Greek meets fine dining at this trendy spot for Mediterranean-style mezze like grilled octopus, lamb chops, and beef short ribs. An extensive cocktail menu, highlighted by anise liqueurs from Lebanon and Turkey, invites diners to relax and settle in for the evening.

A relatively recent addition to the Old City, Kefi has quickly earned a reputation as a great place for a romantic evening out, but that's not why you're here; you're looking for takeout and Kefi has it. The folks at Kefi say they're working to "bring the rich Mediterranean culture to the downtown streets of Knoxville" with their offerings of freshly made Greek favorites. The starters are too hard to choose among, so go for the Pikilia, a sampling of three spreads and a generous portion of housemade pita.

Savor Mediterranean flavors at Kefi with expertly crafted dishes and a menu with gluten-free and vegetarian options. Start with the Baba Ghanooj - grilled eggplant dressed with imported tahini, olive oil, garlic and crushed red pepper smoked almonds. Order a few sharing plates like the garides - large shrimp in garlic butter, marinated tomato and feta served with grilled bread or the fatayer - seasoned beef, pork and veal with roasted onion, tomato and dressed in dijon cream.

One of Knoxville’s newest dining experiences is bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to the Scruffy City. Kefi, which translates to “profound passion” in Greek, serves up healthy, eclectic Grecian dishes under dim, romantic lighting in a contemporary setting. The restaurant, which looks more like an upscale New York dining spot, is in the Old City within walking distance of Knoxville’s hottest bars and clubs, making it a perfect location to stop by for its late-night menu.

Knoxville’s superhero power is its diversity in culinary styles, further strengthened by local concepts like Kefi, a popular Greek restaurant in the Old City. The menu—an explosion of Greek, Lebanese, and Turkish flavors—is divided into breads and spreads, mezze, soups and salads, entrees, and dessert, and the majority of dishes are meant to be shared. Cocktails also incorporate Mediterranean flavors like fig and anise and are available in flights.

A Greek-inspired concept that embodies the idea of “Profound Passion.” This concept encapsulates our vision for bringing a unique culinary experience to Knoxville. Food is a crucial element of the ancient Mediterranean culture, and a stroll along the shores of Greece reveals tables adorned with vibrant, flavorful dishes that are both nutritious and satisfying. Beyond the cuisine, food has a special way of bringing loved ones together at the table.

Kefi is a charming eatery that brings the flavors of Greece right to your plate with a modern twist, making it a must-visit spot in the city. When you find yourself seated amidst Kefi’s inviting atmosphere, you’ll definitely want to try customer favorites like succulent lamb cutlets or mouthwatering grilled octopus. With such a tempting menu, it’s no wonder this place has quickly climbed the ranks of Knoxville’s best dining spots!

Not far behind is Kefi – a modern Greek restaurant that specialises in cocktails and small sharing plates. I’m fairly particular about the way my cocktails are mixed (many bars make them far too sweet) but Kefi’s were absolutely spectacular. My mother-in-law declared her Old Fashioned to be the best she’d ever had, while I loved the refreshing pineapple and habanero hit of the Midas Touch and the cool, minty Tears of Chios.

Kefi is a favorite among locals for its delicious Greek cuisine and high-end atmosphere. The menu features all of your Greek favorites, like dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), spanakopita (spinach pie), kebabs, and falafel. But Kefi also offers some unique takes on traditional Greek dishes, like the “Octopodi,” grilled octopus served with fava beans, rainbow chard, and slow-roasted tomato.

Food is key to a happy life in Greece, and that relationship fuels the upbeat, food-loving atmosphere at Kefi in the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee. Kefi literally translates to ‘profound passion’, and this is evidenced in every aspect of this eatery. From polite staff to great social spaces, this restaurant does Greek cuisine proud.

From the owners of Cafe 4 and The Press Room, Jim and Lori Klonaris, comes this cocktail bar and Greek restaurant. The space is well designed and makes you feel like you’re in a large city cocktail bar. Circular booths line the entrance wall along with a cozy seating area up front.

Stroll the shores of Greece, and you'll find tables filled with small plates bursting with color and flavor. That's what Kefi brings to the Old City, and with their own flair. We recommend a fresh fruit popsicle cocktail and as much meze as your table can share.

Kefi is a concept rooted in Greek which translates very roughly to "Profound Passion". This simple statement captures the essence of what they are trying to bring to Knoxville. Food is an integral piece of the ancient Mediterranean culture.

Kefi is known as “the best chicken in Knoxville” for good reason!. The incredible food was almost outdone with the cool atmosphere inside – contrasting Downtown Knoxville with its swankiness. Just like Vida, make a reservation in advance!

Kefi is a concept rooted in Greek which translates very roughly “Profound Passion”. This simple statement captures the essence of what we are trying to bring to Knoxville. Food is an integral piece of the ancient Mediterranean culture.

This Greek restaurant serves classic dishes like moussaka and spanakopita, as well as grilled meats and seafood. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Kefi in Greek means profound passion and that is what seeps out of every nook and cranny here. This is a little bit of the Mediterranean in downtown Knoxville. The food is healthy, colorful, and oh so delicious.

- Rating: 4.6/5 (242 reviews)- Price level: $$$- Address: 120 East Jackson Ave. Knoxville, Tennessee - Categories: Mediterranean, Greek, Cocktail Bars- Read more on Yelp

He names Osteria Stella (Italian) and Kefi (Greek), both in Old City, and Vida (pan-Latin) on Gay Street as his favorite examples.