Middle East and Asia In Knoxville

Today was a good day.  We got to meet my son for lunch at one of our #1 destinations in Knoxville, Yassin’s Falafel House, the new second location.

Yassin’s family fled Syria as refugees, relocated to Knoxville with virtually nothing, and started a Middle Eastern restaurant that has been enthusiastically embraced by his new home.  It’s become a sort of Mecca for people and orgs who work for inclusiveness and progress in an otherwise conservative state.  In turn, Yassin has returned the favor and reached out to the community who adopted him.  It’s a real American success story and says a lot about the welcoming attitude of Knoxville.  We were happy to do our little part to support his work, and just to be there together.  Here’s the famous sign:

After that, Avdi showed us an Asian/international market, and an Indian grocery, both of which were awesome.  I finally found items that have been on my list for ages.  These are only two of many such diverse cultural markets and restaurants in this area.  There is a growing population of Asians (Vietnamese, etc.), Middle Easterners, Hispanics, and many others here, with thriving businesses, which is a good sign.  And Knoxville for the most part has gone out of its way to welcome and support them.

All in all, Knoxville was a good choice.  We welcome whatever time we get to spend here with my family.

 

 

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