- Attraction: Gourmet’s Market & Cafe
- Location: 5107 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919
- Industry: Cafe
- Website: https://gourmetsmarketandcafe.com/
Breakfast at 2 PM? Absolutely.
A half-century legacy of feeding Knoxville’s foodies has transformed this Bearden institution into something special.
Originally opening its doors in 1978 as one of Knoxville’s first specialty markets—back when finding whole roasted coffee beans or gluten-free products meant you were truly on the hunt—the cafe has evolved into an East Tennessee breakfast and lunch destination that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.
Under the current ownership, the expanded dining room buzzes with energy while maintaining that comfortable, cozy atmosphere that makes you want to linger over your coffee.
The menu bridges Southern comfort with creative twists, offering everything from traditional pancakes to unexpected delights like candy bacon and toad-in-a-hole. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast bowl at noon or a gourmet sandwich for lunch, this is where Knoxville comes to eat.
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Keep Exploring →Menu Highlights Worth Ordering
The Rib Sticker Bowl: This signature dish delivers everything you want in a breakfast bowl. Biscuits get smothered in savory sausage gravy, then topped with perfectly cooked eggs, cheese, and bacon.
The combination creates a hearty meal that hits all the right notes—creamy, savory, and satisfying with just the right amount of spice to wake up your taste buds.
Perfect Pancakes: These aren’t your average flapjacks. Light, fluffy, and cooked to golden perfection, they come drizzled with real maple syrup.
You can order them plain or dressed up with fresh strawberries or chocolate chips. The texture stays airy inside with just enough structure to soak up the syrup without getting soggy.
French Toast Selection: From the classic version topped with fresh berries to the playfully named Chef’s Whimsy French Toast and the decadent Bananas Foster variation, these dishes showcase how traditional breakfast can be elevated.
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Discover MoreThe bread gets the perfect crispy exterior while staying custardy inside, and the generous toppings add flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Beautiful Bennies: The eggs Benedict variations here have earned their spot as menu favorites. Poached eggs come out with perfectly runny yolks, paired with smoked paprika cream sauce instead of traditional hollandaise.
Whether you go for Holly’s Benedict or try the New York Bennie, you’re getting a sophisticated take on brunch classics.
Creative Bowls Beyond Breakfast: The Chipotle Bowl brings together grits, chipotle chicken, cheddar, eggs, and your choice of salsa—it’s comfort food with a kick.
The Goat Cheese Bowl combines eggs with tomato, basil, and red onion for something lighter but equally flavorful. Each bowl arrives generous enough to share or save for later.
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Keep Exploring →Candy Bacon: This sweet and savory side has developed its own following. The bacon gets coated with a candied glaze that caramelizes beautifully, creating crispy strips with the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors.
Toad-in-a-Hole: Not your British breakfast dish, but rather a Knoxville twist featuring avocado relish, Brie cheese, and eggs on toasted housemade bread. The creamy avocado and melted Brie create a luxurious combination that elevates this simple concept into something memorable.
Hash Brown Casserole: Comfort food at its finest. This cheesy, crispy-topped casserole comes in portions large enough to share, though you might not want to. The golden crust on top gives way to a creamy, perfectly seasoned interior that pairs well with just about anything on the menu.
Sandwich Selection: From the Hambright Club with turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado on a warm toasted bun to the Veghead Reuben and Southern Grilled Cheese, the lunch offerings bring the same creativity as breakfast.
The Power Panini arrives crispy and well-seasoned, with ingredients that stay fresh and flavorful.
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Discover MoreBeverage & Special Touches
Coffee Program: Fresh-brewed coffee and espresso drinks include caramel lattes and specialty preparations that rival dedicated coffee shops. The coffee stays hot and flavorful, whether you’re ordering a simple cup or going for something fancier.
Day Drinks Available: Bloody Marys and mimosas round out the brunch experience for those looking to make their meal a celebration. These drinks complement the hearty breakfast fare without overpowering it.
Grab-n-Gourmet Section: Don’t miss this area where you can pick up bulk favorites like chicken salad, pimento cheese, and locally made products including cheeses and baked goods. It’s perfect for taking the Gourmet’s Market experience home with you.
Atmosphere & Setting
Eclectic Decor: Old New Yorker magazine covers line the walls, creating visual interest and a quirky, comfortable vibe. The space feels relaxed and welcoming without being too casual, striking that sweet spot between diner comfort and cafe sophistication.
Spacious Dining Room: The recent expansion nearly tripled the dining area, providing plenty of seating for groups and families. The high ceilings and open layout prevent the space from feeling cramped even during busy weekend mornings.
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Keep Exploring →Indoor and Outdoor Options: Choose between the cozy interior or outdoor patio seating. The patio welcomes dogs, making it a popular spot for pet owners who want to bring their furry friends along for brunch.
Lighting and Ambiance: Softer accent lighting throughout creates a pleasant dining atmosphere without the harsh glare of typical cafe fluorescents. The setting encourages you to settle in and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.
Practical Information
Pricing: Expect mid-tier pricing that reflects the quality and generous portions. Most breakfast items range from reasonable to slightly elevated, but the portion sizes and fresh ingredients justify the cost. You’re getting solid value for creative, well-prepared dishes.
Parking Convenience: A sizable parking lot eliminates one of the typical Knoxville dining headaches. You won’t be circling the block or feeding meters—just pull in and grab a spot.
Weekend Wait Times: Saturday and Sunday mornings draw crowds, which can mean a 20-30 minute wait during peak hours. The restaurant handles the volume well, though, and many find the food worth the wait.
Dietary Accommodations: Gluten-free bread and various vegetarian and vegan options appear throughout the menu. The kitchen can modify many dishes to accommodate dietary needs, though those with celiac should note that items are prepared on shared surfaces.
Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 2 PM, making it purely a breakfast and lunch destination. The all-day breakfast means you can satisfy those morning cravings even if you don’t roll in until the afternoon.
Family and Group Friendly: The spacious layout and diverse menu make it suitable for parties of all sizes and ages. Kids will find plenty to enjoy, while adults appreciate the more sophisticated offerings.
Gourmet’s Market & Cafe
📍 5107 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919
