Nestled in the picturesque region of Maryville, TN, a culinary haven awaits. With a blend of cozy hideaways and elegant dining establishments, the greater Maryville area is home to a vibrant food scene that caters to all palates. In this blog post, we invite you to indulge in the exquisite flavors and exceptional dining experiences offered at the top restaurants in the area. From Dancing Bear, RT Lodge, and Foothills Milling Company to Walnut Kitchen, Bella, The Barn, and Diamond Jack, prepare for a gastronomic journey that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Dancing Bear
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dancing Bear is more than just a restaurant—it's an immersive culinary experience that has been named one of America's Top 25 Most Romantic Restaurants by Trip Advisor. Set within a rustic yet elegant lodge, this farm-to-table establishment boasts a menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring fresh and seasonal flavors that highlight the bounty of the region. The menu features items such as Benton's Bacon & Corn Chowder, North Carolina Rainbow Trout, Sweet Tea Brined Pork Chop, and Confit Rabbit Succotash to name a few. Indulge in creative dishes that showcase the best of Appalachian cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere; after dinner take a seat by the large outdoor firepit and sip on a glass of your favorite beverage.
RT Lodge
At RT Lodge, there is a passion for quality and flavor that permeates every aspect of their culinary creations. From hand-crafted ingredients like bread, pickles, mayonnaise, and pimento cheese to thoughtfully curated menus that embrace the changing seasons, they strive for guests to have an amazing experience. Executive Chef Trevor Stockton, with a rich heritage in farming and culinary arts, understands the importance of locally sourced ingredients. His upbringing on a farm in Gainesboro, Tennessee instilled a deep appreciation for agriculture, and time spent in the kitchen alongside his professional chef father nurtured his passion for preserving ingredients in the traditional, time-honored way. They are known for the Lodge Fried Chicken, Pimento Cheese, Heirloom Tomato Salad and Peach Galette; all ingredients are farm-to-table fresh and menus change seasonally. Reservations are highly recommended.
Foothills Milling Company
From the start, Foothills Milling Company lead the way for elevated Southern cuisine, and today they still aspire to be the new focal point for extraordinary Southern dining. The mill represents the fortitude and self-sufficiency that characterizes the East Tennessee communities. In fact, the original Wears Valley location of the restaurant included a functioning mill within its premises. Not only does the restaurant draw its essence from the foothills, but much of its cuisine is sourced from the bounty of local farmers and businesses. Partnerships with esteemed establishments such as Benton's Bacon, Cruze Farms, and Vienna Coffee contribute to the authentic flavors and traditions that Foothills Milling Company upholds. This commitment to local sourcing ensures that the restaurant remains deeply rooted in the community for generations to come. Reservations are recommended.
Walnut Kitchen
Located in the heart of Maryville, Walnut Kitchen offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where exceptional food takes center stage. With a commitment to sourcing ingredients from local farms and artisans, this farm-to-table eatery creates dishes that celebrate the flavors of the region. Indulge in elevated comfort food and savor the culinary creations that are both familiar and inventive. While the menu is known for its excellent steak and various meat dishes, the Kitchen has expanded its selections to include some vegetarian options such as Almond Goddess Salad and Garden Bruschetta. This restaurant is great for both nice weeknight and weekend meals alike.
"The Barn"
Nestled in the countryside, The Barn offers a unique dining experience in a stunning countryside setting. The James Beard Award-winning restaurant resides within a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century bank-style barn, serving as the centerpiece of Blackberry Farm. Rooted in Appalachian ingredients sourced from the region and harvested from the Farmstead, each dish reflects the essence of their unique culinary approach. It's a culinary journey that transcends traditional notions of "Southern food." They have received both James Beard and Wine Spectator Awards. With an extensive selection of over 9,000 different wines housed in the Barn Wine Cellar, oenophiles are in for a treat. Additionally, The Barn's Bar program boasts an impressive array of spirits, including a collection of over 300 Whiskies and Brandies, some of which are exclusively available at Blackberry Farm. Dinner at The Barn promises an elevated dining experience, where guests eagerly anticipate dressing up for the occasion; reservations are hard to come by and absolutely essential.
Bella
As a beloved Italian trattoria in Maryville, Bella offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Tennessee. The beautifully decorated space gives a hi-low vibe which makes it perfect for both a nice lunch and a semi-casual dinner. From handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, each dish is crafted with passion and care. Some of Shannon Foster-Boline's favorite dishes here are the Roman Style Artichokes, Calamari Fritté, Tuna Niçoise, and the Orecchiette al Pomodoro. Enjoy the warm and inviting ambiance, attentive service, and a menu that transports you to the enchanting streets of Italy.
The greater Maryville, TN area boasts a culinary landscape that will enthrall and delight food enthusiasts. From the rustic charm of Dancing Bear and the refined elegance of RT Lodge to the contemporary Southern cuisine of Foothills Milling Company and the authentic Italian flavors of Bella, the top restaurants in this region offer a diverse range of culinary experiences. Whether you seek an intimate dinner, a celebration, or a special occasion, these exceptional establishments promise exceptional flavors and memorable moments. Explore the gastronomic treasures of the greater Maryville area and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more.
Note: It is recommended to check the official websites or make reservations in advance for the top restaurants mentioned in this blog post, as availability and operating hours may vary.
