News Summary
Marble City Market in Knoxville has undergone significant changes since 2023 with new management and almost entirely new vendors. Under Andrew Wolfe’s leadership, the revamped food hall now offers a diverse array of cuisines, enhanced seating, and an upgraded outdoor patio. New amenities include a revamped bar menu, happy hour promotions, and engaging programming to enhance visitor experience. The market continues to evolve, solidifying its place in Knoxville’s culinary scene.
Marble City Market Undergoes Major Transformation with New Management and Vendors Since 2023
Knoxville, TN – Marble City Market (MCM) has experienced significant transformations since the beginning of 2023, marked by a complete management overhaul and the introduction of nearly all-new vendors. Under the leadership of Andrew Wolfe, who has served as the General Manager at Bridgewater Place, which took over management in July 2023, MCM is aiming to provide a fresh and engaging experience for visitors.
The revamped food hall features a stunning array of offerings, showcasing diverse culinary options that include Venezuelan, Afghan, American, and Japanese cuisines, alongside smoothie and ice cream options. The new vendors are characterized by their local roots, warm service, and a varied menu that caters to different tastes.
New Features and Amenities at MCM
MCM has introduced several enhancements designed to improve visitor experience. Notable features include:
- Cozy Seating: Enhanced seating arrangements, including comfortable couches near the bar, invite patrons to relax and enjoy their meals.
- Outdoor Patio: The outdoor area has been upgraded with green turf, establishing MCM as the largest outdoor patio in Knoxville.
- Revamped Bar Menu: Frank and George’s Bar boasts a newly overhauled menu, featuring not only cocktails but also a progressive selection of non-alcoholic drinks.
- Happy Hour Promotion: A new Happy Hour runs from Monday to Friday, offering discounted prices from 3 PM to 6 PM.
- Upcoming Features: Plans are underway to introduce fountain drink booths in the food hall for additional beverage choices.
Vendor Lineup at Marble City Market
One of the highlights of the market is its vibrant vendor lineup. Local restaurateur Yassin Terou has invested in three businesses through his nonprofit organization, Seeds and Bridges. The featured vendors include:
- Rom’s House
- Cravin’ Carvin’s House: Serving burgers and Philly-style sandwiches.
- Y’all Pizza
Other notable vendors include:
- Bengy Sushi and Poke: Specializing in sushi and innovative sushi burritos.
- S.E.A. Ramen and Asian Kitchen: Known for dishes like Fried Ramen.
- Hotbirds: Focusing on Nashville-style chicken sandwiches.
- Dogout: Offering hot dogs and street tacos.
- HACHIBAN: Serving Hibachi and Taiwanese-style dishes.
- Creamy Cane’s: An ice cream shop featuring a wide variety of toppings.
Some of the resilient vendors from MCM’s prior iteration include Algo Deli, Coach Cre’s Just Juice, and Rom’s House. Meanwhile, Kianga’s Kitchen, once a popular vegan soul food option, has recently transitioned to a food truck model after ceasing its operation at MCM on August 11. Pasta Vivo is another business that has exited the market.
Enhancing Visitor Experience
To boost lunchtime foot traffic and attract evening and weekend crowds, MCM has been actively developing programming under the guidance of event coordinator Chloe Harrison. New offerings include trivia nights, vendor markets, and live music events hosted every Friday. Private event reservations are now available, catering to various group needs, with pets permitted on the outdoor patio while only certified service animals are allowed inside due to health regulations.
MCM has made strides to keep pace with the demand for home delivery, and many vendors are accessible through services like Uber Eats, allowing patrons to enjoy their favorite meals within the comfort of their homes.
As Marble City Market continues to evolve, it aims to solidify its place as a cornerstone of Knoxville’s culinary scene, offering an eclectic mix of food and entertainment for both locals and visitors alike.
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Additional Resources
- Inside of Knoxville – Marble City Market Update
- Knox News – Kianga’s Kitchen Closing
- Knox News – Grub Scout: New Options at Marble City Market
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Hall
- Google Search: Marble City Market Knoxville