Author: 
Eating in the Smokies is a serious endeavor. So, when planning a Smoky Mountain vacation, don’t forget to sample the local cuisine. Hiking, rafting, sightseeing, and a day at the spa in the Great Smoky Mountains are sure to work up a hearty appetite.
There are hundreds of Smoky Mountain restaurants in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Bryson City, and Sevierville, serving everything from down-home Southern cooking to trendy entrees that fuse the flavor and flair of the region.
And whether they are family-owned eateries or multi-restaurant corporations, you are guaranteed great food that pleases the most particular tastes.
Economical ($)
Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant
The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant is Sevierville’s oldest restaurant. The restaurant specializes in healthy southern cooking with a side of Applewood Fritters. The restaurant is located along the Sevierville and Pigeon Forge border on Apple Valley Road, not too far from the Titanic Museum. And it sits in an apple orchard near a peaceful stream with views of the Smoky Mountains.
Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant, 250 Apple Valley Road, Sevierville, TN. 37862. 865-428-1222.
Smoky Mountain Pizzeria Grill
The Smoky Mountain Pizzeria Grill is an Italian bistro in a mountain setting. From small plates like the Spicy Peanut Chicken Flatbread to hearty calzones, SMPG has something for everyone. Try the Salmon Rustica-grilled Atlantic salmon topped with capers and basil pesto from the grill. Vegetarians will appreciate the Valley Veg or the Mediterranean pizza.
Smoky Mountain Pizzeria Grill, 4201 Wears Valley Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862. 865-428-7311.
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria is a Smoky Mountain standard. It serves Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizza that starts with handmade dough, sauces, and toppings. The founders of Big Daddy’s Pizzeria are proud of the freshness of their food– claiming they have never owned a freezer.
Not in the mood for pizza? Big Daddy’s serves deli sandwiches, salads, and delicious desserts.
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria, 714 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Five Oaks Farm Kitchen
Another well-loved Smoky Mountain restaurant is Five Oaks Farm Kitchen. Founded by Dr. John and Blanche Ogle on the principles of good hospitality, Five Oaks Farm Kitchen serves southern comfort food and is a Sevierville favorite for brunch.
Five Oaks Farm Kitchen, 1638 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862. 865-365-1008.
Affordable ($$)
Atrium Pancakes
Craving pancakes? A small Gatlinburg pancake house serves some of the best griddle cakes in the Smokies.
Breakfast at Atrium Pancakes is a peaceful way to start the day. Choose from 25 varieties of pancakes, and Belgium Waffles, covered in homemade syrup.
Later in the day, sit by the waterfall while enjoying coffee or small plate lunch.
Atrium Pancakes, 432 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. 865-430-3684.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que serves hickory-smoked, falling-off-the-bone tender, specialty meats. Crafted on-site in the specially designed smokehouse, The daily menu at either the Pigeon forge or Gatlinburg restaurant includes sandwiches, grilled catfish, and one of the best hot dogs in the Smoky Mountains.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que, 714 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738. 865-436-2400.
Wild Plum Tea Room
In a rustic mountain setting, the Wild Plum Tea Room maintains the traditions of an old-world-style teahouse serving tea, fresh soups and sandwiches, and vegetarian and vegan offerings.
Wild Plum Tea Room, 555 Buckhorn Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. 865-436-3808.
Smoky Mountain Brewery
Founded in 1996, Smoky Mountain Brewery is the oldest craft brewery in East Tennessee. Currently, there are four locations, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Knoxville (Turkey Creek), and Maryville, each with specialty brews and a thriving restaurant.
The menu at Smoky Mountain Brewery consists of upscale pub-style grub with a down-home southern twist. Try the Thunder Road Shrimp – fried shrimp tossed in a house Sweet & Spicy Sauce for a snack.
Or, for a bigger bite, the Grilled Yellow Fin Tuna Sandwich or a mouthwatering burger with a side of Tater Tots.
The craft brews at the SMB are equally delicious. Local favorites include the Cherokee Red Ale or Mountain Light.
Smoky Mountain Brewery, 1004 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. 865-436-4200.
No Way Jose’s Mexican Cantina
No Way Jose’s Mexican Cantina is just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This colorful restaurant serves authentic Mexican food in a family-friendly atmosphere. A short one-minute walk from Akeesta, NWJMC is a spicy taco alternative.
No Way Jose’s Mexican Cantina, 555 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. 865-430-5673
Mama’s Farmhouse
The unique twist on an American classic serves all-you-can-eat, home-style Southern cooking directly to your table. This third-generation family-owned and operated restaurant has won numerous awards for its handmade buttermilk biscuits and banana pudding.
Try pinwheels, scrambled eggs, french toast, sausage, bacon, biscuits and gravy, and cheese grits for an authentic Smoky Mountain breakfast. Mama’s Farmhouse specialty of Peach or Strawberry Butter is always on the table.
Lunch and dinner offerings include down-home favorites such as fried chicken, chicken fried steak, meatloaf with vegetable or sweet potato casserole, and Fried Okra. All rounded off with homemade desserts.
Mama’s Farmhouse, 208 Pickel St, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. 865-908-4646.
The Old Mill Restaurant
The Old Mill Restaurant’s southern cuisine has been a part of the Pigeon Forge since the 1800s. Dine overlooking the Little Pigeon River while the working watermill grinds the flours for the fresh bread.
The lunch and dinner family-style menu serves southern classics like chicken and dumplings, pot roast, and chicken pot pie, with signature corn chowder. Top the meal off with a piece of pecan pie.
The Old Mill Restaurant, 175 Old Mill Avenue, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. 877-653-6455.
Upscale ($$$)
Park Grill
The Park Grill is an eclectic mix of a contemporary mountain lodge with modern artwork. The menu includes Prime Steaks, fresh Mountain Trout, Moonshine Chicken, an impressive salad bar, and a homemade berry cobbler with an oversized scoop of ice cream.
Park Grill, 1110 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. 865-436-3800.
Alamo Steakhouse
Alamo Steakhouse is a favorite in both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Open for lunch and dinner specializing in Black Angus steaks and thick juicy hamburgers. Or, for a lighter choice, there is an impressive salad offering.
This excellent steakhouse is part of the Johnson Family of Restaurants, including Bennett’s BBQ and Mama’s Farmhouse.
Alamo Steakhouse, 705 East Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. 865-908-9998
Bullfish Grill
The Bullfish Grill is located in The Great Smoky Mountains Dining District in Pigeon Forge. An upscale restaurant with a Creole flair, the extensive menu features Aged Grand Champion Angus beef steaks, seafood gumbo, and cilantro-lime grilled shrimp.
Bullfish Grill, 2441 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. 865-868-1000.
The Greenbriar
A Food and Spirit Outpost in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the best restaurants in the area. The Greenbriar is an upscale, family-friendly restaurant set in a Historic Mountain Side Log Cabin. The chef plays a large part in crafting the menu, which specializes in dry-aged hand-cut steaks, the freshest produce, and an excellent but affordable whiskey and wine list. Reservations are recommended at this Smoky Mountain favorite.
The Greenbriar, 370 Newman Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. 865-412-1576.
Now you’re not only ready to have an incredible outdoor getaway to the Great Smoky Mountains but you’re also ready to eat at the best Smoky Mountains Restaurants. Get ready to dig in!
