Before browsing the Farmer’s Market in Knoxville, we stopped at a tapas restaurant called Babalu. I loved the décor and the idea of sharing a few plates instead of having a full meal for lunch. Tapas are a Spanish-style way of eating where “small plates” are the perfect size portions for sharing among family and friends.
Selecting an outdoor table along the sidewalk patio, we had plenty of opportunities for people watching and taking in the urban scenery. We started out with a bowl of Babalu’s fabulous, tableside guacamole. As we watched our server combine the ingredients, we learned their secret ingredient was sun-dried tomatoes, which enhanced the guacamole’s chunky texture. This is one of Babalu’s signature, upscale avocado dip served with homemade chips and I highly recommend it.
Other starters that looked just as amazing were the flash-fried-calamari and yellowfin tuna ceviche.
Choosing three tapas was difficult because there were so many from which to choose. We ordered the beef empanadas, a selection of three tacos and the filet on a stick which came with a grilled tenderloin covered in a teriyaki glaze, rosti potatoes, broccolini and pico de gallo.
The food was spectacular and the service was fabulous. The small plates were the perfect sized portions and we were ready to tackle the Knoxville Farmer’s Market.
Have you had the opportunity to eat at Babalu? What was your favorite item on the menu and how was the service? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reviewing my post about Babalu in Knoxville, Tennessee and wishing you many Happy Travels!
What to See and What to Do:
Ijam’s Nature Center
2915 Island Home Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37920
Telephone: 865 577 4717
Market Square Farmer’s Market
Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee
Where to Eat:
Babalu’s
412 S. Gay Street
Knoxville, TN 37902
Telephone: 865 329 1002
Where to Stay:
Four Points Sheraton Knoxville Cumberland House
1109 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37916
Telephone: 865 971 4663