Nixon&#x27;s Deli

Looking for a quick bite, I turned to Yelp and found this gem. Upon entering, the smell of fresh…read morebaked bread greets you like a warm hug. After perusing the menu, I decided on a large Chicken Bacon Ranch w/lettuce, tomato, and mayo, accompanied by a bag of chips and a sweet tea. Within a few short minutes, my order was ready for pick up. The sandwich was more than satisfying - well crafted and big enough for two servings. Without a doubt, the fresh-baked bread was the star of the show. It was soft and absolutely delicious. Service was fast and friendly. There's ample indoor and patio seating. Parking is limited to the street. Definitely swing by Steamboat if you're in the area!

I got the roast beef sandwich. With tax, it was $18.02. It had two or three thin pieces of roast…read morebeef. The service was fine, but nothing to write home about. And the ambiance was very basic.

Chicken, Bacon & Ranch

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Menu board

Potchke

4.8(202 reviews)

4.0 mi

This is my favorite bagel place!!! I've had bagels in Brooklyn, Chicago and San Francisco…read more Potchke's is the BEST and has the BEST MENU EVER! We stop on our travels as much as we can on our travels to Florida THANK YOU

Great little spot for a lox bialy and a latte…read more We got: -Potato blintz (not very flavorful but it went okay) -lox bialy (dill and scallion schmear, goood nova lox, red onion, cucumber, capers, tomato, sweet pepper relish and dill. served on an everything bialy. This was the star) -latte I'm deeply regretting my not grabbing a babka on the way out but it just gives me another excuse to head back!

Inside

Chocolate babka

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My favorite Peach and cream babka full of vanilla pastry jam and NC peach jam

Sonny's Original Southern Pub

4.2(22 reviews)

3.0 mi

We say outside the weather was great! The margaritas were delicious. The fired pickle app was ok…read moresmall for the price but that Buffalo Chicken salad was YUM!

Service was amazing! Burgers are hand patted and cooked to order. Thick and juicy…read more Menu is on the smaller selection side, but it looks like they hit home runs on each meal... would much rather see 100% greatness than 20 pages of mediocrity. The fries were perfectly crispy. Won't lie it's a little on the hole in the wall side, but that just means they pour more energy into food quality than having fancy decor. Looks like a great place to watch a ball game. Owner was very nice and personable. The restaurant is named after his dad.

Inside are

Buffalo chicken salad

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Menu back 1/5/25

Hummus Republic

4.5(19 reviews)

3.1 mi

This place is so crazy!! You can custom make a bowl with a base, protein, and tons of hummus…read morechoices! It was so amazing. The service was quick and very kind. It is also very clean and beautiful on the inside. Really great for to-go options especially after a gym session close by at Crunch!

Hummus Republic is a bit of a mixed experience. **The…read morepositive -- hummus is above average and tastes freshly made; roast eggplant is good; spice/flavor is decent. **Negative -- minimal meat; only a tiny piece of eggplant (despite an upcharge); lemon chicken was cold and not very tasy. My order was UberEats. So, I cannot comment on the restaurant experience or ambiance. But, as far as food goes, I put this in the average category. If you happen to be near there and want this style of food (and nothing better is around), it's passable. But, it doesn't reach the great category and it is not as good as CAVA (which seems very similar). Overall: Worth a try. But, don't rush out to it. I recommend they improve the quality of the meats and have better portions if someone orders the roast eggplant.

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Vandergriff's Fresh Steamed Hoagies

4.5(22 reviews)

5.8 mi

Great food and wonderful service and staff. Always enjoy coming to Vandergriff's Deli.read more

8/10 - Sunrise Deli A no-frills local gem that delivers…read moreexactly what you want -- fresh ingredients, hearty portions, and a menu that feels homemade and creative.

Grand opening team

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Curious Dog

4.1(171 reviews)

4.1 mi

Stopped in to pick up lunch to share with my husband. We decided on the thai dog which came with a…read morepeanut sauce and shredded cabbage and cucumber. The employee was helping in deciding the quantity of fries that I should get-which appreciated. The cabbage was a little worse for wear. The fries were fresh though. Right after I ordered, there were a few more people that came in and a phone order. My food came out in around five minutes. The place has a cute vibe with beer, bike and music memorabilia. There were t too many places to sit, so I was glad that I ordered to go. They also have a vast cooler of beers and other beverages.

Great dog. Huge and incredibly flavorful. There were a dozen dogs on the menu I wanted to try and I…read morewill be back for them.

Interior

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Outside of restaurant

SmashCity - Knoxville

4.5(121 reviews)

4.2 mi

Headed to a Smokies game, we chose to stop into SmashCity for a pregame burger…read more The service and burger came up quickly. I opted for the truffle smash and large fry. My buddy opted for the Spicy Smash. The burgers were mmmmmmmmmm mmmmmmmm great, Juicy and the bun held up. Fries were fresh and would like to see maybe a topping or poutine option for them. Cool spot to get some AC and great burger before a Smokies game or a night in the old City.

We already had 250 miles under our belt for the day. 4 more hours to home. I was sick of fast food…read moreand we were making good time so we decided to venture off the road, but just a little. SmashCity wasn't far off of the interstate, it had good ratings and although we'd been eating burgers and fries quite a bit on this roadtrip, a good burger and fries really sounded good. All of the reviews were right on - this was absolutely NOT fast food - it was fast, really fast, but the speed was just bonus. As we usually do, we split. We chose the Carolina BBQ smash. The burgers were juicy - if you're not careful, I guarantee you'll be wearing it. Two critiques, it definitely needed more sauce - I just added some of the SmashCity sauce from our fries and it worked but I really would have liked to have had more BBQ sauce. Second, the fried onions were quite burned. I pulled off most of them. The hand cut fries were piping hot, just the right amount of greasy and seasoned perfectly. Splitting the burger was a good call - I'd never have eaten the whole thing myself. The burger and fries were just over $20. When you consider a Big Mac meal at that clown place is $14, SmashCity is almost a bargain. Paul, the owner was like the energizer bunny - he was everywhere at once. Personality oozed from his pores. Make sure you tell him Sue said hi! (He won't remember me but just say hi anyway!) Now I wouldn't say SmashCity has the best burgers - that award goes to our friend Jerry. He makes a pretty mean smash burger on the blackstone. If you have an extra half hour, skip the fast food burger joints, get off that highway, and go let Paul fill your belly for the rest of your trip! You'll appreciate it!

Truffle Smash (top), SmashCity Classic (bottom)

House-Made Black Bean Smash

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Rad-Style - SmashCity's version of loaded fries!

Wild Love Bakehouse

4.5(262 reviews)

2.8 mi

Yes there's a wait. It moved at a fine pace and the weather was quite breezy so we didn't really…read moremind. Everyone in line was chatting or observing and it just comes with the territory. More importantly, it's totally worth it. We got a box of goodies and they were all fantastic. You can taste the quality of the products they use. You can taste the butter. It's just lovely. My husband also really liked his latte. We sat inside and ate some of our goodies. We took the rest home for my mum for Mother's Day. My family loved them, too. Nice space. We also bought some whole wheat flour as a gift while there. Will absolutely go back when I'm in the area.

I stopped here to grab some treats on my way out of Knoxville. This bakery/cafe is absolutely…read moreadorable inside - bright, spacious, welcoming - and has some limited outdoor seating too. If I'd had more time, I would have loved hanging out here for a while. I only managed to get here about 45 minutes to close, so their selection was understandably if somewhat disappointingly quite picked over. I wound up with a cranberry oat scone and a blueberry and raspberry hand tart. The employee was very pleasant and warm. I appreciated her eagerness to help and positive attitude despite my late arrival. The baked goods sadly didn't really live up to my expectations. The cranberry oat scone was the much better of the two; it was pleasantly sweet and had the proper scone texture and only a little dry. Unfortunately, the hand tart had several edges that I discovered later had been burnt. This impacted the flavor of the whole item and sadly diminished it greatly. The fruit filling was tasty at least, though I didn't get much raspberry from it -- mostly blueberry. I'd be down to try again in the future, just would come earlier in the day when the selection is a bit larger and the products available are a bit more "choice," let's say. I appreciated the kind service and lovely vibes!

Busy

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The Kraken's Cup

4.2(36 reviews)

2.9 mi

What a lovely little tea shop. It is a bit hidden away, a few doors down from Food City, tucked…read moreinto an alcove between stores. My daughter and I came on a Sunday at noon for an afternoon tea and were seated right away in the garden themed room by Christian. He explained the menu and the expansive tea list (SO many options and well-organized and explained via menu). He mentioned that an afternoon tea experience typically lasts around 1.5 hours. My daughter ordered the Picnic at the World's Fair kid tea experience and I got the Old City Socie-Tea. We ended up waiting about 35-40 minutes to receive our tea but after that, the scone and finger food courses rolled out quickly. The scone (with clotted cream, preserves, and lemon curd) was incredible. The scone was fresh, warm and incredibly soft and crumbly. It was even heart shaped! As for the savory sandwiches and bites:The chopped ham sandwich my daughter liked a lot, but she did not care for the cheese sandwich, which was a stacked slice of sticky, and slightly sweet American cheese. I liked the mozzarella and sun-dried tomato bite, the deviled egg, and the cucumber sandwich. I did not enjoy the chicken salad, which was very celery and onion heavy on an unfortunately stale croissant. I do with that we were given the option of mix and match for finger sandwiches. There were a few other items that I couldn't determine what they were. I would have loved a description card or quick walkthrough as to what was on each tray. We both loved the pastry bites dessert option. The brownie, raspberry cheesecake, and the lemon tart were so tasty! Aside from the experience aspect of the tea service, I loved seeing the staff interact with regulars and treat them as family. The manager was greeting and checking in with each table which is a nice touch. There are conversation cards on each table for tech-free chats and we also loved the special touch of the heart shaped sugar cubes. We had a great time and can see going back for tea, scones, and maybe one of the salads and the dessert bites.

Had an amazing time at the Krakens cup! Everything was so pretty. You get to pick your seat based…read moreon the teacup you like best. We each got tea and a plate to share. It is a bit pricey but I think that's what's expected with this type of experience. It's best to make a reservation so they can be prepared for you. The waitress was nice and really dressed the part.

Explore new teas in the Adventurer's Library

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Red Panda Grocery

4.5(12 reviews)

4.2 mi

Our college student stumbled upon this little gem that sells convenient store items and snacks…read more They also have a full service Chicago style sandwich station in the back. Not 100% authentic, but still very good Italian beef and Chicago hotdogs with homemade giardiniera. There are a couple tables and stools if you want to dine in.

Red Panda, I'm in love with you! The mortadella egg and cheese sandwich was what my dreams are made…read moreof, pictured below, and under $9. The French dip was also excellent. They have a very well sourced grocery with all kinds of yummy snacks and drinks you can't find anywhere else. Great, kind service. Good ambiance, there are a few tables inside where you can eat. I will be back every time I'm in Knox!

Other side of food menu, with contact info

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Italian beef sandwich with homemade giardiniera.

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2 reviews that are not currently recommended

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David G.

12

90

0

14 years ago

Horrible service. Old nasty ingredients. sticky tables and flies are the big new at this local. They have prepackaged potato salad... but it is soggy and horrible. read more

steve j.

0

7

0

18 years ago

two words. "steamed sandwiches" this place is great. if you like good food with a local flair, check them out.

Nixon's Deli - sandwiches - Updated September 2026

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This restaurant has really gone back to its previous glory. These sandwiches are full of meat and…read morethey are delicious. They offer a salad bar and they have a variety of beers and desserts. Definitely give it a try. The ole smoky is still my favorite. Plenty of seating inside and pleasant staff.

Haven't eaten here since the new management took over and boy was we surprised! The portions are…read morehuge and the service was amazing. The restaurant is very clean and family friendly. I would say this is the best place in Alcoa to get a sub sandwich that when you are done eating you feel like you got your money's worth and a quality sandwich unlike the big name sub shop that's on every corner.

Nixon's Deli

3.8

(57 reviews)

Save your money. I ordered a turkey and roast beef sandwich, with cheese, mayo, olives,…read morepepperoncinis, and mushrooms. They gave me 2 peices of olive, forgot the pepperoncinis and mushrooms... there was no flavor. I also got the pasta salad which was a tiny serving and not very good. I would skip this place. Nothign special about it and not at all flavorful. Go to a place that will listen to your order

Knoxville deli subs are not for me. I tried. Twice. I really wanted to like them. I would go back…read moreto try some of the desserts and maybe a hotdog.

Steamboat on Central

4.7

(62 reviews)

Looking for a quick bite, I turned to Yelp and found this gem. Upon entering, the smell of fresh…read morebaked bread greets you like a warm hug. After perusing the menu, I decided on a large Chicken Bacon Ranch w/lettuce, tomato, and mayo, accompanied by a bag of chips and a sweet tea. Within a few short minutes, my order was ready for pick up. The sandwich was more than satisfying - well crafted and big enough for two servings. Without a doubt, the fresh-baked bread was the star of the show. It was soft and absolutely delicious. Service was fast and friendly. There's ample indoor and patio seating. Parking is limited to the street. Definitely swing by Steamboat if you're in the area!

I got the roast beef sandwich. With tax, it was $18.02. It had two or three thin pieces of roast…read morebeef. The service was fine, but nothing to write home about. And the ambiance was very basic.

Gus's Good Times Deli

3.6

(117 reviews)

Y'all...had a tour of UTK today with my soon to be college daughter. Nothing open around campus…read moresounded great to us. We went in early to Gus's, real early. Not a breakfast place but a damn good sandwich. Customer service was 10 out of 10. Ruben and Italian sandwich were 10 out of 10. And the fries lasted us for the 5 mile tour we had of the campus. So good. Best yet was the very kind gentleman who spoke highly of UTK and made us feel very welcome. Will go back.

Overpriced overrated deli to begin with but raise prices substantially on UT game days. Place is…read morenasty looking. Rude owner (s) Just not the same since Gus and Rose sold it. Much better and less costly places to eat in the UT campus area. update : Rude owner response below proves my point. Yes, I LOVED this deli when Gus and Rose owned it. They were good folks. But this petty owner gets butt hurt over me commenting truth on his FB page and blocks me like a petty child.

Jefferson Soda Fountain

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1944 Restaurant from the Manhattan Project days that is still open and operating. I love the…read morehistory that has been preserved here. The burger was delicious. The fried chicken salad does need more color and to stop using packaged, high calorie dressing and instead use their own healthier dressing, add some different greens and variety. The service was great though, people were friendly, and dining here can feel like a dash to the past.

I Love their burgers and their fries The friendly small…read moretown environment is so comfortable.

Lil Manhattan Deli

4.0

(3 reviews)

We stopped by the Lil Manhattan Deli to grab a Ruben on the way home for the day. The menu had…read moreseveral things I can't wait to try. The owners were super friendly and accommodating to my request for some custom additions and deletions to my sandwich. We got home and my first impression was "what a great looking Ruben"! The marble rye was so incredibly fresh. There was a generous amount of pastrami and it was absolutely delicious. This will be a place my wife and I are going to frequent. Go by and give this place a try and tell them "Dave sent me".

I really wanted to try this because to replace Jersey Mike's and Jimmy John's and it's cheaper…read more Also if it's August 2026 mention the ten percent post for your order. We forgot. But so when we went in there was no workers. It took actually a minute. A guy came I think he spoke to the colleague. The other colleague came behind us and asked what we would like. No excitement. There's a card charge. We ordered two sandwiches. They were slow. So throughout we just felt they were tired or didn't care. The subs did make it worth it. It was really good, but it did seem cheap. A lot of the slices was thin. I was short on lettuce. Which is odd to me. I'm surprised the card says 35% and not a free sub.

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In a city known for its Southern charm, mountain views, and deep-rooted sense of community,…read moreKnoxville, Tennessee has no shortage of good food. From barbecue joints to upscale dining, the city offers a wide range of flavors that reflect both tradition and creativity. Yet among all these options, there is one place that quietly stands above the rest for those lucky enough to discover it: Lunchbox Food. More than just a place to eat, Lunchbox Food is a true hidden gem, offering the best hamburgers in Knoxville paired with customer service that is unmatched anywhere around. What immediately sets Lunchbox Food apart is the quality of its food, especially its hamburgers. In a world where many restaurants rely on frozen patties or shortcuts, Lunchbox Food does the opposite. Their burgers are crafted with care, cooked to perfection, and bursting with flavor in every bite. The meat is juicy, well-seasoned, and clearly made with pride. Each burger feels intentional, as if the people behind the grill truly care about delivering the best possible experience to every customer. From the first bite to the last, it is clear that these are not just good burgers--they are exceptional. The toppings and buns only elevate the experience further. Everything complements the burger rather than overpowering it. The bun is soft yet sturdy, holding everything together without falling apart, while the toppings are fresh and thoughtfully chosen. Whether someone prefers a classic cheeseburger or something a little more adventurous, Lunchbox Food consistently delivers a burger that feels both comforting and exciting. It is the kind of food that reminds you why hamburgers are such a beloved staple in American cuisine. However, what truly makes Lunchbox Food special is that it is not just about the food--it is about the people. The customer service at Lunchbox Food is, without question, some of the best anywhere in Knoxville. From the moment you walk in, you are greeted with genuine warmth and friendliness. This is not forced or scripted service; it is real, human connection. The staff takes the time to make customers feel welcome, remembered, and appreciated. In a fast-paced world where many interactions feel rushed, Lunchbox Food offers something refreshing: kindness and attention. The employees clearly take pride in their work, and it shows in every interaction. Orders are handled with care, questions are answered patiently, and there is always a sense that the staff wants you to enjoy your meal and your time there. This level of service turns a simple lunch into an experience. People do not just come back for the burgers--they come back because they feel valued. Lunchbox Food also represents something deeper about Knoxville itself. It embodies the spirit of local businesses that thrive on community support and word-of-mouth rather than flashy advertising. It is the kind of place you hear about from a friend who says, "You have to try this place," and once you do, you understand why. That sense of discovery makes it even more special. Finding Lunchbox Food feels like uncovering a secret that you want to share but also keep close. There is something deeply comforting about knowing that a place like Lunchbox Food exists. In a time when many restaurants feel generic or interchangeable, Lunchbox Food stands out by being authentic. It does not try to be something it is not. Instead, it focuses on doing a few things extremely well: making incredible food and treating people right. That simplicity is part of its magic. The atmosphere adds to the charm as well. Lunchbox Food feels welcoming and relaxed, a place where anyone can walk in and feel at home. Whether you are stopping by on a lunch break, grabbing a bite with friends, or picking up food to go, the experience remains consistent and satisfying. It is dependable in the best way possible. Calling Lunchbox Food a hidden gem is not an exaggeration. It truly deserves far more recognition than it receives, yet there is something special about its understated reputation. Those who know, know. It is the kind of place that builds loyal customers who return again and again, not out of habit, but out of genuine appreciation. In the end, Lunchbox Food is amazing because it gets everything right. The hamburgers are the best in Knoxville--flavorful, satisfying, and unforgettable. The customer service is second to none, rooted in kindness and genuine care. And the overall experience feels personal, authentic, and deeply connected to the community it serves. Lunchbox Food is not just a restaurant; it is a reminder of how powerful good food and good people can be. In Knoxville, Tennessee, it stands as a shining example of why hidden gems are often the most meaningful places of all.

Quick and delicious! We especially loved the catfish, slaw, cucumber salad, deviled eggs, and okra.read more

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