Bring your appetite to Gatlinburg for a rich variety of flavors and ambiances in this mountain town! In Gatlinburg, every meal is a journey – a delightful exploration of plates and flavors for palates of all kinds. This charming mountain town is a foodie paradise that’s as diverse and impressive as the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains themselves!
The town’s culinary scene is a mosaic, blending the hearty, comforting flavors of traditional Southern cuisine with the intricate notes of international fare. Whether you’re perched in an upscale restaurant admiring the panoramic vistas or nestled within the warm embrace of a casual eatery, Gatlinburg promises to wow you with its culinary offerings. Read our Gatlinburg dining guide below.
Options Galore
Vegetarian, vegan, or omnivore, the range of dining options here knows no bounds. One could be savoring a gourmet meal under the stars, laughing over a generous spread fit for a family reunion, or grabbing a quick, scrumptious snack to reenergize between adventures. Each bite, each moment at the table, leaves a piece of Gatlinburg with you. Check out the options for fine dining, family friendly, casual cafés and more in your Ultimate Guide to Dining in Gatlinburg.
Fine Dining in Gatlinburg
For a range of upscale places to eat in Gatlinburg that will leave you wanting more, check out the following recommendations.
The Peddler Steakhouse
Located on the banks of the Little Pigeon River, The Peddler Steakhouse is a culinary landmark! This steakhouse is known for its rich history and exceptional food and service. They specialize in custom-cut steaks, ensuring that you’ll receive a meal tailored to your specific preferences. Alongside its famous steaks, The Peddler offers a variety of hot sides and a salad bar that can be a meal all on its own.
For a sweet end to a savory meal, try the blackberry cobbler and donut cheesecake for dessert. The serene riverside view adds to the overall ambiance, making The Peddler an ideal spot for romantic dinners or special celebrations.
The Greenbrier
The Greenbrier restaurant, housed in a historic building from the 1930s, once served as a lodge for wealthy adventurers. Today, it stands as a fine dining establishment with a cozy log-cabin ambiance, renowned for its hearty meat and seafood dishes. Mouthwatering signature dishes include duck and grits, beef wellington, and short ribs.
The Greenbrier’s craft cocktails and extensive whiskey selection are highlights, inviting you to enjoy a drink with your meal. The restaurant’s ambiance combines a sense of homey elegance with a touch of history. Bring a date, the whole family, or enjoy solo – either way, you are sure to enjoy yourself.
Cherokee Grill
Another spot with a mountain lodge feel, Cherokee Grill stands out with its sophisticated interior design, featuring rich walnut and granite – reflecting the warm glow of the fireplace. This restaurant is celebrated for its upscale American cuisine, focusing on quality steaks, seafood, and inventive sides.
The sophisticated atmosphere, coupled with exceptional service, ensures a dining experience that goes beyond the meal itself. Cherokee Grill is a favorite among visitors in search of an upscale yet comfortable restaurant in Gatlinburg.
Chesapeake’s
For sophisticated seafood dining, Chesapeake’s provides a fresh taste of the ocean right in the mountains of Gatlinburg. Chesapeake’s is committed to freshness and quality, which is seen through their menu that highlights the best catches and flavors of the sea.
The ambiance, reminiscent of an industrial yet coastal lodge, enhances your overall experience. The combination of exceptional seafood dishes, a cozy yet elegant setting, and attentive service makes Chesapeake’s a standout choice in Gatlinburg’s fine dining scene.
Come experience what fine dining is like in Gatlinburg! From the historic charm of The Greenbrier to the riverside serenity of The Peddler Steakhouse, the warm elegance of Cherokee Grill, and the fresh seafood delights of Chesapeake’s. Each meal is bound to become an unforgettable part of your visit.
Casual Eateries and Cafés
For a more laid-back dining experience, Gatlinburg’s casual eateries and cafés are sure to please. Delauder’s BBQ is renowned for its pulled pork dishes, ribs, and BBQ chicken, offering some of the best flavors in the country. Smoky Mountain Brewery, blending the feel of a ski lodge with a pub, provides a great spot to relax with flavorful food and micro-brewed beer.
Delauder’s BBQ
Delauder’s BBQ is a testament to Gatlinburg’s ability to offer down-to-earth, delicious dining experiences. The focus on food and flavor is clear at Delauder’s. When you stop by, you’ll feel as if you’re visiting the home of a really good cook. A relaxed atmosphere and checkered tablecloths give off that quintessential barbecue feel.
Famous for its smoked pulled pork, ribs, and BBQ chicken, Delauder’s prides itself on serving scrumptious meals infused with the warmth and hospitality Tennessee is known for. Down home cooking and friendly service make it a great spot for families and groups looking to get down on some good food.
Smoky Mountain Brewery
Combining the charm of a ski lodge with a German beer haus, Smoky Mountain Brewery offers a fantastic selection of micro-brewed beers with great views. Sip and savor your beer while you overlook Calhoun’s Village and the Smoky Mountains from their enclosed deck.
The brewery also serves classic American dishes like steaks, burgers, pizzas, and sandwiches. Come visit and vibe with the locals, hikers, skiers, and snowboarders. There’s always something entertaining to see and do at the Smoky Mountain Brewery!
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Gatlinburg’s dining scene is becoming increasingly friendly to vegetarians and vegans, with several places to eat in Gatlinburg offering plant-based menus or options. Many restaurants in Gatlinburg are adapting their menus to cater to a broader range of dietary preferences, including vegetarians.
If you’re visiting Gatlinburg and are someone who doesn’t eat meat, you’ll find a surprising variety of dining options that cater to your plant-based preferences.
Red Oak Bistro
At Red Oak Bistro & Caffe, the focus is on crafting dishes that elevate the vegetarian and vegan dining experience to new heights. This European style bistro stands out for its creative use of fresh, local ingredients. With charcuterie board samplers, beet Napolean’s, caviar and rich chocolatey desserts – get ready to feast on luxurious plates coupled with great cocktails. Open from Thursday to Sunday, making a reservation is advisable to ensure you get to experience this culinary gem.
The Melting Pot
The Melting Pot features a fondue-centered menu that can appease any vegetarian. Make your reservation and then opt for their four-course dinner menu for two or pick and choose from a la carte. For a more indulgent meal, the four-course dinner option allows you to customize your courses, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant’s fresh salads can be tailored to exclude gluten, and the California Salad with raspberry walnut vinaigrette is a fan favorite.
Whole Earth Grocery & Cafe
For the health-conscious visitor, be sure to stop by Whole Earth Grocery & Café. Here you can find a café within that serves up vegetarian and vegan foods. Ideal for lunch, the café offers lentil burgers, veggie wraps, tuna and egg salad and green salads that are perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike. The lentil burger salad is great if you’re looking for a hearty and healthy option. Café hours are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday, making it a great choice for a quick lunch on the go.
Mellow Mushroom
Mellow Mushroom is known for being a funky, artsy pizzeria. Their stone-baked pizzas come in all types, including vegetarian and vegan options. It’s amazing what the Mellow Mushroom can do with vegan cheese! Customize your pizza with a variety of fresh vegetable toppings.
Beyond pizza, the restaurant also offers five different types of salads, gluten free pizza options and snacks if you’d rather have a lighter meal. Let Mellow Mushroom’s be your casual yet conscientious dining choice in Gatlinburg.
Family-Friendly Dining
Bring the whole family together for a memorable meal that won’t break the bank at these delicious restaurants.
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria serves authentic wood-fired pizza with a deliciously crispy crust. Nothing beats a hot, fresh pizza made with wood-fired flame inside a one-of-a-kind brick oven! This option is great for families and offers a variety of other options that aren’t pizza.
Pancake Pantry
For a breakfast that delights both young and old, Pancake Pantry is a Gatlinburg staple. As Tennessee’s first pancake house, it offers a wide variety of fluffy pancakes, from classic buttermilk to innovative flavors like sweet potato and wild blueberry! Come start your day with a yummy meal in this cozy, welcoming restaurant before exploring the wonders of the Smoky Mountains.
Fannie Farkle’s
Fannie Farkle’s is part restaurant, part arcade, making it a hit with families. Known for its “Ogle Dogs” which are foot-long corn dogs that have become a local legend. This is a great place for kids to play games while parents relax. At Fannie Farkle’s, even the pickiest eaters will find something to love.
Budget-Friendly Eats
Gatlinburg has a variety of budget-friendly restaurants that don’t compromise on taste or quality. Enjoy good local eats without overspending.
Loco Burro
Live la vida loca at Loco Burro, where the festive vibes flow freely alongside delicious Tex-Mex inspired dishes. From the scrumptious Locos Nachos to the El Jardin burrito and the incredible enchiladas – each bite will make you return for more.
For a taste of fun, Loco Burro features a mechanical bull that will challenge you! Come during happy hour for delicious cocktails alongside your menu options. Loco Burro is fun for the whole family, and easy on the wallet.
Johnny Rockets
Step back in time with Johnny Rockets, a retro diner serving up burgers, shakes, fries and fun! Beyond its iconic selection, Johnny Rockets spices up the diner experience with unique twists on traditional favorites, like classic cheeseburgers and chili cheese dogs. With its inviting ambiance and diverse menu, Johnny Rockets stands out as a prime spot for those looking to indulge in the nostalgic charm of American cuisine in Gatlinburg.
Must-Try Local Specialties
Ole Red
Welcome to a world where great live music meets delectable dining. Owned by country music star Blake Shelton, Ole Red is a dining experience that blends lively country performances with Southern and American menu options. Here you can get crispy fried chicken, juicy burgers, fried pickles and so much more!
Come be entertained by some of the best live acts in town while you feast. Ole Red stands as a top choice for anyone looking enjoy live music with great food. You’ll surely remember your time at Ole Red!
Sample This List of Gatlinburg’s Finest Foods!
Gatlinburg’s dining scene is an embodiment of diversity and quality, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that cater to every palate, preference, and occasion. From fine dining establishments, where each meal is a celebration of culinary excellence, to the warm and inviting ambiance of its casual eateries – Gatlinburg ensures every dining experience is memorable.
Bring your whole crew to any of the town’s family-friendly restaurants! Here you’ll be welcomed with open arms and menu options menus that please both young and old. Meanwhile, budget-friendly options prove that indulging in Gatlinburg’s culinary delights doesn’t have to break the bank.
Plan Your Trip to Gatlinburg with The Cabin Rental Store
To truly immerse yourself in the Gatlinburg experience, finding the perfect accommodation is key. The Cabin Rental Store is your gateway to discovering the ideal vacation rental that complements and keeps you central to all your culinary adventures. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin nestled in the mountains or a luxurious retreat with stunning views, The Cabin Rental Store offers you a curated selection of properties in Gatlinburg.
Embrace the opportunity to create unforgettable memories in Gatlinburg, where every meal is a discovery and every moment is a treasure. Let The Cabin Rental Store provide you with your next home away from home in Gatlinburg! Visit TheCabinRentalStore.com today and take your first step towards a vacation that blends beautiful Smoky Mountain surroundings, serene mountain living, and good food all in one place.
One of the best parts to any vacation is checking out the local restaurant scene. Seeing what the locals enjoy eating is always a fun way to experience new areas, especially Gatlinburg. The area features some fun and exciting different restaurants that are open year-round. Take a look at some can’t miss restaurants found exclusively in Gatlinburg:
Tennessee Jed’s
Sometimes the best places to eat at can be found where you least expect them to be. Tennessee Jed’s is one such place that offers delicious food in a low-key setting. This local favorite serves up tasty breakfast items, sandwiches, and their famous Frito pies. Each sandwich is not for the faint of heart and has a huge serving size. Only simple yet tasty ingredients are used for a delicious bite every time. Stop by for a quick bite where your food can be ready in just a few minutes. Tennessee Jed’s is open daily from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
If you want a delicious and hearty meal for breakfast look no further than Crockett’s Breakfast Camp. This cabin-style eatery serves up huge portions of southern breakfast fare. Enjoy classics such as pancakes, eggs, biscuits and gravy, and so much more. Prepare to have some leftovers to take back to your vacation rental with you. Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is open daily for breakfast from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
New Orleans Sandwich Company
You can get a taste of good ol’ home-style cooking when you stop in New Orleans Sandwich Company. Enjoy Cajun classics such as gumbo and po’ boys. The casual setting allows everyone to show up and enjoy the food without worrying about appearances. Friendly service and authentic entrees will have you feeling like you are right off Bourbon Street in New Orleans again. New Orleans Sandwich Company brings back the good old days of home-cooked food. Stop in Wednesday through Monday from noon to 7:00 PM for lunch and dinner; the restaurant is open until 8:00 PM on weekends.
More Good Food in Gatlinburg
These are just a few of the many incredible locally-owned restaurants in Gatlinburg. You too can have an incredible meal by dining in with these favorites. Book one of our vacation rentals today to be just a short drive away from each local activity and restaurant in Gatlinburg.
There is nothing better than unwinding during your stay in Gatlinburg with a casual meal at one of our local restaurants. Our home features tons of locally-owned restaurants that invite locals and visitors alike for casual meals featuring delicious food. Take a look at some of our favorite spots for casual dining in Gatlinburg:
Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant
It does not get any more casual than enjoying a meal in an authentic log cabin. This is especially true when you dine with Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant right here in Gatlinburg. This local favorite offers a variety of casual American fare where you can find all of your favorite home cooked food. The menu starts with breakfast and includes family favorites such as pancakes, bacon, and their famous Log Toast. Lunch and dinner continue to offer all of your favorites inside their casual setting. Try out the outdoor patio tables where you can enjoy our beautiful weather. All major sporting events can be found playing on the TV in the restaurant.
Alamo Steakhouse
If you are looking for a prime cut of steak but don’t want to make a fuss at a fine dining restaurant, you need to head over to Alamo Steakhouse. This locally owned restaurant features plenty of delicious cuts of steak along with seafood and much more. The sides include all of your favorite veggies and some comfort food such as mashed potatoes and French fries. The full-service bar is able to mix up a delicious cocktail such as an Old Fashioned to pair with your steak or go with a glass of red wine. For a romantic evening request one of the back rooms perfect for date night.
New Orleans Sandwich Company
If you have had a taste of Cajun food, you know it is worth seeking out during your travels. Visit New Orleans Sandwich Company for a casual yet delicious take on Cajun food. Menu items include sandwiches such as po’ boys along with gumbo and more. Drink menu includes various craft beers to pair with your meal.
More to Eat in Gatlinburg
These are just a few of the many casual restaurants we offer right here in Gatlinburg. Our vacation cabins are the perfect places to stay for a relaxing yet unforgettable trip to the Smoky Mountains. Call today to book your next stay right here with us in Gatlinburg!
Gatlinburg is calling you for another winter getaway this year. When visiting, you can find a variety of incredible restaurants that are continuing to offer dine-in services. Check out these Gatlinburg restaurants for a hot meal:
Calhoun’s in Gatlinburg
When visiting Tennessee, you have to get some of our world-famous BBQ, and there is no better place for that than Calhoun’s in Gatlinburg. This local BBQ chain offers slow smoked BBQ along with delicious burgers and sandwiches. Homestyle sides complete any protein option you pick, and you can wash it all down with a craft beer. While some BBQ joints are known for slow service, Calhoun’s is able to get out your BBQ platters quick and with a smile. Enjoy Calhoun’s in Gatlinburg located at 1004 Parkway #101, open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
If you are looking for a place to enjoy a comfort style breakfast, look no further than Crockett’s Breakfast Camp. Crockett’s offers classic Southern dishes inside a rustic themed cabin here in Gatlinburg. Enjoy huge portions of local favorites such as griddle cakes, cinnamon rolls, omelets, and more. For lunch, try out the crisped trout fillet complete with cornbread. Crockett’s Breakfast Camp offers everything you need for breakfast and lunch daily from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This restaurant is located at 1103 Parkway.
The Peddler Steakhouse
Your stay here in Gatlinburg is not complete without a fine dining experience at The Peddler Steakhouse. This woodsy styled steakhouse features all of your favorite cuts of steak along with chicken, trout, and an extensive salad bar. While the setting may be rustic, every other experience you have here is anything but. Make sure to try out this local favorite located at 820 River Rd. The Peddler Steakhouse is open for dine in services daily from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM for dinner; the restaurant is even open late until 10:00 PM on Saturday.
More Dining Here in Gatlinburg
These restaurants and many more await you here in Gatlinburg. You can make the most of your holiday travels by reserving one of our vacation rentals here in Tennessee. Expect luxury amenities and full-sized homes that are second to none. Beat a local hotel and choose our vacation rentals and enjoy the many Gatlinburg restaurants.
The Smoky Mountains are one of the most beautiful places in the world, teeming with opportunities for adventure. Here are a few must-see Gatlinburg shops and restaurants to check out while you’re in Gatlinburg this year:
The Old Mill General Store
Stop in to visit the Old Mill General Store, a favorite shopping destination for locals and tourists alike. At this authentic historic location, you’ll not only get to enjoy the sight of the mill, but you’ll find their famous pancake mix, homemade jams and jellies, and other signature Old Mill food products that can’t be found anywhere else. Every year over a million people visit the store and other Gatlinburg shops for these delicious goods.
Art Studio of the Smokies
There’s nothing more fulfilling than a good old-fashioned hands-on activity. Here at the Art Studio of the Smokies, you’ll create your own art! Host a whole party or plan an inventive date with your significant other; either way, you’ll have a blast with your art of choice, be it drawing, painting, pastels, multimedia, or even photography. This studio goes above and beyond to involve you in the art process, and they even offer lessons in their computer lab for newcomers to digital graphics if you want to try something new.
Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair
Spend your day strolling through the hundreds of booths and marvel at the handmade products lovingly crafted by artists that come to participate in the fair from all over the country, alongside local Gatlinburg shops. Soak up the rich and vibrant art scene, watch as artists demonstrate their talents for you right there at the fair, and take something special home with you! You’re bound to find a piece of art that speaks to you. There’s a Kid’s Corner in the summer, and live musical performances that cost nothing more than the ticket of entry, which is only $7 for adults, and children get in free!
Smoky Mountain Trout House
The Smoky Mountain Trout house has been operating since 1975 in a historic downtown building, so there’s no better place to experience the local cuisine and get your fill of that old-timey atmosphere we all adore. True to the name and logo boasting a colorful river trout, the crowning specialty here is the rainbow trout—farmed locally in the crystal waters of the Smokey Mountains, of course. You’ll find a rich menu here to go along with the famous trout, with daily entrée and drink specials to keep your wallet happy.
Smoky Mountain Brewery
As the oldest craft brewery in East Tennessee, this stop is a must when visiting Gatlinburg. This brewery has been around since the entire movement of U.S. craft beer was still getting off the ground, and as such, they entered the game ahead of the curve. Their beer recipes are unrivaled, and their story is the quintessential American dream of hard work for success. You can taste the love in every sip of beer, with unique brews like Cherokee Red Ale, Tuckaleechee Porter, and Mountain Light. While you’re here for the best beer in Tennessee, grab some homemade pizza fresh from the oven, a wood-roasted steak, or even a brewery souvenir to take home.
Great Gatlinburg Shops, Restaurants, and More
The Cabin Rental Store is your key to your dream vacation in a cabin destination. Experience Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains in all their beauty, with a luxury vacation cabin to return to once you’ve filled your days with the local art, food, and fun. Get in touch with us today for more information!
For every season in your life, there is always a meal or type of food from which you derive the ultimate comfort. Summer nights taste all that sweeter with grilled treats, ribs, hamburgers, and the occasional steak. In the spring, our thoughts of food turn to casseroles, quiches, ham, and Easter goodies, while in fall we have a tendency to rely on turkey dinners with all the trimmings. Winter comfort foods, however, are heavier and sometimes spicier: thick and hearty chili with a dollop of sour cream, meatloaf, and mashed potatoes, pork roasts, and soups. These are all foods that fill the stomach as they warm the soul, and when you vacation in Gatlinburg, there’s no need to miss out on the winter comfort foods you love the most; here’s the list of our favorite places to eat in Gatlinburg that serve the very best!
Log Cabin Pancake House, 327 Historic Nature Trail
Comfort foods can be found at any meal, and breakfast at the Log Cabin Pancake House touches our soul. Featuring light and fluffy pancakes, crepes, and a host of other breakfast dishes, it’s the pancakes we can’t forget. Bringing us back to those times our mothers would create Mickey Mouse ears and add delicious ingredients (chocolate chips!) that showed how much she loved us, the ones served here will do her proud! The Log Cabin Pecan cakes are our very favorite, but feel free to find the ones that speak to your own hearts!
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Cue, 714 River Road
While primarily considered summer food, the barbecue served at Bennett’s will soothe the soul no matter what the season! These places to eat in Gatlinburg has some of the best food! Beef brisket smoked for up to 14 hours at a time, burnt ends that are sweet and spicy, and ribs that will, well, stick to your own ribs; all these dishes serve the dual purpose of filling you up as they add comfort to your vacation days in Gatlinburg.
Mama’s Chicken Kitchen, 1244 East Parkway
Fried chicken is one of those dishes that brings comfort, and when done right, it can change your life, a simple fact that the cooks at Mama’s Chicken Kitchen take to heart. Serving birds that are crunchy, light, and oh so delicious, you might find yourself wanting to check the kitchen to see if your own grandmother is back there preparing it! This is definitely one of the finer places to eat in Gatlinburg.
Comfort, Style, & Close Proximity to Great Places to Eat in Gatlinburg, in One Luxurious Package
Our Cabin Rental Store cozy cabins offer the comfort of a different sort. Luxurious, stylish, and yet still homey and comfortable, your Gatlinburg vacation will be enhanced when you stay with us. Reserve yours today and discover all the comforts of your vacation home away from home!
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is known as the gateway to the famed Smoky Mountains National Park and is a popular vacation destination. Kids and adults both can find lots to do, see, and experience here. While vacationing, be sure to check out these great Gatlinburg restaurants to do brunch with the kiddos.
Pancake Pantry
The Pancake Pantry has been around since 1960 when founders, Jim and June Gerding, opened the doors to the first pancake house in Gatlinburg. One visit and the Pancake Pantry will become a favorite of the little ones. The adorable kid menu with the cartoon styled animal characters will delight the little ones while the adults make their choice. Their kid menu items are definitely designed with even the pickiest eater in mind. Your child can choose from bear shaped pancakes to pancakes filled with M&Ms or bananas. If your kiddo prefers a lunch entrée they offer grilled cheese with the crust cut off or plain hamburger.
Log Cabin Pancake House
For the past 42 years the Log Cabin Pancake House has been family owned and operated. They offer delicious breakfast meals all days and has a full kid menu available to kids ages 8 and under. The children will most likely be amused by the old fashioned covered wagon on top of the roof and the red brick sidewalk. Around the front porch is a log railing that adds a rustic effect to the building. Free parking is available on the side and around the back of the restaurant. This is definitely one of the best Gatlinburg restaurants.
Crocketts Breakfast Camp
Upon arriving at Crocketts Breakfast Camp, one will quickly be awed by what is seen. The building is large and made of slate rock, brick, and wood. The log benches and stone path gives the exterior and nostalgic flair. The modern entry door deceives visitors until they continue through the breezeway to the main entry. Once you step inside prepare to be taken back in time to the pioneer era. Everything about the décor is to give tribute to the establishment’s namesake. The food is delicious and the origin story is fascinating. Kids of all ages will be fascinated by the authentic looking pioneer items on display with a real buck board style wagon in one of the dining rooms. This is definitely a must stop at for history fans.
Start Planning Today for Gatlinburg Restaurants
Cabin Rental Store is here to help you relax and rest while visiting Gatlinburg. With features such as wireless internet, home theaters, pool tables, hot tubs, and video game consoles standard in all our cabins, taking easy has never been so pleasant. Contact us today for more information on Gatlinburg restaurants and to book your rental! Learn more about us!