This restaurant was just ok. The dolmades tasted average, but the spanakopita was good. The saganaki is a spectacle, but otherwise is essentially sliced mozzarella cheese. My husband thought his pasta was okay, and my steak and potatoes were super salty. The baklava was fine and very sweet, while I really enjoyed the banana pudding, though it was a bread pudding — not what we initially expected. The bread putting they also set on fire, and they put WAY too much rum — it overpowered the flavor.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Spanakopita
Megan K
Run, don’t walk, to Kefi. The atmosphere is wonderful. The service has also been great both times we’ve been here. As for the food - my goodness ?. Go with friends, on a date, but whatever you do, order everything you possibly can fit in your body. It is worth it.
The food was amazing, the bartenders are friendly, welcoming and master's of their craft and the atmosphere was hip. We will definitely be back. Thank you for a great dining experience!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Saganaki, Roast Chicken, Beef Short Ribs, Pastitsio
Amy LaSalle
Perfect venue after a performance at The Press Room. Shared a couple plates with a cocktail. Food was excellent and service was exceptional. I will definitely return.
The not so good: although the waiter took care of our table, he was very rushed and it was even difficult to understand him, so we even preferred not to ask him certain things about the menu since he seemed very rushed.The food was actually delicious in general, but it was nothing out of this world, no new or surprising flavor. I wouldn't order the "Falafel" dish again, mainly because it was very dry.The good: the signature drinks are definitely the strong point of this restaurant, original and with new flavors.The atmosphere: very good atmosphere to have a good evening
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 3
Service: 4
Bobby Fricks
Sensational! The food is wonderful. We split a couple of small plates to start. Then got separate entrees (would possibly share next time). Specifically the chicken and short rib, which were bursting with flavor and cooked perfectly. Then got the most wonderful (and giant) homemade baklava with pistachio ice cream. Great atmosphere too. We are excited to return.
All of the food was absolutely amazing! Everything was perfect! Service was great, we had a party of 6 and we all left very satisfied!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Lamb Chops
Lisa Manaley
Wow!! This place was exceptional in every way. My friend and I wanted to try something different and this was the place that did it. When we first walked in, we were greeted by the manager Bobby who sat us at a table but then moved us to a circle booth that we really wanted. The atmosphere is truly incredible in every way. Kate was our server and she was amazing. She knew everything on the menu and was able to give the perfect suggestions. Very personable and top notch service. The food was so unique and so good, we loved this entire experience. Located in downtown Knoxville. You must put this place on your list to try.
If I could give a negative star, I would. Had the absolute worst customer service experience ever at Kefi Knoxville. Made reservations a couple of days prior for a birthday celebration for four adults and a toddler. When my wife and I walked in (a few minutes before the rest of the family) the hostess said they don’t have high chairs and then seated us at a very high center table with very high chairs and walked away. (Funny……..according to theitr Google information, they have high chairs for children. The owner should let Google know as they clearly don’t want anyone with children.). Shortly thereafter I flagged her down telling her the table was not going to work as the seating was extremely inappropriate for the young child that would be joining us. She then gladly moved us to a vacant booth in the back corner. The rest of the family then arrived and we sat for twenty minutes expecting one of several waiters to come and take our food and drink order. Well……. this didn’t happen even with my daughter trying to make eye contact with different waiters. After twenty minutes I decided enough was enough and got everyone up to leave and find a downtown restaurant that knows how to spell customer service. Interesting that when we all got up a waiter took notice, came over to us and said, “Do you all need something?” Interesting that he would put it like that. I told him that they had blown it, that waiting twenty minutes for even a drink order was not cutting it so we’re going somewhere else. Went around the corner to STIR and had the exact opposite experience.I would not recommend Kefi to anyone; don’t waist your time and money.
Service: 1
Alex Cameron
Kefi, nestled in the heart of The Old City, is a culinary gem that offers an exquisite dining experience to its patrons. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with warm hospitality that sets the stage for a memorable meal. The food here is nothing short of spectacular, with each dish showcasing attention to flavor, freshness, and presentation. Whether you're savoring the small plate options like the tableside flambé saganaki or indulging in the perfectly cooked entrees the taste and quality of the food are consistently top-notch, demonstrating a deep respect for ingredients and culinary craft.But Kefi's allure doesn't stop at the food. The restaurant takes its beverage game seriously, offering a selection of beautiful premixed cocktails that are as delightful to look at as they are to drink. These artisanal creations are the perfect complement to any meal, blending unique flavors and ingredients to create something truly special. The care and creativity put into each cocktail mirror the overall excellence of Kefi, making it not just a meal, but an experience.Coupled with the attentive and friendly service, dining at Kefi is an absolute pleasure. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcomed and valued, adding a personal touch that enhances the overall atmosphere. Whether you're a local or just passing through Knoxville, Kefi is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy high-quality food, beautiful cocktails, and exceptional service.
Make a reservation NOW!!! My son made the reservation and he was spot on! This place is great. Especially if you are with a few people who like to share (family or tapas style) of dinner. It was such a great experience I forgot to keep taking pictures. ??? just go!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tiki Munki
We were excited to try this place. Looked at the menu beforehand and already had our meals planned. This was our valentines date. When we arrived our table was not ready. Waited at the bar and the cocktails were delicious. We enjoyed some conversation with other customers and bar tenders. When seated our server Doug was excellent. Both entrees we planned on were sold out. We were disappointed but decided on trying a selection of appetizers in place of one of the entrees. And the main cocktail ? I was looking forward to was sold out also. However, the food we received was soooo good.I don't blame them for being sold out of certain cuts of meat on a holiday weekend. This place is excellent. Just enjoy the evening and be open to trying new things. You won't be disappointed. ?
This restaurant was just ok. The dolmades tasted average, but the spanakopita was good. The saganaki is a spectacle, but otherwise is essentially sliced mozzarella cheese. My husband thought his pasta was okay, and my steak and potatoes were super salty. The baklava was fine and very sweet, while I really enjoyed the banana pudding, though it was a bread pudding — not what we initially expected. The bread putting they also set on fire, and they put WAY too much rum — it overpowered the flavor.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Spanakopita
Run, don’t walk, to Kefi. The atmosphere is wonderful. The service has also been great both times we’ve been here. As for the food - my goodness ?. Go with friends, on a date, but whatever you do, order everything you possibly can fit in your body. It is worth it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Spanakopita, Baklava, Fig Smash
The food was amazing, the bartenders are friendly, welcoming and master's of their craft and the atmosphere was hip. We will definitely be back. Thank you for a great dining experience!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Saganaki, Roast Chicken, Beef Short Ribs, Pastitsio
Perfect venue after a performance at The Press Room. Shared a couple plates with a cocktail. Food was excellent and service was exceptional. I will definitely return.
Fantastic.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Keftedes, Spicy Feta Dip, Saganaki
The not so good: although the waiter took care of our table, he was very rushed and it was even difficult to understand him, so we even preferred not to ask him certain things about the menu since he seemed very rushed.The food was actually delicious in general, but it was nothing out of this world, no new or surprising flavor. I wouldn't order the "Falafel" dish again, mainly because it was very dry.The good: the signature drinks are definitely the strong point of this restaurant, original and with new flavors.The atmosphere: very good atmosphere to have a good evening
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 3
Service: 4
Sensational! The food is wonderful. We split a couple of small plates to start. Then got separate entrees (would possibly share next time). Specifically the chicken and short rib, which were bursting with flavor and cooked perfectly. Then got the most wonderful (and giant) homemade baklava with pistachio ice cream. Great atmosphere too. We are excited to return.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Spicy Feta Dip, Baklava, Roast Chicken, Beef Short Ribs, Spicy Feta
All of the food was absolutely amazing! Everything was perfect! Service was great, we had a party of 6 and we all left very satisfied!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Lamb Chops
Wow!! This place was exceptional in every way. My friend and I wanted to try something different and this was the place that did it. When we first walked in, we were greeted by the manager Bobby who sat us at a table but then moved us to a circle booth that we really wanted. The atmosphere is truly incredible in every way. Kate was our server and she was amazing. She knew everything on the menu and was able to give the perfect suggestions. Very personable and top notch service. The food was so unique and so good, we loved this entire experience. Located in downtown Knoxville. You must put this place on your list to try.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Saganaki, Spanakopita, Lamb Chops
Host was a d... Closed the restaurant 3 hours before google says it closed? On a Friday night?
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Restaurantji Recommends
If I could give a negative star, I would. Had the absolute worst customer service experience ever at Kefi Knoxville. Made reservations a couple of days prior for a birthday celebration for four adults and a toddler. When my wife and I walked in (a few minutes before the rest of the family) the hostess said they don’t have high chairs and then seated us at a very high center table with very high chairs and walked away. (Funny……..according to theitr Google information, they have high chairs for children. The owner should let Google know as they clearly don’t want anyone with children.). Shortly thereafter I flagged her down telling her the table was not going to work as the seating was extremely inappropriate for the young child that would be joining us. She then gladly moved us to a vacant booth in the back corner. The rest of the family then arrived and we sat for twenty minutes expecting one of several waiters to come and take our food and drink order. Well……. this didn’t happen even with my daughter trying to make eye contact with different waiters. After twenty minutes I decided enough was enough and got everyone up to leave and find a downtown restaurant that knows how to spell customer service. Interesting that when we all got up a waiter took notice, came over to us and said, “Do you all need something?” Interesting that he would put it like that. I told him that they had blown it, that waiting twenty minutes for even a drink order was not cutting it so we’re going somewhere else. Went around the corner to STIR and had the exact opposite experience.I would not recommend Kefi to anyone; don’t waist your time and money.
Service: 1
Kefi, nestled in the heart of The Old City, is a culinary gem that offers an exquisite dining experience to its patrons. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with warm hospitality that sets the stage for a memorable meal. The food here is nothing short of spectacular, with each dish showcasing attention to flavor, freshness, and presentation. Whether you're savoring the small plate options like the tableside flambé saganaki or indulging in the perfectly cooked entrees the taste and quality of the food are consistently top-notch, demonstrating a deep respect for ingredients and culinary craft.But Kefi's allure doesn't stop at the food. The restaurant takes its beverage game seriously, offering a selection of beautiful premixed cocktails that are as delightful to look at as they are to drink. These artisanal creations are the perfect complement to any meal, blending unique flavors and ingredients to create something truly special. The care and creativity put into each cocktail mirror the overall excellence of Kefi, making it not just a meal, but an experience.Coupled with the attentive and friendly service, dining at Kefi is an absolute pleasure. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcomed and valued, adding a personal touch that enhances the overall atmosphere. Whether you're a local or just passing through Knoxville, Kefi is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy high-quality food, beautiful cocktails, and exceptional service.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Keftedes, Saganaki, Spanakopita, Baklava
Always enjoy our meals and drinks here but we need to remember not to sit at the high top near the kitchen!
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 4
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Chicken Souvlaki, Spicy Feta Dip, Saganaki, Spanakopita, Dolmades, Lamb Chops
Make a reservation NOW!!! My son made the reservation and he was spot on! This place is great. Especially if you are with a few people who like to share (family or tapas style) of dinner. It was such a great experience I forgot to keep taking pictures. ??? just go!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We were excited to try this place. Looked at the menu beforehand and already had our meals planned. This was our valentines date. When we arrived our table was not ready. Waited at the bar and the cocktails were delicious. We enjoyed some conversation with other customers and bar tenders. When seated our server Doug was excellent. Both entrees we planned on were sold out. We were disappointed but decided on trying a selection of appetizers in place of one of the entrees. And the main cocktail ? I was looking forward to was sold out also. However, the food we received was soooo good.I don't blame them for being sold out of certain cuts of meat on a holiday weekend. This place is excellent. Just enjoy the evening and be open to trying new things. You won't be disappointed. ?
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5