Looking for a unique spot in Knoxville that blends delicious food, engaging entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere? Look no further than Kern’s Food Hall. My recent visit with friends to this exciting venue proved to be an absolute treat, and it’s quickly become a must-recommend destination for anyone in search of a memorable experience.
More Than Just Food: A Diverse Experience
Kern’s Food Hall isn’t your average dining destination; it’s a multifaceted space offering something for everyone. Beyond the tempting array of food vendors, I was pleasantly surprised to find a curated selection of retail shops sprinkled throughout. This unique combination allowed us to browse and shop between bites, adding an extra layer of fun to our evening. Several of us even picked up some delightful finds, making it more than just a dinner outing.
One of the standout features of Kern’s Food Hall is its thoughtful design. While much of the space is welcoming to families with children, there’s also a dedicated adults-only section. This elevated rooftop deck provided a stunning view of the outdoor entertainment area below, offering a perfect escape for those seeking a more grown-up vibe.
The crowd at Kern’s Food Hall was as diverse as its offerings. From university students engrossed in studies to families enjoying quality time and even dog owners with their furry companions, the atmosphere was lively and inclusive. It was truly a place where people of all ages and backgrounds could come together and enjoy themselves.
Adding to the allure, Kern’s Food Hall hosts free movie nights every Wednesday. We happened to visit on a Wednesday and were delighted to catch the original “Mean Girls” playing in the outdoor entertainment area. The movie started at 8 p.m., providing a perfect after-dinner activity under the stars.
A Call to Support Local Knoxville Businesses
While our Wednesday evening at Kern’s Food Hall was fantastic, we couldn’t help but notice it wasn’t as bustling as we expected. Conversations with several vendors, both food and retail, revealed a shared concern about customer traffic. It seems Kern’s Food Hall, despite its many merits, could benefit from increased visibility and promotion. I personally haven’t seen much advertising for this gem, and it’s crucial that more people discover and support these local businesses to ensure their continued success.
Our group certainly felt like we contributed to a lively Wednesday night, and we encourage you to do the same!
Retail Delights and Unique Finds
Our exploration of Kern’s Food Hall extended beyond the delicious food to the charming retail vendors. Our first stop was Archer Paper Goods, where Susan made a purchase. This delightful shop offers a curated selection of unique paper products, stationery, and gifts.
Next, we ventured into Mellow Knox, a trendy gift and lifestyle store. Katie posed amidst the cute and stylish items, showcasing the store’s appealing aesthetic. From quirky ducks to spooky Halloween-themed candles like the “Smells like a bunch of hocus pocus!” scent, Mellow Knox is a treasure trove of unique finds. Katie even found a great pink purse there!
Coming soon to Kern’s Food Hall is Vella Crew, a photography and marketing studio, adding another dimension to the diverse offerings.
Our retail journey continued at Mae Lee’s boutique, where Katie and Madge made new friends. This boutique boasts clever shirts and unique items, including doll pillows featuring icons like Elvis, Dolly Parton, and Taylor Swift. Interestingly, the owner, Kristen Heath, mentioned that the Dolly Parton pillow was the most popular and nearly sold out!
For flower enthusiasts, Flourish, a charming floral shop, was the first vendor to sign a lease at Kern’s Food Hall, adding a touch of beauty and fragrance to the space.
A Step Back in Time: Historic Charm
Kern’s Food Hall is housed in a beautifully restored building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Vintage signs throughout the property pay homage to its rich history as Kern’s Bakery, adding a unique and nostalgic ambiance to the modern food hall experience.
Rooftop Views and Evening Ambiance
As dusk settled, the outdoor entertainment area transformed into a welcoming space. The High Proof Loft sign beckoned us to the adults-only rooftop bar, offering a fantastic view of the scene below. Madge and I were the first to ascend to the balcony, taking in the panoramic vista. From our vantage point, we spotted Katie and Susan waving from below, highlighting the interconnectedness of the space.
A Culinary Journey: Dinner at Kern’s Food Hall
With appetites piqued, it was time for dinner! Susan opted for Hemingway’s Cuban Kitchen, indulging in a classic Cuban sandwich with potatoes and fried yucca. She raved about the authentic flavors and the vibrant art adorning the vendor’s space.
Madge, drawn to the enticing aromas of Indian cuisine, headed straight for Ooh Lala. Her butter chicken was met with enthusiastic praise, confirming Ooh Lala as a must-try for Indian food lovers.
Katie and I, craving Mexican flavors, chose Amaryllis Taqueria. We both ordered quesadillas, and the portions were generous and incredibly delicious. Amaryllis Taqueria delivered authentic Mexican taste that truly satisfied.
As we savored our meals, the movie night was in full swing. The outdoor area was buzzing with laughter and enjoyment. Even as we were leaving, I couldn’t help but admire the beautiful floral arrangements in the dining area, a final touch of charm to a wonderful evening.
Kern’s Food Hall, located at 2110 Chapman Highway, Knoxville, is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination for a complete and delightful experience. I highly recommend visiting and discovering the magic of Kern’s Food Hall for yourself.
