“A Taste of Knoxville: Culinary Hotspots in ‘Principles of Real Estate & Murder'”
Follow Frank Merchant’s journey through Knoxville’s vibrant dining scene in this local thriller: Click here to buy it now!
UNION JACK’S This British-style pub in Bearden becomes a gathering spot for Frank’s retirement party. It’s a friendly spot at the foot of Bearden Hill – an area immortalized in the Robert Mitchum’s song and movie “Thunder Road” about the historical moonshine runs from the hills of Appalachia to America during Prohibition. Union Jack’s is warm and welcoming with a great mix of “Downtowners” and “Westies” passing pints, playing pool and darts. When the weather is nice (most of the time) their patio is an easy choice with cornhole, fire pits and ample seating for all your mates.
“We always met up at Jack’s because, aside from the ‘British Pub’ pool tables and darts atmosphere, it was a place that Adam DIDN’T own.”
THE VAULT A converted bank turned speakeasy, this establishment symbolizes Knoxville’s evolving character – much like our protagonist’s evolution from detective to realtor. Its historical architecture and modern energy perfectly capture the city’s transformation. A perfect place for entertaining locals or introducing folks from out of town to our fabulously “Scruffy” little city.
“…They hit it off over a hand of poker at a weekly game I’d invited them both to at The Vault – a defunct bank that became an erstwhile speakeasy just off Gay Street & Market Square…”
CALHOUN’S ON THE RIVER Overlooking the Tennessee River, this restaurant becomes more than a dining spot – it’s the setting for one of the book’s most dramatic scenes. The riverside location provides an amazing “front door” to Knoxville. (It also provides the perfect scene for a book cover!)
“Late evening diners and drinkers at Calhoun’s lined up along the deck, peering over the wooden handrails or snapped video of the scene that would undoubtedly end up on Facebook and YouTube before I could explain.”
Each of these establishments does more than feed our characters; they help tell the story of Knoxville itself – a city where history, mystery, and modernity merge over excellent food and drink.
Want to follow in Frank’s footsteps? These restaurants are all still serving up the atmosphere (and excellent food) that made them perfect settings for “Principles of Real Estate & Murder.”
Rob Howard | Knoxville Realtor and Author | KnoxvilleRob | Frank Merchant Mysteries
Rob Howard is more than just a Knoxville, TN real estate agent; he is the author who captures the story of Knoxville. 23+ year industry veteran, Rob combines the data-driven expertise of a top-producing team with the narrative insight of a local historian and novelist.
Rob’s unique approach to real estate. Rob has focused on "wandering, listening, and absorbing" Knoxville since becoming a student at the University of Tennessee in 1991. Rob's relational approach to Knoxville and East Tennessee real estate earned him a feature in Jay Papasan’s (co-author of The One Thing) acclaimed book on real estate success. Whether navigating the revitalization of Downtown Knoxville, the historic charm of Fourth and Gill, or the community fabric of Farragut, Rob helps clients understand the true character of the neighborhoods they are buying into.
Beyond the closing table, Rob is the author of the Frank Merchant mystery series, set locally in Knoxville and around East Tennessee. He leverages this deep knowledge of the region’s history and culture to help relocation clients and locals alike find not just a house, but their place in Knoxville’s story.
Specialties: Knoxville Relocation, Historic Homes, Luxury Real Estate, and East Tennessee Investment Properties.
Connect with Rob: 🌐 Search Homes: KnoxvilleRob.com 📚 Read the Books: RealEstateMystery.com 📸 Follow the Journey: @KnoxvilleRob on all social media!
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