5 Best Bars in Knoxville, Tennessee

Teleport to Italy at this cocktail bar specializing in aperitivo cocktails, with an inventive selection of Negronis and spritzes. There's an inviting menu of antipasti and pastas, or move next door to their sister Italian restaurant, Osteria Stella.

Helping to lead Knoxville's charge to compete with Asheville's beer scene, this scrappy brewhouse opens its garage doors to create an indoor/outdoor scene that often includes live music and sometimes even pick-up basketball games. It's all washed down by a selection of small-batch brews heavy on sours and hoppy IPAs. There's a second taproom on the west side of town ( 9937 Kingston Pike). 

Beer tastes better inside a castle, served in a heavy glass mug and backed by Bavarian oompah music. That's the scene at this German-inspired beer hall and outdoor biergarten inside a towering gate and turreted walls.

Order a tiki cocktail and step into the mid-20th-century at this throwback lounge with a Polynesian theme. The tucked-away courtyard out back is a cozy place to sip and smile.

This ornate 1,600-seat former movie house serves as the city's performing arts center, hosting comedians, touring musicals, and live bands. Its marquee is a landmark on South Gay Street.