If you are spending Thanksgiving in Knoxville or the Smokies this year and don’t feel like cooking—trust me, you are not alone! More and more families are choosing to dine out or pick up a fully prepared holiday meal so they can relax and simply enjoy the day. Knoxville has several great restaurants that open their doors on Thanksgiving, plus plenty of places offering delicious heat-and-serve meals.
Here’s your go-to guide for Thanksgiving dining across East Tennessee!
Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Day
Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant & Grill – Sevierville
A true Smokies classic—Applewood is serving a full Thanksgiving menu from 10:30 AM–8 PM. This spot is perfect if you want a cozy, traditional Southern meal.
Bravo! – Knoxville
Located at 106 Major Reynolds Place, Bravo! is open 11 AM–10 PM with Italian-American favorites and a warm holiday atmosphere.
Calhoun’s – Multiple Locations
Calhoun’s restaurants around Knoxville will be open from 10 AM–6 PM, serving their Thanksgiving offerings along with regular favorites.
They’re also offering Holiday Feed Packs throughout the season—perfect if you want a family meal without the kitchen mess.
Chesapeake’s – Downtown & West Knoxville
Both locations are accepting reservations and serving Thanksgiving meals.
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Downtown: 500 Henley St – (865) 673-3433
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West Knoxville: 9630 Parkside Dr – (865) 851-9088
They’re also offering Holiday Meal Packages that you can pre-order and reheat at home.
Copper Cellar – Knoxville
Copper Cellar will be offering an all-day Thanksgiving buffet from 10 AM–6 PM.
Call (865) 673-3422 for pricing and reservations.
This is a great spot if you want that classic, hearty East Tennessee buffet experience without having to lift a finger.
Fleming’s – Turkey Creek
If you want a more upscale Thanksgiving experience, Fleming’s is offering a three-course holiday menu beginning at 11 AM.
Address: 11287 Parkside Dr | (865) 675-9463
Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Downtown Knoxville
Open 11 AM–8 PM, Ruth’s Chris is a great option if you want a classic steakhouse experience with premium sides and a holiday twist.
950 Volunteer Landing Ln | (865) 546-4696
Smoky Mountain Brewery – Multiple Locations
All locations will open at 11 AM, making it a casual, family-friendly option for Thanksgiving lunch or dinner.
Thanksgiving Meals To-Go (Pre-Order Options)
If you’d rather enjoy Thanksgiving at home without doing the cooking, these Knoxville favorites have you covered.
Brown Bag
Perfect for group gatherings or office meals:
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Sliced oven-roasted turkey starts at $65 (serves 15)
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Honey ham starts at $50 (serves 10)
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Sides range from $20–$35
Corner 16
Offering a Holiday Feed Pack at $18.50 per person (15-person minimum).
Orders must be placed at least 24 hours in advance.
Cracker Barrel
A fan favorite for heat-and-serve holiday meals—just be sure to order early! They offer multiple meal sizes for families big and small.
Calhoun’s Holiday Meal Packs
These must be ordered by phone, with options designed so you can simply heat and enjoy at home.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Holiday meals start at $120 and include meats, classic sides, and desserts.
Dead End BBQ
Offering seasonal holiday menus November 1–December 31 (closed Thanksgiving Day itself).
Perfect if you want a smoky twist on the traditional Thanksgiving spread.
The Fresh Market
Their holiday meals begin at $70, and they offer everything from classic turkey dinners to gourmet spreads.
Gourmet’s Market & Café
Requires 48-hour notice and offers pickup dates from November 21–26 and December 14–24.
A great local option for high-quality holiday catering.
Mimi’s Café
Family-style holiday meals serve 8–10 people and come as-is (no modifications).
A great option for a warm, home-style Thanksgiving dinner without the prep work.
Whether you’re spending Thanksgiving in Knoxville, Farragut, West Knoxville, or even heading into the Smokies for the day, there are so many ways to enjoy a delicious holiday meal without ever turning on your oven. From dine-in options to beautifully prepared meals you can pick up and serve at home, East Tennessee has you covered.
If you're relocating to Knoxville or planning a visit this holiday season and want local tips, neighborhood recommendations, or help finding the perfect home—I’d love to be a resource for you.
Wishing you a warm and relaxing Thanksgiving! 🧡🦃
