GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Manchester. This month, Shannon Beebe visited Shenanigans.
DID YOU know that Shenanigans is the oldest building in Sewanee? Skip the chain sandwich shops and head straight to Shenanigans if you’re in Sewanee — you’ll thank me later. This colorful little restaurant is pure college-town energy — bright walls, lively music humming in the background, and a menu stacked with sandwiches, melts, and pizzas that practically demand to be shared.

We went for lunch and ordered a spread big enough to feed a dorm: the Reuben, the Club, fried mushrooms, fried zucchini, and their real-cut French fries. The Reuben was everything you want it to be — gooey, tangy, and toasted on a marble rye bread. The Club came out nice and hearty, toasted on sourdough with fresh layers of classic goodness in every bite. That golden crunch from the bread made it stand out from your typical diner sandwich.
The fried appetizers deserve their own standing ovation. The mushrooms and zucchini came out hot and crispy, with just the right amount of crunch before you hit that juicy inside. And yes, we dunked every bite into ranch — because ranch makes everything better, and this one didn’t disappoint.

Now, let’s talk fries. Don’t come here expecting the usual fast-food crunch. These babies are soft, steaming hot, and seasoned so well you don’t even need ketchup — comfort food at its finest.
Shenanigans isn’t just about the food, though — it’s the whole vibe. Between the fun, no-frills service, the laid-back feel, and that lively backdrop of music and chatter from the local college kids, it’s the kind of spot that makes you want to stay for “just one more round” of drinks or maybe a pizza to share.

Bottom line? Shenanigans nails the mix of quirky atmosphere and soul-satisfying food. It’s casual, it’s fun, and it’s the kind of place you’ll want to revisit every time you roll through Sewanee. GN
Shenanigans: 2595 Sollace M Freeman Hwy. Sewanee, TN 37375
(931) 598-5774
www.shenanigans1974.com/
Shannon Beebe: franklincountyfoodcritic@gmail.com