12 Best Places To Eat In Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are ideal for planning the perfect dual-destination Smoky Mountain getaway. Being only a 3.5 hour drive from Nashville is a bonus! And because the dining options can be a little overwhelming, we’ve put together a guide to the best places to eat in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Both towns are a meat lover’s dream– Tennessee takes barbeque seriously (along with sides like creamy mac and cheese and fresh slaw).
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge also have upscale options focused on artisan dishes made with high-quality ingredients.
To get the most out of the Smoky Mountains dining scene and activities, book accommodations that make both towns easily accessible– we recommend our 100 Collection partner, Mountain Laurel Chalets.
Best Places To Eat In Gatlinburg, TN
1. The Log Cabin Pancake House
The Log Cabin Pancake House is a local favorite due to its cozy, rustic surroundings and fantastic breakfast food. It serves items like crepes, pancakes, and French toast all day, along with other country classics like burgers, melts, and club sandwiches.
2. Smoky Mountain Coffee & Creamery
For your morning caffeine fix, an afternoon pick-me-up, or dessert any time of day. Enjoy a wide variety of coffee drinks and ice cream with a side of friendly service.
3. The Peddler
The Peddler prides itself on being “built on tradition.” Located in a historic log cabin full of original elements (such as its stone chimney), it’s best known for naturally aged, hickory charcoal-grilled steaks.
4. The Greenbrier Restaurant
Surrounded by mountain greenery, the Greenbrier Restaurant serves sophisticated appetizers and thoughtful mains. Known for their great steaks and chops, you can also opt for venison, duck, and seafood entrees. Reserve in advance– dinner service fills up quickly.
5. Delauder’s BBQ
Perfect for a lunchtime BBQ pit stop! Delauder’s provides a down-to-earth vibe with checkered tablecloths. It’s a family-owned community favorite. Menu items sell out fast. Be sure to check their Facebook page for updates!
6. Calhoun’s
Calhoun’s provides comfort food classics in a mountain lodge atmosphere. Stop in for creative takes on American favorites like wings, burgers, and potato skins– great for lunch or a casual dinner.
Best Places To Eat In Pigeon Forge, TN
7. Smokies Cuban Cafe
Smokies Cuban Cafe offers traditional Cuban entrees and sandwiches in a casual-dining environment with countertop and table seating. You can also snag a fresh tropical juice or smoothie. This local favorite can get busy, so arrive early– it’s worth the wait.
8. Junction 35
Ideal for adults-only travel groups, Junction 35 is a sophisticated local distillery known for its rye whiskey, bourbon, moonshine, and more. You can also order burgers, small plates, salads, and more at the in-house restaurant / craft cocktail bar.
9. Blue Moose
The Blue Moose is a family-friendly restaurant and sports bar. Stop by for burgers, wings, and other tailgating favorites. Be sure to check out their long list of local partners for other great dining options as well.
10. Smoky Mountain Brewery
Self-described as “a cross between a ski lodge and a Bavarian beer hall,” this mountainside brewery offers great views along with tavern staples. Sip on microbrewed beer and chow down on comfort food classics like chili, sausage platters, artichoke dip, and a variety of hearty entrees.
11. Five Oaks Farm Kitchen
Hearty farmers’ breakfasts with thick-cut bacon. Griddle cakes soaked in maple syrup. Barbeque. Classic Southern sides. Five Oaks Farm Kitchen offers all this and more! Perfect for both breakfast and lunch.
12. Espresso Yourself
For coffee, tea, smoothies, and snacks in a cozy environment, curl up at Espresso Yourself. In addition to coffeehouse treats, they offer rocking chairs and board games– great for a quiet afternoon bonding with family and friends.
Best Places To Stay In Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
Keep your Smoky Mountain adventure rustic by day and refined by night– book your stay at Mountain Laurel Chalets by Smoky Mountains Vacation Rentals.
Conveniently located in Gatlinburg (and close to Pigeon Forge), Mountain Laurel Chalets is family-owned and allows you to choose from a variety of different home sizes.
For small groups, consider a cozy two-bedroom. And if you’re planning a group retreat or larger family gathering, reserve a spacious, wood-paneled lodge. Each property offers tasteful decor, luxe textiles, plenty of natural lighting, chef-ready kitchens, and gorgeous views.
Amenities vary by property and can include high-end bedding and linens, game rooms, clubhouse and community pool access, outdoor lounge spaces, hot tubs… and a free Dollywood ticket per booking!
