petersjazzclub.com) “is an old mansion converted into a jazz club/restaurant with intimate lighting,” says Smith. “It’s like eating in someone’s home. The food is consistently good.” Her recommendation: the port wine duck confit with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed spinach, and port wine—blueberry reduction.
SHOPPING
Bliss Home + Art (24 Market Square, 888-809-2424, www.shopinbliss.com) feels like an airy Miami shop and stands out in Knoxville’s small-town landscape. Located in the popular Market Square District, it specializes in vintage home accessories, artistic glassware, and stylish novelties.
For the gentleman who prefers tailored perfection, John H. Daniel Custom Tailors (120 West Jackson Ave., 865-637-6441, www.johnhdaniel.com) crafts suits–starting at $550–with 600 to 800 different fabrics imported from England and Italy.
Knoxville Soap Candle & Gifts (4889 Broadway, 865-689-6545) “is one of my personal favorites. It’s a pamper shop with every type of cream you can imagine. With its water sculptures and tasteful accessories, it’s like being at a spa.”
NIGHTSPOTS
“I recently went to see the opera Carmen,” at the Tennessee Theatre (604 South Gay St., www.tennesseetheatre.com). “Every time I go there, it takes my breath away; the theatre brings old Hollywood glamour to Knoxville. This year alone it has brought in acts like Bill Cosby, John Legend, Sinbad, and Clay Aiken.”
“My husband and I double date quite often at The Comedy Zone” (9246 Park West Blvd., 865-692-9663, www.knoxvillecomedyzone.com). “You will leave with a pain in your side from laughter.