20 Top Gatlinburg Restaurants to Satisfy Your Appetite
20 Top Gatlinburg Restaurants to Satisfy Your Appetite
I love Gatlinburg, and ever since I visited years ago for a hiking trip in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I’ve found myself returning several times a year to enjoy the amazing scenery and food!
Thanks to all my travels, I’ve found the best places to eat in Gatlinburg, so whether I’m craving Mexican food or American comfort classics, I know where to go to find the best dishes in town.
The Best Gatlinburg Restaurants
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Southern Comfort®
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Log Cabin Pancake House
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Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
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Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que
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No Way Jose's Cantina
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Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse
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Lil' Black Bear Café
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Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta
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Tennessee Jed’s
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Ole Red
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The Peddler Steakhouse
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LeConte Tapas & Grill
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Little Tokyo Restaurant
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The Wild Plum Tea Room
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Pizzeria of Gatlinburg
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Donut Friar
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Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria in Elks Plaza
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Mountain Trail Grill & Pizza
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Smith & Son Corner Kitchen
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Alamo Steakhouse
Seriously, you all have to try it for yourself, so bookmark this post and make a note to visit these 20 best restaurants in Gatlinburg at least once!
The Top Gatlinburg Restaurants that I Recommend
Nothing beats sitting down to a good meal after a long day hiking or exploring the town. Most of the food in Gatlinburg has that home-cooked, Southern style that’s irresistible in Tennessee.
Of course, there’s also plenty of fantastic BBQ and mom and pop restaurants as well. Keep reading to see what makes the Gatlinburg food scene so unique.
1 | Southern Comfort® | I have to mention Southern Comfort® as number one because it has amazing, authentic American comfort food and is located in my favorite place to stay in Gatlinburg.
The Westgate Smoky Mountains Resort & Water Park has amazing views of the mountains and offers awesome dining options that make it so easy to grab a delicious breakfast or hearty dinner.
The entire menu is all about down-home cookin’, and as someone who’s had their fair share of grits, biscuits and gravy and chicken steaks, I can tell you that this restaurant doesn’t cut corners when it comes to getting that fresh, out-of-the-oven taste right onto your plate.
My recommendation? Try the award-winning BBQ menu for dinner, then finish it off with a hearty serving of peach cobbler. If you’re coming by for breakfast, the Westgate Slam with a side of biscuits and gravy can’t be beat.
WHERE: 915 Westgate Resorts Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 430-4800
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2 | Log Cabin Pancake House | I can’t mention Gatlinburg restaurants without talking about the stacks at the Log Cabin Pancake House.
This place is a local legend, with tables packed with repeat visitors who have grown to get breakfast here as a tradition.
The restaurant’s fluffy, old-fashioned pancakes are so satisfying, topped with syrup and house-whipped margarine.
And its decor really drives home the feel of the Smoky Mountains. You really feel that rustic cabin vibe. Plus, if you have kids, this jut might be a great restaurant for picky eaters.
WHERE: 327 Airport Rd., Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 436-7894
3 | Crockett’s Breakfast Camp | Another absolute must-try in Gatlinburg is the famous Crockett’s Breakfast Camp. The atmosphere is lively, fun and old-timey with cabin-themed decor that will take you back to the good ol’ days.
From biscuits and gravy to hearty platters, everything on the menu has been a hit. Of course, I can’t mention Crockett’s without telling you about its enormous cinnamon rolls. They’re huge, delicious, fresh and baked to perfection.
As a bonus, end your visit with a drive through the nearby Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This scenic driving trail has lovely views of the forest, waterfalls and log cabins. If you’re lucky, you might spot some black bears, too!
WHERE: 1103 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 325-1403
4 | Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que | Bennett’s is the place to be if you want to eat at one of the best BBQ restaurants Gatlinburg locals love.
The tender brisket, deep-fried deviled eggs and BBQ chicken are my top picks. I’ve eaten here several times, and the food has always come fast, hot and served with a smile.
There are lots of down-home eats on the menu, so you’ll get an authentic Tennessee BBQ experience every time you visit.
WHERE: 714 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 436-2400
5 | No Way Jose's Cantina | I stopped by No Way Jose’s Cantina for lunch one afternoon on my way home from another amazing weekend in Gatlinburg. Let me just say, this place made the trip even better.
The food, service and atmosphere were all amazing. The brightly colored restaurant, with sombreros hanging from the ceiling, instantly lifts your spirits, and just wait until your order arrives!
Perfectly salted tortilla chips, fresh guacamole and authentic Mexican food… What’s not to love?
I had the chips, guac and a burrito, which was perfectly wrapped and filled with flavorful rice, beans, chicken and vegetables. I highly recommend No Way Jose’s Cantina if you’re looking for some fast and delicious Mexican food on your next trip to Gatlinburg!
WHERE: 555 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 430-5673
6 | Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse | The Cherokee Grill is considered by many to be the best steakhouse in Gatlinburg. Its upscale yet welcoming atmosphere makes every meal feel special.
The service is professional, courteous and helpful. Whenever I visit the Gatlinburg Strip, I stop by because the quality of the food and atmosphere are just perfect for ending a day out exploring Gatlinburg.
The restaurant’s menu features American classics like steak, seafood and burgers, so you can really find anything you’re craving.
You can also book a reservation, which can be helpful on busy days, like the weekends, when so many people are trying to get a table.
WHERE: 1002 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 436-4287
7 | Lil' Black Bear Café | If y’all are as serious about your breakfast food as I am, then you have to go by Lil’ Black Bear Café.
This adorable family-owned restaurant serves the best biscuits and gravy in Gatlinburg, plus hash browns, pancakes, omelets and country breakfast platters.
This is one of the best hidden gems in Gatlinburg that locals love. The owner is incredibly nice, and you’ll really feel like family the minute you walk through the door.
If the weather is nice, grab your food to eat outside at one of the two picnic tables!
WHERE: 068 Veterans Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863-3176 | WHO: (865) 366-1181
8 | Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta | I once asked a friend to recommend a Gatlinburg restaurant with a view, and they told me Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta is the best. Boy, were they right!
If you don’t know, Anakeesta is an amazing mountain adventure park in Gatlinburg. You can hike, ride a mountain coaster, go zip lining and even go on an incredible night walk to see the stars.
While you’re there, eating at Cliff Top Restaurant is a must! Not only do you get breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, but the food is delicious.
Get yourself a half-pound chargrilled burger or go for one of the hearty entree salads. For dessert, I had the bourbon pecan pie, and now I have to tell everyone who eats here to try it for themselves!
WHERE: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 325-2400
9 | Tennessee Jed’s | No trip to Downtown Gatlinburg is complete without stopping by Tennessee Jed’s for one of its famous sandwiches.
This isn’t just your average sandwich shop, though. It also serves up a delicious breakfast, chilis, soups and even the famous Frito pies you’ve likely never heard of until you come to the South.
So far, I’ve had the Turkey Bacon Ranch, BLT, Loaded Fritos Pie and a chili dog. I can say that every time I’ve eaten at Tennessee Jed’s, the staff has been super friendly and welcoming, which is what keeps me coming back.
If you have kids, the laid-back atmosphere and simple menu means grown-ups and kids can both have a good time and find something delicious to eat.
WHERE: 631 Parkway Suite A8, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 412-1131
10 | Ole Red | Live music, an old-fashioned honky tonk and great drinks and food make this my favorite place for a fun night out on the town.
Ole Red is Blake Shelton’s restaurant in Gatlinburg, so there’s always live music playing.
As for the food, it’s a mix of American bar classics, like loaded nachos, and Southern staples, like fried pickles, chicken wings and fried catfish.
I gotta tell y’all, the Redneck Nachos are so good, I almost want to keep them a secret, but I won’t gatekeep them.
The multi-colored chips stand out beautifully against the mounds of cheese, meat, white queso and corn salsa. To top it all off, pickled onions give the cheesy dish a zippy finish, and the avocado cream sends it over the top. I’m hungry just thinking about them!
WHERE: 511 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: N/A
11 | The Peddler Steakhouse | The words that come to mind when I think of the Pedder Steakhouse: charming, woodsy and romantic!
This long-standing restaurant is another local treasure, with classic BBQ and steakhouse fare in a wood and stone restaurant.
It’s rustic but refined, and you can get a table near a window to have some lovely views of the woods and a peaceful stream.
On top of the ambience, I really love the food presentation. From appetizers to the desserts, you can tell the chef really cares and makes sure every plate looks beautiful.
WHERE: 820 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 436-5794
12 | LeConte Tapas & Grill | Spanish tapas in Gatlinburg? You betcha! This fun restaurant is a great place to go when you’re planning a get-together, party or just want to spice up your dinner.
LeConte is actually French for “the story,” and you can really get the unique European feel from its sophisticated, minimalistic dining room and unique menu.
If you’re on the lookout for fine dining in Gatlinburg, LeConte is for you! Its meals are beautifully plated, feature high-end ingredients and are one-of-a-kind creations you can only find at this establishment.
For starters, I suggest the patatas bravas, with its butter-poached potatoes and smoked paprika aioli sauce. Follow it up with one of the restaurant’s ceviches. The lobster is my favorite. As for entrees, there are soups, salads, steaks, burgers and seafood to fill you up.
WHERE: 805 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 277-7831
13 | Little Tokyo Restaurant | Being in the heart of Southern Tennessee doesn’t mean you can’t get good sushi.
The Little Tokyo Restaurant is a stone’s throw from Gatlinburg in Pigeon Forge. In my opinion, it has some of the best sushi in the entire state.
The food is high-end, but the atmosphere is still welcoming and relaxed. You can order rolls, maki, Japanese entrees or hibachi.
The service has always been fantastic, and I love the traditional Japanese decor and atmosphere. This is a great family restaurant or fun place to go with friends.
WHERE: 2430 Teaster Ln #212, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | WHO: (865) 908-0555
14 | The Wild Plum Tea Room | Do you ever wish you could go back in time and appreciate the simpler days when people savored the little things more?
If so, you need to visit the Wild Plum Tea Room! This old-world-style teahouse really feels like something out of a fairy tale.
Sip on delicious tea blends, dine on tea sandwiches or muffins and admire the beautiful scenery outside.
The Wild Plum Tea Room is one of the best romantic restaurants in Gatlinburg, too! The sweets, cottage décor and woodland views make it a charming and unforgettable place to share a meal with someone special.
WHERE: 555 Buckhorn Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 436-3808
15 | Pizzeria of Gatlinburg | Gatlinburg is a town full of charm, and no restaurant has more of it than the Pizzeria of Gatlinburg.
As soon as I walked into the establishment, I was welcomed to the delightful smell of fresh dough and bubbling cheese.
I ordered a Chicken Bacon Ranch pizza and was not disappointed. The soft, yet tender chicken melded together perfectly with the bacon, creamy ranch sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese.
Right after my first bite, I knew I found my go-to pizza restaurant for the next time I found myself in Gatlinburg!
WHERE: 349 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: N/A
16 | Donut Friar | Whether you’re a local or a visitor, one thing is certain: no trip to Gatlinburg is complete without stopping at Donut Friar!
This quaint establishment is located within The Village Shops. And when I first visited, it felt like stepping back in time.
The aroma of freshly baked donuts brought back childhood memories for me. My order consisted of a cinnamon sugar donut, classic powdered donut and a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Both donuts were bursting with flavor while being incredibly light and fluffy, so it wasn’t overwhelming. They also made for the perfect breakfast, as I continued my adventure through Gatlinburg.
WHERE: 634 Parkway #15, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 436-7306
17 | Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria in Elks Plaza | The next place on my list is the Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria in Elks Plaza. Trust me y'all, this place lives up to its name.
This restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere coupled with an aroma that makes you feel like you’re in the heart of Italy!
Toasty garlic rolls and generously stuffed manicotti made for an unforgettable lunch in Gatlinburg during my last visit.
WHERE: 968 Parkway Suite #9, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 430-4090
18 | Mountain Trail Grill & Pizza | After spending the day hiking, I decided to grab a bite at Mountain Trail Grill & Pizza.
Hiking takes a lot out of you, so I was looking for a restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere, and this restaurant didn’t disappoint!
I was in the mood for something simple, yet flavorful, so I ordered the Buffalo Chicken hoagie with a side of waffle fries, a Greek salad and a can of Coke. And let me tell you, the tanginess of the buffalo sauce complemented the tender chicken perfectly!
The Greek salad was filled with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, pepperoncini, olives and onions, which made for a hearty meal.
WHERE: 504 Airport Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 444-4784
19 | Smith & Son Corner Kitchen | If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Southern hospitality, you’re going to love Smith & Son Corner Kitchen.
When I entered this charming restaurant, I was greeted with a feeling that can only be described as receiving a warm hug.
The menu offers traditional Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
During my visit, I ordered the tangy fried green tomatoes and the restaurant’s signature chicken and waffles. The chicken was perfectly fried, which complemented the fluffiness of the waffles.
WHERE: 812 Parkway Ste 105 at Stoplight No, 8, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 430-1978
20 | Alamo Steakhouse | This one-of-a-kind steakhouse has the most high-quality steaks I’ve ever tasted.
When I visited, I decided to go all out and order the ribeye. The steak was cooked to perfection. It was tender, juicy and had flavor in every bite. As a side, I ordered a loaded baked potato and a Caesar salad.
If you need a restaurant that’s guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds, the Alamo Steakhouse is a choice you can’t go wrong with.
WHERE: 705 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | WHO: (865) 436-9998
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Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Gatlinburg
When in Gatlinburg, eat like a local! You can find some of the best restaurants near the Gatlinburg Strip with lots of outdoor seating and great views. This area can get crowded during peak tourist season, but the restaurants are great and have wonderful service.
Downtown Gatlinburg is great for finding bars and hidden gems with top American eats and BBQ.
You should also check out The Village Shops, a quaint European-style “town” in the middle of Gatlinburg.
No matter where you stay when visiting, Gatlinburg is bound to impress you with its amazing food, friendly service and unmatched Southern charm.
For more restaurant guides and tips for exploring Gatlinburg, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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