KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — People in Old City usually need to sit down at a restaurant to grab something to eat. However, Red Panda Grocery is bringing the convenience of a bodega to the area and giving people a chance to grab food and head back out.
The store was started by Jesse Newmister, who also owns Kaizen down the block, a restaurant offering Japanese-style tapas. He said he believes the location is welcoming to residents and visitors in the Old City.
"It's just a unique neighborhood. We also operate Mill and mine and Taco. We're invested, we love seeing this neighborhood thrive and grow," he said.
The store brings a mixture of quick cuisine and packaged snacks. The team makes a variety of sandwiches people can grab for a meal, such as spicy barbecue chicken sandwiches, Reuben sandwiches or Cuban sandwiches.
He also said while working on plans for the grocery store, Jesse and his family found out they were expecting a baby — due at any moment.
The store is open from 9 a.m. through 7 p.m. every day of the week except Sunday when it is open from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. It is located at 123 S. Central Street.