County boasts sumptuous array of distinctive dining destinations
Granted, Blount County sometimes seems to take a back seat when compared to its immediate neighbors to the north in Knoxville. It’s understandable in a way; given the rural expanse of Blount County and the more citified surroundings of Knoxville, there may be cause to think of Blount and its attractions, entertainment and scenic resources as simply and conveniently nearby.
The fact is, though, that there’s so much that is appealing about Blount County that it’s hard to list all of its perks in a single column. Consequently, we’ll limit this piece to the food. These days, of course, inside dining is still a somewhat tentative proposition, so these scorecards were marked based on pre-pandemic experiences. Here are our favorite Blount County restaurants, presented in no particular order:
The Soup Kitchen, 245 S. Calderwood St., Alcoa
OK, we’ll admit that it does seem a bit strange to start a best restaurants list with a place called The Soup Kitchen. To some, the name might conjure up images of the Great Depression, especially as far as food lines were concerned. Don’t let that dissuade you, however; the lines are relatively short here! Likewise, when it comes to great sandwiches (personally, we preferred the grilled cheese), your basic variety of homemade soups and an all-American combination of the two (with chips), it ought to be considered more than credible comfort food.
Foothills Milling Co. 315 S. Washington St., Maryville
Admittedly, we’ve been doing more takeout than dining in due to the pandemic. But whether you’re in or out, this Maryville staple can be considered among the best in Blount when it comes to both its upscale main menu and its superb selection of sandwiches at lunch. Breads and desserts add to their lengthy list of specialties. Based on Appalachian traditions just as its name implies, Foothills Milling Co. is both upscale and down home, in perfect proportions
Lambert’s Southern Pies & Bake Shop Cafe, 131 E. Broadway Ave., Maryville
Located in downtown Maryville, Lambert’s offers a unique combination their own – one that involves food, faith and friendliness. Their sandwiches alone are superb, but the namesake pies and baked goods are well worth considering on their own. Who would have thought that any concoction consisting of both a chocolate chip cookie and a brownie could exceed the sum of its parts?
Appalachian Bistro at Dancing Bear Lodge, 7140 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend
It’s worth the drive to Townsend to experience the incredible ambiance offered by Dancing Bear. A mountainside experience in a rustic woodlands setting, this award-winning locale offers a menu that reflects a true farm to table sensibility – that is, fresh produce grown organically on site and the highest quality local ingredients. And while we don’t want to give away the ending, let’s just say the free s’mores are not to be missed. Also, if you simply can’t pull yourself away, the cabins are pretty comfy too.
Miss Olivia’s Table, 1108 W. Broadway Ave., Maryville
Nestled in a neighborhood located just outside of downtown, Miss Olivia’s Table exemplifies the true definition of Southern hospitality. Housed in a historic home, it exudes charm, absolute class and delectable delights all cooked and prepared by the truly incomparable Miss Olivia herself. You’ll see her graciously visiting each table – not only to ensure that her customers are satisfied, but also to linger a little longer so as to offer a taste of homegrown philosophy, as well. Take note: Miss Olivia offers limited hours (11 a.m.-2 p.m., weekdays only), so it’s best to put it in your calendar. And if you miss her then, she can cater your gatherings, as well.
RT Lodge, 1406 Wilkinson Pike, Maryville
Here’s more history for you: RT Lodge, situated in a woodsy property on the Maryville College campus, is housed in a glorious, multi-level mansion that rings with the echo of timeless tradition. The surroundings are magnificent, and here, too, the s’mores are plentiful at the fire pit. The staff consists of students from the college’s hospitality department, and you can rest assured that you’ll find both your service and your supper to be first rate. There’s good reason RT Lodge is known as one of the most distinguished dining rooms in East Tennessee. Given all it has to offer in terms of both atmosphere and aroma, just being there is an experience.
Sullivan’s Downtown, 121 W. Broadway Ave., Maryville
Billing its cuisine as modern American makes it open to optimum interpretation, Yet suffice it to say that Sullivan’s offers a menu where no interpretation is needed. Indeed, the familiarity factor is a definite plus. The entrees offer an ample array of meats and fishes, but the sides – we’re talking fried corn on the cob and one of Blount’s most bountiful bread baskets – also are well worth the price of admission. Speaking of which, the prices are quite reasonable as well.
Walnut Kitchen, 606 High St., Maryville
A restaurant has to have an already well-established reputation to lure the best chefs to their confines, so it’s little wonder that Walnut Kitchen is clearly so captivating. The dining rooms offer a variety of settings that can accommodate a couple, a couple of couples or even a small celebration. Meat lovers, in particular, will find a sumptuous selection, and if they’re in the mood for more, the Walnut Kitchen retail meat counter offers the opportunity to take some beef back home.
Amici, 1420 E. Broadway Ave., Maryville
One of Blount’s newest places for everything Italian, Amici brings a taste of class and comfort to East Broadway. Both the food and the decor reflect a distinct Old World authenticity, a classy contemporary look and a real ingenuity in both the entrees and the portion of the menu devoted to pizza, with the quality of the latter being what truly makes Amici such a unique spot.
Bluetick Tavern, 128 W. Broadway Ave., Maryville
The former Barley’s is not just one of the best bars in Maryville, but also one of the most popular places to dine, as well. The menu offers a wonderful array of pizza, burgers and a long list of lighter entrees. And pre-pandemic, the live music was wonderful, too.
Jaboni’s Pizzeria, 549 Foothills Plaza Drive, Maryville
A new contender destined to lure those with a passion for pizza, Jaboni’s joyfully touts the fact that their pie is the real deal, a genuine Long Island import. Consider it a pizzeria with a purpose.
Lemon Grass, 912 W. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville
Asian food comes in any number of varieties at Lemon Grass, whether you’re in the mood to savor some sushi, sip from a soup bowl, partake of pad thai or simply crave some curry. What’s more, it’s one of Blount’s best bargains. At $20.99 for a multi-course meal for two, the price is just as tasty as the excellent food.
Thai Cuisine, 622 Condry Lane, Maryville
The Thai options don’t end with Lemon Grass, however. One of Maryville’s newest eateries, Thai Cuisine is located in what was once Asian Cuisine. So while that narrows down the choices, the accent on a Thai menu suggests more than a specialty of sorts. The staff is made up of actual Thai personnel and professionals, assuring then that every gourmet meal gets the real-deal touch.
