Modest joint with counter seats offering breakfast fare, sandwiches & burgers piled with toppings.
GLENDA SPROUSE-BENSON
If you’re looking for a delicious, down-home breakfast spot in Knoxville, Nick & J’s Cafe is the place to be! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with warm smiles and that genuine Southern hospitality that makes you feel right at home.
I ordered the eggs, bacon, and grits, and everything was cooked perfectly — hot, flavorful, and comforting, just like breakfast should be. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is taken care of, and you can tell they truly enjoy what they do.
The restaurant itself is clean, cozy, and conveniently located on Lovell Road — easy to find and worth every mile. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast solo, meeting friends, or enjoying a weekend meal with family, Nick & J’s Cafe is one of those spots that keeps you coming back.
Highly recommend to anyone who loves great food, great service, and a great vibe! ☕️
The Benson’s
#GoVols
… moreKrista DeSocio (DeSocio in the Kitchen)
I love Nick & J’s! The food, the atmosphere, service every things was perfect! The Philly cheese steak was so flavorful and cooked to perfection! You must try the pastrami on rye…straight outta New York! You will not be disappointed!
… moreCharles Butterfield
I had a pastrami Reuben and it was great. The fries were really good, too. My wife and son ordered a BLT and enjoyed it as well. The staff was friendly, and the lady working there was even handing out free fudge, which was a nice surprise.
… moreDuane Manning
I was really hoping Nick and J’s Cafe would end up being one of those hidden gems—the kind of mom-and-pop place you can brag about finding and call your go-to breakfast spot. The food was good, maybe not quite fantastic, but certainly enjoyable. The biscuits and gravy had a nice flavor, and the eggs and bacon were cooked well. I did ask for the bacon to be cooked well done, so if you prefer it less crisp, they can probably accommodate that too. The potatoes were a little undercooked, but everything else was very satisfactory.
What really stood out was the service—friendly, attentive, and exactly what you hope for in a local diner. The value was also solid; you get a hearty meal for a fair price.
That said, I can’t help but compare it to Waffle House, which in my opinion still has them beat when it comes to breakfast overall (I know that might ruffle some feathers, but it’s the truth for me).
All in all, Nick and J’s is worth a visit if you enjoy supporting a locally owned spot with good food, great service, and fair prices. If I could give it a 4.5, I probably would—but since I have to pick, it’s a 4 out of 5.
… moreMark Selig
Upon arrival before the restaurant open, the building very clean looked like it just opened their doors yesterday, when the doors opened we sat down greeted by our server brought two cups of piping hot coffee and a few minutes came back and took our orders. The inside of the restaurant was and is immaculate and you can eat off the floors. Our server was more than hospitable our food was perfect and tasted great. We’ve lived here in TN for 7 years and found this restaurant through google, if you’re in the area stop by and we promise you won’t be disappointed. Rating of 10+ here’s photos showcasing our visit.
… moreKat
I love Nick & J’s Cafe. It’s unpretentious, friendly, and serves up food that feels like a hug. The ladies who work here are fun and loving. I felt like I was eating at home. We ordered Clfty Farm’s Country breakfast (2 eggs, country ham, home fried with toast) and biscuits & gravy. Everything was delicious. I had a hard time resisting the giant cookies at the check out. We’ll be back.
… moreCorey Green
As I travel, finding non chain restaurants that are family owned is one of my main goals in life. The food is incredible. Downplayed is an understatement. Fresh, tasty and full of flavor. The employees were great and the owner is an excellent leader. You must stop in this former “Huddle House” location redesigned Nick and J’s Cafe. Seeing a mom and pop thrive where is corporate restaurant failed makes my day, everyday. Highly recommend!
… moreJoshua Smith
Really amazing hometown home cooking style diner with deliciously seasoned food. I was very impressed with this place. Can’t wait to go back. The daily special was a fantastic value.
Went back again, more than twice, while I am here in Knoxville for work. This place is the real deal. Both the people and the food are absolutely the best.
… morePKElzieRN
My husband and I stopped here for breakfast today, and everything was amazing! Ms Angel and Ms Jackie made my birthday very special. The owner was very loving and welcoming!! This was my first time in Knoxville, and this place made sure that it won’t be my last!!! Great food, great people! ❤️❤️❤️
… moreT Lawson
We initially wanted breakfast but they stop serving at 11 am. So we definitely tried lunch! The system they have is on point. You get your food fast and it’s made to order! The service we received from Miss Linda today was phenomenal! Not only is she wonderful to the customers but she’s wonderful to the employees as well.
I wanted a traditional Reuben but I did not think they had corned beef per their menu, so I requested a Reuben made with pastrami instead of the turkey and Linda was more than happy to oblige. My husband ordered the Way Burger and onion rings. He was in love! While our food was being prepared, we both requested for deserts first and they brought them right away. I had the banana pudding, very good. My husband had apple pie with a heaping of icecream! He said it was delicious! I wanted to try a bite of the pie but it was devoured before I could get my hands on it. We enjoyed our meal and will be going back to try the breakfast! Support local!!!!
… more