Connect
To Top

Hidden Gems: Meet Amanda and Mattie Wilmoth of Bull Babies

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda and Mattie Wilmoth.

Hi Amanda and Mattie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
We are Amanda and Mattie Wilmoth–two redheaded sisters with one little dream–to share our love for cooking, family, and all the feel-goods with all of you. Now that dream—it was on hold—perhaps forever, as we hustled in everyday corporate America. Then… 2020 rolled around and brought the gift of Covid.

Why a gift? Well, you see, we both lost our jobs during restructuring and were forced to take a bet on ourselves—to breathe life into our dream. You see, Wilmoth girls—we do not know how to fail—we know hard work and determination, perhaps even being a bit bullish—is the recipe for success. That being said…”Hey y’all, welcome to Bull Babies!”

What’s that name about?

Our old man–his name was “Bull” –and this sister pair, are the daughters of Bull.

You see, our old man was a bit of a local legend–at least in our eyes, and people generally only knew him by his nickname–Bull–some say because of his size, others for his demeanor. Either way, once you met him, you did not forget him–and we think you’ll think the same about visiting Bull Babies.

Food has a special ability to bring people together–it always did for us. The best of times were shared around a family table filled with laughter, love, quick jabs, and the most delicious food–generally followed by an afternoon nap or two. While we don’t offer a comfy couch, we do offer an authentic southern comfort meal that is sure to make you feel like you are right at our table–filled with laughter, delicious food and if you are lucky–a few quick jabs.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
That is hilarious—absolutely not! We opened a restaurant during the peak of Covid! We opened a restaurant AND obtained a commercial loan with neither one of us having a job! Most called us crazy, others called us brave—we are just living the dream.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We are located in the heart of Historic Downtown Rogersville—in what used to be the old Ford dealership’s garage bay. We used a mix of modern industrial and classic farmhouse design when we self remodeled the building.

Our mission has always been to be the best—the friendliest, the tastiest, the quickest—simply the best we can. This year, we actually won a record-breaking amount of Best of the Best Awards from our local hometown, including best fried chicken, best burger, best place for breakfast, and best desserts. We truly believe in making people feel like part of our family before they leave and I think that is what sets us apart.

Throughout the week, you can find quick grab-and-go items to get you on your way, plated southern comfort specials, and an assortment of brag-worthy baked goods. On the weekends, we shift gears a bit and offer all-day brunch and beers–sure to complete your weekend.

We are open 7 days a week and look forward to sharing our love for cooking with your bellies soon!

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Hearing the laughter and conversation exchanged over our food, making people feel better after coming into our restaurant, being part of the revitalization of downtown, being community-minded…being the Bull Babies.

It is who we are—we are lovers of people, food, and community.

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: KnoxvilleVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

1 Comment

  1. Regina Williams

    January 20, 2022 at 5:13 pm

    I proud of these girls. They put effort, heart and soul into this business.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories

  • Check Out Ben Frazier’s Story

    Today we’d like to introduce you to Ben Frazier. Ben Frazier Hi Ben, so excited to have you on the platform....

    Local StoriesJanuary 3, 2025