Best Southwest American Restaurants in Knoxville

13 restaurants available nearby

1. STIR - Knoxville

4.8

Exceptional(667)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Knoxville

Booked 42 times today

STIR in Knoxville is a standout Cocktail Bar that elevates the art of mixology with exceptional craft cocktails. Located in the vibrant Old City, this open-air restaurant is renowned for its innovative approach to cocktail creation. They "freeze and carve 300-pound blocks of artisanal ice in-house," ensuring every drink is a masterpiece. Patrons rave about their cocktails, with many claiming they boast "the best Bloody Marys" they've ever tasted. The menu is a delightful pairing of fresh, local ingredients, making each visit a sensory delight. Whether you're savoring a cocktail on their heated patio or enjoying the lively atmosphere indoors, STIR promises an unforgettable experience.

A photo of Tupelo Honey - Knoxville restaurant

2. Tupelo Honey - Knoxville

4.7

Exceptional(2579)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Knoxville

Booked 92 times today

Tupelo Honey - Knoxville is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, deeply rooted in the rich traditions of Southern comfort food. Nestled in the vibrant Market Square, this beloved spot captures the essence of the Carolina Mountains with every scratch-made dish, from their "must-have" chicken and waffles to their "heavenly" shrimp and grits. The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere is complemented by a friendly and engaging staff, making every visit a delightful experience. With glowing reviews praising both the "outstanding service" and "delicious food," Tupelo Honey ensures that each meal is a memorable celebration of true American flavors.

A photo of Chesapeake's Downtown restaurant

3. Chesapeake's Downtown

4.8

Exceptional(1005)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Knoxville

Booked 26 times today

Chesapeake's Downtown in Knoxville is a shining beacon of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its exceptional seafood offerings like Maryland crab cakes and live Maine lobster. The restaurant's commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensures a consistently delightful dining experience. Guests rave about the "amazing food and service," highlighting the delightful crab cakes and scallops that "melt in your mouth." The cozy, nautical-themed ambiance, complemented by "genuine nautical antiques," adds to the charm, making it an ideal spot for both personal and business meals. Whether you're local or visiting, Chesapeake's Downtown promises an unforgettable taste of America’s coastal culinary treasures.

A photo of Firebirds Wood Fired Grill - Knoxville restaurant

4. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill - Knoxville

4.7

Exceptional(1712)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Knoxville

Booked 29 times today

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill in Knoxville is a top-notch Steakhouse that promises a memorable dining experience with its “steaks that cut like butter,” as raved by satisfied guests. Located at West Town Crossings, this restaurant is celebrated for its scratch kitchen and bold flavors that enhance the quality of their hand-cut, aged steaks. The inviting atmosphere and exceptional service from attentive servers like Shawn and Carol ensure every visit is delightful. Guests frequently commend Firebirds as “absolutely one of the most amazing restaurants around,” making it a perfect spot for a romantic night out or a special celebration.

A photo of Copper Cellar (West) restaurant

5. Copper Cellar (West)

4.8

Exceptional(363)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Knoxville

Booked 22 times today

Copper Cellar (West) in Knoxville is a seafood lover's paradise that has been delighting diners for over 40 years. Known for its impeccable quality and authenticity, the seafood selections are “top notch,” with dishes like lobster tail and crab cakes receiving rave reviews. The ambiance, reminiscent of a classic era, adds to the charm, making each visit a special experience. Guests consistently praise the restaurant for its “delicious food” and “excellent service,” ensuring a memorable dining experience every time. Copper Cellar West is the perfect spot for those seeking high-quality seafood in a refined and welcoming setting.

6. The Marlowe

4.8

Exceptional(1497)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Knoxville

Booked 4 times today

The Marlowe in Knoxville offers a stellar American dining experience, blending classic and contemporary flavors with finesse. As one diner raved, "the crab cakes are INSANE good," showcasing the chef's ability to elevate traditional American dishes to new heights. The restaurant’s ambiance, described as a "cozy atmosphere with exposed brick and warm wood," complements its meticulously crafted menu. The Marlowe's "exceptional service" is frequently praised, with staff adding a personal touch to every visit. With a diverse wine selection recognized by Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence, The Marlowe is truly a "must experience" destination for American cuisine aficionados.

7. Balter Beerworks

4.7

Exceptional(60)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Knoxville

Booked 4 times today

Balter Beerworks, located in the heart of Knoxville, is a standout in the Gastro Pub scene, offering an unforgettable dining experience with its scratch-made cuisine and craft beers. This brewpub creates a welcoming environment where diners can enjoy the "excellent food and beer," as one reviewer noted. The menu is ever-evolving, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients that elevate classic pub fare to new heights. Guests rave about the "delicious carafes of Mimosas" and the "great beer selections," making it a favorite brunch spot. With its urban aesthetic and attentive service, Balter Beerworks is the perfect spot for a vibrant and satisfying meal.

A photo of Marble City Kitchen and The Firefly restaurant

8. Marble City Kitchen and The Firefly

4.5

Awesome(18)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Knoxville

Booked 11 times today

Get an authentic taste of Southern Comfort at Marble City Kitchen, our casual and approachable downtown Knoxville restaurant in the heart of the city near Market Square. Then unwind at our Tennessee whiskey bar and beer garden, the Firefly.The bar features a partnership with George Dickel Distillery and offers the only hand-selected reserve barrel of George Dickel Whiskey in a bar in Tennessee. Crafted cocktails feature the reserve bottle and the rest of the beverage list highlights the best of Tennessee spirits and breweries. Live music and events are frequently hosted on the patio and make for a lively spot any night of the

A photo of Calhoun's Bearden Hill restaurant

9. Calhoun's Bearden Hill

4.1

Excellent(68)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Bearden Hill

Booked 18 times today

At Calhoun's Bearden Hill, located in the heart of West Knoxville, you'll experience Barbecue like never before. Known for some of Tennessee’s best BBQ, the restaurant offers an authentic taste that keeps locals and visitors coming back. Their smoky and tender ribs are a standout, leaving diners raving about the "delicious" and "flavorful" experience. The custom-built microbrewery adds an extra layer to your meal with handcrafted beers that perfectly complement the barbecue. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a meal with friends and family, Calhoun's offers a warm atmosphere and outstanding service that make every visit memorable.

A photo of Tavern at Maker Exchange restaurant

10. Tavern at Maker Exchange

3.9

Excellent(9)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Knoxville

Booked 8 times today

A clever nod to Knoxville’s history as a maker city, the Tavern at Maker Exchange is the spot for enjoying drinks and noshing on fresh regional foods that encompass the spirit of Knoxville in a social and energetic setting.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Explore OpenTable

Knoxville

Mexican

Best Southwest American Restaurants in Knoxville

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Accessibility

13 restaurants available nearby

1. STIR - Knoxville

2. Tupelo Honey - Knoxville

3. Chesapeake's Downtown

4. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill - Knoxville

5. Copper Cellar (West)

6. The Marlowe

7. Balter Beerworks

8. Marble City Kitchen and The Firefly

9. Calhoun's Bearden Hill

10. Tavern at Maker Exchange

Explore OpenTable