Even though we are only halfway through 2024, Knoxville has plenty of new restaurants that have joined the ranks. Whether you’re looking for southern barbecue or authentic ramen, there is something here for everyone.
Humble Hog
Humble Hog BBQ prioritizes hospitality and quality in their restaurant. Most of their menu is sourced from local vendors, whether it be their barbecue or their beers. Although BBQ is in the name, they actually offer a unique, varied menu where even vegetarians have been able to find a good meal. If you are unsure of what to try, grab a couple of their small plates to sample a few things. The burnt ends and sticky ribs are highly recommended. For dessert, their banana pudding is also a fan-favorite, featuring banana bread in their recipe. Even better, most of their menu is gluten-free!
Downtown Knoxville | 312 S. Gay Street | humblehogbbq.com
Patches BBQ
Patches BBQ & More opened in January of this year as a classic southern barbecue spot. Patches may look like a small hole-in-the-wall, but their menu has been praised by locals and visitors alike. The restaurant offers great barbecue and excellent service, with customers raving about how quick the service is. As far as barbecue goes, the pulled pork sandwich and ribs are fantastic. One of their specialties, however, is their sandwich that has mac and cheese on it! For dessert, check out their peach cobbler, especially when it is fresh out of the oven! Added bonus here? They just opened a second location closer to home!
East Knoxville & Strawberry Plains | Facebook Page
Aretha Frankenstein’s
Chattanooga coffee/breakfast space, Aretha Frankenstein’s, opened a Knoxville location! Customers especially love the egg and cheese biscuits and their waffles. You can even buy their waffle mix on site! Aside from their delicious menu, they also have a great atmosphere, featuring eclectic and funky decor.
South Knoxville | 3318 Chapman Hwy | arethas.com
Celestina Knox
Celestina is a new, locally-owned Mexican restaurant that opened in February. Their menu features family recipes that come straight from their grandparents. A staple on their menu is the chorizo dip, which you can enjoy with some of their homemade tortilla chips. Not only is their food menu extensive, but they also have a wide variety of drinks to choose from. There are plenty of margaritas to choose from, like a peach-flavored one, or you can choose one of their handcrafted cocktails.
West Knoxville | 1411 Bexhill Dr | celestinaknox.com
Gogi Korean Kitchen
Knoxville’s newest Korean restaurant, Gogi Korean Kitchen, actually opened in 2022 but this traditional Korean restaurant deserves another shout! Gogi offers a plenty of Korean classics with a variety of flavors to choose, from sweet to spicy. They also have plenty of vegan options, which can be hard to come by in Knoxville. Besides the classics, Gogi also offers classic small plates and apps, like kimchi or pickled vegetables, that elevate meals. There are a variety of deals offered during the week, like half off wings on Tuesday and half off Soju on Thursdays, which is great if you’re looking for a budget-friendly Korean meal.
West Hills | 7818 Montvue Center Way | gogi865.com
Kraken’s Cup
Kraken’s Cup is a whimsical, nautical-themed tea shop that opened at the beginning of the year. The shop offers a variety of teas as well as finger foods or full lunch options. If you are a tea novice–don’t worry! The staff there is full of tea knowledge and can help you choose. Kraken’s Cup has also been praised for their unique decor and laid back ambience. Check out the classes and events, including a “Chill Hour,” which is a great way to destress and unwind at the end of the day.
Downtown | 4815 N Broadway St #107 | thekrakenscup.com
Bistro by the Tracks in Bearden
Bistro by the Tracks opened a second location earlier this year. Bistro has been praised for their delicious food and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant also features beautiful decor, perfect for a luxurious date night out on the town. Even though there are now two locations, the menus vary by location since they have chef-driven menus. At this new location, diners have raved about the salmon as well as the charcuterie appetizer. But no matter what location you head to, you can rest assured you’ll have a mouth-watering dinner experience. Both have 2024 Cityview Top Chefs at the helm!
Bearden | 5448 Homberg Drive | bistrobythetracks.com
Marble City Market’s New Eats
Marble City Market in the historic Regas Square features a variety of skilled chefs, and they have recently added some new vendors to the lineup.
Rom’s House cuisine has been compared to Mediterranean cuisine. Their main entree is a bowl with meat, rice, and veggies, topped with a baked bread layer. Rom’s serves big portions, so you’ll have plenty of leftovers to save for later.
The S.E.A. Ramen & Asian Kitchen is a newly-added asian-fusion restaurant with staff and cuisine that you’ve just got to meet.
Algo Delii offers Venezuelan cuisine, like arepas and empanadas, that is just so worth the trip!
Knoxville | 333 W Depot Ave Suite 110 | marblecitymarket.com