25 Johnson City Restaurants You Need to Try

Sharing is caring!

For a small college town, you would be surprised at the variety of restaurants in Johnson City, TN that you’ll find.

Located in Northeast Tennessee, you’ll need some hearty meals after all the outdoor adventures you go on in the area.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit a few times and try some of their amazing restaurants so I am so excited to share what I found!

The first time I visited, I was here for the Southern Travelers Explore Conference put on by Wherever I May Roam and the last few times I’ve been in town have been for hiking.

Johnson City is one of my favorite weekend trips because there are so many great adventure opportunities nearby but then you can come back into town for fantastic food and drink options.

Disclaimer: I was hosted by Visit Johnson City for part of my time here. However, all opinions are my own. This article may contain affiliate links that I earn a small commission from at no additional cost to you.

The Best Restaurants in Johnson City, TN

If you’re visiting Northeast Tennesee then add these Johnson City restaurants to your list!

Please know that there are tons of great places to eat in Johnson City and this list just scratches the surface. I’m only one person and can only go so many places!

1. Java Juice House

Address: 1061 Hamilton Pl Drive

I figured I should include at least one healthy option in the list. Just because it’s healthy doesn’t mean it’s lacking in taste though!

I got the Nutella toast here with bananas and strawberries and honey drizzled on top. I was not disappointed one bit. They also serve beautiful acai and pitaya bowls, crepes, and smoothies.

If you want a photo of your bowl for Instagram make sure to ask if they’ll put it in a coconut bowl. They currently aren’t serving hot coffee so if you need your coffee fix you can walk next door to Maple Street Biscuit Company.

2. Penny Man’s Diner

Address: 1409 E Main Street

I love a good diner for breakfast. You really can’t beat a good plate of eggs, bacon, and biscuits. Maybe add a little gravy.

Penny Man’s has one of the best southern breakfasts in town. If you need a hearty meal to start off your day then head here. Not to mention the prices are fantastic for what you get.

If you are super hungry then try the Breakfast Club – BLT on the bottom and sausage, egg, & cheese on top served on texas toast.

3. Blended Pedaler

Address: 117 Spring St

While I haven’t been to the Johnson City location, I have been to the one in Bristol and this is another amazing spot for acai bowls, smoothies, and more.

They have so many fun bowl combinations but you can also create your own if you want something specific.

You can also get regular smoothies or protein smoothies, loaded toast, and protein bites. The only coffee they serve is cold brew though so if you want hot coffee, you’ll have to get that somewhere else.

This is the perfect breakfast spot for something light and refreshing!

4. Biscuit Doodle

Address: 1709 W State of Franklin Rd

This is a brand new restaurant in Johnson City and I’m so excited I was able to try it while I was in town!

Their specialties are biscuits (of course) and I had The Kitchen Sink. It was a biscuit with fried chicken, egg, bacon, sausage gravy, and cheddar cheese. Great meal to fuel up before taking on one of the best hikes near Johnson City.

My food was delicious and the coffee was too! I wish I had tried their tator tots, they looked amazing.

This is a super cute spot and the food came out incredibly quick. It would be a great brunch spot because they serve mimosas and Bloody Mary’s.

5. Crumb Bake Shop

Address: 500 W Walnut St

Oh. My. Gosh. Buttery croissants, delicious pastries, plus a full breakfast and lunch menu.

Their ham & cheese croissant was one of the best things I’ve ever had for breakfast. It was so unique! And then the poptart was out of this world.

You can also get loaves of specialty bread here. On Sundays, they have a menu that changes weekly where their staff gets to experiment with new recipes!

6. Firehouse Restaurant

Address: 627 W Walnut St

At the Firehouse Restaurant you get it all – amazing service, a great atmosphere, and delicious food. They are known for their barbecue but they do have a few other options like sandwiches, burgers, and chicken platters.

The hashbrowns casserole and pimento cheese dip are local favorites and if you have room for dessert then you must order the Pecan Pie Square.

If you’re looking for a hearty lunch or dinner meal then this Johnson City restaurant is the perfect stop!

7. Gourmet & Company

Address: 214 E Mountcastle Dr

This is a must-visit on your trip to Johnson City. They have huge salads with the freshest ingredients, unique sandwiches, and burgers that will knock your socks off.

I highly recommend the truffle fries – some of the best I’ve had – and the Mountcastle Sandwich which is turkey, brie, and granny smith apple slices. Delish.

Reservations are recommended and if it’s nice weather then sit on the patio. They also have an incredible dinner menu that changes seasonally and it’s perfect for date night. Just be willing to pay a bit more.

8. Cafe Lola

Address: 1805 N Roan St B-1

Cafe Lola is one of the best restaurants in Johnson City – it even got the Johnson City Press Reader’s Choice Award for Best Brunch!

The creative and unique dishes made using local and seasonal ingredients earn rave reviews, as does its wide selection of wines and other drinks.

Not only do they serve a traditional menu of starters and entreés but they also serve tapas for sharing. No matter how large or small your appetite is Cafe Lola has you covered.

9. Main Street Pizza Co.

Address: 300 E Main St, Unit 101

Here you’ll find the typical Italian bistro food like pizza, subs, and pasta. However, many menu items have a twist.

Like my Philly Cheesesteak also had alfredo sauce on it. I don’t typically like alfredo sauce but that creamy addition to the sandwich made a huge difference.

No worries if you are gluten-free because they have a cauliflower parmesan crust that is delicious!

10. Red Meze

Address: 109 Buffalo St

Red Meze is THE spot for delicious Mediterranean food in Johnson City. Their famous kabobs are a must-try, as well as their perfectly cooked gyros and classic Turkish comfort food.

People can’t get enough of Red Meze’s unique, flavorful dishes. But the amazing food isn’t even the best part about this place – everyone loves the super friendly owners and staff that make customers feel welcomed and taken care of.

This is by far one of the best places to eat in Johnson City, TN!

11. Cootie Brown’s

Address: 1404 W State of Franklin Rd & 2715 N Roan St

If you are with a group who has varying tastes then Cootie Brown’s would be one of the best places to eat in Johnson City for you.

The variety on the menu here really is unmatched. And all of it is good.

They have great salads, pizza, southern comfort food, sandwiches, and BBQ. I loved the atmosphere here too. It’s colorful with a super open and airy interior.

Make sure to finish off your meal with some Key Lime Pie. You won’t forget that slice anytime soon.

12. Korean Taco House

Address: 101 Buffalo St

The outside of Korean Taco House may not look like much but the food keeps people coming back again and again. The building itself is very small so many people opt for to-go orders.

The pancakes and bulgogi are highly recommended. They have had a few issues with power and pipes freezing in their building lately but if they aren’t open they’re located downtown near many other restaurants.

13. Pal’s Sudden Service

Address: Multiple

Okay, yes this is a fast food joint. You may be wondering if I’ve lost my marbles putting this on a “best restaurants” list but you have to go here if you visit Northeast Tennessee.

This is the only area you’ll find them! The only one where you can sit down is the original Pal’s in Kingsport.

They are known for their burgers, hot dogs, and how quickly they move people through the line. They basically throw food out the window.

You can also get breakfast here and if you do then get the cheddar rounds with fry seasoning and thank me later. I also love their sausage biscuits.

14. The Black Olive

Address: 202 E Main St

The Black Olive has been known for their delicious Italian food and subs, but did you know they’ve started serving brunch?

I had their breakfast pizza and I think it was one of the most delicious breakfast meals that I’ve had. The crust was soft and fluffy with what tasted like garlic butter and a mixture of herbs on top.

I was so sad I could only eat half of it before I was completely full. And I got the half portion!

They have a nice patio for outdoor seating that would be a great spot to enjoy during nice weather.

People rave about their Cheese Knots so if you come for dinner make sure to get those as an appetizer!

Make sure you grab a treat afterward at Cakebuds. They have some of the best ice cream in Johnson City!

15. Label

Address: 112 Tipton St

Label is definitely one of the best restaurants in Johnson City where you’ll find great appetizers and American entrees.

Steak, chicken, and seafood are the common dishes on the menu but they also serve delicious sushi. Plus their Drunken Goat Burger was voted the best burger in Johnson City!

The Drunken Goat comes topped with Buffalo Trace bourbon blackberry jam, smoked bacon, mixed greens, and goat cheese.

When I heard it was voted the best in JC, I knew I had to try it and I wasn’t disappointed.

They have great daily drink specials and one of the best bars in town. If you’re a beer person, you can get Great Oak Brewing beer on tap here. It’s one of the best breweries in Johnson City.

One other thing I loved about Label was the atmosphere. It was super cozy with lots of wood accents and leather seating inside. Great for date night or a small group.

Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.

16. Southern Craft BBQ

Address: 601 Spring St, Unit #101

If you like smoked meat with down-home southern sides then do not skip this restaurant. Their BBQ is out of this world but they also serve smoked turkey, chicken, and even salmon.

If you love their sauce then don’t worry, you can buy a bottle and take it home with you for just $5.

Great Oak Brewing is part of Southern Craft as well so make sure to try a craft beer with your meal. They have a long list of their regular beers plus seasonal offerings on tap.

17. Juan Siao

Address: 104 Tipton St

This is one of the newer restaurants in Johnson City and it really makes an impression.

The staff is incredible, the food is delicious, and they have unique signature drinks.

The cuisine here is Asian & Mexican fusion so they have stir fry, wok-fired specialties, tacos, and other entrees that blend Mexican and Asian flavors.

I had the Wok-seared Shrimp & Pork Dumplings as an appetizer and they came in the Soya ginger. I think these were my favorite dumplings I’ve had.

My Snapper Tacos were also delicious with the pineapple chutney balancing out the jerk rub and Asian slaw giving it a nice crunch.

Make sure you add the queso to your side of chips.

The same group that opened Juan Siao owns multiple other restaurants in the area including 620 State – one of the best restaurants in Bristol, TN.

18. Timber!

Address: 415 W Walnut St

With an eclectic menu that changes frequently, this is one of the most unique restaurants in Johnson City. The best way to enjoy these dishes is by ordering a few and sharing them among a group.

As I said, their menu changes frequently but the burger is a consistent hit. It’s a really cute place too with picnic tables and a nice bar inside.

Everyone loves the unique cocktails here too and they also have beer and wine.

19. Freiberg’s

Address: 203 E Main St

I haven’t had schnitzel like this since I got back from Germany. It was unbelievably good. The breading was golden and crispy on the outside and the chicken was tender and juicy.

I got red cabbage and fried potatoes to go with it and wasn’t able to eat half of my sides. I was wary about ordering the red cabbage but let me tell you it was delicious.

The brats and pretzel appetizer was also one of the best I’ve had.

20. Project BBQ

Address: 3301 N Roan St

Project BBQ serves Texas-style BBQ and they serve it all kinds of ways on the menu. BBQ tacos, sandwiches, nachos, trays. Their burgers are even made with 100% ground brisket.

If you’re a fan of Texas-style BBQ then you’ll love it here. Popular sides include the mac & cheese and collard greens.

21. Wellington’s

Address: 1216 W State of Franklin Rd

Located in The Carnegie Hotel, this is really a unique Johnson City restaurant that will make you think you’ve landed back in the 1920s.

I visited for breakfast and tried the pancakes which were perfectly fluffy on the inside with a little crispness on the outside from the griddle.

Dinner is also very popular here, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or having a date night.

They have a fantastic bar and don’t skip the desserts here! If you’re visiting for the weekend, then book a room at The Carnegie – it’s one of my favorite places to stay.

22. White Duck Taco

Address: 126 Buffalo St

I loved seeing that White Duck Taco has expanded because they started in Asheville! They make specialty tacos that mix flavors you might not expect but are oh so good.

I can personally recommend the lamb gyro and fish taco. White Duck is attached to YeeHaw Brewing so you can order your tacos and walk over to grab a beer at the bar.

This is a fun and casual spot if you’re eating with a group or just want something more laid-back.

23. Mid City Grill

Address: 106 S Commerce St

The first couple of times that I visited town I wasn’t able to try Mid City Grill and I had SO many people recommend it to me.

So I decided when I drove up for a day hike that I was going to see what all the fuss was about.

After hiking Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower, I was absolutely starved and ordered online so it would be ready when I got into town.

I ordered the classic cheeseburger with fries and oh my goodness it was delicious! There is a special seasoning they put on the burger that really sets it apart.

I also don’t typically like fries that are cut like that, but they were a little crispy and not too greasy so I was pleasantly surprised. I got a cup of ranch on the side to dip them in.

This is a no-frills diner-type spot and well-worth a visit. They also have a large selection of vegan items on the menu which is unique for a burger spot.

24. Juniper

Address: 1033 W Oakland Ave

If you’re looking for fine dining in Johnson City, then look no further than Juniper. The restaurant is located in the old family home for the mill next door.

They are only open for dinner and their menu changes often based on what they can source locally and seasonally. Not all of their ingredients are local but a lot are.

The menu is modern American food with things like steaks and pork chops or fried chicken, fish, and even duck.

Juniper is by far one of the best restaurants in Johnson City and a must-visit for elevated cuisine.

25. Burg’r & Barrel

Address: 330 Cherry St

This is a happening spot in Johnson City because of the amazing outdoor space that you can enjoy right downtown.

There is an outdoor bar with a self-serve beer wall (when open), fire pits, lots of tables, and even cornhole.

You can even order food from a limited menu outside from QR Codes at your table or at the bar outside.

Burgers are the specialty here but they also serve handcrafted salads, chicken, and BBQ. They have a great selection of beer and wine too.

Bonus: Desserts!

Cakebuds

Address: 410 S Roan St

The owner of Cakebuds has been on multiple Food Network shows and just wrapped up judging for one of their contest shows.

We took a cookie decorating class here and Timmy, the owner, and the staff were so incredibly friendly and welcoming.

They make intricate cake creations as well as cupcakes and cookies. They serve ice cream from The Hop in Asheville and make the huge cakeshakes that are topped with different baked goods.

Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop

Address: 3135 Peoples St, Unit #300

The specialty here is pies of course and it will be hard to choose which flavor to go with. Try the 2-inch pies to sample a variety of what they offer.

You could also get a few 4-inch pies to sample or if you have a favorite flavor then go all in and get a 9-inch pie.

When I go back to Johnson City, I’ll be ordering the Cloud 9. One of their mini pies with a scoop of ice cream on top. Can’t beat that.

Sam’s Snoball Paradise

Address: 809 S Roan St #1

At Sam’s Snoball Paradise, you’ll find unique creations using shaved ice. They can do all kinds of flavors and they have a buffet full of toppings!

They also serve Hershey’s ice cream which is what I chose when I went. I wasn’t super hungry so I just got a scoop of banana pudding ice cream.

Kids would love coming here and getting these huge concoctions!

Map of Johnson City Restaurants

What Food is Johnson City Known For?

Johnson City is actually known for Pal’s Sudden Service. Founded in nearby Kingsport, TN, it has grown to be a favorite spot for both locals and tourists alike.

When I visited Northeast TN it was actually the most common thing that people told me I had to do while there. This is one of the quickest fast food stops you can make!

Wrap Up: Best Restaurants in Johnson City

Johnson City is such an underrated foodie city in my opinion! There are so many great restaurants downtown that it can be hard to choose where to go.

I also love that each one of these places is such a big part of the community. Support local restaurants, farms, and breweries. It keeps your money in the community.

Have another place in Johnson City I need to try? Send me an email!

Pin this for later!