There’s more to the Knoxville restaurant scene than the restaurants in Market Square (although they’re all wonderful.) Knoxville has its share of more low-key and unique restaurants, from late-night diners for the college crowd to barbecue that draws in food-lovers from all over the state.

You’ll find Southern soul-food restaurants alongside modern brunch places. Check out some of the weird and wonderful diners, drive-ins and dives that we’re proud to have in Knoxville.

1. Pizza Palace

diners

Photo by Bailey Culpepper

Average plate: $9

Dish to try: Super pizza (all ingredients)

2. Gus’s Good Times Deli

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Photo courtesy of foodspotting.com

Average plate: $8

Dish to try: Cheeseburger with fries

3. Pete’s Coffee Shop

 

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Photo courtesy of Pete’s Coffee Shop

Average plate: $6

Dish to try: Pete’s Breakfast Special (2 eggs, bacon or sausage patty, and home fries with toast, biscuit, or one biscuit with gravy)

4. Litton’s Market

diners

Photo by Bailey Culpepper

Average plate: $9

Dish to try: Thunder Road burger (Pimento cheese, sautéed onions, and jalapeño peppers with fries)

5. Copper Cellar

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Photo courtesy of yelp.com

Average plate: $10

Dish to try: Hamburger

6. The Plaid Apron

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Photo by Meredith Simmons

Average plate: $10

Dish to try: Eggs Benedict

7. Sweet P’s Barbeque and Soul House

diners

Photo courtesy of ibetyouwont.com

Average plate: $10

Dish to try: BBQ burrito

8. Cardin’s Drive-In

diners

Photo courtesy of yelp.com

Average Plate: $5

Dish to try: Bacon cheeseburger