Epicurious eats in Oak Ridge, Tennessee
# **A Foodie’s Guide to Oak Ridge, Tennessee: Where to Eat & What to Order**
Nestled in the heart of East Tennessee, Oak Ridge is a hidden gem for food lovers. From hearty American comfort food to authentic Mexican flavors, Mediterranean delights, and cozy coffee shops, this city offers a surprisingly diverse culinary scene. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the best dining experiences in Oak Ridge—and exactly what to order at each spot.
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## **1. Oakey’s Sports Grill**
? *119 S Illinois Ave, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
?️ **Casual Sports Bar with Hearty American Fare**
If you’re looking for a laid-back spot to catch the game while digging into satisfying pub grub, **Oakey’s Sports Grill** is your go-to. The atmosphere is lively, the portions are generous, and the menu is packed with crowd-pleasers.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Oakey’s Famous Wings** – Choose from classic Buffalo, BBQ, or their signature dry rub.
- **The Big O Burger** – A juicy half-pound patty topped with bacon, cheddar, and all the fixings.
- **Philly Cheesesteak** – Loaded with tender beef, peppers, onions, and melted cheese.
- **Loaded Nachos** – A mountain of crispy tortilla chips smothered in cheese, jalapeños, and your choice of meat.
**Pro Tip:** Pair your meal with a local craft beer—Oakey’s has a solid selection on tap.
---
## **2. Gallo Loco**
? *80 E Tennessee Ave, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
? **Authentic Mexican Street Food with Bold Flavors**
For a taste of Mexico right in Oak Ridge, **Gallo Loco** delivers vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dishes. The no-frills setting lets the food take center stage, with everything made to order.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Al Pastor Tacos** – Marinated pork with pineapple, cilantro, and onions on soft corn tortillas.
- **Carne Asada Burrito** – A massive flour tortilla stuffed with grilled steak, rice, beans, and salsa.
- **Quesabirria** – A cheesy, crispy birria taco with a side of rich consommé for dipping.
- **Horchata** – A sweet, cinnamon-infused rice milk drink that’s the perfect refresher.
**Pro Tip:** Ask for their homemade green salsa—it’s spicy and addictive!
---
## **3. Zandunga Mexican Restaurant**
? *374 S Illinois Ave, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
?? **Upscale Mexican Cuisine with a Modern Twist**
**Zandunga** elevates traditional Mexican dishes with high-quality ingredients and creative presentations. The décor is colorful and inviting, making it a great spot for both casual dinners and celebrations.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Mole Poblano** – Rich, complex, and slightly sweet, served over tender chicken.
- **Camarones al Ajillo** – Garlicky shrimp sautéed in butter and white wine.
- **Chiles Rellenos** – Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried to perfection.
- **Tres Leches Cake** – A creamy, dreamy dessert that melts in your mouth.
**Pro Tip:** Their margaritas are top-notch—try the **Spicy Mango Margarita** for a kick.
---
## **4. Jefferson Soda Fountain**
? *22 N Jefferson Cir, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
? **Old-School Diner with Classic Milkshakes & Burgers**
Step back in time at **Jefferson Soda Fountain**, a nostalgic diner serving up classic American eats and hand-spun milkshakes. It’s a favorite for families and anyone craving a taste of retro Americana.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Double Cheeseburger** – Juicy, no-frills perfection with melty American cheese.
- **Chili Cheese Fries** – Crispy fries smothered in homemade chili and gooey cheese.
- **Banana Split** – A towering dessert with vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream.
- **Egg Cream Soda** – A fizzy, creamy New York-style classic.
**Pro Tip:** Try their **Grilled PB&J** for a sweet, toasty twist on a childhood favorite.
---
## **5. Buffalo Mountain Grille**
? *205 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
? **Southern Comfort Food with a Gourmet Touch**
A local favorite, **Buffalo Mountain Grille** serves up hearty Southern dishes with a refined twist. The warm, rustic atmosphere makes it ideal for a relaxed meal.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Fried Green Tomatoes** – Crispy, tangy, and served with remoulade.
- **BBQ Pork Plate** – Smoky pulled pork with homemade sauce and classic sides.
- **Shrimp & Grits** – Creamy, cheesy grits topped with plump shrimp and bacon.
- **Bourbon Pecan Pie** – A sweet, nutty finale with a boozy kick.
**Pro Tip:** Their **Sunday Brunch** is legendary—don’t miss the Chicken & Waffles.
---
*(Continued in Part 2—more delicious spots ahead!)*
Would you like me to continue with the remaining five restaurants? I can also adjust the tone, focus, or length based on your preferences!
Nestled in the heart of East Tennessee, Oak Ridge is a hidden gem for food lovers. From hearty American comfort food to authentic Mexican flavors, Mediterranean delights, and cozy coffee shops, this city offers a surprisingly diverse culinary scene. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the best dining experiences in Oak Ridge—and exactly what to order at each spot.
---
## **1. Oakey’s Sports Grill**
? *119 S Illinois Ave, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
?️ **Casual Sports Bar with Hearty American Fare**
If you’re looking for a laid-back spot to catch the game while digging into satisfying pub grub, **Oakey’s Sports Grill** is your go-to. The atmosphere is lively, the portions are generous, and the menu is packed with crowd-pleasers.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Oakey’s Famous Wings** – Choose from classic Buffalo, BBQ, or their signature dry rub.
- **The Big O Burger** – A juicy half-pound patty topped with bacon, cheddar, and all the fixings.
- **Philly Cheesesteak** – Loaded with tender beef, peppers, onions, and melted cheese.
- **Loaded Nachos** – A mountain of crispy tortilla chips smothered in cheese, jalapeños, and your choice of meat.
**Pro Tip:** Pair your meal with a local craft beer—Oakey’s has a solid selection on tap.
---
## **2. Gallo Loco**
? *80 E Tennessee Ave, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
? **Authentic Mexican Street Food with Bold Flavors**
For a taste of Mexico right in Oak Ridge, **Gallo Loco** delivers vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dishes. The no-frills setting lets the food take center stage, with everything made to order.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Al Pastor Tacos** – Marinated pork with pineapple, cilantro, and onions on soft corn tortillas.
- **Carne Asada Burrito** – A massive flour tortilla stuffed with grilled steak, rice, beans, and salsa.
- **Quesabirria** – A cheesy, crispy birria taco with a side of rich consommé for dipping.
- **Horchata** – A sweet, cinnamon-infused rice milk drink that’s the perfect refresher.
**Pro Tip:** Ask for their homemade green salsa—it’s spicy and addictive!
---
## **3. Zandunga Mexican Restaurant**
? *374 S Illinois Ave, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
?? **Upscale Mexican Cuisine with a Modern Twist**
**Zandunga** elevates traditional Mexican dishes with high-quality ingredients and creative presentations. The décor is colorful and inviting, making it a great spot for both casual dinners and celebrations.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Mole Poblano** – Rich, complex, and slightly sweet, served over tender chicken.
- **Camarones al Ajillo** – Garlicky shrimp sautéed in butter and white wine.
- **Chiles Rellenos** – Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried to perfection.
- **Tres Leches Cake** – A creamy, dreamy dessert that melts in your mouth.
**Pro Tip:** Their margaritas are top-notch—try the **Spicy Mango Margarita** for a kick.
---
## **4. Jefferson Soda Fountain**
? *22 N Jefferson Cir, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
? **Old-School Diner with Classic Milkshakes & Burgers**
Step back in time at **Jefferson Soda Fountain**, a nostalgic diner serving up classic American eats and hand-spun milkshakes. It’s a favorite for families and anyone craving a taste of retro Americana.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Double Cheeseburger** – Juicy, no-frills perfection with melty American cheese.
- **Chili Cheese Fries** – Crispy fries smothered in homemade chili and gooey cheese.
- **Banana Split** – A towering dessert with vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream.
- **Egg Cream Soda** – A fizzy, creamy New York-style classic.
**Pro Tip:** Try their **Grilled PB&J** for a sweet, toasty twist on a childhood favorite.
---
## **5. Buffalo Mountain Grille**
? *205 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge, TN 37830*
? **Southern Comfort Food with a Gourmet Touch**
A local favorite, **Buffalo Mountain Grille** serves up hearty Southern dishes with a refined twist. The warm, rustic atmosphere makes it ideal for a relaxed meal.
### **Must-Order Dishes:**
- **Fried Green Tomatoes** – Crispy, tangy, and served with remoulade.
- **BBQ Pork Plate** – Smoky pulled pork with homemade sauce and classic sides.
- **Shrimp & Grits** – Creamy, cheesy grits topped with plump shrimp and bacon.
- **Bourbon Pecan Pie** – A sweet, nutty finale with a boozy kick.
**Pro Tip:** Their **Sunday Brunch** is legendary—don’t miss the Chicken & Waffles.
---
*(Continued in Part 2—more delicious spots ahead!)*
Would you like me to continue with the remaining five restaurants? I can also adjust the tone, focus, or length based on your preferences!
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