Food Travel and Cities

15 Best Places to Eat in Gatlinburg

Finding the yummiest places to eat in Gatlinburg is not an easy task because there are so many options. I mean, it’s Gatlinburg. So let us help you to find out the best places to eat in Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg in Tennessee is a gorgeous mountain city in the east, but the Gatlinburg restaurants are something else. You’ll love the vistas, the family-friendly activities, the amazing Gatlinburg hotels, and the spirit of the great smoky mountains.

The restaurants in Gatlinburg have perfected the art of offering some of the best Tennessee cuisines to their patrons. There is something for every traveller’s stomach in Gatlinburg, from upscale southern style to international dishes on the menu. The city offers something to please every palate.

Taking this list of places to eat in Gatlinburg as a starting point, you will be able to explore the tourist-dominated restaurants in the city as well as the fantastic eateries there, as well as some underrated spots which are also not overrun by tourists, and that may become your favourite spot in the future. And FYI, we’ve got those menus too on our list. So, without wasting your time any further, here is our list of the best places to eat in Gatlinburg:

Best Places to Eat in Gatlinburg:

Breakfast

1. Pancake Pantry

Places to eat in Gatlinburg
By Seva_blsv on unlimphotos

Classic Gatlinburg Restaurant, move the Pancake Pantry up in the list of the top 5 places to eat in Gatlinburg if you want an amazing breakfast. A breakfast and lunch restaurant, the Pantry, was the starting point for the trend of pancake restaurants in the Smokies that continues to this day. There are 24 varieties of pancakes to choose from when it comes to the breakfast menu, but everyone, especially kids, prefers the Chocolate Chip Pancakes.

At this charming pancake house, you’ll enjoy breakfast and lunch dishes made from scratch in a rustic setting. There is a small warning here, though; the entrée portions at the Pancake Pantry are very large, but trust me it’s worth waiting.

Tip: There’s no reservation policy. It’s first come, first served. It gets crowded so go early. And if you don’t want to wait, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp and Log Cabin Pancake House are also both good pancake options in Gatlinburg.

Other details

Menu: Pancake pantry

Website: Pancake pantry

Address: 628 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

2. Crockett’s Breakfast Camp

According to locals, the best place in the USA is to have breakfast food. Breakfast at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp has been a top attraction in the area since 2014. Their Appalachian-inspired menu caters to every taste. Whether you want sweet cinnamon rolls or savoury scramblers, their menu has something for everyone.

Although it may seem crowded at times as it is a tourist-dominated place Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is a must-visit!

 Other details

Menu: Crockett’s Breakfast Camp

Website: Crockett’s

Address: 1103 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

3. Log Cabin Pancake House

I have mentioned before that pancakes in a log cabin restaurant are worth trying, especially if you do not want to wait for a long time. The Great Smoky Mountains town has dozens of quality breakfast eateries guaranteed to please everyone’s stomach. For over 40 years, Log Cabin has piled pancakes high for families. The breakfast menu doesn’t stop there…you can also enjoy crepes, French toast, omelettes, and lunch specials. No worries if there is a line here, it’s usually fast and you’ll be seated in no time.

What more could you ask for than a wonderful, relaxing antique atmosphere, classic American cuisine, lunch buffet and country dinners, good staff, and great food?

Other details

Menu:Log Cabin Pancake House

Website:Log Cabin Pancake House

Address: 327 Airport Rd. (Formerly Historic Nature Trail), Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

4. Delauder’s BBQ 

placers to eat in Gatlinburg
By LMykola on Unlimphotos

Delauder’s BBQ is one of the underrated spots among the places to eat in Gatlinburg. It’s kind of like a hidden gem that’s worth checking out. There is no better place to find an authentic Tennessee barbecue than Delauder’s BBQ. With its unique location in Gatlinburg, Delauder has consistently impressed visitors across the country with its great food.

Also in June 2018, the restaurant received recognition for its delicious flavours and distinctive regional style in Travel & Leisure Magazine’s list of America’s Top 25 Best Places for Barbecue. Not only do they serve breakfast, but their lunch menu is also worth trying. This place is must visit if you want quiet, calm, or not a touristy vibe.

Other details

Menu: Delauder’s BBQ 

Website: Delauder’s

Address: 1875 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

5. Mel’s Classic Diner

For decades, Mel’s Classic Diner has been a mainstay of the Smoky Mountains, an unmistakable entry from the 50s-era era in downtown Gatlinburg. Whether you want to go out for a cold beverage, a tasty breakfast, or a hearty dinner, you can enjoy a wide array of classic American cuisine at the diner, making it a memorable experience for you and your family. The diner offers delicious hamburgers, home-cooked entrees, hearty sandwiches, and giant banana splits, all of which are served with friendly service.

A classic diner, Mel’s Classic Diner can be found on Wears Valley Road just off the Parkway. From the Parkway, the neon sign of the diner catches the attention of passersby as it beckons them to stop and spend some time in the intimate space. While the atmosphere alone here is enough to impress, the diner’s food is what keeps customers coming back for more.

Other details

Menu:Mel’s Classic

Website:Mel’s Classic Diner

Address: 119 Wears Valley Rd, PF, TN 37863, United States.

6. Ruby’s Sunshine

Ruby’s Sunshine is a great choice for brunch in Gatlinburg, especially if you are looking for something other than pancakes. A fun Louisiana twist on breakfast and brunch classics is introduced by Ruby’s Sunshine, a breakfast and brunch spot owned by the same folks who own Ruby Slipper Cafe in New Orleans. Mimosas and Bloody Marys are among Ruby’s Sunshine’s brunch drinks and after that try their French Toast bites and Eggs Benedict.

Ruby’s Sunshine is a popular place, so if you are thinking about going for brunch or breakfast in Gatlinburg, it may be best to make a reservation in advance.

Other details

Menu: Ruby Sunshine

Website: Ruby Sunshine

Address: 332 W Bland St, Charlotte, NC 28203, United States.

Lunch:

Here is where Gatlinburg cuisine shines

7. Tom and Earl’s Back Alley Grill

Located in downtown Gatlinburg, Tom & Earl’s Back Alley Grill is a wonderful place to relax on the busy streets. Despite its popularity, Tom and Earl’s back-alley grill is still a good place to eat. Aside from serving cold drinks, there is fantastic food on offer as well, including burgers, pulled pork nachos, and burning’ hot burgers if you’re into spicy stuff. And Denver Evans and Rossdafareye usually perform during the weekends, so if you want to see them you better start planning now.

Other details

Menu: Tom and Earl’s

Website: Tom and Earl’s back alley grill

Address: 651 Parkway #110, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

8. Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant

A true Mom & Pop restaurant nestled in a small log cabin located in the Arts and Crafts Community of Gatlinburg is a great lunch spot that is away from the hectic centre of town. In our opinion, they are best suited for families, couples, or if you just want to take a night out on the town. Several dining options are also very popular at Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant, such as the Coal Miners’ breakfast, the Grateful Dead Burger, and shrimp and grits.

 Other details

Menu:Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant

Website:Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant

Address: 600 Glades Rd 10, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

9. Tennessee Jed’s

Tennessee Jed’s, a fantastic restaurant in Gatlinburg, has just the best meat and sandwiches they have ever tasted. It is a sandwich-style breakfast and lunch restaurant hidden away on Parkway. Located in a relaxed atmosphere, the restaurant offers excellent service, friendly staff, and a well-trained kitchen.

There is nothing not to love about Jed’s, where every single thing on the menu tastes amazing. Fresh local ingredients are used here, and meats are roasted in-house daily and served tender and moist. Moreover, this is a pet-friendly restaurant.

 Other details

Website:Tennessee Jed’s

Address: 631 Parkway Suite A8, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

10. New Orleans Sandwich Company

Whenever you are in the mood for something hearty and authentically Cajun, then you should put New Orleans Sandwich Company on your list of places to eat in Gatlinburg to satisfy your Cajun craving. This place truly is one of the finest restaurants in Gatlinburg for any type of meal, not just lunch! Located just across the street from the Village, the restaurant is situated in the charming and fascinating Baskins Square, a great little outdoor mall that is located conveniently off the Parkway.

There is no better way to relax than to stop in for a delicious New Orleans sandwich for lunch or dinner at the restaurant. Whether you’re just starting to explore places to eat in Gatlinburg, winding down your day, or heading back to your hotel to rest, you’ll feel comfortable stopping in for warm service and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Other details

Menu:New Orleans Sandwich Company

Address: 631 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

11. Mama’s Chicken Kitchen

places to eat in Gatlinburg
By zhekos on Unlimphotos

Nothing compares to the deliciousness of perfectly fried chicken. Known for its moist, crunchiest, and most delicious fried chicken, Mama’s Chicken Kitchen has perfected its art. As their motto says, the chicken is worth crossing the road for. It may not look like much from the outside, but Mama’s Chicken Kitchen’s offerings are phenomenal.

A short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and beyond the tourist traps of downtown Gatlinburg, it’s well worth the trip-especially when you consider free parking is plentiful and convenient. Mama’s Chicken Kitchen’s counter can get crowded, especially during peak season. But it moves fast, so no worries. The service here is just as good as the food. Unsure about which menu item to choose or have a question? Feel free to ask the person at the counter for assistance.

Mama’s is the best and most affordable way to feed your family while visiting Gatlinburg. To be honest, the restaurant isn’t fancy, but the food will make you want to come back here.

Other details

Menu:Mama’s Chicken Kitchen

Website:Mama’s Chicken Kitchen

Address: 1244 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

Dinner:

Now it gets a little tricky for dinner… Almost every lunch spot we have listed has a dinner menu, but don’t worry, we’ve still got you covered.

12. The Greenbrier Restaurant 

Located on Gatlinburg’s Newman Road, this Greenbrier restaurant offers a unique upscale dining establishment in a new historic stone building. Whether you’re enjoying a meal in the dining area or heading to the bar, the new venue provides a beautiful setting for a beautiful dinner. It’s the kind of place where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a more refined age before, where even your gourmet dishes will be valued just as the service you receive when you enter the restaurant.

A fine dining establishment that bills itself as a food and spirit outpost complements a rustic setting. Aside from the intimacy of a fireplace or a window, you also enjoy the view from a window during your meal, whether you are seated near it or by it. Also, this place is haunted, so if you’re into some spooky vibes, check out this place.

Other details

Menu: Greenbrier

Website: Greenbrier

Address: 370 Newman Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

13. Best Italian – Cafe & Pizzeria

places to eat in Gatlinburg
By maxg71 on Unlimphotos

Is it any surprise that the Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria is home to one of the most delicious Italian foods in the Smokies? This restaurant should be in your top 5 yummiest Italian places to eat in Gatlinburg. The skill that is making them stand out among the rest is that they stick to all the classic flavours: golden garlic knots, traditional pizzas, creamy kinds of pasta, and our homemade strawberry cheesecake, to name just a few.

In business for over 40 years, this well-known eatery continues to be a favourite, with both local tourists and residents alike due to its long history and reputation. Make sure to save your appetite for when you arrive because the portion sizes here are substantial and there is plenty to go around!

Other details

Website: Best Italian

Address: 968 Parkway Suite #9, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

14. Five Oaks Farm Kitchen

This is an experience that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the smoky mountains. There is something very special about this Sevierville restaurant that features a farm-themed dining area, and they designed it in a way to create a feeling of being transported back in time to the Ogle family’s farm. Furthermore, it makes a great place to have group dining as well.

It does not matter whether you are in town for a family reunion, a school trip, or a corporate retreat, the extensive menu of Five Oaks Farm Kitchen offers two private dining rooms, each with a dining capacity for up to 50 guests. There is one thing that you can be sure of: No matter what occasion you may be celebrating, you can always count on delicious Southern-style cooking and a memorable dining experience.

Other details

Menu: Five Oaks Farm Kitchen

Website: Five Oaks Farm Kitchen

Address: 1638 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862, United States.

15. The Smoky Mountain Brewery

Located at both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Smoky Mountain Brewery is one of the most popular restaurants in the smoky mountains. In addition to the lodge atmosphere and numerous TVs, this restaurant also has a well-rounded American menu with a lot of sporting functions. Also on certain days, the visitors can take part in the events, such as live team trivia, karaoke, listening to live music, or playing bingo, and sometimes some of these events are even themed with a musical spin.

Smoky Mountain Brewery serves several savoury items on the menu as well as a creative list of high-quality micro beers that are brewed on-premises. Furthermore, they have options that are suitable for vegans, vegetarians, as well as gluten-free individuals. There is also a Calhoun and Cherokee Grill steakhouse on this block if you’re having second thoughts about this place.

Other details

Menu: Smoky Mountain Brewery

Website: Smoky Mountain Brewery

Address:

1004 Parkway #501, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States.

16. The Appalachian

I think that if we were to talk about some of the underrated places, The Appalachian Restaurant would be on my list of the top 10 places to eat in Gatlinburg. The Great Smoky Mountains are home to incredible artisans and amazing chefs, and we all know that. Thanks to the Appalachian Restaurant, the Smoky Mountains are now even more enjoyable for food lovers everywhere. The Appalachian Restaurant will give you access to some of the best comfort food in the Smoky Mountains as well as amazing food creations.

A place with an artsy vibe, good food, and polite staff, tell us who wouldn’t want to go there?

Other details

Menu: Appalachian

Website: The Appalachian

Address: 133 Bruce St, Sevierville, TN 37862, United States.

We have categorized some of the underrated, well-known, or tourist-dominated places to eat in Gatlinburg where you can have breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So how about we also talk about some healthy, warm, and cosy places to eat in Gatlinburg?

1. Healthy Restaurants in Gatlinburg

Image by Benjamin Balazs from Pixabay

1.1. Mellow Mushroom Gatlinburg

The Mellow Mushroom is the perfect alternative to classic pizza if you’re looking for something healthy and delicious places to eat in Gatlinburg! This is one of the best places to eat in Gatlinburg for vegetarians and gluten-free eaters. There is a salad bar and a build-your-own pizza option, where you can choose the cheese and toppings. And if you are a fan of open spaces, there is also an upstairs dining area with a wall of glass garage doors that can be opened in the summer to let in the fresh mountain breeze.

Other details

Menu: Mellow Mushroom

Website: Mellow Mushroom Gatlinburg

Address: 903 Parkway Ste 103, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

1.2. Thai Basil Restaurant

The Thai Basil Restaurant – tucked away in the middle of Sevierville on the Parkway – resembles a basic strip mall restaurant from afar, but don’t let that fool you though, as Thai Basil is much more than that. A glance inside reveals one of the hidden gems of this popular tourist area. Restaurants care so much about what they do, and as a result, they are obsessed with maintaining a great ambience, keeping their facilities clean, and providing a welcoming environment. Likewise, it is one of the most popular dining options within the local area, so expect to see a lot of people and a little rush.

Other details

Menu: Thai Basil

Website: Thai Basil

Address: 530 Winfield Dunn Pkwy, Sevierville, TN 37862, United States

1.3. Whole Earth Grocery & Cafe

Add the Whole Earth Grocery to your itinerary of “must-see” destinations when you’re planning a day centred on exploring hidden gems in Gatlinburg. The cafe and store offer vegetarian, vegan, and natural foods and items, and the food is delicious, with great sandwiches, wraps, and other lunches. Located in the Smoky Mountains, this all-natural cafe and shop is the perfect one-stop shop. An oasis of flavour for travellers who value good taste and good health, Whole Earth Grocery is a small jewel in the heart of a popular city.

Other details

Menu: Earth Grocery

Website: Whole Earth Grocery & Cafe

Address: 446 East Pkwy #4, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

1.4. Harpoon Harry’s Crab House

The Harpoon Harry’s Crab House, which can be found in Pigeon Forge near Walden’s Creek Landing, is one of the best restaurants with healthy eating options around. With an enormous selection of seafood as well as a sushi menu, Harpoon Harry’s can satisfy any seafood craving you may have. The interior of Harpoon Harry’s is massive, and it’s worth taking a look at! Oftentimes, Harpoon Harry’s features live music in the restaurant so check the current schedule at the restaurant and you might get to see your favourite artist there.

Other details

Menu: Harpoon Harry’s Crab House

Website: Harpoon Harry’s Crab House 

Address: 112 Community Center Dr, PF, TN 37863, United States

1.5. No Way Jose’s Mexican Cantina

Gatlinburg’s No Way Jose’s is still one of the best places to dine on non-American food seasoned to perfection. The restaurant, which is located on Cliff Branch River, is one of the most visually intriguing in the city. The authentic Mexico City murals on the walls and the hanging Corona and Modelo boxes will instantly transport you from rural Tennessee to somewhere south of the border. There’s nothing like No Way Jose’s to get you in the mood to eat and enjoy excellent service and great food, whether you’re new to the area, or a local.

Other details

Menu: Jose’s Mexican Cantina

Website: No Way Jose’s Mexican Cantina

Address: 555 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

2. Warm & Cozy restaurants in Gatlinburg

2.1. Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta

Clifftop at Anakeesta is known for its spectacular views of Mt. LeConte, rustic decor, and excellent American cuisine. Your date night will be complete with gourmet burgers, beautiful salads, and killer appetizers. For an extra bit of romance, schedule your dinner time at sunset and be captivated by the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

Other details

Menu: Anakeesta

Website: Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta

Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

2.2. Red Oak Bistro

How about a steakhouse date night that shakes things up a bit? Then get ready for an evening of drool-worthy Mediterranean, and Eastern European-inspired delights at Gatlinburg’s Arts and Crafts Community. The Red Oak Bistro offers an exciting selection of tapas and wines that go perfectly with your meals. They constantly change their menu, so you never know what you will get, but you can always grab your favourite drink.

Other details

Menu: Red oak bistro

Website: Red oak bistro

Address: 669 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

2.3. The Park Grill

While this restaurant may not be the prettiest place in town to dine and indulge, it still earns a spot on our exclusive list of cosy places to eat in Gatlinburg due to its excellent location and its Appalachian-inspired interior design. As another iconic restaurant in Gatlinburg, The Park Grill is owned and operated by the same family that runs The Peddler. Located next to the famed National Park.

With the rustic, yet elegant atmosphere at Park Grill, which resembles a traditional mountain lodge, it is the perfect place for a romantic night out with your significant other. And to make the evening even more special, you could end your night with a deliciously sweet blackberry cobbler that is served with vanilla ice cream.

Other details

Menu: Park Grill

Website: The Park Grill

Address: 1110 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

2.4. The Peddler Steakhouse

Image by Thomas Ulrich from Pixabay

Over the past 40 years, The Peddler has been enchanting couples in Gatlinburg with its delightful experiences. With views of the Little Pigeon River down by the restaurant, mouth-watering steaks, and an intimate atmosphere, who could resist it? Located away from the main parkway, this restaurant has a very secluded feel to it.

There are many different kinds of main meals at The Peddler, from steak to grilled chicken, so you are sure to find what you are looking for. A salad bar with over 40 toppings is also available. Don’t forget to save room for dessert because they offer something that everyone will enjoy, so you don’t want to miss out!

Other details

Menu: Peddler Steakhouse

Website: The Peddler Steakhouse

Address: 820 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States.

Conclusion

So now we have named many places to eat in Gatlinburg for mostly everything, try any of these places and discover the taste of different cuisines of the USA. We hope you have an amazing time in Gatlinburg. And if you’re not sure how to spend your day in Gatlinburg, then check out the fun things to do in Gatlinburg.

Suggested reading: A Guide to Trip to Meteora Greece- 14 Amazing Things to Know

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