The Lay of the Culinary Land
Knoxville, Tennessee. The name alone conjures images of Southern charm, smoky mountains, and vibrant music. But beyond the scenic beauty and soulful sounds, a culinary awakening is taking place. While downtown Knoxville continues to bask in the glow of its award-winning restaurants and trendy eateries, a culinary adventure awaits those who venture a little further afield, specifically along Asheville Highway. Many consider Knoxville to be a blossoming food city. Forget the well-trodden paths; on Asheville Highway, you’ll find a vibrant tapestry of flavors, a testament to Knoxville’s growing reputation as a food city, and a reminder that some of the best culinary experiences are often found off the beaten path.
This isn’t just about grabbing a quick bite. It’s about discovering hidden gems, sampling authentic international cuisine, and supporting local businesses that pour their heart and soul into every dish. This is about understanding how the Asheville Highway food scene contributes to Knoxville’s wider culinary landscape, and that starts with understanding the lay of the land. So, let’s embark on a journey to explore Asheville Highway and its hidden culinary treasure trove.
Asheville Highway stretches east from downtown Knoxville, connecting the city to the surrounding communities. It’s a thoroughfare that reflects the diverse nature of Knoxville itself. You’ll find a mix of residential areas, small businesses, and, of course, a wide array of restaurants and eateries. The vibe along Asheville Highway is generally more casual and family-friendly than the polished, often upscale, atmosphere of downtown. The food scene reflects this relaxed energy, offering a more down-to-earth and approachable dining experience.
While chain restaurants certainly have a presence, it’s the local, independent businesses that truly define the character of Asheville Highway’s food scene. From mom-and-pop diners serving up classic Southern comfort food to international restaurants showcasing authentic flavors from around the world, there’s something for every palate and every budget. You’ll also spot several locations of Food City, a regional grocery chain, and these stores often play an important role in the food culture of the area.
Local Favorites and Culinary Cornerstones
Every great food scene has its pillars – the restaurants that have stood the test of time, the places that locals swear by, the cornerstones that anchor the community. Asheville Highway is no exception.
Consider Dead End BBQ. This isn’t just any barbeque joint; it’s an institution. Known for its melt-in-your-mouth ribs, smoky pulled pork, and tangy sauces, Dead End BBQ consistently earns accolades and attracts loyal customers from all over East Tennessee. The line often stretches out the door, especially on weekends, but the wait is always worth it. It’s about more than just the food; it’s about the atmosphere, the friendly service, and the sense of community. “I’ve been coming here for years,” says local resident Sarah Miller. “The barbeque is the best in town, hands down. But it’s also the people that keep me coming back. It feels like home.”
Then there’s Litton’s Market and Restaurant, another long-standing favorite. Litton’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a market, a deli, and a gathering place. Famous for its burgers, sandwiches, and homemade desserts, Litton’s has been serving up delicious food and friendly service for decades. Their “Thunder Road Burger” is a local legend, and their cakes and pies are the perfect way to end a meal. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, Litton’s is a place where you can always feel welcome. They frequently have live music and offer outdoor seating, a great spot to enjoy a meal and unwind.
Another notable mention has to go to Sam & Andy’s Restaurant. A classic diner feel with a huge menu, this establishment has been a staple of Asheville Highway since 1946. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, it has something for everyone. From sandwiches to southern plate lunches to greek specialties, many Knoxville residents have fond memories eating there.
A World of Flavors on One Highway
One of the things that makes Asheville Highway’s food scene so exciting is its diversity. You don’t just find Southern staples here; you find a vibrant mix of international flavors that reflect Knoxville’s growing multicultural population.
Let’s start with El Charolais Mexican Restaurant. This isn’t your typical Tex-Mex chain. El Charolais offers authentic Mexican cuisine, with dishes that are bursting with flavor and made with fresh ingredients. The carne asada is a particular standout, as is their mole sauce, rich and complex. The family-owned restaurant is a welcoming and unpretentious spot, and the portions are generous, ensuring you leave feeling satisfied.
Next, we journey to Taste of Thai. This unassuming restaurant serves up some of the most authentic Thai food in Knoxville. The curries are rich and fragrant, the noodle dishes are perfectly balanced, and the appetizers are addictive. Chef and owner, Pim, brings her culinary expertise from Thailand and infuses it into every dish. Her dedication makes the food incredibly flavorful and authentic. Taste of Thai is a local treasure, offering a true taste of Thailand right here on Asheville Highway.
Little Tokyo Japanese Restaurant is another popular option. Although specializing in sushi and Japanese cuisine, it provides hibachi options. Located in a cozy spot that can feel intimate, the food and service are consistently excellent.
Unearthing Culinary Surprises and Hidden Gems
Beyond the established favorites and international hotspots, Asheville Highway is also home to a few hidden gems – the unexpected finds that make exploring a food scene so rewarding.
The Coffee Shop. This unassuming shop offers great coffee, but is also known to have great pizza and pasta. Located close to downtown, the prices are reasonable and the food is well worth the visit.
The Donut Palace may not be much to look at from the outside, but inside you will find heavenly pastries. Their donuts are made fresh daily and include all sorts of flavors.
These are the places that often fly under the radar but offer a truly unique and memorable dining experience. They are a testament to the creativity and passion of the local food community and are well worth seeking out.
Food City: More Than Just Groceries
No exploration of Asheville Highway’s food scene would be complete without mentioning Food City. This regional grocery chain has several locations along the highway and plays a vital role in the area’s food culture. More than just a place to buy groceries, Food City offers a wide range of prepared foods, including deli sandwiches, salads, and hot meals. The deli is a popular spot for locals to grab a quick and affordable lunch, and the produce section offers a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Food City also supports local food vendors, offering a platform for small businesses to showcase their products. This helps to create a more vibrant and diverse food ecosystem on Asheville Highway and provides opportunities for local entrepreneurs to reach a wider audience. Food City’s commitment to the community extends beyond just groceries, making it an integral part of the Asheville Highway food experience.
The Future of Flavor on Asheville Highway
The food scene on Asheville Highway is constantly evolving, reflecting the changing demographics and culinary trends of Knoxville. The influx of new residents, the growing interest in international cuisine, and the increasing support for local businesses are all contributing to the area’s culinary growth.
As Knoxville continues to gain recognition as a food city, Asheville Highway is poised to become an even more important destination for food lovers. With its diverse range of restaurants, its focus on local businesses, and its commitment to quality and authenticity, Asheville Highway offers a unique and compelling culinary experience that is well worth exploring.
Conclusion: A Delicious Destination
Asheville Highway in Knoxville is more than just a road; it’s a culinary journey waiting to be discovered. From the comforting flavors of Southern barbeque to the exotic spices of international cuisine, this diverse thoroughfare offers a taste of the world right here in East Tennessee. The local favorites, the hidden gems, and the unexpected finds all contribute to a vibrant and compelling food scene that is helping to elevate Knoxville’s reputation as a food city.
So, next time you’re in Knoxville, venture beyond downtown and explore the culinary landscape of Asheville Highway. Support the local businesses, sample the diverse flavors, and discover your own hidden gems. You might just be surprised at what you find. Come experience the magic that Asheville Highway has to offer. You will be glad you did. After all, with the food city’s culinary delights just a short drive away, adventure is always within reach.
