The history of The Orangery's existence reads like a history book. Named after Marie Antoinette’s greenhouse at Versailles, The Orangery remained a staple in the Knoxville fine dining market for its first 38 years, when it first opened in 1971, the restaurant was filled with furnishings and antique architectural details that the family rescued from structures in Knoxville, New York, Paris and numerous other cities around the world. “It’s more than just a meal, there’s a history lesson in every room,” said executive chef Bryant. “That’s one thing that excites me about coming to The Orangery. I want to continue the legacy by providing great meals and memories to our guests—it’s all about the experience.” For the past four decades, The Orangery has played host to lavish wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, and other events too numerous to mention. The restaurant boasts several dining rooms on the main floor, all decorated in regency style while the Phoenix ballroom at the top of the spiral staircase can accommodate up to 300 people for larger gatherings. “When you came to The Orangery, you left with a memory,” says new owner David Kiger. The menu has been updated with a fusion of classical French cuisine and traditional southern accents. Guests will be awed by menu items such as lobster and mushroom crepes, slow-braised lamb shank, double cut kurabota pork chop with gouda cheese stuffing, several fish and beef entrees and the daily specials that Chef Bryant creates in The Orangery kitchen. “Many of our guests will recognize some of their old favorites on the menu. The Orangery is opened for lunch Monday-Friday from 11:30 am - 2 pm and for dinner Monday through Saturday starting at 5:30 pm. Reservations are not required, but highly recommended by calling 588-2964.