We took advantage of the nice weather last week and took a stroll down “Memory Lane,” better known as Cumberland Ave.

The first thing you notice is that The Strip is no longer The Strip. No longer will you find the Krystal, Sam and Andy’s, Ruby Tuesday, Copper Cellar, or Burger King. Gone also are the Varsity Inn, O’Charleys, and even the White Store.

But not all is lost. In its original location, Oscar’s Restaurant, 1840 W Cumberland, still serves some of the best Italian food in the Knoxville area.

The Dining Duo visited Oscar’s on a weekday around noon, and business was brisk, but the service was impeccable. Having never been there before, our waiter had to be patient while we studied the impressive menu.

Dining Duo One decided on a medium Calzone with a side salad. The calzone was baked to perfection, and the side salad was crisp and fresh.

Dining Duo Two ordered the Chicken Parmesan and a side salad. Chicken Parm was hot, cheesy, and perfect.

Our orders came quickly and were delicious. While we enjoyed our meal, the owner himself came to check on us. We learned that Oscar’s has been on Cumberland for 22 years. Oscar is a proud UT graduate, as are two of his children. He has another child who is a junior at UT and a future Vol still in high school. One son, Yaseen, was our patient and attentive waiter.

Rarely has the Dining Duo been as totally impressed as we are by Oscars. The staff, the varied menu, the food, and the dining area are all above the norm. The prices are very reasonable. Our article would be incomplete without mentioning the carrot cake we had for dessert. Describing it could take up another full page. Let us just tell you that “yummy” doesn’t even come close!

Oscar’s is open daily from 10:30 a.m. – 12 a.m., but closed on Sunday. They offer dine-in, delivery, take-out, and catering: 865-524-FOOD (3663)

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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