In a city the size of Knoxville, with as many restaurants as we have, you would think the Dining Duo would never have a problem deciding where to eat and then report. Not true.

Our conversations might go something like:

  • “How about ??”
  • “No, we reported on an Asian restaurant two weeks ago.”
  • “How about??”
  • “Nope, country cooking is getting old.”
  • “How about ??”
  • “I will skip food for a week if I have to eat there!”

But we think this week we have found a winner.

Noon on a weekday was a fairly busy time, but we seated ourselves with no problem.

We were told that it was really busy on weekends and after school was out for the summer.

The main entree was a “serve yourself” array of cold cuts, fresh bread, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. 3 or 4 kinds of chips were added as well as pickles, mayo, and mustard. It was fun making up our minds and making our sandwiches. We both chose the smoked ham with cheese. Honey mustard added just enough additional flavor. The main course was gobbled up in no time, and we were both looking forward to dessert.

An array of Little Debbie snack cakes appeared, and they disappeared in mere minutes.

A cool breeze kept us very comfortable, and the decor was fresh and colorful. Did you guess where we ate? I am describing a picnic lunch at the Fountain City Park. We had jokingly suggested a picnic, and the next thing I knew, I was conversing with a friendly squirrel and rummaging through the picnic basket, just like Yogi the Bear.

I strongly suggest that everyone reading this find a little time to grab a sandwich, pizza, or last night’s leftovers, and head out to the nearest picnic table. Get comfortable on a picnic bench or on a blanket on the ground. Enjoy your lunch, then close your eyes and ponder this beautiful day. Temps in the low 80s.Just enough breeze to keep you comfortable. Birds singing, squirrels complaining. Children’s laughter and the sun on your face. Another perfect day.

I hope I haven’t let you down by writing about something as plain as a picnic. A baloney sandwich, potato chips, and a cookie eaten outside taste as good as a seven-course meal prepared by a renowned chef.

The price is right, the staff are friendly and efficient, and the menu is only restricted to the items in your own kitchen.

Step outside, erase all the chaos racing through your mind. Convince yourself to relax and enjoy your meal time in God’s restaurant. Bless you.

Dining Duo is looking for the “hidden gem eateries “where the locals fill the breakfast and lunch hour; those local haunts tucked into the out-of-the-way or right on the way places missed in the hustle and bustle of the day. Please email us your recommendations at knoxtndiningduo@gmail.com.

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