Market Square is a nexus of restaurants, entertainment, shopping and Knoxville culture. Market Square hosts events such as the weekly farmers market from spring to early fall, ice skating over the winter months, the Dogwood Arts Festival in the spring and countless more. Businesses in the square and surrounding areas offer restaurants in addition to game day outfits, unique gifts and decor, delicious desserts, a good book and coffee shops for studying.

Tupelo Honey is a well-known spot to bring visiting family members or friends, and it would be hard to think of Gay Street without the classic Cruze Farm Ice Cream. However, there are many spots in Market Square area that are lesser known among students. Here is a guide to some of the hidden gems of Market Square.

Restaurants:

For traditional wood-fired cooking: J.C. Holdway

The restaurant is named after chef Joseph Lenn’s late uncle who had a strong passion for quality food. J.C. Holdway offers regional and seasonal food with wood-fire techniques and handmade treats.

For seafood cravings: The Brass Pearl

The Brass Pearl is a seafood and oyster bar offering dinner every day and “brunch & lunch” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. The menu offers a variety of oysters, including raw, fried and grilled, in addition to an array of seafood including salmon, shrimp and grits, lobster rolls and many more options. Not a fan of seafood? Try their chicken and waffles or “pearl burger.”

For a bite of comfort food: Myrtle’s Chicken and Beer

Located in the heart of Market Square, Myrtle’s Chicken and Beer offers Southern signatures including wings, fried pickles, ribs and famous fried chicken.

For a prohibition era experience: Peter Kern Library

Students and visitors who are of legal drinking age can enjoy this sophisticated speakeasy located within The Oliver Hotel. Delight in the full speakeasy experience with menus hidden in world encyclopedias and a password-protected entrance. The password and additional information can be found on the Instagram @peterkernlibrary or the speakeasy’s website.

For a bayou-inspired brunch: Ruby Sunshine

This New Orleans-originated restaurant offers a twist on traditional brunch foods. Try their “sweet heat chicken” or “bananas foster French toast” along with an array of pancake specials.

Shopping:

For a fairytale experience: Alice in Appalachia

This enchanting store offers trinkets and decor along with a variety of cocktails and mocktails all inspired by “Alice in Wonderland.”

For unique takes on trends: Fizz Boutique

Fizz offers a variety of styles made from natural and sustainable fabrics along with a wide selection of jewelry. Stop by for game day gear, holiday-themed pieces and more.

For special gift shopping: Knoxville Soap Candle & Gifts

Located off of Gay Street, this store is exactly as it advertises: soap, candles and gifts — with a variety of styles, scents and a selection of Knoxville-inspired items which make great gifts for friends and family.

For a good read: Union Ave Books

Union Ave Books is a staple among the Knoxville reading community and hosts countless author events. Peruse best-sellers, picks by local authors and book-themed novelties such as journals, tote bags and puzzles.

Study Spots and Sweet Treats:

For a classic combo: Status Dough Donuts & Coffee

Coffee and donuts are hard to beat, and Status Dough has both covered with classic and specialty donuts along with drip-brew and cold brew coffee. Status Dough strives to be “a 3rd place for you, neither home, nor work,” making it a great place to reset or catch up on school work.

For a coastal aesthetic: Mahalo Coffee Roasters

Mahalo Coffee Roasters aims to “bring the west coast east,” which it accomplishes with blue hues and a beach-like ambiance. In addition to the relaxing environment, Mahalo values sustainable practices and ethical procedures with employees and suppliers.

For a late-night coffee: K Brew

K Brew is well known among students with three locations across Knoxville, but the lesser-known spot is within the Embassy Suites by Hilton Knoxville Downtown. This coffee shop has the latest operating hours in the Market Square area, closing at 8 p.m.

For a sweet tooth: Coffee & Chocolate

As promised in the name, this quaint coffee shop offers classic coffees and delectable treats such as chocolate-covered espresso beans, macarons and artisanal chocolates. The founder of Coffee & Chocolate has taken research and inspiration from abroad to provide quality coffee and desserts.

Market Square offers a store, cafe or restaurant for nearly every occasion. From shopping for “Big Orange Fridays” at Bliss Boutique to bonding over a shared love of sushi at Nama, exploring Downtown Knoxville is a great way to branch out from campus.