Nestled in the heart of Knoxville, The Back Alley At Creekside offers a unique dining experience that combines rustic charm with modern culinary creativity. Known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and an impressive menu that caters to a variety of tastes, this hidden gem has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re craving comfort food classics or adventurous new flavors, The Back Alley At Creekside menu delivers with a thoughtful balance of quality ingredients and innovative preparation. Each dish is crafted to not only satisfy hunger but to create memorable moments around the table.
The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients is evident in every bite. Their menu reflects a passion for both tradition and innovation, blending Southern flavors with contemporary twists.
From hearty appetizers to indulgent desserts, the offerings cater to all dining preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. This diversity ensures that every guest finds something to excite their palate.
Beyond the food, the menu itself tells a story—one of community, craftsmanship, and culinary excellence. As you explore The Back Alley At Creekside’s selections, you’ll discover dishes that emphasize bold flavors, balanced seasoning, and artful presentation, making it a standout destination for both casual meals and special occasions.
Appetizers to Ignite Your Appetite
The appetizer section at The Back Alley At Creekside is designed to set the tone for an exceptional meal. Featuring a blend of traditional favorites and innovative starters, this part of the menu invites diners to share and savor a variety of flavors before the main course.
Highlights include crispy fried green tomatoes paired with a tangy remoulade sauce, offering a perfect balance of crunchy texture and zesty flavor. The shrimp and grits appetizer is a nod to Southern comfort food, elevated with fresh herbs and a creamy, savory sauce.
For those seeking lighter options, the house salad with seasonal vegetables and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing start.
Each appetizer is thoughtfully prepared to stimulate the palate without overwhelming it, encouraging guests to anticipate the courses ahead. The menu also caters to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy an enticing beginning to their meal.
Signature Starters
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Served with a house-made remoulade dipping sauce, these are a crispy, tangy delight.
- Shrimp and Grits: Creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and herbs.
- Seasonal House Salad: Fresh greens, heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots, tossed in a light citrus vinaigrette.
- Smoked Gouda Dip: Warm and creamy, served with toasted baguette slices for dipping.
“The appetizers at The Back Alley At Creekside perfectly capture the essence of Southern hospitality with a modern flair.”
Enticing Entrées for Every Palate
The entrée selection at The Back Alley At Creekside showcases a diverse range of dishes that cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians. The menu’s core philosophy revolves around freshness, flavor, and satisfying portions, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Popular choices include the slow-roasted pork shoulder, which is tender and bursting with smoky notes, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. For seafood enthusiasts, the pan-seared trout with lemon-butter sauce offers a delicate yet flavorful option.
Vegetarians will appreciate the grilled portobello mushroom stack, layered with roasted peppers, goat cheese, and a balsamic glaze.
Each entrée is a testament to the chef’s skill in balancing complex flavors while maintaining a comforting familiarity. The menu’s flexibility allows guests to customize sides and sauces, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Entrée Comparison Table
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Portion Size |
| Slow-Roasted Pork Shoulder | Pork, garlic, herbs, mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables | Smoky, savory, rich | Generous |
| Pan-Seared Trout | Trout, lemon butter, herbs, asparagus | Light, citrusy, fresh | Moderate |
| Grilled Portobello Stack | Portobello mushrooms, roasted peppers, goat cheese, balsamic glaze | Earthy, tangy, creamy | Moderate |
Hearty Sandwiches and Burgers
The Back Alley At Creekside’s sandwiches and burgers section offers robust, satisfying options perfect for casual dining or a quick yet flavorful meal. Each sandwich is crafted with carefully chosen breads, fresh toppings, and house-made sauces that elevate the traditional sandwich to gourmet status.
The Back Alley Burger stands out with its blend of Angus beef, cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and a smoky barbecue aioli, served on a toasted brioche bun. The turkey club features layers of smoked turkey, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado, finished with a light chipotle mayo.
For those seeking plant-based options, the black bean burger comes packed with spices and topped with fresh slaw and a tangy cilantro-lime dressing.
Side options include hand-cut fries, sweet potato wedges, or a simple side salad, allowing diners to tailor their meal to their preferences.
Popular Sandwich Add-ons
- Cheese Choices: Cheddar, Swiss, Pepper Jack, Blue Cheese
- Extra Toppings: Bacon, Avocado, Sautéed Mushrooms, Fried Egg
- Side Options: Hand-cut Fries, Sweet Potato Wedges, House Salad
“Their sandwiches are a perfect blend of comfort and creativity, making each bite unforgettable.”
Fresh and Flavorful Salads
Salads at The Back Alley At Creekside are more than just a side dish—they are vibrant, nourishing meals designed to delight. Using seasonal produce and house-made dressings, the salad menu balances freshness with bold flavors.
The Creekside Cobb Salad is a crowd favorite, featuring mixed greens, grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, bacon, blue cheese, and avocado, drizzled with a tangy red wine vinaigrette. The Mediterranean Salad offers a lighter option with cucumbers, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing.
For a vegan-friendly choice, the roasted beet and quinoa salad combines earthy beets with nutty quinoa, arugula, and a balsamic reduction.
Each salad is thoughtfully composed to deliver a complex blend of textures and flavors, making them excellent as standalone meals or complements to other menu items.
Salad Dressing Varieties
- Red Wine Vinaigrette
- Lemon-Oregano Dressing
- Balsamic Reduction
- Creamy Ranch
Decadent Desserts to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
The dessert offerings at The Back Alley At Creekside provide a perfect ending to any meal, featuring indulgent yet balanced choices that showcase classic Southern desserts with a contemporary twist. Each dessert is made in-house, ensuring freshness and rich flavor.
The bourbon pecan pie is a standout, combining a flaky crust with a gooey, nutty filling enhanced by subtle notes of bourbon. The chocolate lava cake offers a warm, molten center paired with vanilla bean ice cream, creating a harmonious contrast.
For something lighter, the seasonal fruit crisp features locally sourced fruits topped with a crunchy oat streusel.
Sweet lovers will appreciate the care given to presentation and ingredient quality, as every dessert aims to leave a lasting impression.
Popular Dessert Pairings
| Dessert | Suggested Beverage Pairing |
| Bourbon Pecan Pie | Dark Roast Coffee or Bourbon Old Fashioned |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Espresso or Raspberry Port Wine |
| Seasonal Fruit Crisp | Chamomile Tea or Sparkling Water with Lemon |
“Desserts here are crafted as the perfect finale, blending tradition with exquisite taste.”
Craft Cocktails and Beverage Selection
The Back Alley At Creekside elevates the dining experience with an expertly curated beverage menu, featuring craft cocktails, local brews, and fine wines. The bar menu complements the food offerings, emphasizing fresh ingredients and innovative mixes.
The signature Creekside Mule is a refreshing blend of vodka, ginger beer, and lime, garnished with fresh mint. The Smoky Maple Old Fashioned offers a twist on the classic with smoky whiskey and a hint of maple syrup.
For non-alcoholic options, the house-made rosemary lemonade provides a crisp, herbaceous alternative. The wine list focuses on regional vineyards, offering reds, whites, and rosés that pair seamlessly with the menu.
Whether you’re looking for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap, the beverage selection enhances the overall ambiance and dining pleasure.
Featured Cocktails
- Creekside Mule: Vodka, ginger beer, lime, fresh mint
- Smoky Maple Old Fashioned: Whiskey, maple syrup, smoked bitters
- Rosemary Lemonade (Non-Alcoholic): Fresh lemon juice, rosemary syrup, soda water
- Seasonal Sangria: Rotating fruit blend with red or white wine
Special Dietary Options and Accommodations
The Back Alley At Creekside recognizes the importance of inclusivity and offers a variety of menu options tailored to special dietary needs. Whether you require gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan dishes, the kitchen is prepared to accommodate with flavorful and satisfying alternatives.
Gluten-free diners can enjoy dishes such as grilled salmon with quinoa salad or the roasted portobello mushroom stack. Vegetarians have a diverse selection, including seasonal vegetable risotto and salads rich with nuts, cheeses, and fresh produce.
Vegan options are clearly marked and thoughtfully prepared, ensuring that dietary restrictions do not compromise on taste or presentation.
The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, always willing to provide ingredient information and make recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience for all guests.
Gluten-Free vs. Vegetarian Dishes
| Dish | Gluten-Free | Vegetarian |
| Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad | Yes | No |
| Roasted Portobello Mushroom Stack | Yes | Yes |
| Seasonal Vegetable Risotto | Yes (without garnish) | Yes |
| Black Bean Burger | No (contains bun) | Yes |
“Their dedication to accommodating dietary needs without sacrificing flavor is commendable.”
Conclusion
The Back Alley At Creekside menu embodies a harmonious blend of Southern tradition, culinary innovation, and thoughtful inclusivity. Each section of the menu is curated with care, reflecting a commitment to high-quality ingredients and exceptional preparation.
From the first bite of a crisp fried green tomato to the last spoonful of bourbon pecan pie, diners are invited to experience a journey of flavors that celebrate Knoxville’s vibrant food culture.
Whether you seek comforting classics or bold, contemporary dishes, the menu offers something for every palate and preference. Its variety ensures that all guests, regardless of dietary restrictions or taste preferences, can enjoy a fulfilling meal.
The attention to detail extends beyond the kitchen to the beverage program, creating a well-rounded dining experience that delights the senses.
Visiting The Back Alley At Creekside is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor thoughtfully crafted dishes in a warm, welcoming setting. The menu’s diversity and quality make it a standout destination for those looking to indulge, explore, and enjoy the best of Knoxville’s culinary scene.
