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Morning Bites in Knoxville: Best Breakfast Cafés to Try
Whether you’re starting your day downtown, swinging through North Knoxville, or just looking for a cinnamon roll that’s worth the hype, Knoxville knows how to do breakfast right. This Tennessee city has a laid-back charm, a love for local businesses, and a growing café culture that makes mornings feel a little more special. You’ll find spots serving up Southern comfort classics, plant-based smoothie bowls, expertly pulled espresso, and freshly baked pastries—all without trying too hard.
This guide highlights some of our favorite breakfast cafés and bakeries in Knoxville that balance a casual atmosphere and quality food. If you’re local, think of it as a reminder of where to stop next time you want something other than a drive-thru. If you’re visiting, these are the places to hit before a hike, after a stroll through Market Square, or anytime you want to slow down with a good bite and better coffee.
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City County Café
Located inside the City County Building, this café might fly under the radar unless you work nearby, but it’s worth a stop. It’s a low-key, affordable option downtown with solid breakfast wraps, sandwiches, and deli-style favorites. What makes it special is its view of the Tennessee River, which adds a peaceful touch to your meal.
Riverview Market
Tucked inside the Riverview Tower, this café-style market is technically for building tenants and clients, but if you’ve got access, it’s a hidden gem for a quick, well-made breakfast. They’ve got solid coffee, a range of cold drinks, and hot breakfast selections that beat anything you’ll find at a gas station or chain.
Blossom Bowls – North Knoxville
This acai bowl shop has been serving Knoxville since 2015, and it’s easy to see why it’s lasted. Blossom Bowls is bright, friendly, and great for anyone who wants a healthy, feel-good start to the day. Their bowls are fresh, colorful, and customizable, with standout ingredients like peach base blends, almond butter, and granola that crunches.
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Magpies Bakery
If you’re after something sweet, Magpies is non-negotiable. Known for their custom cakes and cupcakes, they’ve also got cookies, cheesecakes, pies, and an endless rotation of other baked goods. Everything tastes rich, real, and made with care. The chocolate mocha strawberry cake is a local legend, and they even offer military discounts.
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Remedy Coffee
Remedy is one of those places that’s both a great café and a solid workspace. The high ceilings, exposed brick, and rustic vibe give it personality, and the coffee lives up to the setting. The egg, bacon, and cheese sandwich on a salt & pepper bagel is a must if you’re hungry, and the rotating drink specials offer something new if you’re a regular.
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Wild Love Bakehouse
Wild Love Bakehouse has earned its spot as one of the best bakeries in Knoxville for good reason. Their pastries are as pretty as they are delicious—croissants, pies, biscuits, you name it. The space is airy and minimalist with plenty of seating, making it just as ideal for casual breakfast dates as for solo laptop time.
Cinnaholic
For the sweet tooths and cinnamon roll fanatics, Cinnaholic is a dream. This fully vegan bakery offers over 40 toppings and frostings, so you can build the cinnamon roll of your dreams. Even if you don’t typically go for dairy-free options, you won’t miss a thing. Everything is rich, gooey, and made to order.
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All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
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