Jimmy Lim, Go Bananaz Cafe

When Jimmy Lim, an immigrant originally from Malaysia, opened his restaurant, Go Bananaz Café , in November 2011, in Farragut at 11151-D Kingston Pike, his plan was to sell both Asian and Mediterranean cuisine.



The gregarious owner says he named the restaurant in a humorous way. “When I say ‘Asian’ and I also sell Mediterranean, it doesn’t match. Going bananas is better than going crazy,” he teased.


Lim’s brother, Phillip Lim, established the successful Asia Café, located at 6714 North Central and Callahan Road in 2007 and has seen his business grow. Jimmy Lim hopes Go Bananaz Café will catch the same fire.



Lim says he depends on Austin, a family member, and a great kitchen staff to prepare the southeast Asian menu Tuesdays through Saturdays, including a limited number of Mediterranean dishes. However, on Sundays, the restaurant serves only Mediterranean cuisine, including gyros and pitas.

“We concentrate on historic, tried and true recipes from the two cultures,” Lim said.

“We offer cold beers for patrons, and diners can bring their own wine for a cork fee.”

Lim said he understands some might consider it “bananas” to mix Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. He says some might ask, “Are you nuts? Have you gone bananas?”

Lim said most of the restaurant’s dishes are priced under $10, including soups, salads, traditional Asian dishes, hibachi and sushi. There will also be daily specials at even lower prices.



All of the dishes are made with only fresh ingredients. “I provide only the freshest meats and vegetables--what is in season. I shop and refuse to purchase inferior products. People in Farragut want the best and I provide it. Only fresh foods give the tastes we are after.”

Go Bananaz Café seats about 40 and also offers take-out dining options.

“It took a while for customers to find us,” Lim said. “We have provided tasty food at fair prices. We pride ourselves on friendly service. When customers get to know us, they return as we become like family.”



Lim says Austin and he discuss the menu with customers. “We can make foods as hot an spicy as they want, or cool them down,” he explained.



Lim says he spends a lot of time talking to his customers. He enjoys hearing about their lives and counts them as friends.

Go Bananaz Café, 11151-D Kingston Pike, is open from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Call 865-671-1888. Lim says for customers to come on in and give him a chance. He will please you with great food.