J.C. Holdway

“The meal was cooked to perfection. I’ve never had a more tender juicy chicken in my life. The beet strawberry side dish was surprisingly a favorite - on the sweeter side which I enjoyed. For appetizers we got the hush puppies and farm fresh egg with dumplings and both were incredible. You can’t go wrong with anything here!”

“5/06/2026 In our business we chauffeur dozens of clients to dinners weekly. My first dinner at J.C. Holdway was lastnight. Triple A+, the food to my palate was great. BUT what we were so amazingly impressed with was the entire staff from the front door entrance to the exit out the door. Every team member we met walking to the restroom or to and from our table made eye contact and spoke. We eat in restaurants 5 of 7 nights per week and a lot of great dishes throughout Knoxville but I have never met a staff like these folks. GREAT JOB! DeWayne Hensley”

“I was blown away! Some how I'd heard all the rave reviews but had not made it in. Until Big Ears 2026 with friends in town. We had a party of 12 and a specially curated menu made especially for our group. All served family style (very cool) and every course brought and removed with the utmost efficiency. Every single thing was delicious and non-pretentious. Every cocktail was perfectly crafted. The atmosphere light and lively. We managed to wile away 2.5 hrs in what seemed like 15 minutes. Now almost a week past, and I cannot quit thinking about it and my next excuse to return. You will not regret spending an evening here while in town.”

“Fantastic experience. We stubbled in after a day stroll through downtown and were super lucky to snag a table. Wonderful service! Fantastic food! We will be going back again we we have a larger appetite and will be bringing a group for the experience! Cynda was amazing! 🩷”

“Possibly the best fine dining experience in Knoxville. It is the total package. The service and friendliness of the staff was the best I have ever experienced. It is beautiful and spacious inside. Perfect for any special occasion. There is no parking but, conveniently located next door to both market street and locust parking garage. It is higher end pricing and reservations weeks in advance is highly recommended.”