50+ Best Dog Friendly Restaurants in Knoxville, TN (2026 Guide)

Looking for the best dog friendly restaurants in Knoxville, TN? Whether you’re planning a casual brunch, patio dinner, or a full day out with your pup, Knoxville has no shortage of restaurants that welcome dogs on outdoor patios.

From laid-back breweries in South Knoxville to bustling patios in Market Square and spacious setups in West Knoxville, this guide covers the top dog friendly patios Knoxville locals and visitors love. These spots make it easy to bring your dog along while enjoying great food, drinks, and East Tennessee’s scenic charm.

To make planning even easier, be sure to check out our interactive Dog Friendly Knoxville map, where you can explore nearby parks, walking trails, breweries, and coffee shops. Once you’ve picked a restaurant, you can quickly find other dog-friendly places nearby to turn your outing into a full adventure with your pup.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this is your go-to guide for discovering the best pet friendly restaurants in Knoxville TN.

South Knoxville – Relaxed Vibes with River Views & Outdoor Charm

South Knoxville shines for laid-back dog friendly patios Knoxville with scenic, pup-approved settings.

• Eggspectation – Brunch heaven at Kern's Bakery with a welcoming breakfast patio.

• The Sugar Queen Creamery – Shaded spots, sweet treats, and pup cups for the win.

• Redbud Kitchen – Farm-to-table goodness featuring dog-friendly pupcakes.

• South Coast Pizza – Covered patio with creative pizzas—great for family outings with dogs.

• Sevier Avenue Burger Co. – Spacious patio for burgers, brews, and plenty of room to wag.

• SoKno Taco Cantina – Lively margaritas and tacos on a pup-loving patio.

• 71 South – Outdoor adventure vibes; a South Knox gem.

• Zalate Taqueria – Vibrant, colorful patio that's super welcoming to four-legged guests.

Bearden – Upscale & Elegant Dog Friendly Spots

Bearden offers sophisticated pet friendly restaurants Knoxville with excellent pup perks.

• Emma’s Southern Kitchen – Fried chicken, biscuits, and water bowls on the pet-welcoming patio.

• Gourmet’s Market & Café – Gourmet sandwiches and relaxed outdoor seating.

• Harvest – Seasonal menus under shaded tables—pups love the vibe.

• The Plaid Apron – Hidden gem in Sequoyah Hills with a creative cuisine.

• Abridged Beer Co. – Brewpub with ample outdoor seating; known for their delicious burgers.

Downtown Knoxville & Market Square – Energetic People-Watching & Buzz

The heart of the city delivers prime dog friendly patios in Knoxville TN for urban adventures.

• Downtown Grill & Brewery – Expansive patio with city views, house root beer, and dog bowls.

• Lilou – Elegant French sidewalk seating that's surprisingly pup-friendly.

• The Brass Pearl – Oysters, cocktails, and a pet-approved patio.

• The Tomato Head – Iconic pizza with sidewalk spots for dogs.

• Café 4 – Top people-watching on Market Square with shaded seating.

• Ruby Sunshine – Brunch faves like beignets, sunny patio, and a dedicated dog menu.

• Not Watson’s Kitchen + Bar – Craft cocktails and shareables outdoors.

• Soccer Taco – Tacos, margs, and a dog-loving atmosphere.

• Tupelo Honey – Southern classics on a lively patio.

• Oliver Royale – Upscale-casual outdoor seating for leashed pups.

• French Market Creperie – Sweet and savory crepes near Market Square.

• Calhoun’s on the River – BBQ and massive deck with stunning Tennessee River views.

• Chesapeake’s Downtown – Seafood spot with several dog-friendly outdoor tables for oysters, shrimp, and more.

• Nama Sushi Bar Downtown – Sushi and gluten-free options on a small patio (also has a West location).

• Stock & Barrel – Gourmet burgers, apps, and cocktails on a spacious, people-watching patio—a huge local fave.

• Union Jacks English Pub – Classic pub fare with pet-friendly tables outdoors.

  
  

Old City – Trendy, Historic & Hip Dog Friendly Spots

The Old City's cool energy pairs perfectly with these pet friendly restaurants Knoxville TN.

• Stir – Innovative American fare and oysters on a bustling patio.

• Kaizen – Asian fusion with a chill patio for dogs.

• Marble City Market (Food Hall) – Diverse vendors in a large shared outdoor eatery.

• Parlor Doughnuts – Gourmet doughnuts, coffee, and they even have dog doughnuts.

• Barley’s Taproom & Pizzeria – Pizza, live music, and ample pup space.

  
  

North Knoxville / Fountain City – Cozy Neighborhood Charm

Neighborhood feels with reliable dog friendly restaurants in Knoxville TN.

• Ale Rae Gastropub – Craft beers and pub grub outdoors.

• Central Flats & Taps – House-made pizza and 50+ taps on the patio.

• Sweet P’s Uptown Corner – Legendary BBQ with shaded patio and dog treats.

• Hard Knox Pizza Central – Dog friendly patio in an unsuspecting shopping center.

• Knox Dough – Rolled ice cream with pup cups.

  
  

West Knoxville & Turkey Creek – Spacious & Family-Friendly Options

Roomy patios make these best dog friendly patios in Knoxville TN ideal for bigger groups or reactive dogs.

• Cazzy’s Corner Grill – Casual burgers on the patio.

• Soccer Taco (Turkey Creek) – Consistent dog-friendly tacos and fun.

• The Tomato Head (West) – Veggie pizzas with outdoor seating.

• Scrambled Jake’s Breakfast – Large patio for breakfast lovers.

• Big Kahuna Wings (Knoxville & Farragut) – Tropical vibes and welcoming patio.

• Corner16 (Middlebrook & Northshore) – Expansive seating great for reactive pups.

• Double Dogs – Dog-themed spot with TVs, non-alcoholic Bowser Beer, and bowls galore.

• Aubrey’s (multiple locations) – Dog-friendly patios, often with shade.

• Andy's Frozen Custard – Free pup cups with purchase!

• Crafty Bastard Brewery West – Brewery with outdoor seating welcoming pups.

• Jason’s Deli – Deli favorites like sandwiches and salads on dog-friendly outdoor tables.

• Newk’s Eatery – Fresh salads, sandwiches, and pizzas with outdoor seating for pups.

• Don Gallo (Hardin Valley and Choto) – Authentic Mexican dishes like tacos and enchiladas on welcoming patios.

• Craven Wings (Choto) – Wings and casual eats with pup-friendly outdoor space.

  
  

Bonus: Other Knox & Nearby Spots to Check Out

These fan-favorites add even more options to our pet friendly restaurants Knoxville roundup.

• Cruze Farm Pizza Barn & Ice Cream (East Knoxville) – Vast grassy area with official pup cups.

• Wild Wing Cafe (Powell) – Huge deck with fans.

• Chunky Monkey Ice Cream (Clinton) – Free dog sundaes.

• The Sugar Queen Doughnutry – Made-from-scratch doughnuts with weekend pup-safe treats.

• Pelanchos – Festive Mexican with dog-friendly patio seating—quesadillas, fajitas, and more.

• Smoky Mountain Brewery (multiple locations) – Handcrafted beers and pub grub on a pet-friendly patio.

• Dead End BBQ – Southern-style BBQ plates, sandwiches, wings, and Bar-B-Queso on a covered patio with high-tops.

  
  

Knoxville continues to grow as one of the most welcoming cities for dog owners, with more dog friendly restaurants in Knoxville TN than ever. Whether you’re grabbing brunch in South Knoxville, people-watching downtown, or relaxing at a spacious patio in West Knoxville, there are plenty of great options to enjoy a meal with your dog by your side.

Don’t forget to use the interactive Dog Friendly Knoxville map to discover nearby parks, breweries, and other pet-friendly spots—so you can easily turn a simple meal into a full day out with your pup.

Looking for more ideas? Be sure to explore our other guides on dog friendly breweries, coffee shops, and things to do in Knoxville with your dog. Tag us in your pup pics—we love seeing Knoxville's dogs out and about!

As always, dog-friendly policies can vary and may change over time, so it’s a good idea to call ahead or check with the restaurant before visiting to confirm their current rules.