The University of Tennessee at Knoxville (UT) is set to unveil a new dining concept, Cumberland Foodhall, in collaboration with Core Spaces. This venture marks a significant milestone in UT's strategic plan to expand its campus footprint and invest in off-campus spaces. The food hall will be housed within the Hub Knoxville complex, currently under construction on Cumberland Avenue. With an expected completion date for the first phase in 2025, this project represents a $530 million investment by Core Spaces. The Cumberland Foodhall aims to offer diverse dining options, catering not only to students but also to the broader Knoxville community.

Innovative dining experiences are coming to the heart of Knoxville as UT collaborates with Core Spaces to establish Cumberland Foodhall. Located inside Hub Knoxville at 1925 Cumberland Ave., this dining space will feature counter-service eateries and food lockers from multiple vendors. The university has leased the area through Aramark Educational Services for Vol Dining, committing over $2.85 million over five years, with an option for extension. Construction costs for transforming the space into a food hall are estimated at $586,480.

One of the standout offerings will be Zen Sushi & Wok, providing Asian-inspired cuisine such as sushi, ramen, dumplings, and boba tea. This establishment is distinct from another similarly named restaurant that once operated nearby before construction began. Additionally, patrons can retrieve meals from Athenian Grill, offering Mediterranean dishes like bowls, wraps, and gyros, and Big Orange Grill, serving burgers made from UT farm-raised beef, chicken tenders, and Philly cheesesteaks.

This initiative aligns with UT’s broader strategy to enhance student life by incorporating advanced food pickup methods, including delivery robots and expanded dining partnerships. It underscores the university’s commitment to fostering innovation within its culinary offerings while maintaining accessibility for all members of the community.

Beyond just adding a new dining venue, Cumberland Foodhall symbolizes UT's ambition to extend its influence across a defined 1.5-mile radius south of the river at Cherokee Farm Research Park and north to Mechanicsville. This zone includes areas eastward towards the South Waterfront and westward into Sequoyah Hills. By identifying these key regions for investment, UT continues to strengthen its presence in the Strip area, already home to establishments like Chick-fil-A and the Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs, alongside future acquisitions like Cherokee Mills.

As UT ventures further into developing off-campus amenities, Cumberland Foodhall stands as a testament to the university's forward-thinking approach toward integrating educational and community resources. By enhancing dining facilities and expanding geographical reach, UT not only supports student well-being but also contributes positively to Knoxville's urban development landscape.