Nestled in Knoxville’s Old City district of downtown is Oli Bea. The perfect little breakfast or brunch spot for those looking for fresh food served Southern style. The atmosphere of the restaurant itself boasts tons of natural light and mint green accents with hints of hardwood. House plants and Tennessee pride wall hangings make the store feel homey and hip.
Their mission
To bring residents, visitors, farmers, and vendors together in celebration of locally sourced food and by recapturing the original history of the area. Some of their local partners include Tellico Grains, Russo Bakery, Circle V Farms, Willy Butcher Shop, and Jem Farms. Their menu features all your breakfast/brunch favorites with a spectacular southern twist. Most famous for their Cruze Farm Lemon Pancakes, Breakfast Burrito, and mouth-watering Tennessee Eggs Benedict. Upon my first visit, I ordered their Tennessee Benedict made with their house-baked biscuits, local ham, poached eggs, smashed potatoes, and Rushy Springs hollandaise. UN.BE.LIEVABLE.
Taste
The biscuit was buttery and light in texture. It literally melts in your mouth with every bite. The ham was crispy and juicy full of natural smoky flavor. And the hollandaise… Bursting with lemon zing and undeniable richness. Overall the dish was incredible and I would HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who loves eggs benedict.
My friend Katie ordered the Olibea Chicken Biscuit made with pickle brined fried chicken, their house-baked biscuits, whipped sorghum, chow chow, and gravy. Once again another homerun dish! The combination of crispy fried chicken, rich gravy, spicy chow chow, and salty pickle brine puts all my previous biscuit experiences to shame. Seriously, who thinks of these killer taste amalgamations?!?
Consensus
This is definitely going to be my go-to Knoxville brunch spot from now on. I can’t wait to try their pancakes or breakfast burrito on my next visit. Their store hours are M-F 7a-1p and Saturday & Sunday 8a-2p. Stop by for a weekday breakfast or weekend brunch ASAP. You can thank me later!
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