Benard and Robert McDonald opened the Cup 'n Saucer in the late 1940s shortly after returning from war. Originally housed in the middle section of the Phillip's Shoes complex, the brothers relocated the restaurant across the street to the roomier 118 E. Commercial Avenue site. At this location, it gained a reputation as one of the finest places to eat between Nashville and Knoxville. The business changed ownership several times before closing in 2017.