Exterior of The Kennedy gastropub with neon signage, dark blue trim, and glowing interior visible from the street

Double-height back bar with apothecary jars and liquor bottles at The Kennedy gastropub in Knoxville

View from entrance of The Kennedy gastropub showing layered interior design, amber lighting, and bar framed by rich materials

Amber glass chandeliers and mosaic tile floor highlighting the central bar area

Side-by-side comparison of The Kennedy gastropub before and after renovation, showing transformation from dated pub to warm, historic interior

Interior view from the bar at The Kennedy looking toward the entrance with warm lighting, custom seating, and large street-facing windows

Restored black tin ceiling adding historic character to mezzanine level

The Kennedy – A Reimagined Gastropub in a Historic Pharmacy

Knoxville, TN

The Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry partnered with Kennedy Concepts Inc. to reimagine an existing pub—originally an 1870s pharmacy—into The Kennedy, a warm and elevated gastropub and restaurant that bridges Knoxville’s past and present. Located off a quaint main street in the heart of downtown, the renovation honors the building’s legacy while crafting a nostalgic yet refined guest experience from brunch to last call.

Inspired by History, Designed for Experience

The Kennedy captures the character of one of downtown Knoxville’s oldest buildings with amber-hued apothecary jars, paneled wood cabinetry, and a restored black tin ceiling—a nod to its pharmacy origins and a clever solution to low mezzanine heights. A double-height back bar anchors the room, drawing the eye upward while seamlessly integrating vintage-inspired elements with a modern beverage display.

Fritted amber glass chandeliers illuminate the main dining room, while a mosaic tile floor and painted millwork lead guests to the central bar, establishing a dramatic and welcoming focal point.

Balancing Energy and Intimacy

Open daily from 11 a.m. into the late evening, The Kennedy’s atmosphere shifts effortlessly from relaxed lunch to vibrant nightlife. Deep blue-black wall paneling, stained wood, and leather accents create a moody, comfortable setting. Custom window benches and banquettes maximize the use of tight spaces, providing guests with intimate corners to relax, experiment, and indulge.

Subtle integrations of TVs—disguised behind mirrors and within the back bar—cater to Knoxville’s sports-loving culture while preserving the sophisticated ambiance.

A Layered Story Told Through Light and Detail

Lighting plays a central role in shaping the guest experience. Decorative and architectural fixtures highlight the original transom windows, casting a soft glow across the exposed brick and curated vintage artifacts. A gallery wall of historic photography ties the space to the local community, offering a visual narrative that honors the building’s layered history and continued relevance.