Lonesome Dove Knoxville

Not sure why some of the reviews are so harsh on this place because we went here for the first time on Thanksgiving and it was absolutely perfect. I’m not kidding, nothing could have been better. The service was the best I’ve ever seen-they’ve got it together! The food was perfect. They had some Thanksgiving options like turkey (which was incredible) and their regular things. There are so many unique foods you can try here if you want to be adventurous and they are insanely yummy. The ambience is perfect. The charcuterie trio was my favorite-it comes with duck, wild boar, and elk meat😋

Having eaten in nicer restaurants, the smaller portions a lot of people complain about were not a surprise. The selections were awesome. I grew up eating freshly hunted rabbit, but this was the first experience in a restaurant setting. The rattlesnake rabbit sausage was good, but could have been any meat by taste. The seasonings were awesomely done, but strong enough that the distinct flavor of the meats was covered up. The elk sliders were a different experience all together. Very delicious and distinct. The Texas Red chili was probably the best chili I've ever eaten. The food was fast and above the service. I did not get the impression that our server enjoyed her job, or was proud of the place. I didn't get that impression from any of the staff, but my interactions were limited to my server. My drink spent as much time empty as it took to be uncomfortable. For what we paid, I expected more.

For my very first visit to Knoxville I was highly encouraged to check out Lonesome Dove. I'm happy I did. I made reservations online the day before and I'd recommend getting yours early. I was deciding which day I wanted to go and the time when the available tables/times I wanted literally disappeared before my eyes. Fortunately I was flexible so I booked a late dinner. The restaurant is in a pretty hip area of town so parking was a little bit of a challenge for me. I found some free parking by the bridge but it took me a minute to find one of the last open spots. Food and service here are top notch. My server, Cody, was exceptional in his knowledge of the food, made wonderful recommendations and made sure I all my gastronomic needs were met. As for the food, Chef Tim Love masterfully blends old rustic American fare with modern cuisine to create exotic new flavors. I would highly recommend the elk loin with candied blueberries. Let your taste buds enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this signature dish. I would say this is a can't miss restaurant if you are ever in the Knoxville area. The prices here are extremely reasonable for such fine dining that challenges your senses and taste. My multi course meal with a drink and dessert came to a little more than $80! So, take a detour on your next trip to downtown Knoxville and stop in for a foodie experience you won't want to miss.