Vol Dining Celebrates Grand Opening of Cumberland Food Hall

Vol Dining at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 7 to celebrate the grand opening of Cumberland Food Hall, a vibrant new dining destination located on the first floor of Hub Knoxville. The project was developed through a partnership with the private developers that brought Hub Knoxville to the section of Cumberland Avenue bordering UT’s campus, locally known as the Strip.

A Modern Approach to Campus Dining

Cumberland Food Hall, which includes seating for nearly 350 people, was developed to serve students living off campus and the broader Knoxville community. It introduces four unique dining options and a state-of-the-art ghost kitchen—a modern approach in which multiple brands are prepared and shared from the same kitchen space. The technology-driven design allows guests to order from several dining concepts through the Grubhub app or at kiosks. Meals are placed into secure lockers for easy pickup, minimizing wait times and reducing congestion.

Diverse Dining Concepts and Menu Options

A variety of foods, including gluten-friendly, vegetarian, vegan and halal options, are available in the hall’s four dining concepts:

• Athenian Grill: serving Mediterranean bowls and gyros made with halal meats and offering customizable fresh flavor options.
• Big Orange Grill: a partnership with UT’s Northeast Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center offering fresh smashburgers and fries made with locally sourced ingredients.
• South Street Steaks: specializing in Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks and loaded fries.
• Zen Sushi & Wok: featuring authentic and freshly made sushi, ramen, wok dishes and bubble teas.

“We are excited to open this beautiful, innovative space where the Vol community can come together and enjoy delicious meals just off campus,” said Amanda Hough, director of Vol Dining.

Strategic Partnerships and Revitalization

The project reflects Vol Dining’s commitment to innovation, student satisfaction and meaningful connection that expands beyond the core of campus. It was made possible by partnerships with Schenk +, Core Spaces, the UT System, UT Facilities Services, Dwell Design Studio, Z Creative Group, Aramark Collegiate Hospitality and KaTom Restaurant Equipment. Hub Knoxville, a multitower community located at 1915 Cumberland Ave., houses nearly 2,000 students on more than four acres. It was developed by Core Spaces and Schenk+ and marks the largest private student development in Knoxville’s history. “Cumberland Food Hall is a key component of our vision that will benefit our residents, UT students and Knoxville locals for years to come,” said Jared Schenk, principal at Schenk+.

Operational Information

Cumberland Food Hall accepts Dining Dollars, Flex Plan, VolCard account, and credit and debit cards to provide convenient access for all. Students can also use cash equivalency through their meal plans. Operating hours are 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week, excluding major holidays.