A Complete Guide to Stock & Barrel at Market Square: Food, Vibes, and More

Nestled in the heart of Knoxville’s buzzing Market Square, Stock & Barrel is more than just a burger joint—it’s a culinary experience rooted in southern charm and local love. If you’re wandering through downtown Knoxville and follow the aroma of sizzling grass-fed beef or the clink of craft bourbon glasses, chances are you’re headed straight to this crowd favorite.

From locals grabbing lunch after work to tourists seeking a taste of Tennessee’s food scene, Stock & Barrel continues to deliver with a menu that’s as elevated as it is approachable. Think gourmet burgers made with locally sourced ingredients, expertly crafted cocktails, and an industrial-chic atmosphere that hits just the right balance between hip and homey.

Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, there’s something new to fall in love with every time you walk through their doors.

What Makes Stock & Barrel a Local Favorite?

Ask any Knoxville foodie where to get the best burger in town, and Stock & Barrel will almost always top the list. What’s the secret sauce behind its loyal fanbase? For starters, it’s the commitment to quality—grass-fed beef from Mitchell Family Farms, fresh ingredients sourced from local partners, and made-from-scratch condiments.

But beyond the food, it’s the ambience and service. The staff knows their menu inside out, often sharing pairing suggestions or off-menu items with a smile. The rustic interior, exposed brick, and Edison bulbs create a vibe that’s inviting without trying too hard. And when the weather’s right, the patio becomes the go-to hangout in Market Square.

The Story Behind the Brand: Farm Fresh Meets Southern Soul

Stock & Barrel was born from a simple idea: blend the timeless appeal of an American burger bar with a modern Southern twist. The founders, Knoxville locals with a deep appreciation for regional agriculture, set out to create a restaurant that celebrates farm-to-table dining while honoring Tennessee’s rich culinary traditions.

Everything about Stock & Barrel screams “intentional.” From their curated selection of Tennessee whiskeys to the partnerships with local farms and brewers, it’s clear they’re not just selling food—they’re telling a story with every plate.

Stock & Barrel Menu Guide – From Gourmet Burgers to Bourbon Bliss

Must-Try Burgers That Locals Swear By

Let’s be real—if you’re coming to Stock & Barrel, you’re probably here for the burgers. And you won’t be disappointed. The menu features a mouthwatering array of options, each named with clever nods to music, culture, and Tennessee pride.

Fan favorites include:

• The Elvis: Topped with peanut butter, fried banana, and bacon—a bold blend that works better than you’d imagine.
• The Bernie: A fiery option with jalapeños, ghost pepper cheese, and chipotle aioli.
• The ‘Merica: Classic but elevated—American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and house pickles.
• The Rocky Balboa: An Italian-inspired masterpiece with marinara, mozzarella, and crispy prosciutto.

Each burger is crafted from 100% grass-fed beef, cooked to your liking, and served on a freshly baked bun. Gluten-free buns are available upon request.

Craft Cocktails, Local Brews & Tennessee Whiskey Highlights

Stock & Barrel is just as much a bar destination as it is a food hotspot. The drink menu is stacked with local craft beers, hand-crafted cocktails, and a jaw-dropping collection of over 100 types of bourbon and whiskey.

Don’t miss these drinks:

• Knoxville Mule: A Southern spin on the Moscow Mule with house-made ginger beer and Tennessee whiskey.
• The Smoky Mountain Old Fashioned: Smoked in-house and stirred to perfection.
• Whiskey Flight Trays: Perfect for sampling small-batch Tennessee whiskeys.

Beer lovers will find regional IPAs, lagers, and stouts rotating regularly. And for non-drinkers? The house-made lemonade and mocktails hold their own.

Gluten-Free, Veggie & Keto Options You’ll Actually Enjoy

Good news for special-diet diners: Stock & Barrel doesn’t treat dietary needs like an afterthought. The veggie burger, made with black beans, quinoa, and sweet potatoes, is packed with flavor. Salads come hearty and fresh, and the “burger in a bowl” option makes keto-friendly dining a breeze.

Other standouts:

• Kale Caesar Salad with roasted chickpeas and shaved Parmesan
• Fried Green Tomatoes (GF, with pimento cheese drizzle)
• Sweet Potato Fries cooked in non-GMO oil

The Atmosphere – Industrial Chic Meets Laid-Back Southern Comfort

Inside the Vibes: What to Expect When You Walk In

Walk into Stock & Barrel and you’re met with a blend of urban cool and rustic charm. The interior boasts weathered wood tables, reclaimed metal decor, and a long bar lined with whiskey bottles glowing under warm lighting. It’s busy but not chaotic, with music humming in the background and laughter filling the space.

The ambiance shifts seamlessly from family-friendly during the day to hip hangout by night. Whether you’re dressed up for date night or swinging by in jeans and a tee, you’ll feel right at home.

Indoor or Patio Seating? How to Pick the Best Spot

On sunny days, Market Square’s tree-lined outdoor seating is hard to beat. The patio offers great views for people-watching, street performers, and live events in the square. Indoors, the cozier booths and bar seating create a more intimate dining experience.

Best picks by occasion:

• First date? Go for the patio during golden hour.
• Casual lunch? Grab a high-top near the bar.
• Big group? Call ahead for the backroom tables.

Foodie Tips for First-Timers at Stock & Barrel

What to Order if You Love Spicy, Sweet, or Smoky Flavors

Whether you lean toward heat, sweetness, or rich smoky bites, there’s a burger or drink to match your mood.

Spicy craving?

• The Bernie burger
• Jalapeño cheese grits (seasonal)
• Spiced blood orange margarita

Sweet tooth?

• Elvis burger
• Bourbon caramel milkshake

Smoky & savory?

• Smoky Mountain Old Fashioned
• House-smoked pork belly add-on

Pairing Your Burger with the Perfect Bourbon or Beer

Don’t leave your drink choice to chance. Here are a few expert pairing ideas:

• Elvis Burger + Peanut Butter Stout – Nutty, smooth, indulgent
• Rocky Balboa + Chianti or Malbec – Bold flavors, perfect harmony
• Classic Cheeseburger + Tennessee Lager – Crisp and refreshing
• Spicy Bernie + Bourbon with a honey finish – Spice meets sweet relief

Ask the bartender for recommendations—they’re pros at finding your flavor match.

What Sets Stock & Barrel Apart from Other Burger Spots in Knoxville?

Locally Sourced Ingredients and Handcrafted Everything

From the ground beef to the bourbon-infused sauces, almost everything at Stock & Barrel is made in-house or sourced from nearby. Their philosophy? “If we wouldn’t serve it to our own families, we won’t serve it to yours.”

Supporting local farmers and artisans not only boosts the community but also ensures ultra-fresh flavors that chain restaurants just can’t match.

Service, Speed & Satisfaction: What Guests Are Saying

Across Yelp, Google, and TripAdvisor, you’ll find consistent 4.5+ star reviews praising Stock & Barrel’s quick service, friendly staff, and top-notch quality.

Customer buzz:

• “Best burger I’ve had in years—worth the wait!”
• “The servers knew the menu inside and out. Great bourbon recs too!”
• “Feels like a local pub with gourmet food.”

Visiting Market Square? Why Stock & Barrel Should Be Your First Stop

A Perfect Lunch Spot After Exploring Downtown Knoxville

Market Square is a hub of energy, history, and culture. After checking out the Farmer’s Market, visiting nearby museums, or catching a street show, Stock & Barrel is the perfect spot to refuel.

Quick service, hearty portions, and shaded patio tables make it an ideal pitstop between downtown adventures. Plus, it’s just steps away from boutiques, galleries, and live venues.

Hidden Menu Items & Insider Ordering Tips

Want the inside scoop? Here are some secret tips from regulars:

• Ask for the “Secret Sauce” – A smoky-spicy blend not listed on the menu.
• Custom toppings? You bet—load up on extras like fried egg, bacon jam, or truffle aioli.
• Split a whiskey flight to sample more without going overboard.

Planning a Group Night or Date Night? Stock & Barrel Delivers Both

Why It’s Great for Gatherings (Without the Wait)

While Stock & Barrel is popular, it’s also well-run. With an efficient seating system and quick table turnover, it rarely feels like you’re waiting forever.

Group-friendly features:

• Tables that seat 6–8 comfortably
• Shareable starters like truffle fries or fried pickles
• Separate checks without the drama

Call ahead for weekend reservations or walk in during off-peak hours to avoid a crowd.

Romantic Patio Evenings with Great Drinks and Even Better Views

Market Square transforms at night, with string lights overhead, music in the background, and the gentle clink of glasses echoing through the square. Stock & Barrel’s patio becomes a dream date spot.

Split a whiskey flight, order a pair of signature burgers, and toast under the stars—this is Knoxville romance done right.

Final Thoughts: Why Stock & Barrel Is Worth the Hype

Stock & Barrel has earned its reputation not through flashy gimmicks, but through real food, real hospitality, and real Knoxville flavor. It’s the kind of place where the ingredients matter, the staff remembers your name, and each bite feels like a celebration of Southern food culture.

Whether you’re a burger connoisseur, a whiskey lover, or just someone looking for a solid meal in a great setting, Stock & Barrel checks every box. So next time you find yourself in Market Square, do yourself a favor—grab a seat, take a sip, and savor the Stock & Barrel experience.

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