When you subscribed to 865today, you may have received an email asking for your favorite local restaurant — and we’ve been reading every response. Here’s one from reader Laura G. that stuck out to us: “I am new to Knoxville and I don’t have a favorite restaurant yet.”
We’re helping Laura out with a list of spots sent in by other readers.
“My [family’s] favorite restaurant in Knoxville so far is Calhoun’s on the River!” — Raysha H.
“I love so many restaurants in Knoxville. My favorite is Holy Land Market.” — Laura K.
Events
Events
Monday, July 14
Beginner Poke Bowl Class | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Hi-Wire Brewing | $65 | In this hands-on poke bowl class, you’ll be slicing, dicing, and mastering the art of poke making.
History Behind Homeplate | 12 p.m. | East Tennessee Historical Society | $10 | Join a team of baseball historians for a lively discussion about the national pastime and the role it played in Tennessee.
“Hamlet, Prince of Denmark” | 7:30-9:30 p.m. | Ijams Nature Center | $15 | Good news: Parking and tickets for children under 15 are both free at this outdoor performance of the popular Shakespearean play.
Plan Ahead
Country Music and Beer Festival | 6-9 p.m. | White Star Station | $53 | Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or just looking for a good time with good folks, saddle up for the perfect blend of brews, boots, and blazing guitars.
Knox Area Rescue Ministries announced that it will open a second Christmas store this year in West Knoxville. Those interested in a job at the new store can apply online. (WBIR)
Drink
J.C. Holdway recently took home an Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator. The downtown restaurant received this award for the first time thanks to its wine selections + how well the wines pair with cuisine and atmosphere. Local spots Brazeiros Churrascaria, Lilou Brasserie, and Osteria Stella were also recognized as repeat awardees. (Knox News)
Mansion Monday
The floor-to-ceiling windows in this home’s breakfast nook, living room, office space, primary suite, and bathtub alcove give you sweeping views of the lake it’s situated on. Explore the full home.
Travel
In need of a summer road trip that doesn’t break the bank? Condé Nast Traveler just listed Asheville, NC (a ~2-hour drive from Knox) in its roundup of the best affordable family vacations in the US. The article highlights offerings like outdoor activities, a “vibrant arts scene,” and the downtown area.
Knoxvillian
UTK softball player Charli Orsini is using NIL for good. When Fans Meet Idols reached out about an NIL opportunity, Orsini — who is originally from Australia — put forward 100% of her merch proceeds to the Tennessee School for the Deaf. Check out the story by WBIR’s Camille Gear. (WBIR)
Watch
AMC Stubs members can now enjoy 50% off movie tickets and concession deals on Tuesdays + Wednesdays in a new deal that replaces $5 movie tickets on Tuesdays. Save this for a rainy day, but while the skies are clear, head to Maryville’s Parkway Drive-In for a star-lit screening. (Variety)
Sports
ESPN released its concerns for the top 25 SEC teams, and our local experts on the SEC don’t agree with all of them. Tune in to their takes with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Asked
Asked
Where do the Vols rank in ESPN’s most recent 2026 college football recruiting class?
Volunteers can sign up for tasks like weeding, invasive species removal, and trash pick up at the state park. | Photo by Seven Islands State Birding Park
Maybe you have some extra time on your hands, or maybe you’re just in the giving spirit.
All we know is there are more than enough great causes in Knoxville to support with your time.
Natural-born teachers and mentors
Little Chefs, Big Change | Assist the lead instructor and watch over enthusiastic kiddos in the kitchen at this after-school program sharing the joy of healthy cooking.
Ourdoorsy types
Seven Islands State Birding Park | With 220 species of birds sighted here, helping at this 416-acre wildlife refuge is a must-do for any amateur ornithologist.
Good neighbors
Second Harvest Food Bank | Feed fellow Tennesseans in 18 counties with shifts sorting donated items, packing food boxes, working at Mobile Pantries, and facilitating special events.
Animal lovers
Horse Haven | Work one-on-one with abused and neglected horses who have found a second life at this equine animal sanctuary.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
I am a pickle fiend, which is why Schulz Bräu Brewing Company’s Gherkinfest immediately caught my eye during a morning Instagram scroll. Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 26-Sunday, July 27 for the pickle contest, pickle-inspired drink specials (yum), and local vendors.
