During the fall season, you will find magic in the air here in Gatlinburg. Expect crisp mountain air, changing leaves painting the Smokies with gold and crimson, and a food scene that warms the soul. The local restaurants will have you covered whether you’re craving steaks, cozy Appalachian fare, fondue dinners, or pancake breakfasts to kick off your day. There is no shortage of memorable dining in Gatlinburg, so check out these must see spots during the fall:
The Peddler Steakhouse
If we had to pick one Gatlinburg tradition here in town for dining, we would have to pick The Peddler Steakhouse. This local restaurant combines rustic charm with excellent steaks. It is a great place when you want something special but also grounded in the local heritage. The Peddler Steakhouse features a setting of river-road views and old stone and wood construction; it’s perfect for a fall evening. The food is hearty with plenty of thick cuts, crisp sides, and perhaps a fall ale or local wine to pair with your meal.
Red Oak Bistro
Vacation calls for something a little more intimate and creative. This is where Red Oak Bistro becomes a wonderful choice, as they specialize in small plates, wine, and drinks, often blending Mediterranean and American influences. The fall season features plenty of seasonal specials like duck confit or lamb. The chef’s specials featuring mushrooms, squash, or roots continue to be a local favorite. Red Oak Bistro is an excellent spot for a romantic dinner or a relaxed evening with friends where the food lingers and conversation flows.
Crystelle Creek Restaurant
Gatlinburg is a perfect destination for a romantic destination for two in the fall. For romantic dining with a view consider putting Crystelle Creek high on the list. This spot is known for fish, steaks, prime rib, and a selection of pasta and chicken dishes. The remodeled bar and private dining area enhance the experience even further. Crystelle Creek Restaurant feels like something out of a storybook during the fall season as dusk arrives earlier and the wooded surroundings turn lovely shades of red and orange.
The Park Grill
Located on the Parkway, The Park Grill brings mountain lodge charm and a menu to match. Their wood-burning grill delivers smoky flavors and their trout is typically locally sourced. Additional items on the menu that are sure to delight your taste buds include the variety of steak cuts and the huge salad bar. It’s perfect when you’ve spent the afternoon hiking in the Smokies and want something satisfying and flavorful without being overly formal.
Cherokee Grill
Cherokee Grill is always perfect for fall evenings with its stone and wood interior, gleaming hearths, and an upscale yet comfortable lodge feel. Their menu includes a hearty selection of prime steaks, seafood selections, rotisserie chicken, and appetizers each crafted to match the season. Tables feature soft lighting making Cherokee Grill perfect for date nights or when you want something a bit elevated without the extra cost.
Split Rail Eats
Take a journey off the beaten path in Gatlinburg and stop by the Arts & Crafts Community. Here you will find local favorite Split Rail Eats offering up their southern comfort food in style. Their menu includes all kinds of comfort foods including burgers, sandwiches, and more inventive fusion-style items like “tater bowls” and “Hot Seoul” sandwiches. They also have a full bar and espresso drinks depending on what kind of beverage you are looking for. Split Rail Eats is a great spot for a tasty lunch or casual dinner.
Three Jimmy’s Smokehouse & Pizza Joint
Pizza is always on the menu when looking for something quick and easy that everyone will enjoy. Do not settle for cheap delivery pizza and instead find a place that makes their pizza pies from scratch. Three Jimmy’s Smokehouse & Pizza Joint is exactly that kind of place and is ready to host you and your family. You will find a selection of tasty BBQ with a variety of smoked meats and Southern favorites such as chicken pot pie and chopped steak. Of course, the family will be eager to try out the artisan pizzas that feature all of your favorite toppings. Three Jimmy’s Smokehouse & Pizza Joint typically has live music throughout the fall season too. You will not find a better spot for a slice of pizza in the fall.
Get Ready for Fall Dining in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg in fall is the kind of place where dining isn’t just about sustenance, it’s part of the atmosphere. These incredible restaurants found in and around the area will make your fall journey one to remember for years to come. Reserve one of our vacation cabins here around Gatlinburg to find an enjoyable experience. Fall is finally here in Gatlinburg, so make sure to book your stay today.
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.
As you ride all the rides at Silver Dollar City, explore the hometown of your favorite country singer, the inimitable Dolly Parton, and take in the view from 407 feet in the sky inside the Gatlinburg Space Needle, you may find yourself feeling a combination of hunger pangs, exhaustion, and an unwillingness to join the crowds at the popular restaurants in Gatlinburg. You could fix a meal or even pop a frozen pizza into the oven in your Cabin Rental Store country escape, or you could pick up a takeout meal from any of these local restaurants. We’re thinking the choice is easy and you’ll agree after you try out the restaurants listed in this guide!
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria, 714 River Road
Take-out pizza has to be the best meal idea no matter where you are, but the ones served at Big Daddy’s take the humble pie to new levels of greatness! Offering sandwiches, salads, and of course, delicious thin crust pizzas baked in a woodfire oven, this choice is sure to be one your entire family can get behind!
Hot Diggity Dawg, 968 Parkway
While the common hot dog isn’t the healthiest of choices, sometimes no other meal will do—especially when on vacation. Hot Diggity Dawg is one of our favorite ways to get in our fix! Inexpensive and delicious, we suggest you stop by their food cart at least once during your Gatlinburg getaway.
Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin, 478 E Parkway
Not all carry-out meals will be dinner. On those mornings you just can’t convince your family to get out of bed, a visit to Flapjack’s and a carry-out breakfast will be the perfect way to start a lazy day in! Famous for their pancakes, of course, every breakfast is hearty and delicious. If you’re really hungry, the Barn Buster will satisfy the largest of appetites!
The Three Jimmy’s, 1359 E Parkway
We have to admit that missing out on an evening out at the Three Jimmy’s would be a shame, but if you just can’t picture yourself dining in public, the food served here is equally delicious at home as it is in the restaurant. Offering a variety of foods that range from pizza to prime rib, it’s a great place to choose when everyone in your family has different ideas of the meal they want to eat!
Most Restaurants Offer Carry-Out
It’s true that you can enjoy a delicious carry-out meal in pretty much every restaurant in Gatlinburg, but none of the meals will be as tasty if you aren’t staying in a Cabin Rental Store vacation sanctuary! Contact us to reserve your stay today or book online.