Tennessee’s food scene keeps getting better, and right now there are restaurants across the state earning national attention and local buzz. From wood-fired Southern cooking to Filipino street snacks, these spots are pushing boundaries while staying true to what makes Tennessee dining special.
Whether you’re planning a road trip or just want to know where the state’s best chefs are cooking, these twelve restaurants represent the most exciting places to eat in Tennessee this year.
1. Potchke Deli – Knoxville
Knoxville needed a place like Potchke. This isn’t your grandfather’s deli—it’s a creative take on Jewish comfort food that respects tradition while adding fresh energy. The bagels are made by hand every day, and once you try one, you’ll understand why people line up before the doors open.
What sets Potchke apart is how it balances nostalgia with invention. Classic pastrami sits alongside inventive sandwich combinations that play with flavors you wouldn’t expect. The kitchen team isn’t afraid to experiment, but they never lose sight of what makes deli food so satisfying in the first place…