Nostalgia is a powerful force that has us looking backing longingly and using that as inspiration to propel us forward. I often find myself harnessing my nostalgia in a way where I can look back on something and use it to find a new spark of creativity. This has been an increasingly popular trend lately and sometimes it is good to pay homage to something old and use it to bring new life. In Knoxville, 71 South is a celebration of the nostalgic — it’s an old abandoned church that’s been brought back to life for a new purpose. 

71 South sits right in the heart of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness.
71 South/ Facebook
So you will be just outside the hustle and bustle of busy city life to enjoy a little serenity. The hum of traffic fades and gives way to the sound of chirping birds once again and then you will stumble upon what was once a long-forgotten church.
This building is over a hundred years old and was just left abandoned.
71 South/ Facebook
Not wanting to see such a beautiful piece of property go to waste, the crew at 71 South got to work fixing and restoring, taking that inspiration from the past and using it to propel the project to something bold and new.
After lots of hard work, the project finally started to take shape and the vision all was pieced together.
71 South/ Facebook
Beautiful hardwood floors, pristine white walls, perfectly shaped lancet windows, and elegant touches can be found inside and out. The hanging greenery with exposed lights creates a splash of color and the lancet windows pay homage to the brilliant architecture that was found in this historic church.
Now this long-forgotten building has a splash of new life and is a hip new place to dine.
71 South/ Facebook
71 South is open for daily brunch, lunch, and dinner. Their menu is filled with delightful options that keep things simple yet elegant. Similar to the design and atmosphere of the entire restaurant, the menu also reflects that same creativity.
For lunch, the 71 Smash Burger is a great choice.
71 South/ Facebook
Peruse the menu for other sandwiches like the meatball sub or grilled chicken sandwich. There are also main dishes, bowls, and monthly specials you are sure to love as well. 71 South is very conscious of food allergies and does a good job offering vegan and gluten-free alternatives to meals so everyone can enjoy the great tastes.
Located right in the heart of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness can be a draw all in itself.
Dustin Wiget/ AllTrails
Take the Sycamore and Flyod Fox Loop for a wild mountain bike experience. Take to the woods and round the steep embankments and work your way around the adrenaline-inducing obstacles. Get some speed on the pump track for a fun afternoon, and when you've worked up an appetite, head over to 71 South.

Whether you are fueling up for a day of some outdoor recreation in Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness or recharging after, this restaurant is a great option to feed your rumbling belly. For more information on this nostalgic and new restaurant in Knoxville, Tennessee, please visit the 71 South website. 

Care to stay a little while longer in the city? Here is one of the best ways to spend a day in Knoxville. 

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71 South, 3726 Sevier Heights Rd Suite 200, Knoxville, TN 37920, USA