold beer.
The Tomato Head
12 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Also a great lunch spot thanks to its handcrafted pizzas, sandwiches, and fresh salads with house-made dressings and breads.
Dinner Destinations
The Brass Pearl
24 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Great for dinner too, offering raw bar selections, fresh seafood entrées, and cocktails in a refined yet approachable atmosphere.
Cafe 4
4 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
The dinner menu features Southern-inspired entrees like short rib, meatloaf, and shrimp & grits, along with a full wine list and creative cocktails.
Chesapeake’s Downtown
500 Henley St, Knoxville, TN 37902
An upscale seafood restaurant offering fresh-caught fish, oysters, and steak. Ideal for a more formal night out, just a short walk from Market Square.
Oliver Royale
5 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Elegant dinner spot with a seasonally driven menu, including local meats, seafood, and vegetarian-friendly entrées. Great for date night or special occasions.
Stock & Barrel
35 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
One of Knoxville’s top burger joints, known for gourmet burgers, truffle fries, and bourbon cocktails. A must-visit for food lovers.
Bars & Breweries
Alice in Appalachia
16 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
A whimsical and artistic cocktail bar offering unique drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. Expect imaginative garnishes and a cozy vibe.
Knox Brew Hub
421 Union Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902
A gathering place for craft beer lovers featuring local brews on tap. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable—great spot for beer tasting.
Not Watson’s
15 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
In addition to its food, the bar serves up classic cocktails, local beers, and happy hour specials with a bustling crowd.
Peter Kern Library
407 Union Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902
An elegant, reservation-only speakeasy hidden inside The Oliver Hotel. Known for its literary-themed cocktail menu and cozy atmosphere.
Preservation Pub
28 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
A lively three-story pub with live music, rooftop seating, and a strong beer selection. A local institution for nightlife.
Scruffy City Hall
32 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
Connected to Preservation Pub, Scruffy City features live bands, a full bar, and a quirky rooftop. It’s a staple of Knoxville’s downtown music scene.
