Gemini Hospitality will occupy the former Babalu storefront at 412 S. Gay St., replacing earlier plans and bringing a local operator’s portfolio into downtown Knoxville. Permits and design work will determine what comes next.

A Vonore inspection found raw chicken held at about 63°F, warm cut tomatoes and a grimy can opener, resulting in a failing 56 for Cielito Lindo.

AJ Tierney is opening House of Strays, a cocktail bar with a black-box theatre on Jackson Avenue that will donate part of proceeds to Knoxville Children’s Theatre. The venue aims to open in fall 2026.

The Melting Pot in Knoxville closed on May 26 after 31 years. The chain says it is seeking a buyer to revive the Old City location.

A state‑approved pilot will let participating bars sell drinks to‑go in Market Square starting mid‑July, served in approved cups and limited to a marked zone. The program aims to boost foot traffic while keeping consumption regulated.

A Maynardville barbecue spot received a failing 65 after inspectors found unlabeled foods and hand‑washing lapses, leading to the disposal of potato salad and smoked chicken.

Maryville restaurants report tomatoes and lettuce have jumped hundreds of percent this spring, forcing menu changes and fundraisers. Local owners blame freezes and higher fuel costs.

A new general store and counter kitchen opened on the Pigeon Forge Parkway with ice cream, flavored popcorn and smoked sandwiches.

A family-run cantina called Knox‑Quila Cantina will open at Covenant Health Park this summer, bringing tacos, reposado flights and late‑night weekend service to the Old City.

H&H Bagels has opened at Turkey Creek, bringing New York‑style bagels, lox sandwiches and morning sandwiches to West Knoxville.

A Swig drive‑thru is planned at the Grassy Creek development near Pleasant Ridge; the retail pad will also include a gas station and convenience store. The shop is expected in about a year.

Knoxville's Xul Beer Co. staged a packed PB&J Mixtape release at Southern Grist's Nations taproom, drawing long lines and underlining the brewer's Nashville push.

Whataburger will open April 9 at 1536 Parkway in Sevierville, replacing the Steak 'n Shake with a 24/7 restaurant and about 60 new jobs.