Erica Breunlin | Knoxville

Angela M. Gosnell, Knoxville News Sentinel

Market Square's collection of restaurants is expanding with the addition of Petro's Chili & Chips, a quick service venue slated to open in the next 60 to 90 days, according to president Dale Widmer.

The restaurant, a Knoxville-based chain that got its start at the 1982 World's Fair, is moving into 2 Market Square, the former home of I Love Juice Bar, which closed in December after two years of business.

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Do you remember these closed Knoxville restaurants?

The restaurant's menu is anchored by "petro" — a mixture of sour cream, green onions, diced tomatoes, original or vegetarian chili, and corn chips or pasta — and also features an assortment of hot dogs, baked potatoes and nachos.

Provided

The eatery's original menu boasted entrees served in Fritos bags that were cut open and filled with chili and toppings, but it eventually pivoted from bags to bowls, Widmer said.

Along with petro, the restaurant's signature item is its hint-of-orange iced tea, which it also sells for customers to make at home as well as in 16 ounce bottles. The bottles will be available at convenience and grocery stores, Widmer said.

Chuck Campbell

Once the new site opens, Petro's will have eight corporate stores plus four franchise stores, including one at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, according to Widmer.

Multiple sites have existed for many years, Widmer said, including its West Hill location for 25 years and its Cedar Bluff location for 17 years.

"We're here to stay," he said.

A longtime pursuit of a downtown eatery

Widmer and his team have been eyeing the downtown market for several years as it's continued to grow and have been searching for the right location, centered on Market Square.

"Market Square in particular just seems to fit what we're looking for in terms of traffic and visibility and a presence in the downtown market," Widmer said.

Chuck Campbell

The new locale will introduce a new concept to Market Square, Widmer said, as the restaurant prepares entrees that are fresh, made to order and served to customers quickly.

Patrons can enjoy a meal when they don't have much time to spare or grab food when they're on the go.

"There's a niche for that," Widmer said.

Widmer anticipates the restaurant will employ between 12 and 20 people.

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The business' step into Market Square is a win-win for both Petro's Chili & Chips and the owners of I Love Juice Bar, whom Widmer calls friends.

Wochit

Petro's Chili & Chips is taking over the remainder of the juice bar's lease, Widmer said, and working with the owner of the building to establish a long-term lease.

While there has been turnover of businesses in the corners of Market Square within the last year, Widmer isn't worried about his eatery's fate, citing the longevity and popularity of the brand.

Jim Gaines, USA TODAY Network - Tennessee

Customers have asked for a downtown spot for the last 16 years, he said, and the restaurant is ready to deliver and join a family of downtown businesses.

"We're just excited to be part of the downtown community," Widmer said. "We think we'll fit into the vibe and are happy to be part of the downtown family."