Peter Kern Library

209

13 years ago

When we first arrived I wasn't really sure where I was being taken... We entered an unmarked door in an alley, lit by a single red light bulb above it. That took us to a dark hallway with more unmarked doors, one of which turned out to be the Peter Kern Library. Once inside we found out that you can also enter from the Oliver Hotel through a hidden sliding wall panel. Yes. The small, dark room was lined with leather couches. There's a small bar on one end, behind which is a portrait of (who I can only imagine is) Peter Kern, and a fire place with bookshelves at the other end. The small tables have stacks of encyclopedias on them... Open them up to find the menus hidden inside, glued to the first few pages! The drinks are literature themed (I went with the Matilda and the Atticus Finch. Yum). With a few distinguishing differences (no food, $9 drinks rather than $12, no real crowd/ambiance control after a certain time which kind of ruins the atmosphere), this seems to be Knoxville's equivalent of Nashville's Patterson House. For the first 90% of our time there, I loved this place... then after 7ish they left the alley door wide open and put a bouncer outside, and the dark, quiet speakeasy that we loved started to turn into a loud night club. sigh. That was our cue to move on to our dinner destination. I'm only deducting one star since the rest of our experience was so awesome, but you've been warned if you get there too late. read more

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Matt W.

1341

105

14 years ago

OLD REVIEW in 2011: Not made for theatrical types. By this I mean, comedians and other people used to having loud conversations don't bother going here. They will shhhh you repeatedly until you feel like leaving. If you, however, would like to go to a bar alone and not talk, this would probably be awesome. Updated Review: It was loud, it was busy and the drinks were awesome. Switched from a 1 star to a 5 star. read more

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Lana S.

14 years ago

The Peter Kern Library is a bar in the fabulous St. Oliver Hotel in Down Town Knoxville. The hotel has been recently renovated and is THE place to stay in downtown Knoxville. The Peter Kern Library is a small "speakeasy-esque" bar with hand made cocktails in a comfortable lounge setting. No TV.'s...and just enough room for great conversation and really good cocktails. It's so nice to have a place to go that offers "Big City" atmosphere and lovely libations. I would recommend this to anyone seeking out something original and off the beaten sports bar path...check it out and try my favorite...The Windmill. Cheers to something different!! Enjoy! Oh and they are OPEN EVERY NIGHT!!!!!!!!!!! read more

Peter Kern Library - Cozy, casual, and intimate. Feels like we're out of town! -Nice. And Hand Made Cocktails!! Cheers!! - Speakeasies Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

Peter Kern Library - The perfect size bar for great hand made cocktails and comfortable conversation! Cheers!! - Speakeasies Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

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Susan P.

Elite 17

146

109

136

10 years ago

The round red light in the alley between The Oliver and Casual Pint on Union Ave. says mobster's warehouse crate speakeasy to me, but that's where the comparison ends. Into the alley, and to the unmarked door, waiting on the other side is your rich grandfather's muffled smoking room. Hidden from your snarky grandmother, and with grandfather's resounding snort when you mention her intolerance of the devil's drink, the worry of youth diffuses like bitters into your glass. Reclining by the fire, you are given no widows to detect passage of time, people, or the world's problems waiting outside. Don't feel like sneaking in the back way? Though the Oliver's front door will do just fine, it is the large white sliding door in the lobby. When I stayed at the Oliver this hadn't been put in yet, but I wish now it had, as it would have relaxed anyone coming in from the road. You feel dropped into a hole of time, where you're not quite sure what century it is anymore, where you were before coming to the Library, or where you will be leaving to. Will there be a carriage waiting for us outside, or a cab, or an uber? Has Knoxville emerged from the war, has it risen, has it fallen on hard times, or is it being born again yet out there? Tell me lies, and let me dream here. I had a $10 Knob Creek, that I would have gotten half as much poured in my glass anywhere else, and I thank the bartender with every depth of my whiskey loving soul. I walked in with the large group following Jack Neely's Historical Story Hour, and quite unfortunately, no one had told the bar we were coming. Fear and calculating glances were coming from them, and I supposed when I said "I'll make it easy on you, I'd like a Knob Creek, 4 Ice cubes, and a splash of water." they liked me. I got in and out, and got a heavy hand in return. That's Knoxville, but what year, I'm not sure. read more

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Ryan R.

13 years ago

Wow. I was staying in the Hilton with my girlfriend on a weekend trip to Knoxville. Friday night we had just seen a show and were looking for a good place for drinks. After a rather off-putting experience at the Downtown Grill & Brewery (see other review), we looked up other bars in the area and both were intrigued by the idea of this place. Literary themed mixed drinks in converted encyclopedia menus? Sign me up! Finding this place was an adventure in itself. Just going off the address provided online, we had quite a difficult time. There was no 407 Union Avenue to be found we circled around a few times before deciding it may in fact be located in this inconspicuous looking side-alley. We saw a couple of people hanging out around there and asked them and they directed us to the bar, through a little enclave in the alley to the first door on the right, a plain black door with no signs or markings. I do love the hidden-away feel to it all though. It made it all seem exclusive almost. When we got in the bartender said that they were a little crowded and we had managed to sneak past him but 3 people had just left so he would let us in. Well, we went ahead and ordered drinks. I started off with a scotch on the rocks and my girlfriend tried one of their signature cocktails. We pretty easily found a seating on a couch after some others got up and left. There was no talk of people being allowed to sit in certain places, and others not or people even being given tables as other reviews have suggested. In fact the seating situation seemed very relax,. It was first come, first serve but never got crowded enough that people were left waiting for seating, though it did get pretty crowded at times. They seemed to maintain the perfect balance of people at all times. While the cocktails were pretty pricey at $9 a pop, they seemed well worth the price. I was in awe as I watched the bartenders meticulously constructing them, often using fresh fruits and an assortment of custom-created tinctures. And they were all unique, interesting, and above all, tasty. The Holden Caulfield seemed to be one of their most popular and was both a favorite of my girlfriend and mine's. I also really enjoyed their take on the old-fashioned. So tasty. The bartenders and everyone working there where super-friendly and though with only two bartenders, it could take some waiting before we got out cocktails (especially when there were a lot of orders ahead of ours). But again, it was well worth the wait. Quality over quantity definitely applies here, and they did carefully craft each individual drink. Oh, and I didn't even mention that they were playing old-school rap over the speakers the entire time! A weird choice maybe for a library themed bar, but it seemed to fit so well. I can always get down to some Biggie while drinking a perfectly constructed cocktail. We were so impressed with this place that we came back the next night, and this place was just as good the second night as the first. I'd definitely recommend it. Hands down one of the best bars I've ever been to. While I wish this bar was where I lived, I'm kind of glad, because I would probably go broke from visiting so frequently. read more

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Katy S.

Elite 20

471

1054

646

13 years ago

This place is the coolest. I was in town visiting a friend and she recommended that we check out this speakeasy. Upon arrival at the Oliver Hotel, we slid open the wall and entered (I felt so sneaky). The inside of this place is so freaking cool. Set up like an old library, there is tons to look at. I also really liked that the menus are made out of old Encyclopedias. We were only able to stay for one drink and I slurped down the Holden Caulfield. I like anything with cinnamon so this drink was perfect! We were here in the day time. I would definitely like to see what this place has to offer in the evening time. read more

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Cookie F.

10 years ago

A delightful addition to the Knoxville nightlife scenery, this super secret gem is located down an Alley and is only marked by a red light. Inside, you'll find a small, darkly lit, elegantly decorated room that's reminiscent of a 30's library, which seems to hold, at most, 30 people. The drinks were made expertly and with care and are worth the price. This is a great "once in a while" post dinner/date night places. On the pricey side, my date paid about $40 for for two drinks each, but it's a nice romantic escape! read more

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Ernie C.

Elite 21

320

480

581

14 years ago

So, I got into Knoxville around midnight, and was staying at the Hilton. After a long day of travel (Reno to Knoxville, including a bus ride at the end to get to the Hilton), I was ready for a drink. Unfortunately, as I wandered down to the hotel lobby bar, it was closing up. I hopped on Yelp, looking for walkable bars and saw the Peter Kern Library - speakeasy? In Knoxville? Intriguing . . . I walked on over, and it took a bit of effort to find - walked in the front of the Oliver Hotel lobby (which I didn't see any signage for), and then wandered for a moment, before finding the sliding door. No buzzer, passphrase, or anything like that, but just a sliding door you open yourself to go in. I ended up chatting with the bartender (Spencer) for a bit, who mentioned that on the weekends, the entrance is in the alley and there's a buzzer and you need to get buzzed in. Behind the door was a small-ish space - maybe 25'x75', done tastefully with dark woods, bookshelves, and soft lighting. Menus are scattered around, and are pasted in old World Book encyclopedias. Cocktails are a high-school English clash flashback, with names like Atticus Finch, Holden Caulfield, and Mr. Darcy (shudder). I had an Old Fashioned with Angel's Envy, an Atticus Finch, and a Talisker. The two cocktails were competent, but not amazing. I was impressed at first when the bartender started off with a sugar cube (instead of simple syrup) and some house bitters, but things went downhill when he started muddling in an orange and cherry. He did ask if I wanted soda in it, which I was confused by and said no to - I didn't realize that people had started putting soda in. I realize that the muddled fruit is not unusual for an Old Fashioned these days, but definitely a bit disappointed that a "speakeasy" would not follow a more traditional recipe and use the fruit only as a garnish. So, a decent cocktail, albeit a bit chunkier than I hoped for. Nice touch in the ice cubes, which are solid blocks and frozen clear through - no frosting in the middle due to air bubbles, apparently due to the special ice machine they have. Not quite a pick and ice block, but definitely a nice touch. The Atticus was a gin based drink, with St. Germain, and the menu says "fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, ginger, cucumber, mint" - I've been spoiled with bars that do true fresh juices, slicing and juicing the fruit on order, and was a bit surprised to see everything come out of a bar mix pourer. Spencer had asked what I thought of the Old Fashioned, and upon hearing I thought it was a bit strange to have the fruit muddled instead of as garnish, warned me that the Atticus was a bit chunky. Fair warning, which I appreciated. The drink itself was a bit sweet for my taste, and while there was a long cucumber peel as garnish, I felt it could have used a bit more cucumber flavor to offset the sweet. Talisker was Talisker, so I won't write about that . . . The vibe when I walked in was a bit strange, with some older businessmen chatting with a young server from another bar or restaurant, two locals, and the bartender. The 3 older men (who mentioned they were on expense accounts) and the server were a bit loud and rambunctious, definitely not fitting the vibe of the space. The two locals were friends of the bartender, and things wound down nicely after the businessmen left, leaving the quite vibe I had hoped to find. Had a nice conversation with the bartender, who was probably a bit offended by all the questions I was asking, but handled it well. Definitely looking at getting another drink or two here while I'm in town. I only make it to Knoxville once a year, but the vibe in here is fantastic, and the cocktails are solid - I'll definitely make it a point to stop in here whenever I'm in town. read more

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Ricky T.

284

160

13 years ago

There are 2 entrances. Once is in a dark alley way and there's a red light above the door. The second entrance is through inside of a hotel disguised as a random closet door. Pretty cool place, quite small, I came here early but there were lines of people waiting to get in when I left. The drinks are pretty fantastic but the prices are way too high. If you want to have 1 drink and a unique experience, I would definitely come here! but anything more will probably cost you $30 and up. read more

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Adrianna L.

12 years ago

This place not easy to find, you need ask or just go the dark alley with a red light. Amazing place if you have a date and want to enjoy delicious drinks. I went on Sunday night and the service was amazing. read more

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Lauren C.

10 years ago

I absolutely love this place! It's speakeasy/lounge with the coolest environment. If you go later at night you may have to wait to get in because it is such a tiny place, but it moves very quickly. I like going there when out with friends because the couches are "U" shaped and you can see and talk to everyone. Their drinks are good & remember it's at a hotel so they are priced accordingly. I will keep going back to Peter Kern Library as long as I'm in Knoxville. *Also, the "entrance" is through the alley past the Oliver Hotel, with the red light on top of the door. It looks a bit creepy, but just find the light and walk in the hallway where you'll likely be greeted by the bouncer. read more

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D'Angelo H.

10 years ago

I would have loved to have gotten a chance to check out Peter Kern Library this past weekend when I was in Knoxville from St. Louis for the football game. Unfortunately, I never got the opportunity to. Five of my friends and I walked into the Oliver Hotel to check out the PKL based on the recommendation from a bartender at Calhoun's on the River. We were directed to go into the entrance in the alley underneath the red light. Cool. No problem. Upon entering the alley hallway, we were met by a doorman who informed us that there would be a 15-20 minute wait and that it was one in/one out. No problem. We're patient people. We get it. After waiting about 15 minutes, the doorman stepped into the Library to check the entry status. Another employee (looked like a cook) came through the hallway and politely cracked a joke at my friends and me who were obvious Mizzou fans about the football team. Still no problem. It was actually a pretty funny joke and all six of us had a good laugh with the guy. The doorman immediately popped back into the hallway and demanded that we "Keep it down." That's where I had a problem. We're waiting 15-20 minutes to get into your establishment and most likely spend a decent amount of money. We weren't uproarious. We weren't disruptive. We were laughing with one of your fellow co-workers. I feel like the doorman could have handled the situation a little differently if we were, in fact, causing a problem. We immediately exited the hallway and found other places to spend our hard earned cash. We will be making the trip back to Knoxville every other year when Mizzou travels to play UT, but I can guarantee we won't be giving any of our business to Peter Kern Library. It sounds like a really neat place. I would love to see what kind of ambience and specialty cocktails were offered inside. Unfortunately, due to a doorman who took himself a little too seriously and lacked people skills, we never got the chance to. Find another watering hole to spend your money at like Sapphire or Suttree's High Gravity Tavern. read more

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Chris G.

363

131

544

13 years ago

This was my second trip to the Peter Kern Library. It's not a library at all, but a great bar hidden inside a hotel in Downtown Knoxville called "The Oliver." My first trip was fantastic, quiet, small and intimate, the Peter Kern Library was instantly one of my favorite bars anywhere. But this was late on a Sunday night. This trip was around 9:30 on a Saturday night and the place was packed. We waited nearly 30 minutes just to get in, then had to barter for seats, and after fifteen minutes never had a server/bartender ask for drinks. Nonetheless, the Peter Kern Library ranks amongst my top bars anywhere. I highly recommend you visit on a not-so-busy night when it's quiet, the staff can be attentive, and you can relax and chat together. There's nothing quite like Peter Kern Library on a nice quiet evening. Enjoy. read more

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Claudette M.

Elite 18

723

180

148

11 years ago

I absolutely am a fan of speakeasies. But this place is on our top list. We have been to other speakeasies all over the world but this is still our favorite. Their drinks are very carefully made and the bartender goes out of their way to make you a drink that you love (i.e. they ask if you prefer Bourbon drinks or Vodka drinks). The menus are made out of old library books. Fun! The music there is superb. The occasions we have been there we heard Jazz one time and super cool Indie another. We are actually repeating tonight so I will come back with more tips! Tip: Try to go on a weekday instead of a weekend! read more

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Tara S.

Elite 17

271

155

11 years ago

Best spot for specially crafted cocktails and great coffee beverages. Insane crowds on weekends. It's in a hotel so they are open basically always. Favorite cocktail - the Warrior - gin, cynar, burnt lemon peel and pepper syrup. Fave non-alcoholic coffee - coconut latte. Fave alcoholic coffee - Caribbean. read more

Peter Kern Library - Coconut cream latte - Speakeasies Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

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Chelsea D.

231

11 years ago

Very cool speakeasy bar that is a little tricky to find if you don't know where you're going but I love the hidden entrance. There is usually a guy outside of the bar that pretends to be the front desk guy of the hotel that will let you in but you need to tell him what you're looking for because he won't seek you out. Lots of yummy cocktail options and like most speakeasy bars all of the ingredients are very fresh and unique to this bar. Don't be afraid to ask questions about drinks especially if you aren't sure what some of the ingredients are...the bartenders are very knowledgeable and can re-craft the drinks to your liking. The menu's are inside encyclopedias which was a pretty cool touch. They don't have food but they work closely with Tupelo Honey which is just down the hallway so its a great alternative. I would love to visit again when I'm back in town! read more

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Elaine W.

7 years ago

The drinks were great, but I would suggest to the cocktail servers not to judge a book based on its cover. I may not have looked as fancy and dressed up as the other customers, but I came to spend my money and the person getting drinks for me + a couple friends didn't seem to want our money as he was clearly ignoring us in favor of the fancy looking people. I made sure to leave a big fat tip to hopefully change his perception. I'll be back and hopefully next time I'll be able to run home and change after work before I visit. read more

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K.F. P.

12 years ago

Quite simply my favorite bar ever. So cool once you can find it. Great mixologists and well-balanced drinks combine with a really unique atmosphere. It's just such a comfortable place to sit and enjoy cocktails. Other than the eerie painting over the fireplace (you need to see for yourself), I loved everything about this place. Definiteły a must stop if you are visiting Knoxville. read more

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Heather H.

Elite 14

187

107

128

8 years ago

I can't tell you how to get here or get in. Shhhhh...speakeasy. but if you do find a way, the cocktails and atmosphere are fab.

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Shaun O.

Elite 11

193

276

13 years ago

Shh, don't let this secret speakeasy get out in the open. It was pretty cool to try the backdoor to get into this place (locked!) and then having to ask hotel staff to let us in. I went with a Grendel, which was very enjoyable. It wasn't too crowded for a Wednesday afternoon, although I am sure this is the place to be on a Friday night. Definitely a fun environment. read more

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Nick B.

Elite 12

1363

107

13 years ago

I've been to Knoxville a few times and wasn't expecting the level of expertise that I found in a number of locations. The top of the class in the area is this place. The bartenders are on the top of their game and are doing what they should be with craft spirits. The atmosphere is fun and it is a great place to hangout. It's a bit small and gets downright crazy with too many people but that shouldn't stop you from the experience. read more

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Amy L.

7 years ago

I went with friends, because that's really the only way to learn this place exists. The collection and content of the books is extensive and the librarians are masterful. I was taken aback at the prices, particularly for non-restricted material. Chaperones (DD's) don't get a free pass here. Go at least once for the experience! read more

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Jennifer G.

12 years ago

This place was good - drinks didn't entirely compete with the level we usually get in NYC, but hey - it's knoxville. It would be 3 stars if it were somewhere else (with more competition). Definitely the best drinks I had in Knoxville, though. And I thought the bartenders were nice and friendly. A few things (for the persnickety) - they will tend to shake a drink and then pour it with the ice that was in the shaker into the glass instead of straining over fresh ice. Also, I would have expected to see more large cubes for boozy stirred drinks - they seem to only have small cubes. For most people, these details are not noticeable, but they definitely affect the quality of the finished product. Lastly, there was an extremely loud group of people (when the place wasn't even busy or close to full - we were there and there were only two groups and a few people at the bar) and they don't do anything to curb that obnoxiousness. Again, those people would be thrown out of PDT or D&Co in new york . . . so they want the speakeasy atmosphere, but they are not really tending to the details. Still, the drinks were the best I had in the town, so the stars are based on that. read more

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Leeloo T.

8 years ago

This place is fantastic. We were staying in the hotel and had just finished a delicious dinner at the Oliver Royale. I said to my husband, "Lets get a night cap before going to bed". Glad we did. I had an Americano which is similar to a Negroni and my husband had an Old Fashioned. They were both delicious and my husband can't stop talking about his Old Fashioned. Stop by this place for a night cap, I'm sure its better to go on a random week night like we did. read more

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Page 4 of 7

407 Union Ave
Knoxville, TN 37902
Directions
(865) 521-0050
Call Now
Visit Website
https://theoliverhotel.com/knoxville/eat-drink/

Hours

What time does Peter Kern Library open?

Peter Kern Library opens at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Peter Kern Library close?

Peter Kern Library closes at 12:00 AM (Next day) on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Peter Kern Library closes at 1:00 AM (Next day) on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Thu 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Next day)Fri-Sun 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM (Next day)

Payment methods

Does Peter Kern Library take credit cards?

Yes, Peter Kern Library takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Peter Kern Library have a happy hour?

No, Peter Kern Library does not have a happy hour.

Does Peter Kern Library serve alcohol?

Yes, Peter Kern Library serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Peter Kern Library allow dogs?

No, Peter Kern Library does not allow dogs.

Does Peter Kern Library have TVs?

Yes, Peter Kern Library has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Peter Kern Library have bike parking?

No, Peter Kern Library does not have bike parking.

Does Peter Kern Library have outdoor seating?

No, Peter Kern Library does not have outdoor seating options.

Does Peter Kern Library have parking?

Yes, Peter Kern Library has parking options. Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Peter Kern Library allow outdoor smoking?

No, Peter Kern Library does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does Peter Kern Library have free WiFi?

Yes, Peter Kern Library has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Hidden inside the historic Kern Building, behind The Oliver Hotel lobby, is Knoxville's one and only speakeasy, The Peter Kern Library. Once a well-kept secret, the bar is now a beloved institution. The dark wood, fireplace, rows of books, and cocktails named after literary characters create a warm and cozy atmosphere where time seems to stop.

More Info

Health Score

Ask the Community - Peter Kern Library

Can you make reservations for a large party months in advance?

They don't take reservations, and your party can only spend 90 minutes there.

What are the hours?

Thursday 5PM-12AM Friday 5PM-1AM Saturday 4PM-1AM…

Is there an age restriction to enter?

Yes, this is 21 and up only.

Do you need a code to get in or do you just enter through the alley way?

Just enter through the alley. Or the Oliver lobby,

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Oliver Royale

We had an excellent dinner at Oliver Royale. The service was outstanding from start to finish. Our…read moreserver did a great job helping us narrow down the menu and made recommendations that proved spot on. We started with the Summer Brussels, which were packed with flavor and perfectly tender. We also ordered the Burrata and Tomato Salad, Blackened Redfish, and Farmstand Rigatoni. The freshness of the ingredients really stood out throughout the meal. The tomatoes were sliced thick and tasted like they had just come off the vine. The fresh pasta paired beautifully with the seasonal vegetables, and the blackened redfish was cooked perfectly. Combined with the étouffée sauce, peppers, and vegetables, every bite of the fish was balanced and full of flavor. We enjoyed sitting on the patio overlooking Market Square, which made for a perfect evening of people-watching. Great food, excellent service, and a wonderful atmosphere. Highly recommend.

My husband had eaten here previously and told me it was simply "okay," but I had been drooling over…read morethe menu and requested it for my birthday meal. The ambiance is lovely. Both upscale yet inviting. Note that it does feel a bit like European dining where the tables and fellow diners are very close to you and the tables are small and cozy. You hear all of their convos as well, for better or worse. :-) We ordered the scallop appetizer and for our meal, we both got the short rib pappardelle pasta and a side of the brussel sprouts to share. Our server was very kind but our orders took a very long time to come out, from drinks to the food itself. In fact, our brussels came out at the same time as the check. I will say that she recognized this issue without us saying anything and even removed the brussels from the bill preemptively. The food was delicious-especially the main course. The bolognese sauce was creamy and had a slight kick and the short rib was tender and tasty. Another odd thing is that we ordered the same exact dish but one plate visibly had almost twice the amount of food than the other, which is an odd choice if you know they are going to the same table. Other than the few service quirks, it was a wonderful experience and the food and drinks were delicious. We will be back at some point.

Wedding at Oliver Royale in Knoxville, TN

Seasonal Dessert at Oliver Royale in Knoxville, TN

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Seasonal Cocktail on the bar at Oliver Royale in Knoxville, TN

Sparrow Wine Bar

4.6

(19 reviews)

14.3 mi

A friend and I visited Sparrow Wind Bar recently for a date night, and we loved it!…read more I would never have expected the dark, moody, speakeasy vibe in a Farragut strip center. Such a beautiful space, and the service was exemplary. We decided to order a bottle of Pinot, along with the Peruvian pepper sprayed and a Sweet Heat grilled cheese. Sooo delicious! Before leaving, we ventured into the adjoining cheese shop. So many unique options!

I came here after dinner for a quick wine and gossip sesh, and it was the perfect spot for the job!…read moreThe dim lit lighting, comfy leather couches, and vintage artwork had a cozy, eclectic vibe which made it a great place for good conversation. I also would highly recommend coming here for a date night because it's intimate and quiet. I didn't get any charcuterie here since I had just eaten but I would definitely get it next time. We were offered some chocolate to finish the night and tried a delicious dark chocolate and caramel crunch milk chocolate. Staff was great as well. I will be back soon!

Wine tasting room

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Wine bar

Capitol Theatre

4.9

(11 reviews)

14.7 mi

Heath (Owner) and Nicole (Event Planner) are very excellent at assessing, accommodating, and…read moreproviding all your needs during an event. My wife and I have used this entertainment venue twice. Once for the theatre and the other for the speakeasy located on the property. The staff for the capital and the outside service providers including the caterers and gaming company were extremely professional and courteous. Any group needing an extraordinary getaway, can achieve great success with the individuals heading up the Capital Theatre experience. Unforgettable experience!!!!

We got married at The Capitol Theatre on 9/21/24 and it was such a phenomenal experience! The venue…read moreitself is incredibly unique and a great space for wedding guests. The staff, special shout out to Nicole, was absolutely incredible and made our day go so smoothly! If you're looking for something that isn't a barn, a great value, and a space that will make a lasting impression on your guests you couldn't go somewhere better than The Capitol Theatre!

Undefined

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Harvest

4.0

(133 reviews)

4.3 mi

Came to Harvest on Wednesday night due to a recommendation and service and food was wonderful!! But…read moredocking the star because the live music was incredibly loud and constant. It would've been nice to have breaks in between as we could barely hear each other over the loud music and we were sitting quite far from the singer. The raw oysters were some of the best I've had and the crab cake was very tasty too! The truffle fries were plentiful, nice and hot, and super crispy and delicious. Ordered the cacio e pepe with shrimp, which I'm not used to having it with shrimp. The shrimp were large and plump, but the cacio e pepe was incredibly dry for my taste. The side salad was plentiful and loved the addition of goat cheese and dates with it. Desserts were all very good but we especially loved the carrot cake! Highly recommend for the good food!

Here we go. Multi-trip vet here…read more Inside is tight but nice and gives you a semi-casual / semi-fancy vibe in the room. The live music that is there when we have to listen is a really nice touch. Parking is limited right around the building itself, but there is plenty behind it - just keep driving a few more feet, and you'll see it. The service has been generally great, but our last trip was a bit of a miss - I suppose the difference between brunch/lunch and dinner service. I believe part of the reason was that our 2.5 YO kiddo was ruining the vibe for couples (and the staff as well). If you don't want kids there, then say so. And even if you didn't say it with your words, your actions did. Part of this showed up when we were trying to get a high chair for what felt like 5 minutes - I could see i,t and they went to seat others and had us wait...which created squirming and an unhappy kiddo. After this point, all of the ordering we tried to do in this same sitting was met with a mostly poor attitude and delays from not coming over. The food was delayed and was cold. Again, not going to fight for it and have to wait longer with a little with us. We've not been back since this, and I'm unsure we will try again with a kid. Now that this is out of the way, the dinner experience is night and day different - great service, food, and drinks with little to no issues. So, TL;DR - dinner experience 5/5, lunch/brunch experience 3/5, taking the average of 4 for a 4/5.

Harvest scrambler - wonderful!

The Danny McGrew band

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Space Bar - Knoxville

4.6

(58 reviews)

10.8 mi

Wasn't sure what to expect, but this was a wonderful wacky experience. The drinks were different…read morebut great and the servers stayed in character throughout the night. This was a great place for me and my wacky family.

My experience was lovely but that's not what we're here to talk about. This place touches several…read morefandoms such as Alien, Firefly, Star Trek, Superman, and more but there are no references to Green Lantern. Let me remind you that not so long ago in the 2000s, Geoff John's Green Lantern was one of the top selling books published by DC! This shows the sheer tragedy of the Ryan Reynolds GL movie. If that movie would have been better, this place would have at least one GL reference. Just imagine a Blackest Night or Brightest Day themed cocktail. Never forgot what they took from us. That being said, this place was delightful and you should absolutely go.

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The Kennedy

Staff, food, and atmosphere were great. Jason was great! The salmon was very delicious. Would go…read moreagain!

The Kennedy is a must-visit if you're in Knoxville! It's located in the Old City in a really cool…read morehistoric building that adds a lot of character to the experience. We had a 6:45 PM reservation and were seated right away. Our server was amazing--friendly, knowledgeable, and gave us some excellent recommendations. We started with the Devils on Horseback, and they were incredible. The bacon-wrapped dates were the perfect combination of sweet and savory. For my entrée, I had the spicy rigatoni with chicken. It was absolutely delicious, packed with flavor, and the portion was huge. My wife ordered the pepperoni hot honey pizza, and she loved every bite. If you enjoy cocktails, don't miss the Prickly Pear Affair. It was light, refreshing, and one of the best cocktails we've had in a long time. Great atmosphere, outstanding food, excellent service, and a fun location in the heart of Old City. We'll definitely be back!

Interior

Bacon wrapped dates

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Chivo Taqueria

Was about to leave town and wanted a quick bite to eat for Sunday lunch. We were seated and…read moreattended to quickly, ordered two tacos each and they arrived super fast. All were delicious, but I would come back for the BigShrimpin' taco. If you like buffalo sauce and blue cheese, it worked so well with the crispy fried shrimp. Yum! The hubby liked the chorizo tater tot taco. Friendly, delicious, good prices, and faster than fast food. Great work, Chivo!!

My husband & I walked in on a Friday at 5:15 and found seating at the bar without issue. He ordered…read morea smoked old fashion and I ordered "the Chivo" with a tajin rim. Both delicious! Started with salsa & chips. The chips came out warm and the salsa (both green and red) tasted soooo fresh. You can tell everything is made in house. I had steak fajitas for my main course and I'm not exaggerating when I say they were the best fajitas I've ever had! The steak was extremely flavorful and juicy. It came with hot tortillas and all the toppings you could want. My husband ordered 3 tacos (codfather, big shrimpin & tators gonna tate). All were amazing! The service here was also exceptional. The food came out shockingly fast and sooner than expected. The staff was kind and attentive. Bartender Maddie was excellent! This place really exceeded my expectations and will be a regular stop when we're in town. 10/10 Chico love u

A wall of tequila

Sunday breakfast bowl.

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Brisket nachos

71 South

We had a large group of about 12 women celebrating Galentines on Sunday a week later. We arrived…read morefor an early afternoon meal. Menus are online via a QR code. Service is friendly and attentive. My meal was delicious! I started with the cranberry faux-jito mocktail and loved it - just the right combo of sweetness and tang. The chargrilled portobello entree was honestly perfect. I love when the zucchini and yellow squash are cooked crisp-tender instead of mushy. That balsamic glaze was a nice topping bringing everything together. The sides of quinoa and mashed potatoes were a nice complement to the main dish. Getting to the door was a little tricky for me with some construction happening on the building but the sign on the door made it clear where to go. Nice place. Not rushed. Great food with lots of interesting options. Tasty drinks. Highly recommended!

Good food, great service, unique atmosphere! We enjoyed our experience at 81 South and will be…read moreback.

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The Brass Pearl

Excellent service and food. Maybe a little loud when the crowds roll in!…read moreEasy to find and located close to Tennessee Theater.

Quick meal before our flight back to VA. Prices on higher side as located smack in Mkt Square…read more Sat outside on beautiful sunny day (not buggy like VA). Enjoyed the lobster bisque & shrimp po boy. Service was friendly, as all of Knoxville.

Lobster dip was amazing! Clams and seafood 10/10

Bar area

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Shrimp and grits are not to be missed!

Sunspot

When visiting some friends they recommended this spot! It's right by the college campus so of…read morecourse there are a lot of students here. The place is eclectic and is know for its wide variety of vegetarian and vegan food. I wasn't sure how I would feel because if you have seen my other reviews eclectic isn't always my vibes because unfortunately sometimes it means dirty. For this to be a college spot I was surprised that this wasn't the case. It was clean, the staff was friendly, and the food came out fast. They had great prices and it also seemed like on certain weeknights they had specials.

Love this place!!! Recommend Wine Wednesday and the Local Burger!!! It's a huge burger and so so…read moregood!!

Kitties joined us for lunch. We got permission from the restaurant before doing so.

Full bar.

Jerk chicken sandwich

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12 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Elizabeth B.

14 years ago

Stopped in the PKL to finally check it out! I had been wanting to for quite some time but the opportunity just never seemed to present itself. That time finally came and I am so glad I did! I will start off by saying I am a 35 yr old female. I stopped in with 3 of my female friends after we saw a movie at the Regal on Gay St. We had a great time and it was so nice to be able to carry on a conversation without having to almost shout over loud annoying music or rowdy people. The place is dimly lit, pretty quiet, and very cozy. They have their extensive drink menu hidden amongst hardcover books that will either be in the bookshelf towards the back of the room or on coffee tables in front of the L shaped couches that surround the room. If you have the pleasure of meeting Jessica (the owner), she will bless you with her sweet, outgoing, and super friendly personality. She literally treats everyone she meets like a patron that visits regularly. The other bar staff was equally pleasant as well. If you decide to visit this wonderful little secret place, please keep in mind that it is a speakeasy which means it is a quiet little quaint place. No loudmouthed rowdiness goes on here which is nice if you're looking to wind down an evening or peacefully get it started. So if you are looking to have a chill evening with friends, maybe discuss a few things, actually be able to hear and understand your friends with ease, this is your place :) I saw one gentleman on here gave them a negative review because you can't be loud there... Obviously he does not understand the purpose of a speakeasy and this bar was not the place for him. I personally don't think he should have given a negative review for it though. So, if you're looking for something different than your average smelly smokey loud bar, PKL is the place for you. If you prefer the loud, smelly, obnoxious scene... Don't go to PKL because that is not what this place is about. read more

James H.

Elite 25

266

2 years ago

Peter Kern Library offers a unique and intimate dining experience that seamlessly blends old-world charm with creative mixology. The ambiance is reminiscent of a classic speakeasy, accessible through a discreet entrance that adds a touch of mystery and exclusivity. Cozy and dimly lit, the space is adorned with vintage books and plush leather seating, creating an ideal backdrop for a quiet evening or a chic night out. The menu, though limited, is thoughtfully curated, featuring a selection of inventive cocktails that showcase the bartender's artistry. Each drink is meticulously crafted with unique flavor profiles and high-quality ingredients, ensuring a personalized experience. While Peter Kern Library doesn't serve full meals, its array of small bites and snacks perfectly complements the impressive drink selection. The attentive yet unobtrusive service makes each visit feel special and inviting. Overall, Peter Kern Library is a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts seeking an elegant and sophisticated escape in downtown Knoxville. read more

Theresa B.

5 years ago

This is so amazing. I love the use of a secret code to get in. The fact they make cocktails to your personal taste is amazing. I love how private the speakeasy is. Be sure to check this out when your in Knoxville. read more

Emma V.

11 years ago

Awesome place! Drinks are about $10, which may sound like alot but they are definitely worth it! Bartender knows what shes doing. Must check it out if youre in knoxville. read more

Jon S.

1219

9 years ago

Drinks were awesome and the staff was super friendly and accommodating. That's something you don't always find in the craft cocktail world.

Jim M.

11 years ago

Poor attitude. Customer not a priority, just your $ for very little. Arrogant and ignorance make for a short shelf life.

Jamie F.

104

114

12 years ago

Best cocktails around. Pricey- BUT you get what you pay for, so it's well worth it!

Frank R.

13 years ago

Great ambiance, decent service, mediocre martini.

Robert H.

3 years ago

awesome service and amazing cocktails

Rachel S.

12 years ago

Great atmosphere, great drinks.

Nathan W.

13 years ago

Best drinks in town!

Rebecca J.

12 years ago

Peter Kern Library - speakeasies - Updated July 2026

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I love a kitschy bar and this is definitely it. They have fully committed to the theme and the gift…read moreshop next store is filled with Alice and wonderland themed trinkets and treasures. It's quirky and the staff is super friendly making this all around a great experience. I got a magic potion drink because you got to keep the glass bottle it came in and it sparkled which came out to $12 plus a tip. What more could you want really. The drink was some kind of party punch, it was a little stiff but pretty tasty. If you're in the area this is worth checking out. It's a one of one and the drinks were reasonably priced for it being a novelty experience.

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I could have given this 5 stars but having us wait about 10 minutes to be seated was more funny…read more The hostess started to seat us and then said it will be 5 min because she didn't want to "overwhelm" the waitress. 5 min? In a bar that is using moving quick and it was 5pm? As I said, not a problem just funny. Kyla was our waitress and was great. Friendly and very helpful in giving us information on two restaurants we were considering. Prices weren't bad considering it's a roof top bar with a great view.

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Pizza Is awesome Service is amazing…read more The vibe is chill & relaxing. Open Mic night are just tops, as well as the improv. Live music galore.

Great venue, good beer selection, but the bartender lectured us about the evils of capitalism. Not…read morekidding, she was full-on woke and every attempt at light banter somehow ended in her scowling in disapproval. Near the end of our time there another bartender walked in as McKays (local used book/music/games store about to close after decades) came up and shouted, "fk that place." We never got an explanation as to why a used bookstore was also on the list of places we should hate. The place has a lot of promise, but they need to get rid of the scolds. We didn't go out on a Saturday for an impromptu lecture on morality.

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I love the decorations & the cute theme is present throughout the whole restaurant. The drink menu…read moreis expansive and the drinks were good. The food is okay. I was disappointed that my food was warm, not hot when served. My sister got a lobster roll "extra stuffed," which did not appear to be extra-stuffed. I got the chicken carbonara and believe that I got a large portion for the price point. The service was a bit on the slower side, but I did not see as many waiters as I thought I would have for a Saturday evening. My expectations were high due to the price point and formality, and I was a bit let down. The vibes in here were fun. I think that if it was better staffed and the seafood portions were priced accordingly, we would have had a better experience and thought we got a better deal for the price.

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Long wait but worth it, comes with the territory. Great food, good service. It's a bar setting but…read morereally a good vibe for a date. Our waitress let us sit in the window seat for some peace and it had a great romantic atmosphere there. We started out at the bar and had drinks and an appetizer then moved to the table after the wait. We had the herb and cheese bread appetizer, state street fancy burger, creamy wood smoked tomato linguine with chicken and a cherry bomb pizza to split. Everything was perfect. My burger was cooked exactly to my liking and the chicken was tender in the pasta dish. The pizza is very flavorful but not overly greasy and "heavy." We also split a fantastic, fresh and monstrous wedge salad as we were trying to sample a little of everything. All this combined with a great value in price compared to the quality of food. We can't wait to go back.

I got their specialty hot dog and my friend got the one with corn on it and they were both…read moredelicious. Best hot dog ever. I like all the fun options. Also the drinks were good and prices overall reasonable. Will be back!

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