+1 865-637-4067
Nestled in the heart of Knoxville’s vibrant Market Square, The Tomato Head is a beloved pizza restaurant and eatery that combines fresh, high-quality ingredients with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Celebrated for its varied menu that caters to both traditional and health-conscious food lovers, this local gem has stood the test of time, delighting patrons across generations.
The Tomato Head’s culinary style is a refreshing blend of classic pizza joint comforts and innovative, wholesome fare. Their pizzas are a standout—each pie boasts a perfectly balanced crust that is light and fluffy yet carries a satisfying crispness. One memorable favorite is the 4 Cheese Pizza, which layers mozzarella, ricotta, garlic, and oregano on an olive oil base, baked to a gentle, charred finish that bursts with savory richness. Not to be missed is the Tomato Head signature dish, a flavor-packed creation that truly speaks volumes about their attention to quality and taste.
Beyond pizza, The Tomato Head excels with an array of vibrant, flavorful options including the Veggie Burger and the fresh Veggie Chef Salad. Their appetizer lineup offers delights like Black Bean Hummus served with a drizzle of spicy sriracha and crunchy blue corn chips, as well as their house-made original hummus platter paired with warm, fresh-baked pita and crisp vegetables. Sweet lovers will find refuge in tempting treats like the Slice of Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie or the indulgent warm fruit cobbler served with Haagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream—each bite delivering a satisfying finish to your meal.
Dining at The Tomato Head is equally memorable for its atmosphere. The space is clean, open, and thoughtfully designed, reflecting a balance between relaxed comfort and a touch of artistic flair that complements the vibrant Market Square environment. Guests often enjoy the outdoor patio seating, which is perfect for soaking in the lively, friendly energy of this beloved Knoxville locale.
Customer praise is a testament to the restaurant’s consistent quality and welcoming vibe. One diner extolled the high standard of ingredients and the friendliness of the staff, singling out server Emma for her exceptional hospitality. Another praised the pizza’s expertly crafted crust and the charming ambiance, noting the thoughtful touches like the tasteful local artwork that adorns the walls. Longtime fans appreciate the menu’s consistency, highlighting its combination of favorite salads, pizzas, and sandwiches as a reliable source of comfort and joy over the years.
If you’re craving a meal that combines fresh, wholesome ingredients with bold, balanced flavors in a warm and inviting space, The Tomato Head is a must-visit. Whether it’s their signature sandwiches like the “Oh Boy,” praised for being emotionally satisfying and hearty, or their inventive hummus selections and refreshing mocktails, this restaurant offers a rich, satisfying experience that keeps locals and visitors coming back again and again.
For those seeking a taste of Knoxville’s culinary charm with a health-conscious twist and a welcoming atmosphere, The Tomato Head at 12 Market Square is a true local treasure well worth discovering.
We were recommended to eat here by a local. The best sandwich I’ve ever had. They use High quality ingredients and their bread is amazing. The service is top notch, all the employees are so friendly and hospitable. If I lived here I could eat here everyday and not get bored! Ask for Emma as your server, she is great and so kind!
Pizza is 9.4 light fluffy yet crispy crust.. Olive oil base 4cheese sub ricotta, garlic and oregano light char. Place is large, nice music but, plain/clean cut for the area and the quality of food. I'm only mentioning since Google asked. The art is a nice touch. Maybe more I don't know.
Our favourite from back in college, Tomato Head is still great. The menu has hardly changed, which I love. Lots of delicious salads, pizzas & sandwiches & a great selection of drinks. This will always be one of my favourite restaurants in Knoxville. So many memories here!
Get the mozzarella instead of the jack cheese... I have visited Tomato head in 3 distinct decades of my life and can say with confidence - I loved this sandwich more than any other item I have purchased from Tomato Head. I purchased the "Oh Boy" and it should be called the "Oh Man" because that sandwich was emotionally stable and in a good spot. It was the Mr. Darcy of Sandwiches, pride in that it was the most superior of all of the sandwiches on the menu. My prejudice is that the chips are just "Oh, okay, sure potatoes" and I could never say "what excellent [fried] potatoes." But in this case, the Mr. Collins of chips made the Mr. Darcy of sandwiches that more enjoyable. Anyway, the move is changing to the fresh mozzarella on the sandwich. I would come back anytime and be glad to get that whole meal again. The nice bit was this meal was also attainable and just the right amount of food! The staff was exceptionally friendly and I will return with the hope I can eat another one of these sandwiches.
Love the healthy and flavorful food options. Service was great! Nice patio dining on the square. I had the kepner melt, a greek salad, and the cleanse mocktail. My husband and I each had half the sandwich and shared the salad. We both loved it! Hoping I can recreate it at home since we don't live close by. Waitress was super attentive! Would love to go here more often. It will be a must next time I visit Knoxville.
Visited on April 26, 2025 When we came, we were able to sit immediately. We were at a High Top outside. It was perfect for our group of 6 and dog. Our server was Emma. She was very attentive and friendly. Everyone was really friendly. The menu had plenty of options. I ordered a side ceasar and the Smoked Salmon pizza with Garlic Oil + pesto base. I added feta and red onion. I did not get a picture, but the salad was okay. I asked for no mushrooms and when the salad came it had a bunch of black olives. I thought that was a little odd. The salad was also very small. Now to the pizza. When I tell you this pizza was absolutely DELICIOUS!!!!! I ordered a second one to go. It was that good!!! It taste so fresh and perfect. I did get a side of ranch. I assume it was made fresh, but it was watery. Wouldn't even stick on my food. Not good. My to go pizza was oddly a lot smaller than the one I had at the restaurant. I ordered a Margarita, but they said they were out of lime, so they made it with Strawberry. It wasn't very good. And it was only half way filled. I think the bartender had the measurements incorrect. Everyone in our party loved their pizza as well. My brother in law also ordered another to go. I would absolutely come back. Oh and they let me use their outlet to charge my phone. Also, I love Market Square. Such a cool vibe. I love the inclusivity of the area.
I've been meaning to write a review, as Tomato Head remains my favorite place for lunch in downtown Knoxville. Any time I meet friends, I always suggest this place and that's where we end up going. Last week was no exception when I met up with a girlfriend and we came to Tomato Head for another delicious lunch. I love the variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes available for my friends who don't eat meat. My go to will always be the turkey melt sandwich even though today I also added the squash curry soup to my lunch. Everything was amazing. Our waitress told me that the owner was here today and I expressed a desire to meet her. And lo and behold, she made time to come out and chat with us. Mahasti, I am so glad that you took a chance and opened this place up 35 years ago! You have truly revitalized Market Square and hats off to you for never giving up!!
Came to spend a day in Knoxville and wander through stores and eat lunch. We found The Tomato Head restaurant and had lunch. He had the salmon and pesto pizza slice and a house salad. I ordered a calzone. Both were tasty but also typical. Will you get a good meal. Yes. Service good? Also yes. Nothing to rave about but clean and tasty.