Knoxville Restaurant Buzz: New Flavors and Shifting Spaces
Greetings from the heart of Knoxville, where the aroma of fresh food and community spirit fills the air, even amidst the highs and lows of football season! While our beloved Tennessee Volunteers continue to chase a win, there’s no need to let our stomachs suffer. Whether you’re cooking up a win or experiencing a tough loss, Knoxville has a delicious lineup of new dining options that deserve your attention!
Brewery Bittersweet News
In the world of craft beer, we have some bittersweet news. Fanatic Brewing, a local brewery that’s been a staple in our community since 2015, is officially on the market! Marty Velas, the mastermind behind the brewery, has decided it’s time to retire after nearly a decade. The business and property are listed for $2.95 million, and Velas has expressed his desire to slow down a bit. He has been a driving force in the local brewing scene, offering a product of about 6,000 barrels a year, but he believes the brewery has potential to triple that output. “The support of the community has been overwhelming, and it’s just been fun,” Velas said. While we say goodbye to his day-to-day operations, we can still enjoy his beer until the sale goes through!
Introducing Mia Piccola!
Now, onto something a bit sweeter! A new coffee trailer, Mia Piccola, has just hit the streets, and owner Nathan Kitner is brewing up excitement! Open since August 31, the mobile coffee cart specializes in cappuccinos, flat whites, lattes, and more. This little venture comes from Kitner’s heart, named after his tiny home back in Michigan. “Coffee goes so well with any event,” says Kitner, “It becomes a hangout!” With hopes of opening a storefront in the coming years, keep your eyes peeled for this charming coffee service at local events and businesses.
Tasty New Additions
On the bakery front, Wrenhouse Bakery has opened its third location inside the Phoenix Pharmacy and Ice Cream Parlor. Since June, locals have been enjoying delicious pastries, cookies, and coffee from this delightful addition. It’s open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and perfect for a sweet treat during those pharmacy runs!
In the fast-food arena, we’re all eagerly waiting for the new Chick-Fil-A to open at 10909 Hardin Valley Road, right near Pellissippi State Community College. While an official opening date is still TBA, it’s already sparking excitement in the community. Neighboring it will be the second location of Lolli & Bobo’s Ice Cream Shoppe, also set to open in October.
More Shifts on the Restaurant Scene
Knoxville’s dining scene is buzzing with yet more changes! A new taco spot, Taqueria Mares, has set up shop at 2008 Cumberland Ave., and it’s already delighting patrons with tasty tacos and more within the Slate at 901 apartment building. The space has seen many transformations, but we hope this new venture will stick around!
Fans of Sam & Andy’s in Fountain City should check out the warm hospitality of Sonny’s Original Southern Pub, which has taken over the former location. The pub dishes out burgers, wings, and sandwiches, embodying the spirit of Southern comfort food.
Sad Goodbyes and New Beginnings
On a sadder note, we have to bid farewell to Old Mill Bread Company, which has served us for 29 years. Its doors have closed for good, and the windows are now covered with a paper sign expressing gratitude to the community. It’s a loss for bread lovers, but Knoxville remains a thriving food landscape.
As we navigate the ever-changing culinary landscape of Knoxville, let’s keep our spirits high and our bellies full! Whether it’s an afternoon coffee, a decadent pastry, or a spicy taco, there are plenty of flavors to discover and savor. Here’s to local dining adventures!
