The Diner At Twisters

"Danger Will Robinson! Danger!"…read more The ice cream here is THAT good, and you will definitely be in danger of going back for more. After deciding not to wait longer than 2.5 hours for a rain delay at the relatively nearby baseball stadium we launched plan B and headed here for a sweet treat. I'm not sure who enjoyed the ice cream more, the 4 children or 6 adults. Everyone was too busy eating to stop and chat. When you first walk into Cruze Farm the line you see may seem daunting but it moves very quickly with orders being taken but one set of people and filled by another. Some flavors remain constant while others vary. Lavendar honey which is a favorite was not on the menu this visit so I went with blueberry. Some in our party got twists, cups, cones, sprinkles. No matter your choice, you can't go wrong. There is inside seating, a small gift section, and a small selection of food products for purchase. We had a moo-velous time!

If you're looking for the best soft serve in Knoxville, Cruz Farm is it…read more The moment you walk through the doors, you're greeted by a bright, cheerful atmosphere that feels like stepping into a classic American farm stand. The vaulted ceilings, vintage wagons, wooden barrels, farmhouse décor, merchandise, and nostalgic Americana theme make it feel wholesome, welcoming, and full of character. It's the perfect escape from the Tennessee heat and humidity. The ice cream is what truly sets Cruz Farm apart. I ordered the Sweet Cream and Strawberry twist, and it was outstanding. You can actually taste the freshness of the dairy. It's rich, creamy, and authentic--not overly sweet or loaded with the artificial flavors and preservatives that so many soft-serve places rely on. They also make the experience fun by constantly rotating flavors. During my visit they were celebrating Christmas in July with treats like Candy Cane, Sugar Cookie Dough, Peppermint-inspired churns, Birthday Cake Churn, Brownie Fudge Ripple Churn, and more. There are plenty of seasonal options, plus delicious dairy-free choices as well. Everything about Cruz Farm feels intentional--from the spotless interior and friendly atmosphere to the fresh local dairy they proudly serve. It's nostalgic without feeling outdated and modern without losing its charm. Whether you're craving classic soft serve, a thick churn, or just looking for a place to cool off and relax, Cruz Farm is absolutely worth the visit. It's one of those places that leaves you smiling long after you've finished your ice cream, and it's easily one of the best dessert spots in Knoxville.

Salted Caramel & Brown Butter Twist

The Brownie & Rocky

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Outside

The Sugar Queen Creamery

4.8(76 reviews)

8.2 mi

This place is such a treat for all your senses: the building and grounds are a handsome…read moresurprise--picnic tables and a small enclosed play area--as you approach the front entrance from the parking lot in the back. As you enter the shop, it smells like a confectionery--sweet, vanilla, chocolate, yumminess. The shop itself is small, cozy, and well organized to handle customers who are ordering snacks, ice cream, or pie. We were delighted by our chosen flavors: chocolate chip cookie dough, pineapple upside down, and mocha brownie which had chunks of fudgy brownie. The servings were generous and tasty. Service was prompt, courteous, and efficient.

Oh my heavens this was truly amazing ice cream! My Sis in Law had coffee and cream ice cream and…read moremint chip ice cream in a waffle cone bowl with hot fudge on top. She said the hot fudge was spectacular. The ice cream exceptional texture and flavor. I had almond joy and mocha brownie scoops-- decadent!!! We also ordered the Parmesan cheese pretzel with beer cheese dip! This was a wonderful savory salty foil for the rich sweetness of the ice cream. Cute environment and ambiance-- stand alone wooden building with picnic benches outside and a few small tables inside as well.

Pecan pie

3 scoops - banana pudding, caramel apple pie, cherry cobbler

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I am not Vegan but if you happen to be...

The Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain

4.5(216 reviews)

6.3 mi

This one is a hidden gem for ice cream. You get a lot more ice cream for the bang of your bucks…read more This is a family run business and it does have their feel to it. My wife and I always come here for ice cream when we visit Knoxville downtown. Highly recommend anyone to give this a try.

We love supporting local businesses. We had delicious ice cream from @thephoenixpharmacy located in…read more@downtownknoxWe were warmly greeted by Levi, so cool he & Levi share the same name. The service was superb, my ice cream sundae was sooooo yummy! Levi enjoyed his vanilla ice cream in a waffle cone. The aesthetics were super cool! There is an actual pharmacy in the space too! And you know that we love JESUS and to see a "God Loves You" postcard from @vvbcknox was extra special too! Please always be reminded that God surely does love you. On this Memorial Day, we remember all of our service men and women for their bravery and selfless sacrifices. May we love one another; celebrate our differences and spread love with one kind word at a time. Thank you @thephoenixpharmacy for your hospitality and for making us feel so welcome:) We love your family owned business and hope to come back again one day. #phoenixpharmacy #downtownknoxville #downtownknox #eatlocal

Banana split

Cookies'n Cream Sundae

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Ice cream and all the fixins.

Bruster's Real Ice Cream

3.8(64 reviews)

6.1 mi

As it nears summertime, Bruster's almost always has a line wrapped around the building. It's…read moreusually quicker to go up to the walk up windows if the line is too long. I'm always greeted with a smile and eagerness to fulfill my ice cream needs. I like variety, so I usually opt for a banana split or some type of mixed flavor sundae. It hits the spot!

Great ice cream, bad service. Shook the tip jar at us. We ordered one double scoop of chocolate ice…read morecream and when we didn't drop our (less than .50¢) change in she shook it as us as we were leaving.

Black Raspberry Cheesecake! Loaded with jam. Housemade waffle cone. Delish!

Banana split

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The cutest "pup cup" ever!!!! Ps it's literally ice cream w a milk bone.

Aroma Cafe

4.5(321 reviews)

18.4 mi

Food was good and had decent prices. We particularly enjoyed the red beans and rice. We will be…read morecoming back. This place stays busy so parking can sometimes be hard to find.

As being from Tpa Fla we know good Cuban food, stuffed potatoes were excellent black beans and rice…read moremy goodness ! So glad to have found something to eat that brings us back to the Ybor City style! Keep up the good work!

I drink and food

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Cuban coffee time!

Bruster's Real Ice Cream

4.2(57 reviews)

13.0 mi

Employees are helpful and kind. They will help with suggestions and offerings. We've been a couple…read moreof times and surprised how nice the staff is...I know! I shouldn't be surprised but in today's world I am! Thank you Bruster's!

We love love love Bruster's Real Ice Cream! I like to surprise my grandsons by picking them up at…read moretheir bus stop after school and take them for ice cream. We'd been trying several different ice cream shops and "taste testing" them. When we went to the new Bruster's near their school in Farragut we unanimously decided Bruster's was the very best!! So we go to the Farragut Bruster's during the week and then the Bruster's on Northshore near my house on the weekends. Our big thrill has been going for ice cream when the weather is super cold! The employees at Bruster's are great. They're super kind and always smiling! My grandsons and I highly recommend Bruster's.

I have never seen a four scoop waffle cone, but it is here if you want it.

Yeah ice cream two days in a row?? Please don't judge.

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Lol this shows the four scooper

D & B's Hot Dogs and Ice Cream

4.6(236 reviews)

17.8 mi

Really good food and service. Great choices, hot dogs, burgers and sandwiches. Friendly staff and…read morefood arrived quickly. A local gem eatery.

We had heard so many good things about D & B's and decided to have lunch there. The staff was super…read morefriendly and greeted us before we made it to the order counter. There were so many interesting options but I went with the D & B dog. It had chili, relish, pickle spear and sport peppers. It had a nice spicy taste with a tang. I added an order of rattlesnake fries for us to split. These had chili, jalapeños, and some type of delicious spicy sauce - loved these. My wife had the "hawt dog" which had chili, jalapeños, and some sour cream. She liked it but saw a different hotdog she wished she had tried. Great lunch spot and sooo many different options.

Ice cream counter

D & B dog with a side of rattlesnake fries

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The reataurant!

Andy's Frozen Custard

4.0(20 reviews)

10.9 mi

After our walk around Lakeshore Park, we were in the mood for some ice cream! Since Andy's was only…read morea few minutes away, we decided to try it out. This was our first visit to Andy's in Knoxville, TN and I've only been to an Andy's one other time. My husband ordered the Double Chocolate Malt, I had the Strawberry Shortcake, and my pup had a Vanilla Pup Cup. Everything was super delicious and both my guys devoured their desserts. My only negative is that there is limited parking which is hard to back out since the drive-thru is constantly busy.

Great location and so much to choose from their menu. You can get a pint of your favorite to take…read morehome. Your kids can watch the custard coming out of the machines as it's made. I really love the options you have for flavors and Sundaes. Only been here a couple of times since it's open but will surely be a regular here.

Reese's peanut butter cup concrete mixer

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Cruze Farm Ice Cream- East Knoxville

4.6(170 reviews)

7.3 mi

I love visiting Cruze Farm Ice Cream shop. This has to be my favorite location since the Pizza Barn…read moreis across the street. You eat pizza and then have their delicious ice cream! Today, I had the Strawberry-Sweet Cream twist! It's the best strawberry ice cream I've ever had. They also had a special on Half Gallon Chocolate Milk, so I bought that too. It's delicious and not too sweet. I want to try their strawberry milk next.

Great local place. The treats are so yummy! The servers are very helpful. Plenty of outdoor and…read moreindoor seating. Great family place!

Nutella & Birthday Cake Batter Swirl

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Exterior

Kilwins Ice Cream - Chocolate - Fudge

3.7(56 reviews)

6.3 mi

Kilwins is always a win wherever you are!! I happened upon the Knoxville store on a Tuesday…read moreafternoon. Even though there was only one staff member, he was kind and helpful with whatever I needed. He shared what he was making (chocolate dipped strawberries ) and pointed out the sugar free section when I asked. The chocolates were delicious as always and walked out with a waffle bowl sundae. Their hot fudge is to die for!! Never a disappointing visit to Kilwins

There was about four employees there only one was helping any customers. Two of them were just…read moresitting there chatting with each other about random every day stuff. I gave the girl the money and I had to correct her that she was gonna give me too much change so I'm not sure what happened there. The ice cream was tasty, I ate about half of it.

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Inside

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2 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Emily M.

5 years ago

We drove up at 8:53 and the sign still said open. Drove to the window and a girl was in there sweeping. The girl ignored us. We sat there waiting and the girl continued to ignore us. They turned the lights off and on and couple of times. The girl didn't even have the decency to come to the window to tell us they wouldn't serve us. it's a horrible business, ran by teenagers who have zero care in the world regarding customer service. read more

William C.

10 years ago

Great home cooking at a good price. All 3 meals. Would recommend it to anyone. Breakfast is awesome

The Diner At Twisters - tradamerican - Updated September 2026

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The Diner at Twisters

4.3

(17 reviews)

The old Rankin restaurant changed hands a couple of years ago, has once again changed hands . It…read morewas being sold by the owner of the Twisters on Washington pike. And rather than the staff losing their jobs ,one of the waitresses, Lisa Coppock bought the place and retained all the staff. This place has only gotten better than before, Lisa got rid of the ice cream machine that was constantly broken down, she now has Scooped ice cream for making sundaes and banana splits even better and fresher. The place is the ultimate Diner experience, she has alot of regular customers, including myself that enjoys a great country breakfast. From omelets made to order, grits,oatmeal, breakfast sandwiches to my favorite the country breakfast consisted of 2 eggs to order,biscuits and gravy, meat of choice and either potatoes or tots ,sliced tomatoes or other sides and never ending coffee . They also now have daily basis specials for lunch and dinner. The burgers are made from fresh meat, and not frozen patties. The chicken salad and other sandwiches are made fresh too. If you're looking for Mom's home cooking this is the place ! Come by and meet Lisa and tell her ,Rick sent you!

Lovely Southern charm. Food is very good. Service was quick and efficient…read more Small and homey business.

Scrambled Jake's

4.0

(640 reviews)

He says the food is amazing. He got the egg plate. I got the French pressed coffee. Which is my…read morefavorite way of coffee. The service is wonderful. They tried so hard to find something for me to eat. But unfortunately 90 percent of everything has soy in it. Being allergic to soy in America sucks. Can't eat anywhere. But that's life of an allergic person. The restaurant is very clean and very warming. Perfect place for breakfast. Just wish I would eat. But with the allergy it's damn near impossible. The manager and waitress tired so hard just a little impossible. I do highly recommend this place.

We stopped here for breakfast after landing in Knoxville, and it was a great way to start the day…read more The wait time was about 20 minutes, which wasn't bad at all, and we were able to wait inside in a comfortable area. The restaurant itself was beautifully decorated, which made the whole experience feel a bit more special. Service was almost excellent--very attentive and friendly--and our food came out fairly quickly after we ordered. Most importantly, everything we had was absolutely delicious. Definitely a solid breakfast spot if you're in the area!

The Original Freezo

4.0

(34 reviews)

I have passed by this place for years and always wanted to try it and just haven't but we went…read moretoday and everything was absolutely amazing !! Being greeted with excitement and smiling faces was just the start of it, we ordered a double cheeseburger, a Philly cheesesteak, and a delicious gyro. The food exceeded expectations so much that I forgot to take pics for this review. The menu has so many options as well as delicious shakes (strawberry was soooo good) if yall haven't given this place a try, then you are most def missing out. I will be back more often than I probably need to be. Such a cute little establishment !!!

If you haven't passed by this legendary sign & wanted to try their icecream, are you even from…read moreKnoxville? The worst thing about this place is that it's open hours aren't longer. But that could also be a good thing because otherwise I would be there everyday after work! My boyfriend and I had the soft serve ice cream.. and it is honestly the best soft serve I've ever had. I cannot wait to go back & try more things.

The Chunky Monkey Ice Cream Shop

4.1

(28 reviews)

I had a waffle cone with two scoops, Dutch chocolate on the bottom and banana pudding on the top…read moreand oh so yummy! Very friendly people! That's a big plus to me! Also a huge plus as the place was clean! I didn't get a picture of the ice cream because once I tasted it, I thought of nothing else but eating it and enjoying the flavor!

We both had sundaes and they are the perfect portion size. The chocolate is so creamy and rich with…read moreflavor. The staff was fast and were really working hard on a super humid hot night. This has the small town America feel and is a great family or date night stop.

Billy's Time Out Deli

4.6

(69 reviews)

Excellent food. I eat at Billy's Time Out Deli regularly. Try their double burger. Best in town!read more

I've been eating at Billy's Time Out Deli for years, and the food has always been consistently…read moregreat. The steak in a sack is one of my favorites, and I've never had a bad meal here. The staff is friendly, and it's a place I've enjoyed coming back to for a long time. My only criticism is that the prices seem a little high these days. On my last visit, I paid about $30 including tip for a steak in a sack, while my fiancée got a cheeseburger with fries and a bottled drink. Overall, it's a great local spot with quality food that keeps me coming back.

Nick and J's Cafe

4.6

(385 reviews)

If you like that old town dinner style you will love this place. They have the typical walk up bar…read moretop by the grill or grab a booth. Today I am going with those morning pancakes with bacon and eggs. Of course add some hot coffee and I might make it through the day or at least until lunch.

How does this place have such good reviews?…read more I still cannot get over that the fruit was straight out of the can. It's too expensive for this, if it was cheaper, I'd take it for what it is.

First Watch

3.4

(20 reviews)

We have been trying each first watch in different states that were able to…read more This is our first time to try Tennessee and it did not disappoint. Service was fast and friendly, food was delicious and I LOVE the blazing dragon drink! Patio area where we chose to sit was very nice, shaded and they have ceiling fans! The inside is nicely decorated as well, we just prefer outside. Give it a try if you haven't already or have been on the fence!

I'm thrilled that FW has made its way to Oak Ridge--finally, a true sit‑down breakfast spot in…read moretown! Walking in, you'll immediately notice the open, airy layout. There are tables, booths, bar/counter seats, plus outdoor seating, and windows galore that flood the room with natural light. It's bright, cheerful, and instantly welcoming. Every visit I've made, the place has been spotless--dining room, restrooms, everything. Plus the WiFi is solid, making this a great weekday spot to work from when I want to linger; they've always seemed fine with me setting up at the bar counter in the corner and staying until closing. Service has always been great. Contrary to some negative reviews I've seen, I've not had a bad experience here. Every server has been courteous, attentive, and hustling--nothing sloppy, no waiting around. As for the food--nothing but hits so far. Every dish I've ordered has been delicious, the temperature spot‑on, and the presentation pleasing. Some of my favorite go‑tos: Morning Meditation Fresh Juice -- crisp and refreshing Market Hash -- two cage‑free eggs any style, atop fresh seasoned potatoes, with house‑roasted Crimini mushrooms, zucchini, shallots, red peppers, baby spinach, melted Mozzarella, and herbed Goat cheese; served with whole grain artisan toast Bacado Omelet -- bacon, avocado, Monterey Jack, topped with sour cream, served with house‑made Pico de Gallo, lemon‑dressed organic mixed greens, and artisan toast They even rotate seasonal menu items, so there's always something new to try. Portions are generous--you're getting your money's worth and likely won't be hungry again until dinner. Bottom line: I'm a big fan. FW has raised the bar for breakfast in Oak Ridge, and I'm so glad they're here. Highly recommended.

La Michoacana Delights

4.7

(7 reviews)

The I've cream was good. I had the mango. Nice seating area. Great offerings on menu. The service…read morewas friendly and helpful.

Just a fun spot for authentic Latin antojitos or snacks. We tried the mangonada, which is frozen…read morecustard with mangos and chamoy hot sauce and sticks. We also had the esquite which is warm corn with Mayo and hot sauce and Cheetos. Cool spot for a photo sesh with friends!

Dirt Hippie Kitchen & Mercantile

5.0

(8 reviews)

Good place coffee is weak food is delicious! The daily specials are great home made comfort food,…read moreand plenty' of it. Friendly and attentive staff yet you must speak up for anything additional condiments . I , because all my daughter have been waitresses at one time or another , leave tips in cash money so the girls get their tips immediately, there is a milk carton where you order your food so very convenient , or your usual restaurant protocol !

Located in the heart of this small town, this was a great find! You feel right at home the moment…read moreyou step inside. Menu has just the right amount of options and. prices were reasonable. The homemade food was delicious and the portion sizes were perfect! The cook is the owner's mom and she was very friendly and welcoming. We wish we were staying nearby longer because we would definitely have been here more than once. We will be coming back again once we are back in Tennessee.

Aladdin's cafe

4.5

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