This edition of Tipsy Path hits close to home, literally. In June 2023 we chose to move to a neighborhood that puts us walking distance from a number of fabulous bars, restaurants, and breweries in north Knoxville and Happy Holler, not to mention downtown. And we’ve loved every minute of it!
For this adventure, we’ll focus on the North Central Street corridor from the intersection with Broadway up through Happy Holler. Why do they call it that? Local historians point out that this was indeed one of Knoxville’s original “entertainment” districts, along with the Old City. It supposedly began before the turn of the 20th century because wagons kept getting stuck in the dip between the two ridges around Central Street and Anderson Avenue. A smart businessman decided to open a saloon for people to enjoy their visits while they were stuck. And “Happy Holler” was born. At one time there were saloons, restaurants, a movie theater – much like today.
But we bet there’s one thing we have now in the Holler that they didn’t have back in the day – a pirate bar! Better yet, the Pirate Tavern! That’s the semi-official name for what’s also listed as the eVape Tavern. But either way, it’s definitely a pirate-themed bar with one of the best rum selections in town (try a “voyage” aka Rum Flight) and arguably the largest cooler of local canned beer selections in Knoxville. The cocktails are super creative too! If you don’t vape, don’t worry. We don’t either and we’ve never worried about it. And a #tipsytip for you – be sure to check out the restrooms! The themes in each are hand-painted by co-owner Jennifer Murphy.
Next door is one of our favorite wine bars in Knoxville - Zero/Zero. The name stands for the fact that they specialize in natural wines from around the world – “natural” meaning ideally no preservatives or additives. They have a very welcoming space with great selection by the bottle or glass. Did we mention they have vermouth by the glass? They’re also doing more flight tastings and teaming with local restaurants for special dinners, so stay tuned!
It’s also likely that the neighborhood didn’t have a “gay” club back in the day, at least not what it means now. But in the Holler, we have Club XYZ! And if you haven’t been to one of their drag shows, you’re missing out! It’s a great way to spend a late night for not a lot of money. The performers are fun, drinks are cheap and strong, and there’s a patio. What more do you need?
We almost hesitate to share this next spot because it’s home to one of the best all-around bourbon selections in town (and at some of the best prices). The Oak Room is home to the barrel-aging program for Abridged Beer in Bearden. Along with some tasty sours and unique aged beers, they have wonderful food… AND the bourbon mentioned above. You can even create your own Old Fashioned, which we have done many times. They don’t gouge you on the allocated bourbon, so this is a #tipsypick for sure!
Did we mention bourbon? One of the best takes on a classic Manhattan can be found at Bistro by the Tracks. Don’t be confused – there are two locations, but this one may be closer to actual railroad tracks. The drink is called the Whiskey Business and it’s not to be missed, even if you just sit at the bar. But why would you miss the food? A few “expert” tips – they have half off wines every Monday and flights of port that make an excellent dessert.
It’s patio weather! And Central Flats & Taps has one of the largest in the neighborhood. They have great food, an excellent draft beer selection, and they make a mean cocktail! You should try the spicy watermelon martini or margarita! And did we mention the Bushwhackers? Perfect for the patio.
Just across the street, Y Not Tavern is your old school go-to for karaoke and cheap beer.
Now if you head down Central a few blocks toward downtown, you come to two of the neighborhood’s signature watering holes. If we’re honest, the Corner Lounge is our version of “Cheers.” We walk in and most of the bartenders know what we’re going to order. They have live music, fun bartenders, and fantastic food at some of the best prices around. It’s also the oldest bar in downtown Knoxville – even author Cormac MaCarthy used to belly up here. We have been supporting these folks since before the pandemic, and even during the shutdown. They make a mean Manhattan and Old Fashioned. #tipsypick
Just up the street, Marie’s Olde Towne Tavern is a classic dive bar, complete with cheap beer and friendly staff… and smoking is allowed. But they have a nice patio out back for some fresh air. Inside, the Karaoke is packed on weekends, so they’re doing it right. Definitely worth a visit.
Speaking of beer, there are lots of breweries along North Central all the way to the I-40 underpass. We covered most of them in a previous blog post. But we’ll note that Yee Haw Brewing brought us a cool speakeasy during the winter months in their barrel room to bring revenue while the patio bar was closed. Cheers to them and hoping they bring it back this coming winter!
Happy Holler (and North Central) – making people like us happy for more than a century!
Where should we visit next? Let us know at offthetipsypath@gmail.com.
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