Penny’s Cafe in Downtown Sevierville

There is a new place to find coffee, smoothies, breakfast, and lunch in downtown Sevierville. Penny’s Cafe offers all those things and more. In addition, local artists display their work in this spacious area. I went by this summer and noticed that the cafe is already quite popular. Here are some quick observations.

First, Penny’s Cafe is located across the street from the gazebo on Bruce Street—an excellent location. In the picture above, you can see the cafe is located to the right of the old post office building. Park in the parking lot across the street, on the street, or down the street near the courthouse and just walk a short distance for a really nice cappuccino.

We got a friendly greeting as we walked into Penny’s Cafe. The menu is located on the wall to the left.

This is a nice little area to wait for a friend if you are early. The view across the street of Sims Barbershop may fo a local coming or going after a nice cut.

Young people have discovered the nice coffee and more at Penny’s Cafe. This sofa is a comfortable place to catch up with friends and refresh.

The new espresso machine makes one of the best cappuccinos that I have had this year in the U.S.
I learned to love avocado toast on a trip to California so I was excited to see several variations on the menu. I ordered “Everything Avocado Toast” on rye bread, but you can order it on two other kinds of bread as well. It had the Everything Bagel seasoning and was quite substancial. I was not able to eat both pieces and was not hungry for hours.
Penny’s Cafe is spacious and visually attractive, displaying work from local artists on the walls and in display cases. You will surely find a gift or personal treasure there.
I found myself browsing the art and wondering what would look good on my walls.
If you need a gift, one can be found in this display case…

Or this …

… or this display. I love the horse painting on the back wall and wonder where it could go in my home.
There is so much art to see at Penny’s Cafe so it would be a good idea to plan extra time to do so.

In closing, Penny’s Cafe in downtown Sevierville brings coffee, food, and art to Bruce Street that has missing for a while. The cafe has already been embraced by locals and visitors alike. Drop by and enjoy a morning drink or meal to start the day. See you out and about in Sevierville.

Here are some screen shots of the coffee menu from the Penny’s Cafe Facebook page. Go to the Facebook page to see more. Here is the link.

https://www.facebook.com/pennyscafetn

Bon appetite!

Graze Burgers Opening in Downtown Sevierville

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I was excited to attend the pre-opening event for Graze Burgers downtown last night. After watching the construction going on all summer and fall, the moment had finally arrived to see the final product—and it didn’t disappoint! Come along as we got to experience one of the best new places in downtown Sevierville.

First, I am going to get straight to the point and list my top 10 reasons that Graze Burgers is going to be special. Maybe even my favorite burger place in Tennessee.

  1. The owners’ families have created restaurant legacies in East Tennessee: Angelos in Morristown, Angelos on the Point in Dandridge, and Stock and Barrel on Market Square in Knoxville. They have decades of experience in the restaurant industry and deliver a high quality experience.
  2. With a burger, you can order 1/2 fries and 1/2 onion rings! I have never seen that before because you usually have to choose one or the other. We can call them ‘frings.’
  3. The cocktail and beverage selections are excellent. (Check out the ‘Off the Rails cocktail.’)
  4. Spiked Shakes! I have never seen this before either. They make great desserts!
  5. Brioche bun!  There were many burger variations and each looked delish. There will be something for every taste. Even more, I love a brioche bun.
  6. There are windows behind the bar that will open to the outside alley and patio area. “Hello spring and summer dining al fresco!”
  7. The atmosphere inside is relaxed and fun. There are three large screen TVs on the wall and music playing in the background to keep the mood festive.
  8. The parking is plentiful nearby, both in the gazebo area and on the street.
  9. I can tell that the owners and the business will be great new neighbors downtown.
  10. I liked the water glasses. They were Duraclear or some other light material so there was no problem with breakage and they fit my hand quite well. I don’t like glasses that are too big to handle.

Let’s continue to our visit to Graze Burgers last Saturday evening in downtown Sevierville.

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Upon arrival, Melinda and I found the parking lot by the gazebo almost full of cars. We thought we were early, but there were others already there to experience Sevierville’s newest restaurant.

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Lights and signs were on. Street parking was filling up, which is rare for 5:30 on a Saturday evening downtown unless there is a special event.

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Friendly hosts and hostesses were ready to show us to a table. We got the last one available. The place was packed!

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This screenshot from the Graze Burgers Facebook page shows a sleek design, yet maintaining the original brick wall. I am not sure what to call it, but the combination of natural brick, wood, and metal makes me want to call it a ‘mountain industrial’ look. Notice the large windows behind the bar that can be rolled up in warm weather to serve customers in the alley/patio area later this year. Here is the link to the restaurant Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/grazeburgers1/

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We were lucky to arrive no later because tables were all taken.

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There is an interesting beverage list. Who doesn’t love a tall glass?

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I had researched the menu a few days before so not much time would be wasted on my selections.

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We always order fried pickles at the beach so we were not going to pass them up last night.

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Vince and Glenda Snider were ready for dinner at Graze.

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 Leesa and Jim McGill, Sevierville City Alderman.

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Ed and Bethany McCarter enjoying dinner at Graze.

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I love food served on a cookie sheet pan. Look—half fries and half onion rings. You can order one or the other, or both!

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Here is a screenshot of the main menu.

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One of the owners chats with Jim McGill after dinner. He has owned both Angelos locations in Morristown and Dandridge. Being from Morristown, that was all I needed to hear! When I grew up, Angelos in Morristown was the very best place to dine.

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Doyle Jones, local architect, and local artist/businesswoman, Bev Gwinn Jones.

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The Sevierville Commons board of directors are certainly excited to see new businesses downtown. SCA board members from left to right: Gigi Simonis, Austin Williams, and Jason Holliman.

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My favorite thing of the evening may have been the spiked shake called the Boozy S’mores because of the two roasted marshmallows on top and the ice cream delight in the glass. Oh my!

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Here is a screen shot of the beverage list.

IMG_3282What a great dinner! Afterward, Melinda and I worked our way through the crowd, said lots of ‘hellos’  and headed out the front door. It was great to finally see patrons sitting in the front windows after I watched the building progress all last summer. It came together beautifully.

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Keep an eye on the space next door because there is something going in there in the coming months. The manager told me that it is ‘top secret’ for now.

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For a Saturday evening in downtown Sevierville, cars lining both sides of the street will become more common with Graze and Bistro 109 open in the evenings.

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This screenshot from the Graze Burgers Facebook page shows some new neighbors that are most welcome in downtown Sevierville. We wish them much luck and can’t wait to visit them again while we are out and about in Sevierville. 

Save a seat for us!

Crust and Crumb Opens Downtown!

 

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I got a chance to visit Crust and Crumb early Christmas Eve morning. This is a new place downtown and it is going to be a great addition to the businesses there. Located beside 20/20 Optical on Bruce Street, the Crust and Crumb is bringing New York style sandwiches, an Italian bakery, and gourmet coffee to downtown.

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Crust and Crumb has a location in Gatlinburg and opened the Sevierville business last Wednesday. Only in business a few days, I think that they are off to a great start.

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They make all their own pastries. I wanted one of each.

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You may recognize Jackie Diaz because she sells bagels and other delights during the summers at the Sevierville Downtown Farmer’s Market. They most often sell out so I expect bagels to be an ‘in demand item’ at Crust and Crumb.

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I arrived just after 7:00 a.m. and opening time for the Crust and Crumb so I got a quick glimpse of kitchen creations. Tony Diaz was icing a Red Velvet cake and Jackie Diaz was creating some Black Forest Brownies.

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I can’t wait to try one of these some day!

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I regretted not buying a Cannoli on my last trip to New York City. Now, we can get them in Sevierville! Unbelievable.

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There is a beautiful espresso machine to make specialty coffees. My skim latte was superb!

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Brittany is an excellent barista and can create your favorite caffeine delight.

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In addition, there are some ‘grab and go’ cafe Americano coffees as well. They were good blends too. I know these things….

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Tony Diaz with the finished Red Velvet cake, beautifully finished. I think that you can buy a cake or buy a slice.

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Downtown workers and visitors can grab a coffee and a newspaper to-go at the Crust and Crumb.

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Those looking for lunch can order New York style sandwiches piled high with Boar’s Head meat. Specialties will be corned beef, Ruebens, and the High Rise sandwich piled with one pound of roast beef on rye.

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There is a nice assortment of beverages for breakfast and for lunch.

Tony Diaz said that after 4 months of work, the business is open and things are going well. He said, ” The community has been very welcoming and we appreciate it.”  After things settle down, they plan to offer home made breads and possibly a delivery service downtown. Free Wi-Fi is also on the list.

The New York artwork on the walls adds to the charm and will transport you to the Empire State.

 

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I have a feeling that the Crust and Crumb will become a popular addition to downtown Sevierville. Certainly, the food and coffees will provide a taste of New York that we don’t get a lot of in our town. This is an exciting addition to our breakfast and lunch scene and I can’t wait to return with friends. It adds another great place to be out and about in Sevierville. 

 

 

 

Food Truck Fridays Are a Hit!

 

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The first ‘Food Truck Friday’ event in downtown Sevierville is a hit! Now, if we could add an evening from 6-8 pm so people who can’t leave their jobs for lunch could visit then it would be even more exciting! Due to fall break, I was able to go downtown to see this event and here is what I found.

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Actually, coffee comes first. My first stop was Courthouse Donuts to get a skim Mocha Latte from the coffee cart by Refill Coffee. It is made to order right there and you got a free donut with your coffee.  The vendor was very nice and well prepared to make about any coffee that you would like.  He will visit several more times so check the Facebook page for Courthouse Donuts because that is how I found out about it. Mine was perfect!

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Blogger needs!

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Next, I followed the downtown workers and visitors to the gazebo area for lunch hour.

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One concern I had was how to eat lunch from a food truck with nowhere to sit—but Sevierville Commons Association had already considered that. There was a nice, long table to use for lunch. I like how it promoted community and conversations among lunch goers. Well done!

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Crepes are a specialty food and take a few minutes to make, but the final product can be sweet or savory perfection.

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A Nutella and strawberry crepe. Foodie heaven.

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I remember this vendor from the Bruce Street Brewfest and it was quite popular.

 

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Lines began to build up after 11:30 with the local lunch crowd. It was a good sight to behold.

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Knoxwurst offered some good high protein, Paleo diet choices who those trying to reduce their carbs. Leslie Strader let me take a picture of her order to get this pic.

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By  noon, the crowds were building and lines were 10-15 people long. This proves that people will enjoy food trucks and gathering for lunch downtown.

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This vendor has shops in Morristown and Jefferson City. Follow up lunch with something sweet!

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If you like frozen treats then this food truck will ‘hit the spot.’ They also offer samples.

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Food trucks have been a foodie phenomenon for the past few years so it is exciting to see them downtown. The schedule for the rest of this month can be seen in the first photo in this blog story. Check the selections for the coming weeks. Many people work in places that won’t allow them enough time to attend Food Truck Fridays so I hope that an evening could be added in the future. There is certainly something for everyone.

Don’t be in a hurry because food trucks cook and prepare the meals fresh as you order them. Enjoy the sunshine, good weather, and friends. Also, try some things that may not be easily found in this area.

Fridays just got more interesting to dine out and about in Sevierville…

 

A Year in Review: Out and About Sevierville 2017

It is time to take one last look back at 2017. According to Google Analytics, the second year of this blog found 67 stories and 6,732 views. It was seen by people in 52 countries. The top five after the United States: Canada, China, Mexico, Philippines, and Ireland. With all that production, it is appropriate to take one quick look back over the shoulder before stepping into 2018.  Here is a look at 2017. Our little town was pretty busy!

If I were to give awards to story topics, then this is how it would follow…

MY Favorite Stories

My favorite stories? There was a 3- way- tie. These three stories were fun because they were especially creative and involved collaboration with D.B. Photography, and others. If you missed them, click the link and take a look.

  1. The Most Instagram-Worthy Spots in Downtown Sevierville  https://outandaboutinsevierville.com/2017/10/08/the-most-instagram-worthy-spots-in-downtown-sevierville/

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2.    I am dreaming of… a Mural in Downtown Sevierville  https://outandaboutinsevierville.com/2017/11/26/i-am-dreaming-of-a-mural-in-downtown-sevierville/

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3.    Formal Treasures, From the Heart   https://outandaboutinsevierville.com/2017/02/20/formal-treasures-from-the-heart/

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This is the info for the blog photographer.

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As for other stories during the year…

Biggest surprise: the immensity of the Sheriff’s Office Spooktacular Event for Halloween. There must have been thousands of people there!

Fun, but the most out of my comfort zone were Sims Barbershop, the SCHS Turkey Chase 5 K, and flying high at Sevier Air.

My favorite new event: the United Way Progressive Dinner.

Most relaxing story: Oak Haven Spa.

Best sources of consistent blog stories 

1 Sevierville Commons Arts Council

2. Sevierville Commons Farmers Market

‘I am rooting for you’ award

Bloomingtails Thrift Boutique. Go visit this wonderful little place full of treasures. Proceeds go to Pets Without Parents.

Unique fun for ladies

Ladies Derby Hat Social

I would like to spend more time

at Charlotte’s Creative on Bruce Street

Celebrity Surprise

Running into Crusoe the Celebrity Dachshund at the Dolly Statue

And so many more things. I leave 2017 here with pictures that best capture the year while out and about in Sevierville. The photos start from last January and end with this month.

( View on desktop for better view of mosaic photo presentation.)

See you in 2018!

United Way Presents Sevierville Progressive Dinner, November 2017

I have always wanted to attend a ‘progressive dinner’ and finally got a chance  last Thursday evening at a event presented by the United Way. The United Way of Sevier County continues to consistently provide innovative and enjoyable events while serving the community. Here is a recap of that enjoyable evening.

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Bruce Street was closed to traffic so we just walked up through the center of town. There, we found several booths set up with items to sample.

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Merchants of Beer in Knoxville had a selection of cigars to peruse. Notice the nice silver plated ash tray on on the right side of the table.

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The Sevierville Casual Pint brought a sample of the New Belgium Accumulation White IPA.

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I like this picture of the Old Forge barrel lid on display with the barbershop in the background. It was the last customer of the day in the barbershop.

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I loved the fire pit in the middle of Bruce Street. Not only was it beautiful, but the warmth was a nice amenity a couple of hours later. Notice the white tent with tables set up for the main course of the progressive dinner to be served later in the evening.

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United Way Board member, Elise Collier-Massey, preparing for the event with her husband Beau Massey.

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Dustin Manning, owner of Bistro 109, chatting with Leesa and Jim McGill.

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Sierra Williams and Elise Collier-Massey ready to greet guests.

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The check in table was located by the gazebo. It was quick and efficient so we breezed right into the starting point for the progressive dinner.

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United Way Board member, Vonda Cash, with Sophia Conerly, a Sevierville Commons board member.

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Cheri and Al Schmutzer ready for the evening. They were also celebrating an anniversary. Congratulations to them!

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This handout explains the procedures for the evening. People just voluntarily divided into two groups and it went quite smoothly.

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Appetizers from Bistro 109 were perfect! These kabobs were healthy and easy to handle during the cocktail hour.

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You become proud when one of your former students goes to the Tennessee House of Representatives. This is Tennessee State Representative Andy Farmer.

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Mike Comer, United Way Vice Chair, thanks attendees and explains the procedures for the evening. Board member, Austin Williams, is pictured behind him.

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Sophia and I made our first stop at the Arts in Common Gallery for a salad by Healthy Balance. The strawberry and spinach salad was so fresh and was a great first course in the progressive dinner. Please notice the beautiful, old brick wall. I love the seasonal decor as well.

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Local artist, Andrea Wilson, (pictured in tan sweater, center) was giving a tour of the Arts in Common Gallery to United Way supporters. The back wall contains the original brick and windows. It will be fun to see how the Sevier Commons Arts Council uses this new creative space in the years to come.

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If I didn’t have a chihuahua then I would definitely have a Pomeranian. There could not be a sweeter little dog than this one. Sweet Annie!

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Next stop was Mom’s Vintage Kitchen down the street. This was the best pumpkin soup that I have ever had in my life. I actually walked into the restaurant today to see if they had more. It had little’ heat’ to it so it was really a foodie delight. As you can see, I was talking a lot and didn’t finish my first course so I just carried it with me to Mom’s. I love this restaurant!

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Emily Whaley also enjoys the soup at our second stop on the progressive dinner.

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We finished the soup course then proceeded outside to the tent. It was an elegant presentation on Bruce Street for the evening.

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With the Sevier County courthouse in the background, Kirk Fleta prepares to perform. Mike Comer makes announcements with Amy Harper, Executive Director of the United Way.

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I have heard of Kirk Fleta and finally to got to hear him in person. Find him on Facebook and Youtube. Here is a link       https://www.facebook.com/kirk.fleta

http://www.KirkFleta.com        www.FletaFest.com

Here is a video clip of Kirk Fleta singing the first song of the evening, by James Taylor.

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Montay Calloway, branch manager at U.S. Bank, chats by the fire pit with a fellow supporter of the United Way of Sevier County.

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Mixologists from Old Forge Distillery are always friendly and ready to serve.

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We were ready for dinner under the big, white tent. Buffet style was quick and efficient. Please notice the pumpernickel bread from Mom’s Vintage Kitchen in the basket in front of Sophia. It is gluten free and the best in the world. I promise!

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Restaurateurs Dustin Manning and Christie Champ standing by with their wonderful creations. Pass me another slice of pumpernickel bread, please!

The meal went too quickly! We could have stayed under the white tent for another hour, but it was time to move on to the dessert course at Courthouse Donuts.

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Sara greeted us with dessert course. Sara was our model last month in the “Most Instagram Worthy Spots in Downtown Sevierville.” Here is a link to that blog story

https://outandaboutinsevierville.com/?s=Most+Instagram+Worthy

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A sweet tooth will love the Cherry Crumble cake from Courthouse Donuts.

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Lauren Chesney from King University and another supporter of the United Way of Sevier County.

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The final course and great conversation in Courthouse Donuts for the final course of the progressive dinner presented by the United Way of Sevier County. Pictured are Joe Cagley, Clancy Optical; Chris Massie, Titanic; Beau Massey, and a supporter of the United Way of Sevier County.

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Also enjoying the United Way Progressive Dinner are Danielle King, Mariah Farmer, and Rachelle Shults.

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I heard several people remark that an additional benefit of the United Way Progressive Dinner was the chance to talk, connect, and network with people that you rarely get a chance to see and spend time with. Conversation and networking is what is happening in this picture during the dessert course at Courthouse Donuts. We enjoyed it so much!

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Alas, all good fun must come to an end for I had an early call at work the next morning.  I slipped out of Courthouse Donuts and took one last look at the United Way Progressive Dinner through the windows. It was one of the most innovative events that I have attended anywhere. Easy, relaxed, and completely enjoyable. Everything was close and convenient. Bruce street and the businesses there lend themselves easily to a variety of events. This one utilized everything beautifully. I wouldn’t change a thing and can’t wait until next year.

The United Way Progressive Dinner is one of my favorite ways to spend time out and about in Sevierville. 

See you at the gazebo!

Put On Your Thai at Thai Basil: One of Our Favorites in Sevierville

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This is probably the best Thai restaurant in East Tennessee. Maybe the whole state. If you haven’t visited yet, it is time to put on your Thai and go to Thai Basil in Sevierville.

I recently met friends for lunch as it seems to be our favorite gathering place for that. Here are some of our best recommendations. Enjoy!

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This is something to be proud of.

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(Overlook the glare.)  Others recommend Thai Basil as well.

First, here is a link to their lunch menu on the website. http://www.thaibasiltn.com/lunch.html

For lunch, you can order your choice of a starter, main dish, protein, and level of spiciness. Go with mild if you can’t stand much ‘heat.’

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Start with the lemongrass or coconut soup. I came last winter when I wasn’t feeling well and it really helped a lot.

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Spring roll bliss.

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I always order Pad Woonsen with tofu. The noodles are bean thread noodles and very low carb. It is always an explosion of flavors.

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My friend ordered pork with garlic black pepper.

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I like the decor and usually sense a nice ‘zen’ feeling while dining here.

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The pictures on the wall make you want to travel to Thailand soon.

The waitstaff are excellent. They will give you a warm greeting and seat you immediately, if a table is available. The staff are quick and efficient. The food always seems fresh and cooked perfectly. I recommend getting a mild degree of hotness. Medium is too much for me!

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I could write more, but it is time for lunch! If you are a tourist visiting the area, Thai Basil is a local secret. Take a look if you like this kind of feel. Thai Basil is an exotic way to get out and about in Sevierville.

 

 

Early and Late Visits to the Friday Farmers Market: July 7, 2017

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A schedule change allowed me to visit the downtown Sevierville farmers market close to opening time yesterday. Cooler temps made it a nice experience. I added a couple of visits to other places downtown later. Here is what I saw yesterday.

These candles smell so good. One ingredient is coconut oil. When the candle is put out, you can touch the melted wax and massage it on to achy joints, muscles, etc.

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Opening time is peaceful, yet bustling with activity.

I bought some bee pollen from this vendor because it is supposed to be good as a health supplement. Bee pollen can help reduce allergies, increase immune systems, ease digestion, and improve energy. I could use all those benefits!

The Pigeon Forge FFA is getting some good experience and product exposure at the market.

Beautifully hand crafted coffee scoop/ candle snifters and fan/ light pulls.

A great ‘find’ for me yesterday was the doggie bandana. My favorite, of course, was the orange and white bandana.

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The Sevierville Commons Art Council is busy preparing for their new space on Bruce Street and a special event to expand their fundraising efforts.

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Check out this event and get your tickets soon!

We always enjoy looking at this vendor’s booth. They may bring some peppermint plants soon. I asked for some because they are supposed to keep spiders away.

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The Reunited were back playing for the market. Music adds such a festive, cheerful tone to things. It was great to hear them play again.

You can never have too many sunflowers!

I went to Courthouse Donuts for coffee. This family let me take a ‘foodie’ picture of their doughnuts. Later, Karen and I ended back there for lunch. Try the tuna melt or chicken salad.

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Jennifer Dyer always has a friendly greeting and the best doughnuts in this area. We love her place!

Next, my friend Karen had never been to Two Coyotes Studio so we went there after lunch. Everyone needs to go there! There is always something pretty to see, touch, and buy. There was a jewelry sale with some outrageous prices too.

So many treasures here and such fun to browse.

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My friend, Karen, picking out some charms for her charm bracelet.

We saw some excellent deals! Check out this store soon. Look to see if the ‘open’ sign is on her door.

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I visited the farmers market both early and late on Friday. Both times were nice. Early opening time will have the best temps and selection. Closing time may be sunnier and there may be some last minute bargains with some vendors. Karen and I enjoyed a coffee, browsing the market, a lunch at Courthouse Donuts, and shopping at Two Coyotes Studio. A summer Friday well spent out and about in Sevierville. 

See you next Friday!

Mom’s Vintage Kitchen in Downtown Sevierville

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(This restaurant has moved to a new location. Check their Facebook page for updates. )

A new restaurant opened downtown on April 1st and I finally made it there. You are going to love this new place for breakfast and lunch. Take a look now at Mom’s Vintage Kitchen.

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The restaurant is located on Bruce Street next to 20/20 Optical.

There will be a special each day. I hear that the chicken and dumplings special is most popular.

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The vintage decor is charming and will take you back to another time. There are many different places to sit, both tables and stools.

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My favorite sitting area may be the stools.

Christie Champ started as a baker at the Bee’s Knees. Then, she began selling bread and pastries at the Sevierville farmers market last year. When the building space became open, Champ began remodeling in March and Mom’s Vintage Kitchen was open by April 1st.

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A menu board filled with wonderful possibilities.

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Mom’s Vintage Kitchen specializes in fresh, home-made ‘in-house,’ gluten free products. They also do not cook with oil. In fact, the restaurant is one of the gluten free stops for the Knoxville and Sevierville areas.

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There is a milk-shake bar and ice cream shop there. We love Mayfield’s brand!

Catering is available and they make custom cakes. I took the two pictures below from her menu. I like the ‘doctor’ cake on the left.

 

As if it couldn’t get any better…they are soon going to add gourmet coffee, espressos, lattes, and cappuccinos!

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My friends have already had lunch here and share great reviews. For example, one friend, Tad Wynn, ate there today and gave the food two ‘thumbs up.’ He reports, ” My ham and Swiss sandwich was exceptional – fresh, homemade bread and plenty of ham! They have daily specials, also. I can’t wait to try the beef stew and chicken and dumpling.” Another friend, Sheley Rose, was very impressed with the food this week and wants us to go meet for lunch there next week. She said that she tried several cookies and lemon is her favorite.

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We have a new place to go downtown now so don’t hesitate to visit this restaurant for breakfast or dinner. It will be a gluten free option for many. See you out and about in Sevierville. 

 

A Favorite Downtown Sevierville Restaurant: Bistro 109 !

Whatever the occasion, I always enjoy going to Bistro 109! To prove it, this story has pictures from at least three different visits: summer, fall, and winter. It is quite a delightful experience. In addition, it won the Diner’s Choice in 2015. Let me tell you more about my favorite restaurant in downtown Sevierville.

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Bistro 109 is located at 109 Bruce Street in downtown Sevierville. Hence, the name. Here is a link to the Facebook page   https://www.facebook.com/bistro109/   . In addition, they have a very nice website at http://bistro109.com . The webpage has additional photos and a copy of the menu. Really nice photos!

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Schools were out for flu on Thursday so that presented a rare opportunity to have lunch downtown. I enjoy looking at the specials of the day posted in the window. Tiramisu! Chocolate! Parking is always easy. Usually a space is located in front of the restaurant or not far up the street.

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As you walk in the door, you will see a beautiful Baby Grand (?) piano. Come on Friday and Saturday evenings to hear American standards and other songs played by Brian Whitcomb and Bobby Aiken.

Can you name that tune? This is from last May.

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My favorite part of the restaurant, by far, is the long copper bar. I always find my eyes drifting in that direction. So beautiful.

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Unfortunately, I am a failed blogger as I forgot to take pictures of our lunch yesterday. I ordered the Orange Cranberry Chicken Salad sandwich. It was gone by the time I remembered my camera. I had seen Andrea Wilson at the bar waiting for her lunch order. She recommended the fried okra and told that they serve it year round. I got it for a side with my sandwich and was not disappointed.

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My friends and I enjoyed our December dinner at Bistro 109. One of us ordered a vegetable plate and we all wished that we had ordered it too.

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Breaded fried goat cheese was a delectable appetizer with tomato jam. Will order again and again.

 

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I often order a Cobb salad. The presentation is so nice!

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Karen ordered a pesto pasta dish and some extra cheese. She loved it!

Bread and dipping oil with Italian seasonings. Wonderful.

Bistro 109 offers on and off-site catering. We noticed that  the room was set up and apparently something special was scheduled  for after our visit. Maybe a wedding reception? I’ll bet it was grand.

Here is the back dining room in holiday festive decoration.

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This is one of my favorite places to frequent in Sevierville due to several factors. First, I love the decor and the ambiance because I feel that I have entered a special place. The building is in a historic area of downtown and has great character. Second, the menu offers ‘small plates,’ where you can order some items in a large or a smaller quantity. I rarely see small plates offered on menus so this quite special. Third, the piano music on weekends! Oh my, what a nice touch. Make a request and the talented musicians will surely know the tune you want to hear. Leave a small gratuity to show your appreciation for such artistry. Fourth, it feels like such a special place; yet, you can dress casually if you like. Fifth, the general manager and wait staff are the most professional that I have seen in Sevierville. You won’t find better food and beverage service in the county. Zach is observant, friendly, and has a good sense of humor. He keeps things flowing well. Finally, the owner, Dustin Manning, has kept downtown Sevierville alive in the evenings for years with his restaurant. Dustin is friendly and wants to make sure all customers are happy with their experience. His many talents are evident throughout the restaurant. It is a pleasure to all the senses. You can also see Dustin at his other business, D Garden, in downtown Sevierville. That must be a future blog post this spring!

Here is a link to that business. https://www.facebook.com/DGardenfloratique/

The webpage can be found here for D Garden. Nice!   http://www.mydgarden.com

If you are out and about in Sevierville then follow the sound of piano music and walk into one of the best experiences downtown. You will enjoy your experience at Bistro 109.