Potchke, a Jewish deli and kosher restaurant in downtown Knoxville that began as a pop-up in 2022, has made national news: Along with 46 other restaurants, Potchke was included in the 2024 USA TODAY Restaurants of the year list .
“We are so excited to be named as one of the best restaurants in the country by USA TODAY,” co-owner Laurence Faber told Knox News. “This recognition helps us move closer to the dream of having Knoxville be a destination for great Jewish food.”
What makes Potchke stand out
Potchke’s pop-up was short-lived thanks to its quick and wild success. Still, the restaurant has just seven cut-out letters in the window to advertise this unassuming culinary gem tucked behind towering downtown Knoxville condominiums.
Owners Emily Williams and Faber, a former pastry chef at the acclaimed Blackberry Farm, agree it might be time to expand their marketing. But glowing features from The New York Times and Southern Living have helped advertise for them. Now, the restaurant is being featured by USA TODAY for its modern, elevated take on the classic Jewish deli.