Hello dear
Welcome To Calhoun's On The River
Nestled along the stunning Neyland Drive in Knoxville, Calhoun's On The River offers a delightful culinary experience with breathtaking views of the river. Renowned for its mouthwatering BBQ specialties, including the award-winning hickory smoked ribs and BBQ steak, guests can indulge in hearty portions that inspire rave reviews. The warm, welcoming atmosphere is complemented by attentive service, making it ideal for family gatherings or casual meals. Savor handcrafted beverages like fresh-squeezed lemonades and tempting milkshakes, all while soaking in the scenic beauty. Calhoun's is more than a restaurant; it's a dining destination where flavors and ambiance harmonize.
Taste the best
Discover Our Menu
Wet Wings Party Platter
US$40.00Hand Breaded Chicken Tenders
US$15.00Kid's Salad
US$3.25
Kid Cheese Burger
US$6.50Kid's Grilled Cheese
US$4.85Kid BBQ Pork Sandwich
US$6.75
Ribs For Kid's
US$9.75Kid's Combo
US$10.95Kid's Fried Chicken Tenders
US$6.95 About
Calhoun's On The River
Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Tennessee River, Calhoun's On The River is a dining gem located at 400 Neyland Dr, Knoxville, TN. This lively venue combines southern hospitality with a breathtaking waterfront view, making it the perfect spot for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions. The ambiance is warm and inviting, ensuring every guest feels at home from the moment they walk through the door.
One of the most notable highlights of Calhoun's is their dedication to high-quality ingredients. Their menu features a selection of classic American fare, including juicy hickory burgers made from USDA beef, complemented by smoked Cheddar cheese and a hint of BBQ flavor. For those looking for something lighter, the BarBQue Chicken Sandwich offers a delightful grilled option basked in their signature sauce. Each dish comes with the choice of sides, allowing you to tailor your meal to your taste.
Beyond the savory mains, Calhoun's impresses with its beverage offerings. From refreshing fresh squeezed strawberry lemonade to classic IBC root beer, each sip is a testament to their commitment to quality. Reviews from satisfied diners consistently mention the delicious rolls and cornbread that accompany meals, evoking rustic warmth that enhances the dining experience.
The atmosphere is further elevated by the attentive service. Guests like Clark Mullaney and Eric Madaus have praised the friendly staff, noting how they contribute to a pleasant dining experience—especially when seated at tables with a view of the river. It's this blend of exceptional service, scenic views, and delicious comfort food that makes Calhoun's On The River a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers passing through Knoxville.
Don't miss out on their tempting desserts either; the key lime pie has garnered compliments, proving to be a delightful finale to a hearty meal, regardless of the location. Whether it’s a casual lunch or an intimate celebration, Calhoun's On The River serves up not just food, but a memorable experience that beckons to be revisited.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Nice servers. Nice view. Warm food. Tasty food. Burnt ends good. Key lime pie was good for how north we are. Key lime pie is better in key West of course. Very nice because we had 4 year old and 3 week old. ”
“ Stopped in for the first time on a rainy afternoon as we traveled through Knoxville. We were promptly seated, and although the weather outside was miserable, the welcome was very warm and hospitable. Service was excellent as was the food. We had brisket chili, white chicken chili, and a roast beef BLT that was very good. The rolls and cornbread offered before meal were delicious. We will be back again when we are in the area! ”
“ One of the best places I have ever been to. The cheeseburger was awesome. Tender and juicy ! Tater skins were great, macadamia banana pudding awesome. Will definitely be back!!! Staff was the best. Hostess could use a little work on being more customer friendly. ”
“ Pulled off here on our way to Pigeon Forge. They sat us at a table right over by the river, and the waitress was one of the best and most accommodating I have ever met in my 32 years of living. The food was delicious (and huge!), and before leaving I made mention to my partner how I'm jealous we don't have one in Ohio . This was my first taste of Knoxville, and it immediately made me want to go back. ”
“ We had a lovely 50th anniversary private banquet room with family. The staff were great and so was the view from the room of the river. The food met my expectations for banquet setup. The chicken was just OK. ”
“ Ate here for our anniversary June 20 2025. Nice staff as we entered the door, and we were able to get a table on the water. Actually only ones in there for a good while. The room was very cool, as it was extremely hot outside. We ordered off the specials and got an appetizer of bacon wrapped burnt ends and we each got the special of Prime rib and potato for only 20. The appetizer of bacon wrapped burnt ends were ok. They were not like any burnt ends we've ever had. They were not burnt ?? No burnt ends taste. The bbq sauce was good. Our steaks and potato were delicious and very tender. Our server was also very nice. We were served very quickly considering there was a party of 50 or more inside also ordering. Bread and slaw were also delicious. We will come back when in the area. Very pretty scenery eating on the water right out side the window and watching the river. ”
“ I come here very often and get the same meal. I get the Orginal Wet Wings, sweet and spicy thunder-road. I had came with a group of 5 for my birthday last month where I did not receive the order I always get, and the rest of my group also had been messed up. We had called back and spoke to the manager "Cole". A very sweet man. He told us come back and enjoy our meal and was very sincere and apologetic. We came back today, only three of us this time, and he gave us a free meal. Not to mention everything was DELICIOUS. I didn't catch our waitress name but she was also very sweet and I love sitting on the deck!! Thank you Cole! You were very kind and thoughtful, and most definitely professional. Calhouns is amazing, definitely try it out if you have not already!! ”
“ The food was excellent! We were seated quickly and our waitress knowledgeable and attentive. We will revisit! ”