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A beloved Knoxville eatery is entering an exciting new era. After more than three decades as Sunrise Deli, the family-owned steamed hoagie shop in Halls Plaza, has completed a full rebrand and remodel. It will reopen as Vandergriff’s Fresh Steamed Hoagies, with plans to franchise across Eastern Tennessee, and beyond.
Led by owner David Vandergriff and his sons Justin and Tyler, the refreshed concept stays true to the family’s core values—Faith, Family, Food, Friends, and Fishing—while emphasizing the beloved East Tennessee tradition of fresh steamed hoagies, in a warm, welcoming atmosphere built on decades of community connection.
The Vandergriff legacy began over 30 years ago when David’s father arrived in Knoxville with his sons, driven to build a better future. That vision evolved into Sunrise Market and Deli, and later Sunrise Deli—a local favorite known for its traditional and signature steamed sandwiches. The new Vandergriff’s brand honors this heritage while positioning the business for future growth and expansion.
The community is invited to celebrate this next chapter during a Grand Reopening Celebration Ribbon Cutting on Saturday, May 2, 2026, 10:00 a.m. at 7120 Maynardville Pike C, Knoxville, TN 37918 in Halls Plaza Shopping Center.
The day will include a ribbon cutting with music, family-friendly activities, food samples, special giveaways, and more.
The first 25 guests in line receive a free Vandergriff’s Grand Opening t-shirt and a free sandwich coupon, as well as a chance to win free steamed hoagies for a year.
As a special thank you to our community, we are feeding any First Responders for free from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
“We’re thrilled to bring the Vandergriff name to the forefront and share our passion for great food and great people with even more communities,” said David Vandergriff. “This isn’t just a rebrand—it’s a celebration of our roots and our commitment to the future.”
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