Rooted in the independent spirit of East Tennessee communities where mills served as vital gathering places, Foothills Milling Company opened in Wears Valley in 2001. Starting as a small establishment, its commitment to gourmet dining in an elegant setting quickly garnered attention, boosted by local food critics and word-of-mouth. The restaurant’s mill motif paid homage to the region’s self-reliance, even incorporating a working mill into its design.

Due to increasing popularity and the need for more space, Foothills Milling Company relocated to Maryville in 2006, choosing a historic building. The restaurant not only embodies the foothills’ heritage but also prioritizes local sourcing from nearby farms and businesses. Acquired by the Schwartz family in late 2018, Foothills Milling Company continues its tradition of exceptional southern dining.