Knoxville's food scene has become an attraction of its own of late. We have our share of top-notch chefs cooking upscale, sophisticated cuisine that is receiving national attention on a regular basis. But where does one go when a simple burger is their craving? We're here to help you out on your quest.
Abridged Brewing Co.
Chef Joey Trott takes ground brisket from Willy's Butcher Shoppe and serves up a solid base for bacon, white American cheese, red onion, crisp fried Brussels sprouts petals and house-made aioli. The juicy burger is then plated up next to a pile of seasoned crispy fries or potato salad. Don't forget to wash it down with one of their tasty brews like the Synchronous New England style IPA or the Upstairs Belgian style table beer.
Inskip Grill
A neighborhood diner established in 1967 in the heart of Knoxville’s Inskip Community, this north Knoxville fave serves up unique burgers, a giant craft beer selection, and monster milkshakes. Since inception Inskip Grill has grown with two locations, one in the heart of Fountain City on Broadway and a second location in historic downtown Powell.
Burgers here reference all kinds of local influence with names like Rossini (annual spring festival hosted by the Knoxville Opera) to the McGhee Tyson (our airport you may have flown in on). Double, triple, or smash patty? Brioche, Texas Toast, Pretzel Bun? Mozzerella sticks, habanero pineapple glaze, blueberry compote? The possibilities are endless!
Stock & Barrel
Stock & Barrel specializes in farm-to-table gourmet craft burgers complemented by a full bar with a focus on bourbon. For the adventurous diner, burger toppings range from peanut butter and banana to blue cheese crumbles with blueberry preserves, but it's hard to go wrong with anything, especially the classic 'Merican with cheddar, pickles, onion, tomato, greens, and mayo. Pro-tip: Order a side of garlic aioli for the included fries or onion rings.
Litton's
A Fountain City staple, Litton's Restaurant and Bakery has been making some of Knoxville’s favorite burgers since 1962. The business has been around a lot longer than that though. They have a range of specialty burgers such as the Thunder Road with pimento cheese, onions, and jalapeños. If that's not your thing then try the original Litton Burger complete with lettuce, tomato, and onion. All of their famous burgers are presented on a house-baked bun and served alongside French fries. May we suggest substituting those for their onion rings? Also, do not leave without a lemon cookie or a slice of their red velvet cake.
Northshore Brasserie
West Knoxville is not to be forgotten on the list of best burgers! This European bistro may not scream burger joint when you walk in, but they sure know how to make them. Chef Joe Cunningham leads the culinary team to make a juicy burger so tall, it looks like it will crash to the ground. On top of the lean patty is Roquefort, cheddar, or Gruyere cheese, truffled onions and mushrooms, lettuce and tomato on a fresh, toasted bun and of course you simply must have pommes frites while there! Join them for a burger and half-price wine on Tuesday. We love sitting at the bar.
Balter Beerworks
One of the simplest burgers on the list but is unique in its own way the Balter burger is a double patty burger that melts in your mouth. Proof positive that delicious food need not be overly complicated. The Balter Burger is layered with white cheddar, house pickles, lettuce, onions, and tomato cheese and patties with just the right char. And while it comes with their signature fries, we suggest the house-made chips.
* This article is reposted from 2018. Cardin's Drive-In and Knox Mason were initially included and have sadly closed since initial publication. At the discretion of the editor, this article has been updated to include Stock & Barrel and Inskip Grill.
