From Sunrise Coffee to Sparkling Nights, Mimosas Has You Covered

Downtown Knoxville’s business scene is always in motion, and right now it’s a mix of change and opportunity. Some longtime staples have closed, new faces are arriving, and creative concepts are taking shape. While the economic climate can be challenging, local business owners and developers are betting on growth — investing in restaurants, hotels, and events that keep the city center buzzing.

For Chad Kennedy, president of Kennedy Concepts, success comes down to two things: smart operations and listening to what the community wants. He’s built a track record of creating spaces that are inviting, delicious, and fill a gap in the market. His next project checks all those boxes and then some.

South Knoxville is about to get a serious dose of charm with the arrival of Mimosas, a casual yet vibrant spot from Kennedy Concepts. Opening this October on the ground floor of The Davy (222 E. Blount Ave.), the location couldn’t be more convenient for residents living upstairs. And yes, parking is readily available. 47 covered parking spots are reserved for Mimosas guests, plus more garage parking in the adjacent garage that will be free on nights and weekends.

The name might make you think “brunch,” and you’ll definitely find it here, but it’s also a nod to Mimosa Avenue, which runs right behind the building. The restaurant will blend morning energy with evening fun:

• Weekday coffee & counter service starting at 7 a.m.
• Weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily
• Late-night entertainment till 2 a.m., three nights a week

  

Residents living in The Davy can roll out of bed for coffee and a breakfast sandwich before class, meet friends to study over lunch, or wind down with live entertainment without leaving the building. Kennedy says he wants Mimosas to be the opposite of a rushed, noisy space. He wants a place that says, “Stay awhile.” Guests can connect to Wi-Fi, hold business meetings, or simply relax with a drink in hand.

Mimosas will offer online ordering so guests can grab a smoothie or breakfast sandwich without waiting in line adding convenience to their list of attributes . Kennedy hopes that by keeping the doors open as much as 19 hours a day at times, the restaurant will fill a gap in South Knoxville for an affordable, all-day hangout as well as an employment opportunity.

In true Kennedy Concepts fashion, Mimosas isn’t stopping at coffee and brunch. The team is adding a custom sparkling-wine program in partnership with Peaceful Side Brewery in Maryville. Wines were sourced from Oregon, carbonated locally, and will be served on draft at Mimosas. They have created their own blends, offering sparkling wines and a rosé to the beverage menu. They plan for these drinks to be affordable and taste like nothing you’ve had before. The long-term plan? Package and distribute them to other Kennedy Concepts restaurants across the region. The sky’s the limit, and if the venture goes well, you could find it in other local shops soon. They are keeping the avenues wide open.

The space is being crafted for flexibility and comfort, with 145 seats inside and 100 on the patio. Outside, guests will find fire pits, couches, umbrellas, and TVs for a laid-back, social vibe. Inside, the design encourages lingering — whether you’re studying, catching up with friends, or just enjoying the view. There will be booth, bar and table/chair seating throughout.

Need a private space? Mimosas will offer event seating for 15 on the patio and 20 inside, or combine the two for a 35-seat gathering perfect for celebrations, meetings, or small receptions. This area has the capability to be a private dining area making this restaurant even more versatile.

The architecture and interior design come from Johnson Architecture. Lauderdale Design Group is sourcing furnishings. Oliver Smith helped secure the location. Oliver Smith Realty has been instrumental in opening doors of opportunity for Kennedy Concepts in Knoxville. Horner Building Co. is again lending their expertise as the local contractors.

Beyond the restaurant itself, Kennedy Concepts is keeping community engagement on the menu. This fall, they’ll host a Smoke Off barbecue competition in Gatlinburg featuring pitmaster Myron Mixon and other top names. Kennedy Concepts recently partnered with Myron Mixon to open Myron Mixon Barbeque Company. (My family of six ate there recently and all highly recommend it!) And closer to home, they’re teaming with City Councilman Tommy Smith to restore the “Welcome to South Knoxville” sign on the Mimosa property at the corner of Blount Avenue and Chapman Highway, what most would recognize as the entry point to South Knoxville.

Whether you are looking for morning lattes or late-night bubbles, Mimosas aims to be the neighborhood’s go-to gathering spot where The Davy’s residents, South Knoxville locals, and visitors alike can eat, sip, study, celebrate, and stay a while.

With opening day approaching, Mimosas is hiring for a variety of positions (job listings are available HERE).