Staff Spotlight: Ken Sawyer

Today we want to introduce you to Ken Sawyer, from the Taziki’s Knoxville family! He is a General Manager for our Bearden and Powell locations, which are operated by Stokely Healthy Foods. Read below to learn more about him! 

How long have you been apart of the Taziki’s Family?

I have been with Tazikis for 2 years now. Before my time at Taziki’s I was a Sr. Associate Manager with Cracker Barrel for 10 years, and an Assistant General Manager and General Manager for the Applewood Farmhouse Grill operated by Stokely Hospitality. 

What's your favorite item on the menu to recommend to a first timer?

My favorite items on the menu are the Pork Feast or Salmon Feast. If you aren’t quite as hungry, I recommend the Beef Sandwich for a lighter meal. 

What's a fun fact about you that not many people know?

I'm a big fan of hard rock music and have been my entire life, considering the first album I purchased was KISS Dressed to Kill at 10 years old. This year I finally fulfilled a bucket list item of getting to see KISS in concert.

What's your favorite part about running Taziki's?

My favorite part about running a Taziki's is the people!  I've been in the restaurant industry for over 30 years and believe we have the best guests I have worked with through the years.

If you could impart your knowledge on future up and coming managers, what would be your one piece of advice for them?

The one piece of advice to future managers would be to not make it harder than it is.  Don't get so caught up in the day to day tasks we forget the basics. If we treat all our staff and guests with the same respect and serve quality food, we will be successful.  

We are thankful for Ken and all of the amazing work he does for our Knoxville team. If you are in the area, make sure to stop by and say hello!