About Sonny’s Concepts

Sonny’s Concepts was built on a dream—one that started with a passion for great food, great people, and creating places where everyone feels welcome.

Founder Michael McLain, a former Knox County Sheriff’s Deputy and longtime business owner, envisioned a family-friendly hospitality company built around quality food, genuine hospitality, affordable prices, and a strong sense of community. More than that, he dreamed of creating a brand that could grow into multiple concepts while staying true to its core values.

When Michael shared his vision with his friend Joe, a proud United States Marine Corps veteran, the two immediately went to work turning that dream into reality. Together, they built Sonny’s Concepts on the values they knew best: hard work, service, integrity, and community. As a veteran- and first responder-owned company, their goal has always been to create establishments where families, friends, coworkers, and neighbors can come together to enjoy great food, cold drinks, and good fellowship.

The name “Sonny” comes from Michael’s father, Patrick “Sonny” McLain. Growing up, Michael worked alongside Sonny and his mother, DeAnna, helping operate food trailers, a deli, and catering services that served everything from local fairs and festivals to large-scale community events. Those experiences instilled a deep appreciation for hospitality, customer service, and the importance of treating every guest like family.

Naming the company Sonny’s was Michael’s way of honoring the man who taught him so much about both business and life.

Today, Sonny’s Concepts proudly operates three unique concepts, each designed to serve the Knoxville community in its own way:

Sonny’s Original Southern Pub offers a welcoming neighborhood pub atmosphere with fresh food, great drinks, and a place where friends and families can gather and make lasting memories.

Sonny’s Pizza & Wings delivers quality pizzas, wings, sandwiches, and more at an economical price, providing a casual dining experience built around great food and exceptional value.

Sonny’s Brewing serves as the company’s craft beer destination, featuring house-brewed beers, community events, live entertainment, and a taproom atmosphere designed to bring people together.

While each concept has its own identity, they all share the same mission: providing fresh, quality food and drink at an affordable price while creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home.

As Sonny’s Concepts continues to grow, we remain committed to supporting our community, honoring our roots, and building places where great food, great drinks, and great people come together.

From our family to yours, welcome to Sonny’s.