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Emilia, Knoxville, TN

Emilia

4.7
4.7
2485 Reviews
$30 and under
Contemporary Italian
Emilia is a full service restaurant located on Market Square in Downtown Knoxville. Chef/Owner Matt Gallaher serves a seasonal, contemporary Italian menu with an emphasis on handmade pasta, homemade bread, and ingredients from local purveyors.

*The fine print: Friday and Saturday capacity is limited to parties of 8 and under. For weeknight parties over 8 please call the restaurant directly at 865 313 2472 to check availability. Any inquiries for parties of 12 or more are considered group service. Please email maggie@emiliaknox for group sales inquiries.

A 20% gratuity may be applied to parties greater than 5 guests. We offer an extensive, 100% Italian wine list, but we do allow outside bottles of wine for a $25 corkage fee, provided it's not a wine on our current list.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 37 times today

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary Italian
  • Hours of operation
    Tue–Sat 5:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Phone number
    (865) 313-2472
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Executive chef
    Matt Gallaher
  • Catering
    Chef Matt Gallaher has an extensive background in catering. From small dinners and large fundraising events to weddings, Chef Matt delivers a delicious and professional experience. Email maggie@emiliaknox.com to customize your event menu and experience.
  • Private party facilities
    We will provide exclusive use of Emilia for Private Events on Monday nights. Some other evenings may also be available. Email maggie@emiliaknox.com for more info!
  • Neighborhood
    Knoxville
  • Cross street
    Wall Ave
  • Parking details
    Market Square Garage, Locust Street Garage, and State Street Garage.
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 2,485 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7
4.7 based on recent ratings
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.7Service
  • 4.6Ambience
  • 4.5Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • East Tennessee

    Great for fine wines

  • Knoxville

    Best Value

  • Knoxville

    Innovative

  • Knoxville

    Great for fine wines

  • Knoxville

    Most Booked

2,485 Reviews
  1. OpenTable Diner

    Greater Boston

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Anniversary date night with my wife. Had reservations at 5, when they opened. We were sat immediately and the service was amazing. Food came out quickly, and was AMAZING. My wife got the mussels and a salad, I got the Fusilli Carbonara. Add to that a bottle of red wine for us both. A little pricey overall, but the atmosphere, food, and service were all amazing. Highly recommend! A++

    Is this helpful?

  2. OpenTable Diner

    E. Tennessee

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was perfection & server was fantastic! Can’t wait to go back!

    Is this helpful?

  3. OpenTable Diner

    E. Tennessee

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing date location! The food was the best Italian we had ever had (and my girlfriend is Italian). The waitress was also so kind. We will definitely be back!

    Is this helpful?

  4. TaylorG

    Charlotte

    6 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Absolutely wonderful! If you like authentic Italian food with exclusive Italian wine menu, you’ll love it. Service was wonderful, attentive, and informative. Would recommend and go again. We started with a Barbera and graduated to a Barolo, sharing several anti-pastas, primis/secondis between 4 people.

    Is this helpful?

  5. AndrewM

    Nashville

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food is outstanding and the service is the best in Knoxville. Love this restaurant. Must go

    Is this helpful?

  6. MelissaD

    Chicago

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was excellent! Our server, John was fantastic!

    Is this helpful?

  7. MarkS

    New Orleans

    5 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food and service was great . Don did a fabulous job. Bravo !!! Bravo!!!!

    Is this helpful?

  8. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 18, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Excellent food, great service. Would eat here again!

    Is this helpful?

  9. jthreed

    Atlanta Metro

    38 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    38 reviews

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Absolutely lovely dinner. John was our server. He was great. Artichoke App is always a favorite. We had seafood pasta and meatballs. Both were fabulous.

    Is this helpful?

  10. HeatherG

    Alabama

    31 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    31 reviews

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Absolutely fabulous appetizers, dinner and butterscotch dessert is a must!

    Is this helpful?

  11. OpenTable Diner

    Pittsburgh

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food, great atmosphere, great staff. We had a very nice family night with both daughters.

    Is this helpful?

  12. OpenTable Diner

    E. Tennessee

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 15, 2023

    overall4food3service5ambience3
    Decent food. Small proportions. Kinda expensive. Good quick service!

    Is this helpful?

  13. Steve

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent dinner. Service was efficient but not rushed. Server was attentive and helpful. Food was delicious. Was simply a nice, relaxing place to dine with a low key Italian atmosphere.

    Is this helpful?

  14. Anna

    1 review

    1.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    overall1food3service1ambience1
    We unfortunately had a horrible experience at Emilia. We got there about 5 minutes late and called to tell them on the way that we would be late. The host was rude and asked what we needed when we walked in and we proceeded to tell him we had a reservation. Our husbands were parking and there was horrible traffic so they came in a few minutes later. Our server was kind but was pushing us to order as soon as we walked in. She went to the host stand and told them she was trying to make us order but had not been able to and clearly made it so we could hear her. The whole dinner we felt like we were not wanted there and that they wanted us to order so that we could then leave. The restaurant was not full the whole time we were there so it did not seem like they ever needed our table for someone else. I was extremely sad because we had friends in from out of town and wanted to give them a great experience of Knoxville. Thankfully we were able to laugh about it after but truly felt unwanted at the restaurant the whole dinner. Would not recommend to anyone.

    1 person found this helpful

  15. KarenP

    Charleston

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Our first time dining was perfection. Every dish paired with great wine totally met our expectations. Service along with great atmosphere made the evening complete! Highly recommend and we will definitely be back.

    Is this helpful?

  16. TNGEO

    Atlanta Metro

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Service was excellent, food was too. I come here 'way too infrequently, and will try to change that.

    Is this helpful?

  17. BrewingAndCooking

    E. Tennessee

    20 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    20 reviews

    Dined on November 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We dine here about twice a year and each time we wish we did more often. Both of our pasta dishes were great. The focaccia bread with ricotta and olive oil was a fantastic appetizer.

    Is this helpful?

  18. Scott

    Chicago

    21 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    21 reviews

    Dined on November 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We visit regularly and the service is always attentive and the food great. They have an extensive wine list and the team remembers our favorites.

    Is this helpful?

  19. OpenTable Diner

    E. Tennessee

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Polenta and meatballs absolutely on point, wonderful comfort food. There is an extensive wine list and we decided on the special, which was quite good at $75 for the bottle. Pistachio gelato was excellent and surprisingly complex. I believe our server was Layla, she was attentive without being overbearing.

    Is this helpful?

  20. HeatherV

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    John was a FANTASTIC waiter! The food was amazing and it was such an amazing atmosphere for celebrating our anniversary! Thank you all for making it special, but John was the rockstar behind making the evening such a success! ❤️

    Is this helpful?

  21. RichardR

    Denver

    5 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on October 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent restaurant. Food, service and ambiance were outstanding. If I lived in Knoxville this would be one of my “go to” places to dine.

    Is this helpful?

  22. Jerry

    Chicago

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wow - what an unexpectedly excellent meal. Great service. Wonderful food. We were not rushed at all. Interesting starters - grilled octopus on a cannellini bean hummus and artichoke fritters. Pan roasted chicken and gnocchi entrees. A Nebbiolo wine. We'll be back with friends.

    Is this helpful?

  23. OpenTable Diner

    E. Tennessee

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Dinner was amazing as always. Bella’s is my favorite restaurant

    Is this helpful?

  24. MargaretW

    E. Tennessee

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food, friendly staff. Perfect ambiance and a whole lot of fun!

    Is this helpful?

  25. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 19, 2023

    overall2food2service1ambience3
    Service was very slow and impersonal. Food was ok. I got the carbonara and my husband got the scallop dish. The risotto was good but the scallops were undercooked.

    1 person found this helpful

  26. NedH

    Chicago

    19 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    19 reviews

    Dined on October 15, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Everything was fine but nothing was outstanding. I would return but only after trying some other places.

    Is this helpful?

  27. Russell

    Dallas

    16 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    16 reviews

    Dined on October 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Layla was our server - she was very pleasant and knowledgeable about the menu and very personable. The bartender whose name I did not get helped us with a choice of a bottle of wine which was great. The food was great. The service was great and all over a really fantastic experience.

    Is this helpful?

  28. OpenTable Diner

    Naples

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on October 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food and atmosphere was great! We will definitely go back when we are back in town.

    Is this helpful?

  29. RogerS

    Western NC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Our server, can’t recall her name, was awesome! We had pasta dishes, best pasta I’ve had since Italy!

    Is this helpful?

  30. heatherj

    E. Tennessee

    8 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on October 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was delicious. The bolognese was perfect! And the tiramisu was definitely delicious.

    Is this helpful?

  31. TaylorH

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent all around! Food and service were wonderful for the occasion! I also missed our reservation and they were able to work us right in! Abby was our server and she was precious!

    Is this helpful?

  32. FredG

    E. Tennessee

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on October 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    As always, we enjoyed our meal at Emilia's. The food is always delicious and consistent. Highly recommend.

    Is this helpful?

  33. RebeccaB

    Washington DC

    18 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    18 reviews

    Dined on October 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Emilia is FANTASTIC every single time. Such incredible service & authentic Italian ingredients & flavor!

    Is this helpful?

  34. LievenC

    E. Tennessee

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on October 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Excellent experience, had the scallops with butternut squash risotto, which was delicious and topped it off with butterscotch pudding cup which did not disappoint either. Food amount was just right and flavors were layered very well. Service was impeccable and courteous, waitress was very attentive to our needs. Left very satisfied.

    Is this helpful?

  35. RobynA

    Atlanta Metro

    11 reviews

    4.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on October 3, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience3
    Fabulous server. Good good food in a nice quantity! The seating is not great, due to banquettes, close tables, and two tops, but I understand the reasoning for the arrangements.

    Is this helpful?

  36. Elb7

    Charleston

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on October 1, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We have been to Emilia twice now, last year and this year for our anniversary & we love it! Great food service and atmosphere.

    Is this helpful?

  37. AllisonG

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 30, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was perfect! Not too rich and by far the best food for the price! Already to plan to go again! The scallops and butternut risotto was amazing!!!

    Is this helpful?

  38. EveNJay

    Sacramento

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 30, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My wife and I love this place! The food it’s amazing. Everything is freshly made. The wine selection is awesome! If you don’t know what wine to order with your food you server can help you with making a choice and it will not disappoint you.

    Is this helpful?

  39. CrystalM

    E. Tennessee

    2 reviews

    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 30, 2023

    overall2food1service2ambience4
    Food was marginal, one dish came of he kitchen room temperature. Overpriced for what you get. Service was poor for a high priced restaurant.

    1 person found this helpful

  40. KristenG

    E. Tennessee

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 29, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    Great food and evening at Emilia! Very consistent .

    Is this helpful?

FAQs

Emilia is rated 4.7 stars by 2485 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 37 times today
Google Map for Emilia

16 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Cross street
    Wall Ave
  • Neighborhood
    Knoxville
  • Hours of operation
    Tue–Sat 5:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary Italian
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Parking details
    Market Square Garage, Locust Street Garage, and State Street Garage.
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Matt Gallaher
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Phone number
    (865) 313-2472
  • Catering
    Chef Matt Gallaher has an extensive background in catering. From small dinners and large fundraising events to weddings, Chef Matt delivers a delicious and professional experience. Email maggie@emiliaknox.com to customize your event menu and experience.
  • Private party facilities
    We will provide exclusive use of Emilia for Private Events on Monday nights. Some other evenings may also be available. Email maggie@emiliaknox.com for more info!
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