Places to Eat

With malls, department stores, and big-name chain restaurants, we’ve got all the shopping and dining you’re used to in metropolitan areas.

But it’s the eccentric and uncommon opportunities that make Northeast Tennessee an authentic destination for cultural treasures. Simply put, it’s a comfortable blend of mountain tradition and modern Americana.

Shopping opportunities range from brand-name outlets to quirky sidewalk antique shops—everything to fulfill your eclectic tastes. In fact, you’re guaranteed to find the gifts or apparel you’re looking for, as well as many you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

As for mouth-watering cuisine, our dining options include everything from seafood to soul-food to one of Northeast Tennessee’s favorites: hickory-smoked barbecue. Relax in historical establishments, main-street cafes, or overlooking beautiful waterfronts on Boone or Watauga Lake. Go classic, go trendy, or go romantic—you’ll find a restaurant that fits your taste and budget.

River's Edge Restaurant

Located 1.4 miles north of I-26. Barbecue is our specialty. Freshly smoked meats are marinated before cooking so that they retain their natural juices. Special sauces compliment the tender meats. We're told it's the best BBQ around. Hand-tossed pizzas are made fresh to order. Specially prepared sauces made with local vegetables and a variety of toppings allow diners to create pizzas to satisfy their cravings, from traditional to inventive. Located on the banks of the Nolichucky River directly across from the majestic 800-foot "Devil's Looking Glass." Live music weekends.

Address Block
2004 Jonesborough Road
Erwin
TN
37650
Phone: 
423-743-7733

Ridgewood Barbecue, LLC

Located 15 miles from I-81. The area's finest and oldest barbecue restaurant. Acclaimed THE BEST by many books, newspapers and PEOPLE MAGAZINE. Casual atmosphere and family oriented with very reasonable prices. Serving Mon. - Thurs. 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 - 8 p.m.; Closed Sun. L/HA. PC, TC & CC accepted.

Address Block
900 Elizabethton Highway
Bluff City
TN
37618
Phone: 
423-538-7543

The Firehouse Restaurant & Catering

Located 1 mile from I-26. "Come see what's ablaze" at the authentic West Walnut Street Firehall, built in 1930. Offering a wide variety of foods while specializing in "Authentic Hickory Smoked Bar-B-Que", ribs, steaks, sandwiches and more! Firefighting memorabilia enhances our atmosphere, along with our fully restored 1925 Seagrave's fire engine. Whether your event is a large gala, company picnic, or small board meeting, let The Firehouse take care of all of your catering needs. Open Mon. - Thurs. 11a.m.- 9:30 P.M.; Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. - 10 P.M. TC & CC accepted. L/HA.

Address Block
627 West Walnut Street
Johnson City
TN
37604
Phone: 
423-929-7377

Captain's Table

Located 17 miles from I-26. Experience the breathtaking view of beautiful Watauga Lake while enjoying a great meal. We serve seafood specialty dishes, steaks & chicken...as well as several delicious side plates. Lounge and banquet facilities available. Open Mar.-Oct. Serving Dinner 4-9pm and Lunch on Fri., Sat., & Sun. Closed Mon. & Tues. TC & CC accepted.

Address Block
2340 Highway 321
Hampton
TN
37658
Phone: 
423-725-2201

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