Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Ruby Sunshine Knoxville

    4.1 (598 reviews)
    Open 7:00 am - 2:00 pm
    Updated 3 weeks ago

    Waitlist - Ruby Sunshine Knoxville

    Live Current wait: under 5 minutes

    Ruby Sunshine Knoxville Reservations

    Ruby Sunshine Knoxville Photos

    Business Info

    RUBY SUNSHINE KNOXVILLE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Touristy
    Trendy
    Moderate noise

    More like Ruby Sunshine Knoxville

    Recommended Reviews - Ruby Sunshine Knoxville

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Breakfast tacos
    Shea S.

    We went here on a very busy Saturday late morning/early afternoon. There was a wait for a table, but we were able to get seats at the bar area. I had the breakfast tacos and they were amazing. So flavorful. While I didn't try any this trip, they have a variety of breakfast cocktails that looked delicious and fun. They have indoor and patio seating. It has a modern diner type feel to it. Service was very good and food came out quick.

    Bacon Bloody Mary
    Alan F.

    So happy to have finally made it into Ruby Sunshine! This little gem sitting on the Northwest corner of Market Square has been on my must try list for years but has not worked out until today! My wife and I were seated at a tiny 2-person booth next to the bar. The bar had about a dozen seats and looked inviting. There was a large outdoor patio that was packed on this Sunday morning! Inside dining room was bright and colorful with paintings and fun pictures and descriptions of menu items. After starting with one of the best Bloody Mary we have ever had (so thick and spicy and yummy!!!!) we ordered from the extensive menu. I had a 3 Little Pigs Omelet which was bacon and sausage patty and sausage link with 3 eggs and Swiss cheese. Served with a side of grits that were perfectly textured and tasted wonderful. Also a biscuit. The wife ordered biscuits and sausage gravy with a side of fried chicken. It was hot and yummy and delicious! Service was quick. All aspects of our dining experience were perfect and we can't wait to visit again!

    Beignets
    Jon L.

    Click your heels twice and you'll be at Ruby Sunshine, a New Orleans-themed brunch joint at Market Square. Eggs Benedict appeared to be a big part of their menu so I ordered the Chicken St. Charles, fried chicken on top of eggs Benedict and a biscuit. While the chicken and gravy were very salty, still had a pretty good flavor. Unfortunately despite the decent presentation, the eggs were overcooked, basically hard boiled. Instead of replacing the dish I did ask for them to bring a replacement poached egg and some gravy, which they did. The beignets were extremely sugary but this time had a peach flavor, which was a great brunch dessert. When a brunch place struggles to cook an eggs benedict, it wouldn't be my first choice, but it was pretty good.

    Outdoor patio (featuring our birthday boy)

    I don't review much, but I had to with our experience here! Even on a busy Saturday the staff went above and beyond to accommodate us since we had a dog and needed outdoor seating. We were celebrating our pup's birthday and many staff members came by to say hi! They placed us in the perfect spot outside in the perfect atmosphere so that we had plenty of room for our crazy pup to wander on his leash and not get in the way. They also gave us a water bowl for him since it was a hot day. The food was perfect and came out just how we asked! Props to our waitress, Prescott and the manager Savannah! Will be returning in the future!

    French toast with bacon
    Alicia M.

    The best part we found parking out front of the restaurant that was under $5 for an hour. We had breakfast inside the Ruby Slipper. We had been to the one located in New Orleans and found this location a little disappointing. The booth benches were very hard with no soft surface to sit comfortably. I did enjoy hot chocolate with whipped cream and a splash of chocolate syrup on top. I had the French toast and bacon. I never got strawberries put on top of my meal. My spouse had two eggs, bacon, biscuit, grits and potatoes. We did appreciate the waitress taking our order and providing a to go cup of coffee for my spouse. The food was acceptable but not sure if I wagon out of my way next time.

    Steve E.

    We started my birthday here for breakfast. Saw solid reviews on Yelp and gave it a try. The morning margaritas and bloody Mary's were the first indication we were in the right place. The service was fun and pleasant. The food was Devine. The Benedict's and shrimp and grits were perfectly cooked. Great start to a great day.

    Biscuits & Gravy
    Anna Y.

    I've been to the Ruby Sunshine in Nashville- so I knew this was a great option for breakfast after a late night Tennessee game. We used the Yelp waitlist feature and it made things super convenient! The French toast bites are now officially a MUST get when we come back! The biscuits and gravy is consistently sooo good no matter where you are! Everyone loved what they got. What a great restaurant!

    Biscuits and gravy with an added friend green tomato.
    Susan F.

    The food here is very good. Some portions were smaller than expected. (The beignet bites were a starter with only about 8 or 9 crouton-sized bites. Delicious but not enough for a table appetizer or meal.) Our server was really nice. She shared her favorites when we told her it was our first time and she didn't forget about us, even though we were on the patio and not ordering alcohol. This place can have a very long wait, so I recommend going to their website and getting on the wait list. It updates your place in line, so we sat down very quickly. My biggest issue was the bathrooms. They were filthy. I KNOW brunch is busy, but someone needs to attend to the bathrooms a few times.

    French Toast Bites Starter
    Bob B.

    Nice interior, we were on the lower level and did not look upstairs. Staff was very friendly. Keeping in mind this is a breakfast place I think their dishes are overpriced. The French toast starter was extremely pricy for the quantity that was provided. Breakfast tacos was a good portion size for the price. The biscuits and gravy seemed over priced for 1 1/2 biscuits two eggs and two slices of bacon. On top of it the gravy had an odd flavor. I ended up scrapping it off the biscuits. Not my kind of breakfast place I guess.

    The Trifecta
    Clay T.

    In town visiting family and was told I had to try The Trifecta! A trio of different eggs Benedicts, one with fried chicken, one pulled pork, and one shrimp. What a dish! It all tasted great and was extremely filling. Service took a bit longer than expected but I have to imagine that dish takes a lot of work to make. Restaurant has a great location downtown Knoxville by tons of shopping and the main parking garage. Restaurant has great outdoor and indoor seating; was fairly full for a casual Friday morning. I imagine weekends are busy!

    Spanish omelet
    Maureen N.

    I visited for brunch on a Sunday morning, and it was about a 20-minute wait. Our waiter was great, and after numerous questions, I settled on the Spanish omelet. It came with a biscuit and some potatoes. The omelet itself was delicious, and the potatoes were...just potatoes, not as crispy as I would have liked. But the biscuit... hmm a total waste of space. Its taste was reminiscent of frozen high school biscuits. They purport to make their biscuits in-house. If that's the best they can do, they should feel free to stop because it was incredibly tasteless, cold, and hard. Not fresh at all. Overall, nothing really worth returning for.

    Migas
    Alisa G.

    This place has consistently delicious food and this is somewhere I'd bring friends who are visiting the area for a great brunch experience. They do get very busy on Saturdays especially with the farmers market so be prepared to wait if you come on the weekend. My go to is the Migas breakfast but they have delicious sandwiches, French toast, and lunch options. I also enjoy their mimosas flights and Bloody Mary as well. Highly recommend for a fun and delicious experience!

    Breakfast Tacos

    See all

    Photo of Jamie B.
    70
    82
    110

    3 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Paul M.
    0
    64
    54

    1 month ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Shea S.
    0
    17
    18

    9 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    13 days ago

    Great food! Love the pork tasso tots! Quick service, great iced coffee. Good Bloody Marys. Outdoor seating - pet friendly

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Susan F.
    0
    135
    200

    8 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    10 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 2

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Meg N.
    94
    15
    3

    6 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sara S.
    6
    116
    102

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Vic L.
    0
    66
    64

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    6 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Great good, large portions, local friendly, good vibes! Our server was warm and personable. Mimosa flights are my favorite!

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 months ago

    Quaint, artsy environment with superb breakfast options. Bananas Foster French Toast was yum.

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 14
    Thanks 3
    Love this 13
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    8 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Gary N.
    3894
    900
    3256

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ruby S.

    Ruby S.

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 15

    Ask the Community - Ruby Sunshine Knoxville

    The French Market Creperie

    The French Market Creperie

    4.4
    (838 reviews)
    0.2 mi
    $$

    We found this place on a "must try" list and I'm so glad we made it happen. It's in a great area,…read morealways seems to have a line (don't worry, they're super fast) and is so cute. It's almost impossible to decide what to order because literally everything looks and sounds amazing -- and based on what we tried, you can't go wrong. The food was such a nice surprise -- it seemed like it would be *fine* but we were impressed. Great flavor, super fresh, oh, and huge portions. Drinks are excellent, you can't go wrong there either. I've tried the coffee, a mimosa, and a spritz on different occasions. So tasty.

    The French Market in downtown Knoxville is one of those spots that instantly feels warm and…read moreinviting the moment you walk in. The cozy, café-style atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed brunch or a casual lunch with friends. It's charming without feeling pretentious -- just simple, welcoming, and full of great smells coming from the kitchen. The crêpes are the real star. Whether you go sweet or savory, they're thin, perfectly cooked, and generously filled. The savory buckwheat galettes are hearty and flavorful, while the sweet crêpes hit that perfect balance of light and indulgent. Pair one with a good coffee and you've got an easy, satisfying meal. If you're in Knoxville and want something a little different from the usual brunch spots, The French Market is absolutely worth a visit. It's a local gem that keeps you coming back.

    Photos
    My dessert crepe: cherry cheesecake.
    My dessert crepe: cherry cheesecake.
    Cherry cheesecake and s'mores crepes at our favorite spot.
    Cherry cheesecake and s'mores crepes at our favorite spot.
    Blueberries & Lemon Curd Crepe with a Cappuccino

    See all

    Blueberries & Lemon Curd Crepe with a Cappuccino
    Tupelo Honey

    Tupelo Honey

    4.0
    (1.5k reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$
    Full bar
    Takes reservations

    We came on a very busy Saturday night (weekend of Dogwood Festival, theatre night, and prom…read morenight). Thankful to have a reservation, we were promptly seated while others with no reservation were being told three hour wait times. I loved the vibe of Tupelo, the hanging lush green plants on the side of the bustling kitchen, the cheerful staff and the lively music. Lizette was our server and she was just a darling. It was our first time here, and she was so helpful with her all of her recommendations. One of Lizette's favorites was the "Peach, don't kill my vibe" sangria. Which I just loved. I nice mix of peach and pineapple in a sangria. For our mains, we had the grilled harvest chicken and the chicken tenders. Both mains came with two sides. With my grilled harvest chicken, I got the mashed potatoes and the braised bacon green beans. The green beans were to die for, even my hubby was saying he should've ordered that as his side. The harvest chicken I loved--especially the sautéed spinach, red peppers and tomatoes on top. But if you can't handle spicy, this dish does have some heat to it. And we ended my birthday celebration with the heavenly banana pudding. It was heavenly in every way. Made in house, and so delicious that even my hubby ate it and he never cares for this dessert. If I could've licked that little bowl, I would've. We already cannot wait to come back and try some of the brunch items on their menu. We loved everything about Tupelo and hats off to Lizette for making our night even more special!!

    Soooo much goodness here!…read more Off the rip, it's super busy on the weekends, so if you do go--go straight to the bar. We got a quick seat & service! The vibes instantly take you back to Neaux Orleans and I'm here for it. The food was better than what the pictures suggest. Parking is discounted with validation!

    Photos
    Tupelo Honey
    Tupelo Honey
    Tupelo Honey

    See all

    Status Dough

    Status Dough

    4.6
    (69 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    Had an amazing polish doughnut called Paczek which is a yeast doughnut, often filled with a fruit…read morepreservative or cream and mine happen to have strawberry preserves in it. Great downtown location and the cashier was super nice and when she heard us speaking Spanish, she also helped us picked out our doughnut and that was very welcoming.

    This was maybe more of a 3.5 star experience. I stopped in…read moreon a Sunday afternoon and picked out 4 donuts. The place had 2 customers silently sitting and maybe working on their computers but the whole place felt sterile and lifeless. I wasn't greeted and stood at the counter for a few minutes while the lone employee arranged items until I finally asked if I could order. I wanted to sample a variety- so I got an apple fritter, a snickerdoodle donut, a buttermilk old fashioned, and a blueberry Pączki. The apple fritter was the best of those 4. The snickerdoodle was just a traditional cinnamon sugar donut. The base was a bit dry yet also tasted oily. The buttermilk old fashioned had a similar greasy flavor and not the tang I'd expect from this type of donut. The Pączki was just a minimally filled jelly donut...and the dough was very greasy. Normally, the dough is more bready and has a more rich flavor. The ones I've always eaten in the past are heavily filled. This place seems like it has potential but it just lacks the quality or personality I'm looking for in a local gem. Nothing was awful but nothing was great either.

    Photos
    Difficult-to-read hours on inside window
    Difficult-to-read hours on inside window
    Status Dough
    Status Dough

    See all

    Ruby Sunshine Knoxville - breakfast_brunch - Updated July 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...