Forget the roller coasters for a minute! Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are secretly a foodie paradise just waiting to be explored. Beyond the dazzling shows, thrilling attractions, and stunning mountain views, lies a vibrant culinary scene that caters to every palate. Millions flock to these Smoky Mountain towns each year, but few realize the delicious adventure that awaits those willing to venture beyond the tourist traps. This ultimate foodie guide will take you on a culinary journey through Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, unveiling the best restaurants and must-try eats that you simply can’t miss. From classic Southern comfort food to international flavors and decadent desserts, get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Smoky Mountain Staples: Classic Southern Comfort Food
No trip to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is complete without indulging in the hearty and soul-satisfying flavors of Southern cuisine. It’s the heart and soul of the region’s culinary identity, and there’s no shortage of places to get your fix.
Best Barbecue
For mouthwatering, slow-smoked barbecue that will have you licking your fingers, Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que is a perennial favorite. Their ribs are legendary, cooked over hickory wood and slathered in their signature sauce. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it perfect for a relaxed meal after a day of exploring. Don’t miss their pulled pork sandwich, a true testament to Southern barbecue mastery. Expect a bit of a wait during peak season, but trust me, it’s well worth it.
Another top contender in the barbecue arena is Calhoun’s, renowned for its hickory-smoked ribs and award-winning barbecue sauce. Calhoun’s offers a more upscale dining experience compared to Bennett’s, making it suitable for a special occasion or a more refined barbecue craving. Be sure to try their barbecue chicken, tender and juicy with a smoky flavor that lingers on the palate. Their baked beans are also a must-try side dish.
Pancake Houses
No visit to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge is complete without a pancake breakfast. These towns are practically synonymous with fluffy stacks of golden goodness.
The Pancake Pantry has been serving up delicious pancakes since the early sixties, making it a true Gatlinburg institution. What sets them apart is their vast menu of pancake varieties, from buckwheat to sweet potato to Swiss chocolate chip. They even offer gluten-free options. Be prepared for a potential line, especially on weekends, but their legendary pancakes are worth the wait. Their Swedish pancakes are a local favorite, thin and delicate, served with lingonberries and powdered sugar.
Another excellent pancake option is Log Cabin Pancake House, known for its cozy atmosphere and wide selection of both sweet and savory pancakes. Beyond the usual suspects, they offer unique creations like peanut butter cup pancakes and Hawaiian pancakes topped with pineapple and coconut. Their omelets are also noteworthy, packed with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. The rustic, log cabin setting adds to the charm of this breakfast destination.
Country Cookin’
If you’re craving good old-fashioned Southern comfort food, look no further than Mama’s Farmhouse. This family-style restaurant serves up generous portions of classic dishes like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and macaroni and cheese. Everything is made from scratch and served in platters for the whole table to share, creating a warm and communal dining experience. Be sure to save room for their homemade biscuits, fluffy and buttery, they are the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
For another dose of home-style goodness, try Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. This restaurant offers a similar family-style dining experience, featuring Paula Deen’s signature Southern recipes. Expect rich, indulgent dishes like fried green tomatoes, creamed corn, and chicken and dumplings. Their desserts are equally decadent, with options like Ooey Gooey Butter Cake and banana pudding. Be warned, you might need a nap after this meal!
Beyond Southern: Exploring Diverse Culinary Options
While Southern food is undoubtedly a highlight, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer a surprisingly diverse range of culinary options that extend far beyond barbecue and pancakes. From Italian delicacies to vibrant Mexican flavors, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Italian
For an authentic Italian experience, consider visiting The Peddler Steakhouse, which, despite its name, boasts an exceptional Italian menu. Their pasta dishes are made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection, and their wood-fired pizzas are a crowd-pleaser. The atmosphere is romantic and inviting, making it ideal for a special occasion. Don’t miss their signature dish, the Shrimp Scampi, succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and served over linguine.
Another excellent Italian option is Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria. This casual eatery serves up classic Italian dishes in a relaxed and family-friendly setting. Their pizzas are made with homemade dough and topped with fresh ingredients, and their pasta dishes are hearty and flavorful. Try their lasagna, a timeless classic that’s sure to satisfy. They also have a great selection of Italian wines to complement your meal.
Mexican/Tex-Mex
When the craving for Mexican food strikes, head to No Way Jose’s Mexican Cantina. This vibrant restaurant serves up authentic Mexican dishes in a lively and festive atmosphere. Their margaritas are legendary, and their menu features a wide variety of tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and fajitas. The outdoor seating offers stunning views of the river. Don’t miss their signature dish, the Jose’s Special, a hearty combination of grilled steak, chicken, and shrimp served with all the fixings.
Another popular Mexican option is El Ranchero Loco. Known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes, El Ranchero Loco offers a more casual dining experience. Their enchiladas are a standout, smothered in cheese and your choice of sauce. Be sure to try their guacamole, made fresh daily with avocados, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. The restaurant also features live music on select nights, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Seafood
For a taste of the sea in the Smoky Mountains, Chesapeake’s Seafood House is a must-visit. This upscale restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes, from oysters and shrimp to lobster and crab. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, making it perfect for a special occasion. Their seafood is sourced from reputable suppliers, ensuring freshness and quality. Don’t miss their crab cakes, a local favorite made with lump crab meat and served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
Another excellent seafood option is Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. While technically a chain, this restaurant offers a fun and lively dining experience with a focus on all things shrimp. Their menu features a wide variety of shrimp dishes, from fried shrimp and shrimp scampi to coconut shrimp and shrimp po’boys. The restaurant is decorated with memorabilia from the movie “Forrest Gump,” adding to the whimsical atmosphere.
Sweet Treats & Delicious Desserts
No foodie adventure is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer a plethora of options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ice Cream & Frozen Treats
For a classic ice cream experience, don’t miss Mad Dog’s Creamery & Donuts. This popular spot offers a wide variety of ice cream flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like birthday cake and cotton candy. They also have a selection of donuts, milkshakes, and sundaes. The atmosphere is fun and family-friendly, making it the perfect place to cool down on a hot day.
Another excellent ice cream option is The Island Creamery at The Island in Pigeon Forge. This popular spot offers homemade ice cream in a variety of unique and creative flavors. They also have a selection of waffle cones and sundaes. The Island provides a vibrant atmosphere, complete with a dancing fountain and plenty of shops and attractions.
Candy Shops & Fudge
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are brimming with candy shops that evoke a sense of nostalgia and childhood wonder. Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen is a classic candy store that’s been making fudge and candies for decades. Watch as they pull taffy and make fudge right before your eyes. They offer a wide variety of candies, from classic chocolate bars to hard candies and gummy bears. It’s a great place to find souvenirs and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Another popular candy destination is Kilwins. Offering a wide selection of chocolates, fudge, caramel apples, and ice cream, Kilwins provides a delightful sensory experience. The aroma of chocolate wafts through the air, tempting visitors with its irresistible sweetness. They are known for their Mackinac Island Fudge, a creamy and decadent treat that’s a must-try.
Bakeries & Specialty Desserts
For more sophisticated desserts, head to The Donut Friar in The Village Shops of Gatlinburg. This charming bakery offers a variety of delicious donuts, pastries, and coffee. Their cinnamon rolls are legendary, and their glazed donuts are a classic choice. The Donut Friar is a local favorite and a great place to start your day.
Another great option for specialty desserts is Glades Soda Fountain, also located in The Village. This old-fashioned soda fountain offers a selection of ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, and floats. Their homemade ice cream is made with fresh ingredients, and their milkshakes are thick and creamy. It’s a great place to step back in time and enjoy a classic soda fountain experience.
Unique Dining Experiences
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer a variety of unique dining experiences that go beyond just the food, providing entertainment and creating lasting memories.
Dinner Shows
Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a high-energy dinner show that combines horsemanship, music, and comedy with a hearty four-course meal. This show is perfect for families and features incredible stunts and special effects. The food is classic Southern fare, including roast chicken, pork loin, corn on the cob, and apple pie. It’s a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
Another popular dinner show is Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, a hilarious show that features two feuding families competing in a variety of contests. The food is also Southern-style, including fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and biscuits. This show is sure to entertain audiences of all ages.
Restaurants with a View
For stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, consider dining at Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta. Located atop Anakeesta Mountain, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The menu features American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal with a view.
Another great option for dining with a view is The Peddler Steakhouse, located on the Little Pigeon River. The restaurant offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding woods. The menu features steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes. The atmosphere is romantic and inviting, making it ideal for a special occasion.
Themed Restaurants
For a fun and whimsical dining experience, try Margaritaville. This themed restaurant transports you to a tropical paradise with its island-inspired decor, live music, and delicious food. The menu features Caribbean-inspired dishes, including seafood, burgers, and salads. The atmosphere is lively and festive, making it a great place to celebrate with friends and family.
Tips for Foodies Visiting Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
To make the most of your culinary adventure in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, keep these tips in mind:
Consider Reservations: Especially during peak season, securing reservations is highly recommended, particularly for popular restaurants and dinner shows.
Check for Specials and Discounts: Many restaurants offer daily or weekly specials and discounts. Check their websites or social media pages for deals.
Be Prepared for Crowds: Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are popular tourist destinations, so expect crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. Plan accordingly and arrive early.
Explore Beyond the Parkway: While the Parkway is the main thoroughfare, venture off the beaten path to discover hidden culinary gems in the surrounding areas.
Read Reviews: Before choosing a restaurant, read online reviews from other diners to get insights into the food, service, and atmosphere.
Conclusion
The food scene in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is far more diverse and exciting than many visitors realize. From classic Southern comfort food to international flavors, decadent desserts, and unique dining experiences, there’s something to satisfy every palate. This guide has highlighted some of the best restaurants and must-try eats that you simply can’t miss. Whether you’re craving barbecue, pancakes, Italian, Mexican, or seafood, you’re sure to find a culinary adventure that you’ll never forget. So, ditch the diet, grab your appetite, and get ready for a delicious adventure in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge! It’s time to explore the best food Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy eating!
