“The building hasn’t had any major renovations since the early ‘70s, so it’s time,” Ford told Knox News. “We want to improve the guest experience and build something that’s going to last for generations.”
The renovations will expand the kitchen and main dining room, allowing Sweet P’s to increase capacity from 125 seats to 175 seats. Ford said the larger kitchen will help shorten wait times and allow Sweet P’s to cater to larger parties. The makeover also will freshen up the dining room and bar area and add a private dining space.
“A lot of memories have been made at Sweet P’s over the years, so we want to keep that same historic charm while modernizing at the same time,” Ford said.
Sweet P’s Uptown Corner opened in 2010 and has become a community gathering spot, known for dishes like smoked meat plates, catfish, fried green tomatoes and peach cobbler. The restaurant’s original Maryville location opened in 2009.
Ford said that while the Uptown Corner restaurant is closed for renovations from early June through July, Sweet P’s loyal customers can visit the Maryville restaurant or the recently opened food truck. The Uptown Corner location will reopen in early August with a ribbon cutting and specials to celebrate the improvements.
“We’re really excited for the future of Sweet P’s in Fountain City and can’t wait to unveil the new and improved space this summer,” Ford said.
