Beyond the breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are a haven for food lovers, offering everything from hearty Southern comfort food to international cuisine. From pancake breakfasts and barbeque feasts to gourmet dinners and decadent desserts, there’s a culinary delight for every palate. This guide will take you on a delicious journey through the finest restaurants, unique eateries, and hidden gems in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, ensuring you don’t miss a single mouthwatering bite. Get ready to explore what makes these mountain towns a true destination for the best food.
Gatlinburg Food Scene: Must-Try Restaurants
Gatlinburg’s food scene is a charming blend of rustic mountain vibes and modern culinary innovation. You’ll find everything from old-fashioned pancake houses serving stacks of fluffy goodness to upscale restaurants offering exquisite, locally-sourced ingredients. The walkable downtown area makes it easy to explore many options, and the overall atmosphere is inviting and relaxed.
Southern Comfort and Barbeque Delights
The Peddler Steakhouse: Nestled right on the Little Pigeon River, The Peddler Steakhouse is a Gatlinburg institution. Housed in the former home of a local family, the restaurant exudes charm and history. The menu focuses on expertly grilled steaks, cooked to perfection over an open flame. The riverfront seating is a major draw, providing stunning views while you savor your meal. Their signature dish is undoubtedly the ribeye steak, but the grilled shrimp is equally impressive. What makes it great? The atmosphere is romantic and relaxing, the food is consistently excellent, and the service is top-notch.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que: When you’re craving authentic Southern barbeque, Bennett’s is the place to go. They slow-cook their meats over hickory wood, giving them a distinctive smoky flavor. From pulled pork and ribs to smoked chicken and brisket, the portions are generous and the flavors are bold. Their signature dishes include the baby back ribs, fall-off-the-bone tender and slathered in their homemade barbeque sauce, and the pulled pork sandwich. Bennett’s is a great choice because it offers both quality barbeque and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Upscale Dining and Fine Dining Experiences
The Park Grill: Located at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Park Grill offers a refined dining experience with a rustic mountain ambiance. The restaurant showcases regional ingredients and serves up elevated versions of classic Southern dishes. Their menu features prime steaks, fresh seafood, and game dishes. The signature dish is the Tennessee mountain trout, prepared with local herbs and butter. The Park Grill offers a sophisticated setting for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Red Oak Bistro: For a truly elegant evening, Red Oak Bistro is the place to be. They offer a farm-to-table concept and constantly evolve their menu based on seasonal availability. Their plates are visual masterpieces in addition to being delicious. Some may consider this restaurant as one of the best places to enjoy wine along with your meal. What makes it great is the attention to detail with every dish and drink that comes out of the kitchen.
Casual Eats and Family-Friendly Options
Pancake Pantry: A Gatlinburg tradition since nineteen sixty, Pancake Pantry is the ultimate breakfast destination. They offer a wide variety of pancakes, from classic buttermilk to sweet potato pancakes with cinnamon cream. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. Their signature dish is the wild blueberry pancakes, bursting with juicy berries and topped with powdered sugar. This place is wonderful because it’s family-friendly, affordable, and consistently delicious, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
No Way Jose’s Cantina: If you are looking for fun and great food in Gatlinburg, this restaurant is the place to go. A fantastic choice for the whole family with indoor and outdoor seating. It offers traditional mexican foods, so if that is something you and your family enjoy, make sure to stop by. This place is wonderful because of its outstanding taste, it gives a great environment to enjoy it in, and the family can enjoy it together.
Pigeon Forge Food Scene: Can’t-Miss Dining Experiences
Pigeon Forge takes dining to a whole new level with its focus on entertainment, themed restaurants, and over-the-top experiences. You’ll find dinner shows with dazzling performances, restaurants inspired by famous movies, and unique concepts that are sure to create lasting memories. The food scene here is all about fun and excitement.
Dinner Shows and Entertainment Extravaganzas
Dolly Parton’s Stampede: This iconic dinner show combines a thrilling horse riding performance with a four-course feast. The show features trick riders, stunning special effects, and plenty of audience participation. The menu includes rotisserie chicken, barbeque pork loin, creamy vegetable soup, and apple turnover. What makes it great? The entertainment is captivating, the food is satisfying, and the overall experience is unforgettable.
Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show: Ahoy, mateys! Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure at Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show. This action-packed show features acrobatic pirates, daring high dives, and a delicious pirate feast. The menu includes creamy vegetable soup, roasted chicken, barbeque pork, and a peach turnover. This show is enjoyable because it’s entertaining for all ages, the food is hearty, and the atmosphere is immersive.
Themed Restaurants and Unique Concepts
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen: Experience the Southern hospitality of celebrity chef Paula Deen at her family-style restaurant. The menu features classic Southern dishes served in generous portions, perfect for sharing. From fried chicken and meatloaf to macaroni and cheese and collard greens, you’ll find all your comfort food favorites here. What makes it great is the warm and welcoming atmosphere, the delicious homestyle cooking, and the sense of community.
Alamo Steakhouse: Named for the famous Alamo, this restaurant is set in a beautiful atmosphere and offers wonderful quality and taste. This place has a diverse menu so anyone in your family can find what they want. The prices are fair for such a good place to eat. What makes it great is the unique flavors and tastes that are presented.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
Old Mill Restaurant: A Pigeon Forge landmark, the Old Mill Restaurant is located next to a working grist mill that dates back to eighteen thirty. The restaurant serves traditional Southern dishes made with ingredients ground at the mill. The menu features corn fritters, chicken and dumplings, pot roast, and homemade desserts. What makes it great? The historic setting, the authentic Southern flavors, and the cozy atmosphere make it a truly special place.
Local Goat – New American Restaurant: This restaurant uses local flavors and ingredients to create truly delicious dishes. They source their ingredients from nearby farms and breweries, creating a sense of community within the restaurant. What makes it great is the outstanding food choices and the local flare that it brings to Pigeon Forge.
Sweet Treats and Snacks: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
No trip to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. From old-fashioned candy shops to decadent ice cream parlors, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Gatlinburg
Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen: Watch candy makers create homemade taffy and other sweets right before your eyes.
Mad Dog’s Creamery & Donuts: Serves up many different delicious flavors of ice cream.
The Donut Friar: Nestled right in The Village Shops, serving up fresh donuts every day.
Pigeon Forge
Kilmwin’s: This candy shop offers a wide variety of chocolates, fudge, and ice cream.
The Island Creamery: Enjoy homemade ice cream in a variety of unique flavors.
Crave Golf Club: Features a candy store with a wide selection of sweets and treats.
Budget-Friendly Options: Eating Well on a Dime
You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the best food in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. There are plenty of affordable options that offer great value.
Cheap Eats
Mellow Mushroom: A pizza chain that is located right in Pigeon Forge offers great tasting pizzas for affordable prices.
Smoky Mountain Brewery: Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge locations, delicious food and beer at an affordable price.
Picnic Spots
Pack a lunch and enjoy it at one of the many scenic picnic areas in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Tips for saving money on food
Look for early bird specials, happy hour deals, and coupon books to save money on dining.
Tips for Foodies Visiting Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
Planning your culinary adventures in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge can enhance your overall experience.
Reservations: Make reservations well in advance, especially during peak season, at popular restaurants like The Peddler Steakhouse or The Park Grill.
Seasonal Considerations: Check for special events, festivals, and seasonal dishes that may be available during your visit.
Dietary Restrictions: Call ahead to restaurants to inquire about their ability to accommodate specific dietary needs, such as vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly options.
Transportation: Utilize the trolley system or ride-sharing services to easily get around to different restaurants, especially in busy areas.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are so much more than just stunning mountain scenery; they’re a culinary destination waiting to be explored. From Southern comfort food and barbeque feasts to upscale dining experiences and decadent desserts, there’s something for every palate and budget. The best food experiences in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are waiting to be discovered, whether you’re craving pancakes, steak, barbeque, or something sweet. So, pack your appetite and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure in the Smoky Mountains! Don’t forget to share your favorite food finds and best restaurant recommendations in the comments below – we love to hear about them!
