The best restaurants in Johnson City

46 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Restaurants · 46 places · showing the latest additions first

Si Señor Mexican Grill, over in Gray, leans on Oaxacan family recipes with a little Southern hospitality, serving birria tacos, queso…

405 Roy Martin Rd #101 (Gray) · ✓ checked Aug 28

Si Señor Mexican Grill, over in Gray, leans on Oaxacan family recipes with a little Southern hospitality, serving birria tacos, queso fundido, and a sizzling molcajete that doubles as a table centerpiece. They even sling crisp, pizza-sized tlayudas, which basically read like a love letter to crunchy cravings.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 4, 2026

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Project BBQ

Restaurants

Born from an Austin obsession and a 600-gallon dream that grew into a 1000-gallon beast, Project BBQ keeps it old-school with hardwood-only…

3209 S Roan St

Born from an Austin obsession and a 600-gallon dream that grew into a 1000-gallon beast, Project BBQ keeps it old-school with hardwood-only smoke and a whole lot of love. If you crave true craft barbecue without the gimmicks, consider this your nudge to swing by this week.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 13, 2026

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Label Restaurant

Restaurants

From hand-rolled sushi and freshly made burgers on locally baked buns to prime beef from the grill, Label Restaurant nails global flavor…

112 Tipton St

From hand-rolled sushi and freshly made burgers on locally baked buns to prime beef from the grill, Label Restaurant nails global flavor with an industrial-chic vibe and covers weeknight cravings plus the Sunday brunch itch.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 17, 2026

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With seasonal American fine cuisine built around fresh, often organic ingredients from regional growers, Gourmet and Company keeps things…

214 E Mountcastle Dr Ste 1J

With seasonal American fine cuisine built around fresh, often organic ingredients from regional growers, Gourmet and Company keeps things simple, elegant, and seriously good. After dinner, wander their well-loved gift shop stocked with Simon Pearce, Juliska, Vietri, Dash and Albert, and Lafco...

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 13, 2026

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Freiberg's

Restaurants

Freiberg's keeps it classic with paprika schnitzel, a bratwurst sampler, and mini brats with pretzels, all in a cozy, relaxed setting. When…

203 E Main St

Freiberg's keeps it classic with paprika schnitzel, a bratwurst sampler, and mini brats with pretzels, all in a cozy, relaxed setting. When you want homestyle German without fuss, this is the spot locals nudge each other about between sips of Bavarian beer.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 6, 2026

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Relaxed pizzeria chain serving NY-style hand-tossed pies, plus pasta & sandwiches.

2111 N Roan St Suite 30

Relaxed pizzeria chain serving NY-style hand-tossed pies, plus pasta & sandwiches.

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Project BBQ

Restaurants

Project BBQ brings true craft barbecue from Texas to Tennessee, running all hardwood, no gas, on a beastly 1000-gallon smoker for that…

3301 N Roan St

Project BBQ brings true craft barbecue from Texas to Tennessee, running all hardwood, no gas, on a beastly 1000-gallon smoker for that deep, clean bark and bite. Local crew, big flavor, zero shortcuts. Put it on your week’s must-eat list.

From the Tri Cities newsletter, August 21, 2026

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Whether you show up for award-winning smash burgers, brisket tacos, or that goat cheese and blackberry jam burger, The Kitchen at Off Leash…

234 Denny Mill Rd

Whether you show up for award-winning smash burgers, brisket tacos, or that goat cheese and blackberry jam burger, The Kitchen at Off Leash Social nails it. Sunday brunch brings bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys, rotating specials, and a breezy dog-park energy locals keep coming back for.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 21, 2026

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Need a weeknight win that pleases every palate? Ginza All You Can Eat Sushi (Hibachi, Thai Food and Chinese Food) pairs endless rolls with…

198 Marketplace Blvd #130

Need a weeknight win that pleases every palate? Ginza All You Can Eat Sushi (Hibachi, Thai Food and Chinese Food) pairs endless rolls with hibachi flair plus Thai and Chinese classics, so your crew can sample widely, go back for seconds, and call it a night feeling gloriously overfed.

From the Johnson City newsletter, August 30, 2026

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787 Bar & Grill

Restaurants

Born from a Tri-Cities food truck, 787 Bar & Grill dishes up Puerto Rican comfort like pernil, crispy alcapurrias, legit pinchos, and…

1000 S Roan St · ✓ checked Sep 4

Born from a Tri-Cities food truck, 787 Bar & Grill dishes up Puerto Rican comfort like pernil, crispy alcapurrias, legit pinchos, and mofongo (yes, even a vegan one). Order a plate with arroz con gandules, add tostones, and let the mayoketchu do its messy magic.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 12, 2026

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Burger Bar

Restaurants

Burger Bar is slinging Certified Hereford Beef burgers that are all natural, USDA certified, and locally sourced from Tennessee and…

211 Mockingbird Ln

Burger Bar is slinging Certified Hereford Beef burgers that are all natural, USDA certified, and locally sourced from Tennessee and Kentucky rancher-owned farms. With 2,000 ways to customize, consider this your excuse to go full mad scientist on dinner this week, Johnson City.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 20, 2026

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Fuji Japanese Steakhouse delivers the full family experience with 10 live hibachi grills, a legit sushi bar, hot ramen, and showy chefs who…

112 Sunset Dr

Fuji Japanese Steakhouse delivers the full family experience with 10 live hibachi grills, a legit sushi bar, hot ramen, and showy chefs who keep kids and grownups grinning. Not up for a show? Grab a quiet table or order takeout and keep it cozy at home this week.

From the Johnson City newsletter, August 23, 2026

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When breakfast cravings hit this week or you want a laid-back family-style dinner without the dishes, The Kitchen at Grace Meadows Farm…

170 John France Rd (Jonesborough)

When breakfast cravings hit this week or you want a laid-back family-style dinner without the dishes, The Kitchen at Grace Meadows Farm delivers Southern hospitality on a plate in a rolling pasture backdrop that feels like a mini reset, with hearty plates, brunchy favorites, and the kind of small-town warmth that…

From the Johnson City newsletter, August 25, 2026

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Wellington's Restaurant makes Southern comfort feel grown-up with fried green tomatoes, deviled eggs with Benton's bacon, and a…

1216 W State of Franklin Rd

Wellington's Restaurant makes Southern comfort feel grown-up with fried green tomatoes, deviled eggs with Benton's bacon, and a Deconstructed Wellington worth lingering over. Grab a lounge seat and explore a legit whiskey list or a smoked Old Fashioned, then call it a win.

From the Tri Cities newsletter, August 22, 2026

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First Watch

Restaurants

Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.

1150 W State of Franklin Rd #20

Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.

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Craving an easy win for dinner this week, Portobello's Italian Bistro keeps it classic with pizza, pasta, big salads, and sandwiches, plus…

1805 W State of Franklin Rd #400

Craving an easy win for dinner this week, Portobello's Italian Bistro keeps it classic with pizza, pasta, big salads, and sandwiches, plus gluten-free, vegetarian, and keto options that actually taste good, and they also cater when you’re feeding a crowd.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 19, 2026

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Casual cafe serving biscuit sandwiches & Southern sides for breakfast & lunch.

1033 Hamilton Pl Drive

Casual cafe serving biscuit sandwiches & Southern sides for breakfast & lunch.

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Giovanni's Family Restaurant is the move when you want legit pizza built on daily homemade dough with 100% real whole milk cheese. Load up…

3888, 4704 N Roan St

Giovanni's Family Restaurant is the move when you want legit pizza built on daily homemade dough with 100% real whole milk cheese. Load up a Super Supreme, go Greek or try the spicy chicken, then add a Buffalo Chicken Calzone, those wild Italian Nachos, and a slice of New York Style Cheesecake because balance.

From the Tri Cities newsletter, August 29, 2026

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Mid City Grill

Restaurants

Mid City Grill is that no-frills spot locals default to when the clock says questionable and your stomach says burger, breakfast, or…

106 S Commerce St

Mid City Grill is that no-frills spot locals default to when the clock says questionable and your stomach says burger, breakfast, or plant-based plate. Around since 2003 and still slinging big, messy, glorious stacks, they make it easy to keep meat-eaters and vegans equally happy.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 12, 2026

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Family-friendly buffet chain featuring all-you-can-eat American fare, plus salad & dessert bars.

3104 Browns Mill Rd

Family-friendly buffet chain featuring all-you-can-eat American fare, plus salad & dessert bars.

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Rendezvous International Café leans into globally inspired crepes, Lavazza espresso, boba tea, and Artisanal Desserts by Anthony in a…

2059 Hamilton Pl · ✓ checked Sep 10

Rendezvous International Café leans into globally inspired crepes, Lavazza espresso, boba tea, and Artisanal Desserts by Anthony in a laid-back spot for study sessions or casual meetups. Order a Spanish or ube latte and pair it with a sweet or savory crepe, then call it your new go-to.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 14, 2026

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Whether you need a steaming bowl of pho after a long day or want their signature beef stew, bo kho, The Roots Vietnamese Restaurant…

600 N State of Franklin Rd

Whether you need a steaming bowl of pho after a long day or want their signature beef stew, bo kho, The Roots Vietnamese Restaurant delivers fresh-herb, slow-simmered comfort in a laid-back setting. Round it out with crisp spring rolls, bubble tea, or coffee, then thank yourself.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 13, 2026

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IHOP

Restaurants

Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.

3214 Peoples St

Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.

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Eggs Up Grill

Restaurants

Relaxed chain serving a menu of breakfast, burgers & sandwiches in a colorful setting.

2011 N Roan St

Relaxed chain serving a menu of breakfast, burgers & sandwiches in a colorful setting.

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Rocks Wood Fired Pizza & Grill turns out artisan Neapolitan-style pies from an authentic Italian wood-burning brick oven, with a patio by a…

3119 Bristol Hwy #108

Rocks Wood Fired Pizza & Grill turns out artisan Neapolitan-style pies from an authentic Italian wood-burning brick oven, with a patio by a stone fireplace and a full bar with more than 20 beers on tap, a wine selection, and handcrafted cocktails.

From the Tri Cities newsletter, September 5, 2026

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Southern Craft BBQ nails the smoky stuff, from signature burnt ends brisket to bourbon smoked salmon, plus juicy burgers, cocktails, and…

601 Spring St #101

Southern Craft BBQ nails the smoky stuff, from signature burnt ends brisket to bourbon smoked salmon, plus juicy burgers, cocktails, and house micro-brews. Daily specials keep it interesting, and if you're hosting, their catering and Tri-Cities event spaces make playing pitmaster optional.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 2, 2026

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Juan Siao

Restaurants

Johnson City’s own Juan Siao mashes up Asian and Latin flavors into bold dishes, then backs it up with a legit cocktail program. Think…

104 Tipton St

Johnson City’s own Juan Siao mashes up Asian and Latin flavors into bold dishes, then backs it up with a legit cocktail program. Think birria ramen, punchy dumplings, and sippable signatures that make this week’s midweek hangouts feel like a plan you actually followed through on.

From the Johnson City newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Twisted Fork JC

Restaurants

Twisted Fork JC has your carb cravings covered in Downtown Johnson City, turning house-made pasta and noodles into creative mashups of…

300 E Main St #101

Twisted Fork JC has your carb cravings covered in Downtown Johnson City, turning house-made pasta and noodles into creative mashups of Italian comfort and bright, Asian-style bowls.

From the Tri Cities newsletter, August 15, 2026

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Chain eatery & bar serving a diverse menu of classic Italian fare in a family-friendly setting.

175 Marketplace Blvd

Chain eatery & bar serving a diverse menu of classic Italian fare in a family-friendly setting.

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Local sports bar chain serving steak, seafood & pub grub in a lively, contemporary setting.

3026 Hamilton Pl

Local sports bar chain serving steak, seafood & pub grub in a lively, contemporary setting.

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Mellow Mushroom Johnson City is turning out chewy, stone-baked pies with premium ingredients and combos that actually work, plus munchies,…

2929 N Roan St

Mellow Mushroom Johnson City is turning out chewy, stone-baked pies with premium ingredients and combos that actually work, plus munchies, calzones, and even burgers. Pair it with 48 draft beers or a handcrafted cocktail, and yes, they can do gluten-free or vegan, so plan a slice session this week.

From the Johnson City newsletter, August 30, 2026

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Marco's Pizza

Restaurants

Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.

612 Lyle St Ste 110

Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.

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The Olive Downtown hits that sweet spot with handmade Italian classics, pizzas, and hearty pastas. Owned by Chef Alfredo Bran, they lean…

202 E Main St

The Olive Downtown hits that sweet spot with handmade Italian classics, pizzas, and hearty pastas.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 5, 2026

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Whether your week needs a little umami pep talk, Miso Teriyaki House Johnson City nails the classics with juicy chicken teriyaki, steak…

1827 W State of Franklin Rd

Whether your week needs a little umami pep talk, Miso Teriyaki House Johnson City nails the classics with juicy chicken teriyaki, steak teriyaki, and solid sushi rolls alongside hearty rice bowls and noodles. Fresh appetizers and house specialties keep it interesting, perfect for quick lunches or easy family dinners.

From the Johnson City newsletter, August 29, 2026

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Blue Moose Burgers & Wings nails hand-pattied burgers, jumbo wings with 20+ sauces, and a friendly sports bar vibe that’s ideal for…

1808 N Roan St

Blue Moose Burgers & Wings nails hand-pattied burgers, jumbo wings with 20+ sauces, and a friendly sports bar vibe that’s ideal for catching the game with your crew here in Johnson City. They’ve already snagged local kudos for best burger and wings, so consider this your permission slip for a sauce-fueled night out.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 1, 2026

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Juniper

Restaurants

Upscale place with a romantic atmosphere for steaks, oysters, and cocktails, plus dessert and coffee.

1033 W Oakland Ave

Upscale place with a romantic atmosphere for steaks, oysters, and cocktails, plus dessert and coffee.

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Red Meze

Restaurants

Red Meze does the Greek-Turkish thing right with creamy hummus, crisp falafel, hearty gyros and a build-your-own pita that solves every…

109 Buffalo St

Red Meze does the Greek-Turkish thing right with creamy hummus, crisp falafel, hearty gyros and a build-your-own pita that solves every what’s-for-dinner debate. It’s low-key, friendly, and perfect for lingering on the patio while you pretend “just one more” meze isn’t a commitment.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 2, 2026

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The Firehouse

Restaurants

Since 1980, The Firehouse has turned out Hickory Smoked Barbecue with that pink smoke ring you brag about, plus scratch-made sauces, sides,…

627 W Walnut St

Since 1980, The Firehouse has turned out Hickory Smoked Barbecue with that pink smoke ring you brag about, plus scratch-made sauces, sides, and desserts. Make it a no-cook night this week, order online for carryout or rope in their catering for the crew.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 18, 2026

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Simms Pizzeria

Restaurants

Simms Pizzeria keeps weeknights easy with build-your-own pies, white pizza favorites, and a surprisingly good crustless low-carb option,…

4307 N Roan St

Simms Pizzeria keeps weeknights easy with build-your-own pies, white pizza favorites, and a surprisingly good crustless low-carb option, plus wings, calzones, and pastas like lasagna and baked ziti. Keep an eye on their weekly specials and the kids menu when dinner negotiations start.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 11, 2026

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City Barbeque

Restaurants

Counter-serve smokehouse chain offering classic barbecue fare in down-home settings.

421 N State of Franklin Rd #100

Counter-serve smokehouse chain offering classic barbecue fare in down-home settings.

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Timber!

Restaurants

Timber! brings chef-driven comfort food and craft cocktails to the Tree Streets of Johnson City, inspired by East Tennessee’s rugged spirit…

415 W Walnut St

Timber! brings chef-driven comfort food and craft cocktails to the Tree Streets of Johnson City, inspired by East Tennessee’s rugged spirit and summer-camp vibes.

From the Johnson City newsletter, August 24, 2026

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Cluckies Hot Chicken is serving Johnson City serious heat with crispy tenders, saucy wings, and stacked hot chicken sandwiches that punch…

3111 W Market St

Cluckies Hot Chicken is serving Johnson City serious heat with crispy tenders, saucy wings, and stacked hot chicken sandwiches that punch from mild to blazing. Juicy, crunchy, and unapologetically flavorful, it’s a go-to when you want spice, a quick mood lift, and group chat approved good vibes.

From the Johnson City newsletter, September 7, 2026

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Wingstop

Restaurants

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

2104 W Mountcastle Dr

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

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Fazoli's

Restaurants

Fast-food chain doling out baked pastas, subs, pizza & other casual Italian fare plus custom combos.

1916 N Roan St

Fast-food chain doling out baked pastas, subs, pizza & other casual Italian fare plus custom combos.

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Made-from-scratch pies hit the brick oven, topped with house-made pepperoni from 100% grass-fed beef, humanely raised smoked chicken from…

100 E Unaka Ave

Made-from-scratch pies hit the brick oven, topped with house-made pepperoni from 100% grass-fed beef, humanely raised smoked chicken from Springer Mountain Farms, and a zingy nut-free chimichurri made with 100% olive oil.

From the Johnson City newsletter, August 28, 2026

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Yuimaru Kitchen

Restaurants

Whether you’re in a ramen mood or craving that tableside hibachi sizzle, Yuimaru Kitchen nails the combo of fresh sushi, teppanyaki steak…

3020 Franklin Terrace

Whether you’re in a ramen mood or craving that tableside hibachi sizzle, Yuimaru Kitchen nails the combo of fresh sushi, teppanyaki steak and lively sake cocktails. Laid back vibe, solid portions, and a menu that keeps friends happy… it’s an easy weeknight upgrade for Johnson City folks.

From the Johnson City newsletter, August 31, 2026

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