Where is it?
Technically in Old North Knoxville, this branch of K Brew (one of 3 in the area) is on 441 (N Broadway), just up the street from Elkmont Exchange Brewery and The Donut Shop. There are “to-go” spots in the small parking lot in front of the shop, and parking both across the street and along the streets.
When is it open?
The North Knox location is open from 7a-6p Monday through Saturday, 8a-6p Sunday. Keep up with the latest (including holiday hours) on Instagram (@knoxvillebrew) or on their website.
The Menu - What Are They Known For?
As with the other K Brew locations, they are known for their bagel selection (including sandwiches) as well as the drinks. At the time, they were advertising their cookie butter latte, but we have found all their espresso drinks enjoyable so far. It’s also worth noting that they do a “power hour” the last hour they are open on weekdays (5p-6p), in which they have ridiculously cheap deals. Might be a good time to fuel up if you’ll be up late!
What's the space like?
This is probably my favorite of the K Brew locations’ aesthetics. It is still a decent size – about 44 seats – but feels cozier than the other shops. This is probably due to the segmenting of seating sections.
The coffee/bagel bar is it’s own section, where they also have a case of to-go food/drinks/coffee roasts and merch. Adjacent is the larger seating section. It features comfortable (more plush) seating options up front, in two groups of 4. The room is bisected by a long, high table with room for 8-10. The back of the room has 5 small 2-top tables. Warehouse-style windows, selectively broken-away drywall and whitewashed brick give the space an industrial feel, featuring wooden tables/accents throughout.
Next comes a unique section among local coffee shops (although somewhat shared by their West Hills location) – they have hanging “hammock chairs” for 9 people and 2 picnic tables (room for about 8 people) in a separated area where they had the garage door (front wall of the section) pulled up for fresh air. This space has a geometric wall painting and turf for flooring.
Is it a good work space?
In short, yes, the place seemed to be filled with almost nothing but laptops. The allure of a strong food menu in addition to drinks probably encourages patrons to set up shop all day. There were plugs throughout, including the large center table. Wifi is open (not password protected). There was chill, indie/acoustic music playing in the background (not instrumental). There is lots of hustle and bustle, and you should get their early if you want to post up at a table – there was a constant line from 10 on.
Our Experience
We visited in early November, and had a cookie butter latte and iced cinnamon vanilla latte with almond milk. Service was fast (well staffed) even though they were pretty constantly busy. The cookie butter latte is liquid cookie butter – I’m not convinced there is espresso in that (there is though, just in case you were worried). the iced latte was one of the best either of us has had in the area – I am going to attribute this to the “barista’s” brand almond milk I saw. I am not sure how many shops use this brand, but it seemed to keep the almond flavor from overwhelming the flavoring in the latte (as we have experienced with other shops, or if you try to make your own at home).
Other things to do in the area
If you’re the later-in-the-day type, get your java fix at Time Warp Tea Room.
If 5 o’clock means something a little stronger than that for you, head straight south to Elkmont Exchange Brewery. UPDATE: Sadly, in the wake of Covid-19, Elkmont has shut their doors. HOWEVER, keep an eye on this location – word has it that local Yee Haw Brewing has bought the space for a Knoxville home!
Bagels are great, but what about donuts? It’s a (very) quick trip to The Donut Shop.
Questions, Comments, or Concerns?
Email us at help@brewsandtodos.com