Where to Eat Thanksgiving in Knoxville, TN 2024
Don’t want to cook this Thanksgiving? Knoxville’s got you covered. Whether you want traditional turkey and stuffing or something more non-traditional, the city’s restaurants are ready to serve a holiday meal. From neighborhood spots to fancy schmancy, here’s where to find a great Thanksgiving dinner in Knoxville this year—complete with websites, phone numbers, and reservation info so you can book now.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
If you want to treat yourself, Fleming’s has a fancy Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings. Known for their high-end steaks, they also serve up a special Thanksgiving menu that usually includes roasted turkey, gourmet sides, and rich desserts. The wine list is impressive, so it’s a great spot for a holiday celebration.
- Location: 11287 Parkside Drive, Knoxville, TN 37934
- Phone: (865) 675-9463
- Website: flemingssteakhouse.com
- Reservations: Highly recommended via phone or OpenTable
Oliver Royale
Oliver Royale in Market Square is a go-to for seasonal and local ingredients, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Their holiday menu is traditional with a twist. It features fresh ingredients and beautiful presentation in a cozy, festive atmosphere. It’s a great spot for Thanksgiving with friends or family.
- Location: 5 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
- Phone: (865) 622-6434
- Website: oliverroyale.com
- Reservations: Recommended via OpenTable
Lakeside Tavern
Want a more low-key Thanksgiving with a view? Lakeside Tavern has a buffet-style holiday meal with all the favorites—carved turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and more. Situated right on Fort Loudoun Lake, you can relax and enjoy the view while you eat.
- Location: 10911 Concord Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922
- Phone: (865) 671-2980
- Website: lakeside-tavern.com
- Reservations: Call ahead to reserve a table
Chesapeake’s Seafood & Raw Bar
Want something a little different? Chesapeake’s is a good bet. They’re known for their fresh seafood and usually offer a Thanksgiving menu that combines traditional holiday fare with coastal favorites. For example, you might find roasted turkey next to crab cakes or seafood stuffing, making your Thanksgiving dinner a little more interesting.
- Location: 600 Union Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902 or 9630 Parkside Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922
- Phone: (865) 622-6999
- Website: chesapeakes.com
- Reservations: Recommended by phone
Calhoun’s On The River
For Southern comfort food with a view, Calhoun’s On The River is a Thanksgiving go-to. Their holiday menu is a Southern take on the classics, with options like slow-roasted turkey and ham and hearty sides like green bean casserole and mashed potatoes. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for unwinding and enjoying a full holiday meal without any stress.
- Location: 400 Neyland Drive, Knoxville, TN 37902
- Phone: (865) 673-3355
- Website: calhouns.com
- Reservations: Recommended by phone
Lonesome Dove Western Bistro
Lonesome Dove Western Bistro brings a little Texas to your Thanksgiving. Expect big flavor with smoked meats and holiday sides that put a Western spin on Thanksgiving classics. Known for their creative Texas-inspired menu Lonesome Dove is a good choice if you want something different for Thanksgiving.
- Location: 100 N Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902
- Phone: (865) 999-5251
- Website: lonesomedoveknoxville.com
- Reservations: Required by phone or OpenTable
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris is known for its steaks, but it goes big for Thanksgiving. The holiday menu usually includes turkey with all the classics—stuffing, sweet potato casserole, and cranberry sauce—all served in Ruth’s Chris’ upscale atmosphere. Looking for an upscale experience with great service? This is the place.
- Location: 950 Volunteer Landing Ln, Knoxville, TN 37915
- Phone: (865) 546-4696
- Website: ruthschris.com
- Reservations: Required by phone or OpenTable
Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro
If you’re willing to leave Knoxville, Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend offers a Thanksgiving meal with an Appalachian twist. Imagine a cozy cabin setting and a farm-to-table menu featuring the best local ingredients. With smoked turkey and seasonal veggies, this holiday meal is mountain-inspired.
- Location: 7140 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
- Phone: (865) 448-6000
- Website: dancingbearlodge.com
- Reservations: Required by phone or OpenTable
Thanksgiving Reservations
Thanksgiving is a busy time for Knoxville restaurants, so book ahead. Here are a few tips:
- Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast, so book at least 2 weeks in advance.
- Call Back: If your favorite spot is booked, try calling back closer to the date for last-minute cancellations.
- Special Requests: If you have dietary restrictions or are traveling with a large group, mention it when you book so they can accommodate you.
Get out of town, enjoy the view, and let the chefs do the work. Happy Thanksgiving from Rick Smenner and The Big Orange Press
