Knoxville’s plant-based dining scene is blossoming with innovative vegan restaurants that transform local ingredients into mouthwatering dishes. From downtown to the Old City, compassionate foodies can discover delectable options that prove vegan cuisine is anything but bland.
Local gems like Kianga’s Kitchen, KoPita Authentic Mediterranean, and The Tomato Head offer diverse menus that showcase the creativity and flavor of vegan cooking. These restaurants prove Knoxville’s culinary landscape is embracing plant-based dining with open arms.
Discover Knoxville’s tastiest vegan dining destinations now!
Featured Vegan Restaurants in Knoxville
Good Golly Tamale
What to Expect
Grab-and-go freezer with pre-packaged tamale 2-packs
Description
Artisan tamale shop specializing in handcrafted tamales with local flair. Offers both hot and frozen tamales by the dozen or half-dozen, with convenient pickup options from their Old City storefront and at the Market Square Farmers' Market. Weekend warriors and tamale enthusiasts can grab pre-made frozen 2-packs from their grab-and-go freezer.
Where: Knoxville | More Info: Good Golly Tamale
Kaizen
What to Expect
Cross-cultural Asian small plates in Old City dining space
Description
An innovative Asian-inspired izakaya blending Japanese, Szechuan, and Thai culinary traditions through creative small plates. Their menu explores cross-cultural flavors with tapas-style dining that encourages communal eating and adventurous palates. The kitchen emphasizes high-quality ingredients and an inventive approach to Asian cuisine.
Where: Knoxville | More Info: Kaizen
Kianga's Kitchen
What to Expect
Whole food, organic vegan cuisine without processed ingredients
Description
This all-vegan restaurant in Marble City Market offers plant-based meals crafted with mostly organic produce and zero processed ingredients. Kianga's Kitchen creates vibrant, nourishing dishes that celebrate whole food cooking, emphasizing nutritional integrity and flavor. Their menu transforms vegan cuisine into a holistic dining experience focused on wellness and culinary creativity.
Where: Knoxville | More Info: Kianga's Kitchen
KoPita Authentic Mediterranean
What to Expect
Balcony dining with Gay Street views
Description
Chef Avi Zenatti's Mediterranean restaurant showcases authentic Moroccan and Israeli cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. The menu features standout dishes like vegan shawarma and exceptional falafel, complemented by fresh, creamy hummus and house-made pita. Diners can enjoy seasonal dishes on a charming balcony overlooking Gay Street.
Where: Knoxville | More Info: KoPita Authentic Mediterranean
The Tomato Head
What to Expect
Scratch-made pizzas with extensive vegetarian customization
Description
The Tomato Head serves creative pizzas, sandwiches, and salads with vegetarian and vegan options. Their menu features fresh, scratch-made ingredients with eclectic flavor combinations like roasted vegetable pizzas and build-your-own sandwich selections. The restaurant offers two Knoxville locations with relaxed dining atmospheres.
Where: Knoxville | More Info: The Tomato Head