RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS IN ANDERSON COUNTY

RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS IN ANDERSON COUNTY

*Updated October 2023*

Zagat’s 2018 dining trends survey reported that, on average, Americans eat out 5.9 times a week and I am sure that number has gone up. Why? Because many household have two working adults and less time to prepare meals. People definitely do not want to cook while on vacation so here are some locally owned restaurants in Anderson County that we and our friends on social media recommend.

#1 Calhoun’s Restaurant-When we asked our followers on Facebook what their favorite restaurants in Anderson County are, many people responded with Calhoun’s Restaurant, located in Oak Ridge. They are famous for their BBQ and our favorite is their Smoked Pork Chops or Smokehouse Salad.

#2 Dean’s Restaurant & Bakery-If you’re not sure what you want to eat and are looking for something home-style, check out Dean’s Restaurant in Oak Ridge. They have soulful, southern-comfort food that will knock your socks off! Deans serves up everything from sandwiches and salads to fried catfish and pot roast. And trust us, try something from the bakery! Everything is baked in-house and fresh!

#3 Vega Café and Smokehaus-Most people go to Vega Café in Norris for their wings and their weekly specials. They have a regular menu featuring sandwiches, wings and a few hot plates but their weekly specials are where it’s at! According to Andee Johnson Raker, Vega is “spot on amazing classics with a gourmet twist like pimento Mac and cheese....and the ever changing dinner menu with “fancier” fare.” Check out their Facebook page for their menu and specials.

#4 Apple Blossom Café-When eating out with the whole family, it is hard to please everyone which is why Apply Blossom Café in Clinton is a great option. They offer country style dinners, fish and seafood, pasta entrées, soup, salads and sandwiches and a children’s menu with lots of great options. It is also conveniently location in Historic Downtown Clinton next to great antique and specialty stores.

Our Facebook and Instagram followers mentioned several other restaurants and the reasons why:

Kelly Dabney Wright says that she likes the Valley Quick Pack in Clinton because it “feels like family and her biscuits and gravy are heaven on a plate.”

Patti Diane Mahurin Klink recommends the Vols diner in Rocky Top and their catfish on Fridays.

Ashley Yost says “Nanny’s Kitchen in Rocky Top. The chicken bacon ranch pizza is amazing and there is also a full menu with Philly cheesesteak, shrimp, burgers and salads.” Check their website here.

Brenda Walker says that she “loves the pies at Golden Girls!” which are handmade at the restaurant.

smokymtngirl mentioned The Restaurant at The Museum of Appalachia on Instagram and commented that “Their cakes are amazing! 🍰”

And, jonathanmurphy3198 mentioned Hoskins Drug Store in Clinton on Instagram recommending “Hoskins’ burger with seasoned fries and old fashion strawberry milk shake.”

For a list of restaurants in Anderson County, visit https://www.adventureanderson.com/eat.