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Indulgent homemade ice creams are the base of many over‑the‑top sundaes, hand‑spun shakes, and floats. It’s a magical, local staple you have to try when you're downtown! Another hotspot is The Phoenix Pharmacy & Fountain, an authentic soda fountain that will make you feel as if you've stepped into a simpler, sweeter time.
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You know it’s good when there’s a line down the street every night, and the wait is worth it at Cruze Farm, where their fresh‑churned ice cream cones can be swirled, dipped, and topped with sprinkles. Not to be missed is Nama with award-winning sushi and yummy cocktails! And finally, three times on this list, kick off your weekend with live jazz and a farm-to-table dinner at Bistro at the Bijou. Each of them have their own atmospheres, so check out their social media. Babalu, Chivo, and Vida are popular spots for tacos, burritos, and upscale Latin cuisine. Harvest boasts a seasonal menu of small plates, charcuterie boards, steak and seafood, and delicious specials, crafted with locally-sourced ingredients. KoPita is an authentic, elevated Mediterranean restaurant on the mezzanine level of Embassy Suites serving up traditional Israeli family recipes from the owner/chef. Just walk down Gay Street and take your pick of the many dinner options for all occasions and for all appetites! Downtown Grill & Brewery is a popular pub, and as their names suggest, you'll get a locally-crafted brew to go along with delicious burgers, pizzas, pastas, and a variety of menu options (more on beer later).
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There's also K Brew, Frothy Monkey, and Status Dough, which we mentioned earlier in the breakfast category, plus a Starbucks.
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Maybe the most unique of all is The Tea Bar, which specializes in exquisite Chinese tea. Jack's of Knoxville has an adorable patio behind their gift/coffee shop, where you can enjoy a seasonal latte. Hello Tea House's bubble teas are a refreshing treat that pairs well with their sweet and savory crepes. Enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up from coffee and tea shops located on just about every block of Gay Street. Maybe our favorite meal of the day (does caffeine count as a food group?). Just take a walk down Gay Street, and you'll find many places and patios ready to welcome you for lunch! While on the other end of Gay Street, make time for the farm-to-table daily lunch specials from Bistro at the Bijou or their sister restaurant Dazzo's with pizza slices as big as your face! On the 100 block of Gay Street (near the Old City), opt for Anaba's lunchtime sushi specials. If you're near the heart of Gay Street, swing by CJ's Tacos for a quick lunch of pan-fried tacos and build-your-own taco bowls. Another weekday staple is Brown Bag, serving up their nutritious staples, like grilled chicken, spinach salad, and jalapeño corn casserole. The Italian-style eatery is only open weekdays, so keep that in mind. Tucked in an alley off Gay Street, Café Vicolo's daily lunch specials range from traditional to the unexpected, like Mexican pork stew, chimichurri steak sandwiches, and lobster rolls. There are many more weekend brunch options along the Gay Street stretch including Harvest, Babalu, Downtown Grill, Bistro at the Bijou, and Chivo Taqueria! Nashville-based Frothy Monkey opened their doors on Gay Street in 2022, and they've been a huge hit among locals and visitors for all meals of the day, but especially breakfast and brunch. Start your day with a handheld breakfast bagel sandwich and seasonal coffee from K Brew, or if you have a sweet tooth, try Status Dough's famous Paczkis paired with an iced coffee. Catch a show at one of the two historic theaters, shop 'til you drop, dine at a new restaurant, visit an underground bar, or simply take in the undeniable beauty of the streetscape at dusk. You'll find beautifully preserved architecture, a lively cultural scene, and plenty of fun. Within the central business district, Gay Street spans ten blocks from the Gay Street Bridge to West Jackson Avenue.
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Named one of the Great Streets in America by the American Planning Association (APA), Gay Street is the heart of Downtown Knoxville with a buzz of activity day and night.
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