Gemini Hospitality is expanding its downtown Knoxville presence with two restaurant projects, Anthony’s Italian Steakhouse at Lone Tree Pass and Lucky Bird in the former Babalu space at 412 S. Gay Street. The developments represent separate additions to the hospitality group’s growing portfolio, according to Inside of Knoxville.
Anthony’s Italian Steakhouse will occupy a substantial street-facing commercial space at Lone Tree Pass, overlooking the development’s pedestrian passage and Summit Hill. Speaking with WhatNow Nashville, Gemini Hospitality Chief Operating Officer Joe Palermo confirmed the restaurant’s anticipated debut, saying the opening target places the restaurant’s arrival in the second quarter of 2027.
The second project, Lucky Bird, will introduce a rotisserie chicken concept to the former Babalu restaurant space. According to Inside of Knoxville, the restaurant is expected to feature a full bar, with food offerings ranging from individual chicken portions to whole birds. The company has not announced an opening date for the Gay Street location.
The two projects add to Gemini Hospitality’s existing restaurant portfolio, which includes Raven Steakhouse & Lounge in downtown Maryville, Bella and Earl’s Knoxville. Founded by Jim Saunders and Jimmy Loup, Gemini Hospitality combines restaurant ownership and operations with hospitality consulting and concept development, according to the company’s official website.
Raven has also earned a recommendation in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide American South, giving the group additional recognition in the regional dining industry. Gemini previously partnered with Dominion on Earl’s, a restaurant at 610 Waterfront Drive in South Knoxville, as reported by the publication.
Anthony’s and Lucky Bird will add different dining options to the South Gay Street corridor, with one planned for the Lone Tree Pass development and the other taking over an established restaurant space. While Anthony’s has a second-quarter 2027 target, further details about its menu and dining experience have yet to be released. Lucky Bird’s opening timeline also remains unannounced.
