When choosing a restaurant near campus, going with the cheapest and closest place is easy. College students are broke, and if you are like me, most of my funds go to food anyway. But I firmly believe that sometimes we need to find a sit-down restaurant that won’t break the bank and offers way better food.
Sunspot is that place for UT students. Located at the end of the strip, it can be quite a walk from campus, but after you enjoy a meal there, you’ll keep coming back.
The yellow brick building boasts cool vibes as soon as you walk in the door. The lighting is dim, the booths are comfy and the bar area is inviting. The space welcomes a mixture of business and casual attire.
Photo by Trissa Gurney
The menu features fresh ingredients with elegant preparations. Don’t forget to order the chips and salsa which are free when you request them. The salsa is made with tomatillos and is packed with spicy goodness.
You can order small plates if you are looking for something on the fancy side or a burger if you are feeling more casual. It’s the best of both worlds. The tacos are pretty out of this world. You can choose 1, 2 or 3 from a variety of taco options, including garlic chile fried chicken, maple glazed pork belly and eggplant parmesan.
I am in love with the chipotle spiced salmon taco topped with queso fresco, pico de gallo, dressed arugula, spicy crema, cilantro and wrapped in a flour tortilla. The salmon is tender and cooked with lots of flavor, truly a bundle from heaven.
Photo by Trissa Gurney
Sunspot also has great deals during their happy hour. They have $4 Martini Mondays, $2 drafts every Tuesday, 1/2 off drafts after 9pm every Thursday and half price bottles of wine until 10pm on Wednesdays.
Photo by Trissa Gurney
So, whether you are looking for an elegant night out or a causal Friday lunch, Sunspot has a little bit for everyone. From the small plates to the burgers to the banging salmon tacos, you really can’t go wrong.
Location: 2200 Cumberland Ave, Knoxville, TN
Hours of Operation: Mon, Tues, & Thurs 11am – 10pm Wed, Fri, & Sat: 11am – 11pm Sun 10 am – 10 pm
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