Knoxville offers several locations for high-quality Bloody Marys. These venues prioritize fresh ingredients and customization. Use this guide to find the best Sunday morning drinks before 5 PM.
1. Scrambled Jake’s Breakfast Co.
Located in the Farragut area. This spot is known for "Jake’s Famous Bloody Mary."
- Address: 7428 S Northshore Dr, Knoxville, TN 37919
- Patio: Yes. Large outdoor seating area available.
- Pet-Friendly: Yes. Pets allowed on the patio.
- Sun Exposure: Direct sun hits the patio starting at 10:00 AM.
- DIY Factor: High. House-made mix with extensive garnish options.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Mix | House-made tomato base |
| Top Garnishes | Bacon, jumbo olives, pickles, citrus |
| Best Time to Visit | Sunday at 9:00 AM |
| Vibe | Casual, family-friendly, high energy |
2. Balter Beerworks
A downtown favorite located in a converted service station. They focus on craft quality.
- Address: 100 S Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37902
- Patio: Yes. Urban patio with street views.
- Pet-Friendly: Yes. Dogs are common on the patio.
- Sun Exposure: Morning sun is blocked by nearby buildings; full sun after 12:00 PM.
- DIY Factor: Moderate. Featured weekend Bloody Mary specials with rotating garnishes.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Mix | Spicy craft mix |
| Top Garnishes | Pickled okra, celery, craft salts |
| Best Time to Visit | Saturday or Sunday at 11:00 AM |
| Vibe | Industrial, social, urban |
3. Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
Located directly on Market Square. Offers a highly customizable Southern-style drink menu.
- Address: 1 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
- Patio: Yes. Prime Market Square people-watching.
- Pet-Friendly: Yes. Market Square is very dog-friendly.
- Sun Exposure: Full sun exposure on the square from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- DIY Factor: High (Menu-based). Select your heat level and add-ons like bacon or pickled green beans.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Mix | Southern-spiced tomato base |
| Top Garnishes | Pimento cheese stuffed olives, bacon, okra |
| Best Time to Visit | Sunday at 10:30 AM |
| Vibe | Classic Knoxville, lively, tourist-friendly |
4. Chesapeake’s Seafood & Raw Bar
Offers a coastal take on the traditional Bloody Mary. Ideal for seafood lovers.
- Address: 500 Union Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902 (Downtown)
- Patio: Limited outdoor seating at the Downtown location.
- Pet-Friendly: No. Better suited for humans.
- Sun Exposure: Shaded urban environment.
- DIY Factor: Moderate. Heavy emphasis on Old Bay seasoning and shrimp garnishes.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Mix | Seafood-style mix (Old Bay focus) |
| Top Garnishes | Chilled shrimp, lemon, seafood salt rim |
| Best Time to Visit | Sunday Brunch at 11:00 AM |
| Vibe | Refined, nautical, calm |
5. Ruby Sunshine
A Market Square staple focusing on New Orleans-style brunch.
- Address: 37 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902
- Patio: Yes. Covered outdoor seating available.
- Pet-Friendly: Yes. Standard Market Square rules apply.
- Sun Exposure: Bright morning light; covered patio provides shade.
- DIY Factor: Moderate. Multiple "award-winning" presets with specific flavor profiles.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Mix | Creole-spiced tomato base |
| Top Garnishes | Bacon-infused vodka, spicy beans, olives |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays or early Sunday to avoid long waits |
| Vibe | Fun, colorful, Southern-fusion |
6. STIR
Located in the Old City. Known for artisanal ice and craft cocktails.
- Address: 225 Willow Ave, Knoxville, TN 37915
- Patio: Yes. Large, energetic patio area.
- Pet-Friendly: Yes.
- Sun Exposure: Afternoon sun is very strong. Plan for 1:00 PM onwards.
- DIY Factor: Moderate. Highly technical builds with premium ingredients.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Mix | Fresh-pressed tomato and spice blend |
| Top Garnishes | Artisanal pickles, premium vodka, hand-cut ice |
| Best Time to Visit | Saturday Brunch |
| Vibe | Trendy, historic, craft-focused |
The "Before 5 PM" Rule Checklist
To ensure the best daytime experience, verify the following before you head out:
- Natural Light: Choose spots with windows or patios. Avoid basements.
- Open Air: Check the weather and prioritize outdoor seating.
- The 10 PM Goal: Start early. Aim to finish your Sunday brunch by 2:00 PM.
- Local Vibe: Support Knoxville-owned establishments listed above.
Summary of Seating and Sun
| Location | Best Sun Time | Pet Friendly | Patio Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scrambled Jake's | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Yes | Large/Suburban |
| Balter Beerworks | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Yes | Urban/Fenced |
| Tupelo Honey | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Yes | Public Square |
| Chesapeake's | Shaded | No | Sidewalk |
| Ruby Sunshine | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Yes | Covered |
| STIR | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Yes | Large/Historic |
Create Your Own Bloody Mary Bar at Home
If you prefer a private gathering, follow these steps to build your own station.
- Step 1: Purchase a high-quality tomato base.
- Step 2: Provide at least three hot sauce options (mild, medium, extreme).
- Step 3: Offer a variety of "salts" for the rim (Old Bay, Tajín, Smoked Salt).
- Step 4: Set out a garnish spread. Include celery, pickles, olives, bacon, and cheese cubes.
- Step 5: Use fresh lemon and lime wedges for acidity.
For more local guides and daytime event tips, visit our blog or check our About Us page to learn more about the DayDrinking HQ mission.
