Nestled along the sparkling shores of Fort Loudoun Lake, Lakeside Tavern in Knoxville offers something truly special—a dining experience where incredible food meets breathtaking waterfront scenery. Whether you’re watching boats drift by from the patio or catching a stunning sunset over the water, this restaurant delivers memorable moments with every visit.
With a menu packed with fresh seafood, perfectly grilled steaks, and creative American favorites, it’s no wonder locals and visitors keep coming back for more.
A Waterfront Gem in the Heart of Knoxville
Tucked away at 10911 Concord Park Drive, Lakeside Tavern sits right on the edge of Fort Loudoun Lake, offering guests front-row seats to one of Knoxville’s most beautiful natural settings. The restaurant’s sleek stone and steel design creates a modern yet welcoming vibe that perfectly complements the natural beauty surrounding it.
The location itself is part of the magic—positioned high on a bluff overlooking a bustling marina where boats come and go throughout the day.
Whether you’re a Knoxville local or just passing through, finding this waterfront gem feels like discovering a hidden treasure. The combination of convenient access, stunning lake views, and quality dining makes it stand out from typical restaurant experiences.
Open seven days a week with hours extending until 9 or 10 PM, depending on the day, Lakeside Tavern welcomes guests for lunch and dinner, making it easy to plan your visit around the perfect lighting for those Instagram-worthy sunset shots.
The Views Alone Are Worth the Visit
Step onto the patio at Lakeside Tavern and prepare to be amazed. The outdoor seating area offers unobstructed views of Fort Loudoun Lake that stretch as far as the eye can see, with the water shimmering under the Tennessee sun.
Guests rave about the sunsets here, and for good reason—as evening approaches, the sky transforms into brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple that reflect off the calm lake water. Watching boats cruise by adds a peaceful, almost hypnotic quality to your dining experience.
Even if you’re waiting for a table, the experience doesn’t disappoint. The restaurant provides comfortable Adirondack-style rocking chairs below the patio where you can relax by the water’s edge, soaking in the atmosphere before your meal.
Spring brings particularly magical moments when warm breezes roll across the lake and the weather is absolutely perfect for outdoor dining. No matter where you sit—inside or out—you’ll enjoy lovely views, but regulars insist the patio is where the real magic happens, especially during golden hour.
Fresh Seafood and Crowd-Favorite Dishes
The menu at Lakeside Tavern focuses on fresh, flavorful dishes that keep guests ordering the same favorites visit after visit.
Seafood lovers will find plenty to celebrate, from perfectly blackened shrimp served over creamy Southern cheese grits with Creole roux gravy to honey-glazed salmon that arrives beautifully cooked. The Ahi tuna appears both as an appetizer and an entree, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to quality fish.
Steaks also make a strong showing on the menu, with ribeyes and other cuts prepared to order. The surf and turf options let you enjoy the best of both worlds.
Don’t skip the starters—the calamari earns consistent praise for being crispy, light, and perfectly seasoned. Fresh bread arrives warm at your table, and according to multiple reviews, it’s absolutely addictive.
The Perfect Spring Patio Spot
When the weather turns nice, there’s no better place to be than Lakeside Tavern’s outdoor patio. Spring in Tennessee brings comfortable temperatures and gentle lake breezes that make dining outside feel like a mini vacation.
The patio setup maximizes the waterfront location, with seating arranged so nearly every table enjoys unobstructed lake views. You’ll feel the stress melt away as you settle into your chair, menu in hand, with the peaceful sounds of water lapping against the shore.
Warm sunshine, fresh air, and delicious food create the perfect combination for a memorable meal. Many guests specifically plan their visits around nice weather, knowing the outdoor experience elevates everything.
The restaurant gets understandably busy when conditions are ideal, so arriving early or putting your name on the waitlist is smart planning. While you wait, grab a cocktail at the bar and head down to those famous rocking chairs by the water—it’s all part of the experience and honestly worth every minute of anticipation.
A Go-To for Date Nights and Family Dinners
Few restaurants manage to strike the perfect balance between romantic and family-friendly, but Lakeside Tavern nails it. Couples seeking a special date night will find the waterfront ambiance, soft lighting, and quality food create all the right conditions for romance.
The intimate yet spacious setting somehow manages to feel cozy despite the large dining area. The sleek, modern decor contributes to an upscale vibe without feeling stuffy or overly formal.
Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, enjoying a birthday dinner, or simply gathering the family for a special meal, this versatile venue adapts beautifully. The banquet room offers private event space, while the main dining areas work perfectly for smaller groups.
This flexibility makes Lakeside Tavern the kind of place you’ll return to for different occasions throughout the year, building cherished memories against that stunning lake backdrop.
Service That Keeps Guests Coming Back
Outstanding food and gorgeous views would mean little without the service to match, and Lakeside Tavern delivers consistently on this front. Reviewers repeatedly mention servers who are knowledgeable, attentive, and proactive without hovering or making guests feel rushed.
The staff strikes that difficult balance between being present when you need them and giving you space to enjoy your meal and conversation. They keep drinks filled, ensure food arrives properly prepared, and handle special requests with grace.
The bartenders also earn high marks for executing cocktails beautifully, whether you order something from the menu or request a classic. The overall vibe manages to be polished yet relaxed, making every guest feel welcome.
Even when occasional hiccups occur, management responds professionally and works to make things right, demonstrating a genuine commitment to five-star experiences.
Planning Your Visit to Lakeside Tavern
Ready to experience Lakeside Tavern for yourself? The restaurant is located at 10911 Concord Park Drive in Knoxville, easily accessible by car with convenient parking available. Boaters can also arrive by water, thanks to the adjacent marina.
Hours run from 11 AM to 9 PM Sunday through Thursday, with extended hours until 10 PM on Friday and Saturday. Lunch and dinner service means you can visit whenever your schedule allows, though sunset timing is absolutely worth considering when planning your reservation.
Here’s an insider tip: this popular spot gets busy, especially on weekends and during prime patio weather. There’s often a wait for tables, and while it’s unclear if reservations are accepted for regular dining, calling ahead to check is wise.
If you do face a wait, embrace it as part of the experience—order a cocktail at the bar and enjoy those lakeside rocking chairs. The moderate pricing offers good value given the quality, setting, and service.
Visit lakeside-tavern.com for current menu details and any seasonal specials before heading out.