Want to know where all the locals go to eat? I found the best way to sample a “taste of the town” on a budget was embarking on the Knoxville Food Tour.  Whether you are in Knoxville for a few days, just recently moved to the city, or a long time inhabitant, this tour is the perfect way to sample what the locals eat in downtown Knoxville.  Although I have been in the city for five years, a couple of the places I had never been to and this was the perfect opportunity to find a new favorite local spot to grab a bite with family and friends.

My food tour group ranged from young to old with a mix of visitors and locals in town looking for a favorite spot to eat. I was able to take the Friday tour, stopping at six different spots along the way, although there are Saturday and Sunday tours for those who can’t make Friday.  Each day has a unique route with different stops so attendees who return for a second tour on another day will have a chance to try all new options.

One unique aspect of this tour that my group members and I really enjoyed was the opportunity to hear about some of Knoxville’s history while walking to and from the restaurants.  Guide and creator of the tour, Paula Johnson, fills the time between stops with tidbits about the city’s downtown history.

Each stop has an option that is different than the last, making each sampling unique.  My eyes were amazed by the presentation of sushi at Shono’s and I had to try the birthday cake gelato at Coolato Gelato. I made sure to grab a slice of pizza at Dazzo’s and enjoyed seasonal options at Bistro at the Bijou.  I didn’t just find one new favorite restaurant; I found new dishes at places I had gone to for years.  After the tour, you might find a new favorite spot to enjoy a meal during the rest of your vacation, your next stay in town, or as a returning local customer.

I found favorite restaurants and dishes during my time on the food tour and have already planned to return on a Saturday or Sunday to sample food at all new locations and find a few new dishes to enjoy when I eat downtown.  Learn more about this unique dining experience at www.knoxvillefoodtours.com.