Local Dining Gets National Attention

East Tennessee restaurants received new recognition when the 2026 Michelin Guide American South selection was unveiled October 21 in Nashville.

The guide added A Dopo in Knoxville as a Bib Gourmand recipient and named three additional area establishments as Michelin-Recommended.

It is a notable development for dining in Knoxville and neighboring communities, though none of the area's new honorees received a Michelin star.

The New Distinctions

A Dopo earned a Bib Gourmand, Michelin's distinction for good cooking at good value.

Au Bon Coin, the French restaurant on North Broadway in Knoxville, was added to the Recommended category.

Raven Steakhouse in Maryville and Wilder at Windy Hill Farm & Preserve in Loudon also joined the Recommended list.

These honors recognize different accomplishments; a Bib Gourmand or Recommended designation should not be described as a Michelin star.

Familiar Names Return

J.C. Holdway and Potchke Deli in Knoxville retained their Recommended distinctions.

The Restaurant at RT Lodge in Maryville also remained on the Recommended list.

Taken together, the recognitions illustrate a dining scene that spans urban neighborhoods, small cities and regional destinations.

Why It Matters

Michelin recognition can introduce restaurants to travelers who plan trips around food and encourage diners to explore venues outside familiar routines.

The American South selection covers multiple states and hundreds of restaurants.

Its anonymous inspectors evaluate cooking quality, while the Bib Gourmand specifically highlights value.

Readers planning a visit should check each restaurant's current schedule, menu and reservation policy before traveling.