Best Restaurants at Knoxville (TYS)
TYS has dining options throughout its terminal — from local institutions to reliable chains. Below is a terminal-by-terminal guide to the highlights, plus the best quick bites, sit-down spots, and what to expect on pricing before your flight.
Airport Dining · TYS
What restaurants are at Knoxville (TYS)?
TYS operates a single terminal, so all dining is accessible once you clear security. Here are the standout options:
| Restaurant | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ruby Tuesday | Sit-down American (burgers, steaks, salads) | $$ |
| Tennessee Marketplace | Grab-and-go sandwiches, salads & drinks | $ |
| Quiznos Subs | Fast food subs | $ |
| Express by Uno | Pizza/casual dining | $ |
| Cinnabon | Bakery / cinnamon rolls | $ |
| Starbucks Coffee | Coffee & pastries | $ |
What's the best quick bite at Knoxville?
Tennessee Marketplace — grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and drinks with the longest hours in the terminal (4:30am–8pm), post-security.
Quick-service counters at TYS typically get you through the line in 5–10 minutes at off-peak times, and up to 20 minutes during the morning rush. Budget an extra 15 minutes at minimum if you plan to eat before your flight — and check your Leave-By Time before you sit down so you know exactly how much runway you have.
Where can I get a sit-down meal at Knoxville?
Ruby Tuesday (post-security) — TYS's only full-service sit-down restaurant, serving burgers, steaks, and salads from 7am–7pm.
Full-service restaurants at TYS typically require 45–75 minutes from being seated to paying the check. If you want a relaxed dining experience, plan to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before boarding — factor in security wait, the walk to your gate, and a buffer for the unexpected. The Leave-By calculator can fold your meal time into your total airport plan.
How much does food cost at Knoxville?
TYS runs modest small-airport pricing — counter items generally run $8–14 and Ruby Tuesday's full-service entrees run roughly $12–22, noticeably cheaper than big-hub airport dining. All food concessions are located past the TSA checkpoint; there are no dining options on the pre-security level.
Airport restaurants across the US typically charge 20–40% above street prices due to higher operating costs, rent, and logistics. At TYS, use this rough guide:
| Price Symbol | Per Person | Typical Options |
|---|---|---|
| $ | Under $12 | Fast food, coffee, grab-and-go snacks |
| $$ | $12–25 | Fast-casual, sandwiches, pub fare |
| $$$ | Over $25 | Full-service restaurants, steakhouses, seafood |
Prices as of 2026. Tip (18–20%) is additional at full-service restaurants.
Can I bring outside food into Knoxville?
Yes — TSA allows solid foods through security checkpoints at TYS. You can pack a sandwich, snacks, fruit, homemade food, or even a full restaurant meal in your carry-on bag and bring it through the checkpoint without any issue.
The restriction applies to liquids and gels over 3.4 oz (100 mL): soups, dips, nut butters in large containers, juice boxes, and similar items must follow the 3-1-1 rule or be placed in checked baggage. Solid food — including wrapped sandwiches, chips, candy, produce, and baked goods — passes through freely.
This means you can save significantly on airport food prices by packing your own meal or picking something up before you enter the terminal. See the full TSA food policy and tips in our guide: Can you bring food through airport security?
Arrive early enough for a relaxed meal
The Leave-By calculator folds your real-time TYS security wait, drive time with traffic, and gate walk into one exact time to leave home — so you arrive with time to eat, not just sprint.
Calculate your Leave-By Time →See also: TYS TSA wait times · TYS security tips · Bringing food through security
Common questions about dining at TYS
What are the best restaurants at TYS?
TYS has one terminal with several dining options airside. Highlights include Ruby Tuesday, Tennessee Marketplace, Quiznos Subs, and more. Most options are available after clearing security.
What is the best quick bite at TYS?
Tennessee Marketplace — grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and drinks with the longest hours in the terminal (4:30am–8pm), post-security.
Is there a sit-down restaurant at TYS?
Ruby Tuesday (post-security) — TYS's only full-service sit-down restaurant, serving burgers, steaks, and salads from 7am–7pm.
How much does food cost at TYS?
TYS runs modest small-airport pricing — counter items generally run $8–14 and Ruby Tuesday's full-service entrees run roughly $12–22, noticeably cheaper than big-hub airport dining. All food concessions are located past the TSA checkpoint; there are no dining options on the pre-security level. Airport restaurants typically charge 20–40% above street prices. As a rough guide: $ = under $12, $$ = $12–25, and $$$ = over $25 per person.
Can I bring food through TYS security?
Yes — TSA allows solid foods through security checkpoints at TYS. You can bring a sandwich, snacks, fruit, or even a full meal from outside the airport in your carry-on. Liquids and gels over 3.4 oz are still restricted; soups, dips, and similar items must comply with the 3-1-1 rule. See the full policy in our guide.