Knoxville, Tennessee, is a city that strikes a balance between Southern charm and modern sophistication, and this is reflected in its culinary scene. If you’re a foodie who appreciates an elegant dining experience with delicious, innovative dishes, Knoxville offers several top-tier restaurants that can satisfy both your craving for great food and your desire for a luxurious ambiance. I’ve had the pleasure of dining at some of these fine establishments, and I’m excited to share my experiences with you. Whether you’re visiting Knoxville for a special occasion, or you simply want to indulge in a fine dining experience, the following restaurants offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable meal.
1. The Orangery Restaurant – A Taste of Mediterranean Elegance
Restaurant Overview
Located in the heart of Knoxville, The Orangery Restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience in an elegant Mediterranean-inspired setting. The restaurant is housed in a beautiful, historic building with soaring ceilings, large windows that let in natural light, and a charming outdoor patio that’s perfect for warm weather dining. The Orangery provides a fine dining atmosphere with impeccable service and an exceptional menu.
What sets The Orangery apart from other upscale Knoxville restaurants is its commitment to offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Each dish is artfully prepared, and the presentation is nothing short of stunning. Whether you’re here for a romantic dinner, a business meeting, or a celebration, you’ll be treated to an elevated dining experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Signature Dishes
- Lobster Bisque: This creamy, rich soup is the perfect start to your meal, with a delicate balance of flavors and generous chunks of lobster.
- Seared Duck Breast: This dish is a standout, with perfectly cooked duck breast served with a tangy fruit glaze, sautéed vegetables, and a side of mashed potatoes.
- Saffron Risotto: A vegetarian option that is hearty and flavorful, this dish is made with fresh saffron and Parmesan, creating a creamy and luxurious texture.
Prices & Booking Tips
- Price Range: The Orangery’s fine dining comes with a price. Entrées generally range from $30 to $50, with appetizers and desserts priced between $10 and $20.
- Best Time to Book: For the best dining experience, especially on weekends or during the holiday season, I recommend booking a reservation 2-3 weeks in advance. You can easily make reservations on OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.
- Discounts & Offers: Occasionally, The Orangery offers prix-fixe menus for special occasions or holidays, which can be a great way to experience the restaurant at a lower cost. Keep an eye on their website for seasonal promotions or sign up for their newsletter to get updates.
Guest Reviews
The Orangery consistently receives rave reviews for its romantic ambiance, excellent service, and outstanding food. Patrons often comment on the elegant decor and the intimate, upscale atmosphere. Many also note that the staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making the dining experience all the more enjoyable.
“The Orangery was the perfect spot for our anniversary dinner. The ambiance was incredible, and every dish was absolutely delicious. The duck breast was a standout, and we loved the intimate setting.” – Jennifer, guest
2. Chesapeake’s – Seafood with Southern Charm
Restaurant Overview
For those craving fresh seafood in an elegant setting, Chesapeake’s offers the best of both worlds. Located near the waterfront in downtown Knoxville, this upscale seafood restaurant combines a charming atmosphere with an impressive selection of fresh fish, shellfish, and Southern-inspired sides. Chesapeake’s offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with rustic wooden beams, dim lighting, and a touch of coastal elegance.
The menu is designed to offer both classic seafood dishes and creative spins on Southern favorites, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. From the raw bar to the chef’s specials, Chesapeake’s has something to please every palate. Whether you prefer oysters, shrimp, or lobster, the seafood here is second to none in Knoxville.
Signature Dishes
- Oysters Rockefeller: A decadent appetizer featuring fresh oysters topped with a creamy spinach and Parmesan sauce, baked to perfection.
- Blackened Redfish: A Southern classic, the redfish is seared with a bold blackened seasoning and served with a side of rice and sautéed vegetables.
- Lobster Mac & Cheese: A rich and indulgent dish, this creamy mac and cheese is paired with succulent lobster meat and a golden crust, making it a must-try for anyone with a love for seafood.
Prices & Booking Tips
- Price Range: Entrées range from $25 to $45, with appetizers priced from $10 to $20. The raw bar offers oysters by the dozen for around $20.
- Best Time to Book: Chesapeake’s can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so I recommend booking a reservation well in advance, particularly if you’re dining on a Friday or Saturday night. You can make a reservation via OpenTable or the restaurant’s website.
- Discounts & Offers: Chesapeake’s occasionally runs happy hour specials or seasonal promotions, especially in the early evening. Keep an eye on their social media for any upcoming offers.
Guest Reviews
Chesapeake’s is frequently praised for its delicious seafood, high-quality ingredients, and attentive service. Guests appreciate the restaurant’s combination of upscale elegance and Southern warmth, as well as its variety of menu options.
“The seafood here is always fresh, and the ambiance makes it perfect for a night out. The Oysters Rockefeller are a must-try!” – Dan, guest
3. The Capital Grill – Steakhouse Elegance with a Refined Atmosphere
Restaurant Overview
If you’re in the mood for an elegant steakhouse experience, The Capital Grille is one of Knoxville’s premier dining destinations. Located in a sophisticated, upscale setting, The Capital Grille offers a perfect combination of timeless elegance, impeccable service, and expertly prepared steaks. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a quiet night out, this is a place where every detail is crafted to perfection.
The menu features a variety of cuts of steak, as well as a wide range of fresh seafood, salads, and side dishes. The Capital Grille is known for its dry-aged steaks, which are aged for a minimum of 18 days to ensure peak flavor and tenderness. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, with options that pair perfectly with any dish.
Signature Dishes
- Bone-In Ribeye: A perfectly cooked steak with a deep, rich flavor, this bone-in ribeye is a fan favorite at The Capital Grille.
- Lobster Tail: Succulent lobster tail served with drawn butter and a touch of lemon, ideal for those who love both steak and seafood.
- Truffle Mac & Cheese: A decadent side dish that perfectly complements any entrée, this rich mac and cheese is made with truffle oil and topped with a crispy crust.
Prices & Booking Tips
- Price Range: The Capital Grille is known for its high-end steak offerings, with steaks priced from $35 to $60 and seafood options ranging from $25 to $50. Sides and appetizers generally cost between $10 and $20.
- Best Time to Book: To ensure a spot at The Capital Grille, reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining. The restaurant is quite popular during holidays, so be sure to book in advance via OpenTable or Resy.
- Discounts & Offers: While the restaurant doesn’t offer many discounts, they do have seasonal prix-fixe menus that can be an excellent value. Check their website for any ongoing promotions.
Guest Reviews
The Capital Grille is renowned for its high-end dining experience, with guests praising the quality of the steaks, the ambiance, and the attentive service. Whether it’s a special occasion or a regular dinner out, diners often return for the consistently great food and the elegant atmosphere.
“Every meal at The Capital Grille has been perfect. The bone-in ribeye is to die for, and the wine pairings are spot on. The service is impeccable, and the ambiance makes it feel like a truly special evening.” – David, guest
4. Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Unmatched Steakhouse Experience
Restaurant Overview
For those who truly appreciate the art of a perfectly cooked steak, Ruth’s Chris Steak House is the ultimate destination for upscale dining in Knoxville. Located in the heart of downtown, Ruth’s Chris offers an intimate yet elegant atmosphere that’s ideal for romantic dinners, business meetings, or celebratory meals. The steaks here are known for being served sizzling on a hot plate, ensuring that each bite is perfectly seared and full of flavor.
Known for its USDA Prime steaks, Ruth’s Chris is a favorite among Knoxville locals and visitors alike. The restaurant offers a range of steak options, from the classic filet mignon to the impressive tomahawk ribeye. Guests can also enjoy a variety of seafood, signature sides, and delectable desserts.
Signature Dishes
- Filet Mignon: Ruth’s Chris is renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon, cooked to perfection and served sizzling.
- Lobster Mac & Cheese: This rich and creamy side dish pairs wonderfully with any steak.
- Crème Brûlée: A classic dessert, Ruth’s Chris serves a perfectly caramelized crème brûlée that’s the perfect way to end a meal.
Prices & Booking Tips
- Price Range: Steaks at Ruth’s Chris range from $40 to $60, with seafood dishes starting around $25. Sides and desserts are generally priced from $10 to $20.
- Best Time to Book: Weekends tend to be busy, so I recommend making reservations well in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit on a Friday or Saturday evening. You can reserve through OpenTable or the restaurant’s website.
- Discounts & Offers: Ruth’s Chris frequently offers special promotions for special occasions or holidays, so keep an eye on their social media or sign up for their email list for exclusive offers.
Guest Reviews
Guests consistently rave about the quality of the steaks and the exceptional service. Many diners note that the sizzling plates enhance the steak-eating experience, making each bite even more delicious.
“I had the best steak of my life at Ruth’s Chris. The filet mignon was incredible, and the service was perfect. It’s an amazing spot for a special occasion.” – John, guest
Knoxville offers an incredible array of upscale dining options for those seeking an elegant atmosphere and exceptional cuisine. Whether you’re indulging in Mediterranean flavors at The Orangery, enjoying fresh seafood at Chesapeake’s, savoring perfectly cooked steaks at The Capital Grille or Ruth’s Chris, or discovering other local gems, you’re sure to experience an unforgettable dining experience.
For your next visit, I recommend using platforms like OpenTable, Resy, or Expedia to book your dining reservations or check for promotions. Happy dining, and I hope your Knoxville culinary adventure leaves you with wonderful memories and satisfied taste buds!
