620 State Restaurant

“Stepping into history at 620 State Street! ​We recently stopped by this Bristol gem, located in the historic H.P. King Department Store building. Built in 1898, the building itself is an architectural masterpiece. While you’re enjoying the atmosphere under those grand 19-foot tin ceilings, it's incredible to think about the history hidden in the "bones" of the place—like the massive support timbers that were harvested from nearby Steele Creek Park and hauled here by horse and buggy over a century ago. ​But the history is only half the draw—the food is fantastic. This spot refuses to be put in a box, offering an eclectic menu with something for everyone. Whether you’re craving fresh sushi, a hearty burger, a crisp salad, or a light wrap, they truly deliver on variety and flavor. ​If you’re visiting the Birthplace of Country Music, make sure to put 620 State Street on your 'must-visit' list! 🎶🍔 ​#620State #BristolTN #BristolVA #ExploreBristol #BirthplaceOfCountryMusic #TravelPhotography #HistoricRestoration #AdventuresOfDonAndMel #FoodieTravel”

“Worth the Stop? Absolutely. Worth Going Back? Maybe—and that’s what makes this review interesting. We chose 620 State for a lazy Sunday lunch. I refuse to call it brunch because I remain convinced brunch is the bastard child of breakfast and lunch and should probably be regulated by statute. That said, the atmosphere alone makes this place worth visiting. The space is one of the most stylish, well-curated restaurants I’ve encountered in the region. It somehow manages to be chic, laid-back, bourbon-inspired, and upscale all at the same time. Add in a soundtrack that drifted comfortably through late-’80s and early-’90s alternative rock—The Cure, INXS, Duran Duran, and friends—and I was already halfway won over before the food arrived. The service was prompt, professional, and efficient. It was perhaps a touch more formal than what we experienced elsewhere in Bristol. While excellent, it was the one restaurant during our stay where I didn’t feel like we made a personal connection with the staff. That’s not a criticism, just an observation. As for the food, this was a tale of hits and misses. Nothing was poorly prepared. In fact, everything was technically well executed. The issue was more a matter of flavor preference. The hummus was so tahini-forward that it tasted almost entirely of tahini paste. The drunken noodles, however, were outstanding. Since that’s one of my favorite dishes, I’m fairly picky about it, and these delivered. The spice level was exactly right, and the flavors were balanced and satisfying. The potstickers were good, though they had a crispness all over rather than the traditional contrast between a crispy bottom and tender top. Not bad—just a different approach. The biggest miss for us was the chicken fried rice, which lacked seasoning and never quite came together flavor-wise. Even with those misses, I’d still recommend 620 State. The atmosphere, music, cocktails, and overall vibe make it one of the most unique dining experiences in Bristol. Worth the Stop? Absolutely. Worth Going Back? For the atmosphere alone, yes. For the food, I’d simply order differently next time.”

“Nice place, well flavored food and good iced tea. The atmosphere is casual and there is some outside seating. The bar is very well stocked with an extensive whiskey list and well made cocktails. Today's visit was not a five however because the service, while courteous, was somewhat slow and inconsistent; perfunctory, I would say. It was if they didn't have enough staff or the kitchen was overwhelmed. The dining room was relatively full but not packed but the staff that was present seemed to be running off their feet. Even so, I could see this as a regular go-to place in Bristol. Recommended.”

“1st time eating here. I usually posts my reviews soon after the experience Dec 1. Our guests ordered sushi, we ordered a couple appetizers and a beef dish. While 90% of the order was awesome, the calamari was sooo NOT. It was old, I expressed my concern to our server (Bethany) that they should not serve it. She rocked the Mexican coffee drink. One of the best I have ever had! Everyone was pleased with their meals. We will go back.”

“Appetizer portion sushi took 20 mins longer than the entree, it was so cold in there my food was cold before I could even finish eating it, they've halved their portions and kept their prices. I used to recommend this restaurant to all traveling in the area and it appears I can no longer do that. Such a shame.”