On an unassuming backroad just beyond downtown Maryville, a rustic country restaurant is hiding in plain sight. It's easy to pass if you're not looking. But at noon on a Thursday, the parking lot was completely full.
The Possum became one of Maryville's newest restaurants when it opened last month at 313 N. Houston St., serving hearty meals and big portions. It's a welcoming spot, with character around every corner.
Co-owner Jack Townsend was "looking for any building with a parking lot." What he found was a red brick building constructed in the 1930s that for decades served as doctors' offices, and what he built inside is an atmosphere that feels equal parts Smoky Mountains lodge and Sunday morning church service.
With a menu full of meals that
taste like dinner at Grandma's house, Knox News visited the restaurant to sample a few favorites, catch up with the owner and explore the hidden gems decorating the space. Watch the video above for a behind-the-scenes look at our visit!
What to expect and order at Maryville restaurant The Possum
The Possum's menu features a range of unique appetizers, including Brussels sprouts with ham jam, bologna burnt ends and fried saltines with pimento cheese. Guests can pair a fried catfish po'boy with collard greens and French fries or try the Full Appalachian Breakfast with a buttermilk biscuit, pimento cheese grits, two eggs made to order and your choice of country ham, sausage or bacon.
Townsend said his team worked meticulously to decorate the space with pieces that tell a story. They scoured local Baptist and Presbyterian churches to source chairs, pews and benches, and they browsed yard sales and Facebook marketplace for lamps, salt and pepper shakers and framed possum photos to hang on each floor.
What does the restaurant's name mean? For Townsend, The Possum "just feels right" and offers unique branding while simultaneously capturing the essence of an old country menu.
Save room for dessert. After taking in the vintage decor and digging into one of The Possum's entrees, cap off your meal with a bowl of banana pudding.
The Possum is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, as well as on Mondays, and is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Sunday hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Knox News reporter Joanna Hayes covers restaurants and retail for the business growth and development team. Email: joanna.hayes@knoxnews.com; Instagram: @knoxeat65. Sign up for Joanna's Eat65 email newsletter to get the latest drink and dining news, as well as restaurant recommendations, at knoxnews.com/newsletters.
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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: The Possum brings comfort food and country charm to Maryville | Exclusive
