What’s Cooking? New Restaurants Recently Opened or Coming to East Tennessee!

Knoxville’s dining scene is sizzling this year, with a wide range of new restaurants opening or on the way. From Southern comfort food to burgers, bagels, barbecue, and beyond, the local food landscape continues to expand, offering more delicious options for every craving.

Whether you’re looking for your next date-night spot or a casual family meal, here’s a look at some of the latest additions and new openings to keep on your radar:

🍔 Whataburger – The popular Texas-based burger chain is making its Knoxville debut with not one, but three planned locations. One is already confirmed for 1830 Cumberland Avenue, in the lower level of the TENN student apartments near Raising Canes. Two additional spots are in the works in Turkey Creek (in the old Steak & Shake) and East Emory Road in Powell.

🍗 Raising Cane’s – Speaking of Raising Cane’s—this chicken finger favorite opened a new Knoxville location in January 2025, continuing its expansion across the state.

🍯 Tupelo Honey Café – Known for its Southern-inspired dishes (and famous honey-dusted fried chicken), Tupelo Honey Café long been a local favorite with its bustling location on the corner of Market Square. After earning the approval of locals and visitors alike for its brunch and dinner, the regional chain has plans to open a new location in Farragut in 2025.

🍽️ Flying Biscuit Café – Bringing big Southern flavors (with vegan options, too!), Flying Biscuit Café opened its first Tennessee location this year and is now serving in Farragut (near the intersection of Parkside Drive and Campbell Station Rd).

🍜 Yummy Bowl – This Asian-inspired sit-down restaurant opened in February 2025, taking over the former Cici’s Pizza location on Kingston Pike. The menu offers a mix of sushi, ramen, hibachi, and more.

🍖 Jim N Nick’s BBQ – Barbecue lovers, take note: Jim N Nick’s opened near West Town Mall in December 2024. Known for their slow-smoked meats and signature cheese biscuits, this is a welcome addition to Knoxville’s BBQ lineup.

🍽️ Aubrey’s – Aubrey’s, a longtime East Tennessee favorite, opened its newest location in Lenoir City in April 2025…with a wide range of appetizers, salads, entrees and desserts, plus a full bar and several signature cocktails, Aubrey’s is a perfect for a casual lunch or dinner close to home.

🍷 Bogartz – For those seeking a fine-dining experience, Chef Bruce Bogartz recently opened his new namesake restaurant in Bearden. While the location (nestled at the corner of S. Forest Park Boulevard and Old Kingston Pike) has been home to several eateries over the years, this one may just have right ingredients and staying power it needs for long-term success. Now serving lunch, it’s earning buzz for creative dishes and elevated cuisine.

🥯 Potchke Bagel – Bagel fans rejoice: After gaining national notoriety for its unique flavors and offerings at the original Potchke location in the Regas Building in Downtown Knoxville, a second Potchke Bagel location opened in Cedar Bluff and quickly became just as popular as the original. Lines out the door speak to its must-try status.

🍳 Metro Diner – Looking ahead, Metro Diner is set to open this summer on Clinton Highway—bringing hearty breakfast and comfort-food favorites to yet another part of town.

A Delicious Year Ahead

East Tennessee’s growth isn’t just about housing and development…it’s also about bringing new flavors and experiences to the community. If you’re out exploring our area’s culinary scene, these new spots are well worth a visit.

What’s your favorite new restaurant in Knoxville? Let us know—and happy dining!