In this post, I will share the top rated restaurants in Gatlinburg, TN, a beautiful mountain town noted for its Southern hearty cuisine set in picturesque locations.
Gatlinburg serves all kinds of cuisines including heavy breakfasts, pizza, and fine dining steak houses with spectacular views of the mountains. Whether you’re a foodie or a traveler, these top dining picks are worth visiting.
Key Points & Best Restaurants In Gatlinburg Tn List
| Restaurant | Key Highlight |
|---|---|
| The Peddler Steakhouse | Riverside dining with hand-cut steaks and a romantic, rustic ambiance |
| Crockett’s Breakfast Camp | Famous for hearty Appalachian-style breakfasts and giant cinnamon rolls |
| Cherokee Grill | Upscale mountain lodge vibe, prime steaks, and seafood |
| Ole Red Gatlinburg | Blake Shelton’s place – live music, Southern cuisine, and a lively atmosphere |
| Cliff Top Grill & Bar | Scenic views at Anakeesta with burgers, steaks, and cocktails |
| The Park Grill | Classic mountain lodge design with Southern Appalachian cuisine |
| Smoky Mountain Brewery | In-house craft beers, casual pub fare, and frequent live entertainment |
| Wild Plum Tea Room | Cozy Austrian-style lunch spot with homemade dishes and vegetarian options |
| Log Cabin Pancake House | Family-run spot known for pancakes, crepes, and traditional Southern breakfast |
| Big Daddy’s Pizzeria | Wood-fired pizzas with fresh ingredients and a kid-friendly arcade |
10 Best Restaurants In Gatlinburg Tn
1.The Peddler Steakhouse
Gatlinburg’s Peddler Steakhouse lies along the banks of Little Pigeon River. It is popular because of the ambiance what with the fantastic decor that gives the place a mountain cabin feel and the food served.
The steakhouse offers hand-cut steaks cooked to guest’s preference and served with an array of dishes including succulent ribeyes, tender sirloins, and a salad bar. it is ideal for visitor coming from a long day in Great Smoky Mountains.
Having spent a considerable time in the industry, The Peddler has proven itself as a leading dining option in town thanks to the great service it offers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Steakhouse |
| Atmosphere | Rustic, romantic, riverside |
| Specialty | Hand-cut steaks prepared tableside |
| Unique Offering | Salad bar with fresh, local ingredients |
| Location | Along the Little Pigeon River, near the national park entrance |
| Ideal For | Couples, special occasions |
| Reservation Recommended | Yes, especially on weekends |
2.Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
In Gatlinburg, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is a go-to place for people with an appetite for a full-blown Southern breakfast. As an homage to frontiersman David “Crockett” Maples, the restaurant’s rustic lodge-themed interior and oversized portioned meals mirror his larger than life persona.
Signature menu items include fried cinnamon rolls, thick-cut bacon, country fried steak, and fluffy griddle cakes. The “Aretha Frankenstein” pancakes are, without a doubt, legendary.
Friendly staff and fast service make the restaurant great for families to fuel up before heading out to explore the Smoky Mountains. Best breakfast in town guaranteed, and while there is usually a wait, it’s worth it. Arrive early to beat the crowd.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Breakfast & Brunch |
| Atmosphere | Rustic, frontier-themed |
| Specialty | Giant cinnamon rolls, “Aretha Frankenstein” pancakes |
| Unique Offering | Massive Southern-style breakfast platters |
| Location | Downtown Gatlinburg |
| Ideal For | Early risers, families, hearty eaters |
| Wait Time | Often long, but moves fast |
3.Cherokee Grill
Cherokee Grill is an upscale steakhouse in Gatlinburg which offers an elegant mountain lodge atmosphere complimented with stone and wood décor. The portions are generous and include seafood, filet mignon and prime rib.
Warmly lit interiors alongside stylish furnishings make the grill suitable for family dinners as well as romantic date nights. Customers have praised the hickory grilled meats and blue cheese grits.
Complementing any dish, the wine and cocktail selection are impressive. Those seeking a premium dining experience will find Cherokee Grill to be a culinary gem. It has consistently high service quality, refined relaxed ambience and deserves a visit.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Upscale Steakhouse |
| Atmosphere | Sophisticated, lodge-style décor |
| Specialty | Prime rib, filet mignon, blue cheese grits |
| Unique Offering | Mountain lodge ambiance with refined dining |
| Location | Downtown Gatlinburg (Calhoun’s Village) |
| Ideal For | Date nights, business dinners |
| Wine Selection | Extensive |
4.Ole Red Gatlinburg
The restaurant and bar Ole Red Gatlinburg is owned by Blake Shelton. It offers refreshing southern meals alongside live country music, making it Gatlinburg’s go-to place for food and entertainment. Hot chicken sandwiches, burgers, and shrimp & grits are just a few of their specialty dishes.
People relish their stay and want to come back again andtons. You can go there for a good atmosphere with the friends and family. If you are looking for lively fun, sippicide moonshime cocktails while listening to the tunes.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Bar & Grill / Live Music Venue |
| Atmosphere | Energetic, modern country theme |
| Specialty | Southern dishes like hot chicken, live country music |
| Unique Offering | Owned by Blake Shelton, regular live performances |
| Location | Downtown Gatlinburg |
| Ideal For | Groups, music lovers, casual dining |
| Kid-Friendly | Yes |
5.Cliff Top Grill & Bar
Situated at Anakeesta, Cliff Top Grill & Bar serves a delightful selection of American cuisine alongside offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains. Guests can enjoy a scenic chairlift and gondola ride to the mountaintop which makes dining here a full experience.
Offers salads, steaks, and even selection of expertly crafted burgers and drinks. Outdoor seating with a view is most favored at sunset. The unobtrusive atmosphere, friendly staff, and breathtaking views make this dining experience unforgettable.
Families, couples, or groups looking to relax after a day exploring Anakeesta’s adventure park are welcome. Avoid long waiting times by booking or arriving early during peak hours.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | American Grill |
| Atmosphere | Scenic, mountaintop at Anakeesta |
| Specialty | Burgers, steaks, cocktails |
| Unique Offering | Panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains |
| Access | Gondola/chairlift ride through Anakeesta |
| Ideal For | Sunset dining, families, tourists |
| Seating | Indoor & outdoor |
6.The Park Grill
The Park Grill is located moments away from the entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The restaurant specializes in Appalachian cuisine and it is uniquely housed within a stunning log cabin.
Its rustic charm is accentuated by the reclaimed wood that comprises the restaurant’s interior. Signature dishes include hickory grilled steaks, fresh mountain trout, and a renowned salad bar with over 40 options. It is perfect for families, but also elegant enough for special occasions.
It is one of the best places to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal after a day filled with hiking or sightseeing. Locals have loved The Park Grill for decades for its amazing customer service and satisfying Appalachian meals that showcase the area’s mountain heritage.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Mountain-style Steakhouse |
| Atmosphere | Rustic, grand log cabin décor |
| Specialty | Hickory-grilled steaks, mountain trout |
| Unique Offering | Large salad bar with Appalachian influence |
| Location | Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance |
| Ideal For | Families, hikers, large groups |
| Price Range | Moderate |
7.Smoky Mountain Brewery
Crafted on site, handcrafted beers and a variety of pub favorites make Smoky Mountain Brewery a cherished local hangout. Pizza, wings, sandwiches and burgers are all on the menu. The food, as with the casual late-night and lunch dining options, is easy and delicious.
On offer are Texas style live music and sports on the television. Seasonal and iconic brews are accessible such as The Cherokee Red and The Appalachian Pale Ale. This location is perfect for groups and families who want great comfort food value in an enjoyable setting in downtown Gatlinburg.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Brewpub |
| Atmosphere | Laid-back, woodsy, casual |
| Specialty | House-brewed craft beer, burgers, pizza |
| Unique Offering | On-site brewing with seasonal and signature beers |
| Location | Near Calhoun’s Village, Gatlinburg |
| Ideal For | Beer lovers, casual nights, live music |
| Entertainment | Live music, sports on TV |
8.Wild Plum Tea Room
Located within the Arts & Crafts Community, Wild Plum Tea Room is inspired by Austrian tea houses, offering a serene atmosphere influenced by tea houses. This lovely spot is open seasonally for lunch and serves homemade salmon burgers, soups of the day, vegetarian options, and more.
Guests should not miss their signature wild plum tea and desserts. They also serve tea and other light refreshments to go with desserts. The cluster of small rooms is perfect for outdoor seating which adds to the friend’s cottage vibe.
The atmosphere is calm and warm which makes it ideal for quiet afternoons. Given their limited space, popularity, and vast demand, it is necessary to make reservations in advance. It is a wonderful place for anyone looking for lightly seasoned food.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Lunch Café / Tea Room |
| Atmosphere | Cozy, quiet, Austrian-style |
| Specialty | Salmon burger, wild plum tea, fresh-baked desserts |
| Unique Offering | Set in the Arts & Crafts Community, peaceful escape |
| Location | Glades Road, off the beaten path |
| Ideal For | Vegetarians, couples, small groups |
| Open Season | Typically open March to December |
9.Log Cabin Pancake House
Log Cabin Pancake House has earned its reputation as a Gatlinburg cornerstone by serving hearty breakfasts the southern way since the 1970s. Known for their family recipe buttery pancakes, savory ham crepes, and country ham, they have everything for everyone in the family.
The cozy, wood-paneled décor is vintage in the best way. Even during the busiest of mornings, the serving lines offer reasonable prices and dependable breakfast comfort food served with speedy southern hospitality.
While best known for breakfasts, the classic southern menu served fade range from light to hearty breakfast staples. Many locals consider this place timeless, and tourists love the glimpse into the nostalgia it seemed to offer. While the place can get relatively busy, mitigated hustle-bustle coupled with swift order fulfillment is a common theme.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Breakfast & Brunch |
| Atmosphere | Vintage, cozy log cabin-style |
| Specialty | Pancakes, crepes, Southern breakfast platters |
| Unique Offering | Family-owned, operating since the 1970s |
| Location | Central Gatlinburg |
| Ideal For | Early risers, families, budget-conscious travelers |
| Wait Time | Moves quickly, even when busy |
10.Big Daddy’s Pizzeria
Big Daddy’s Pizzerias is a family-friendly restaurant that features wood-fired handcrafted pizzas with fresh ingredients and homemade sauces. The pizza dough is prepared daily and cooked in a brick oven at 550 degrees for a crispy and flavorful crust.
Their pizzas are pulled pork, buffalo chicken, and spicy sausage, which are creatively unique. There is also an arcade area on site which makes it a family favorite for casual dinners.
Other than pizza, the restaurant serves wings, salads, and sandwiches. Gatlinburg has many pizzas to offer but Big Daddy’s has fun, fast service and great food.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Pizzeria |
| Atmosphere | Casual, family-friendly |
| Specialty | Wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings |
| Unique Offering | Brick oven baking and arcade for kids |
| Location | Parkway, Gatlinburg |
| Ideal For | Families, groups, kids |
| Other Menu Items | Wings, sandwiches, salads |
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, Gatlinburg has places which will serve you Southern breakfast to wood-fired pizzas and mountain fancy food.
Gatlinburg has live music, warm rustic welcoming vibes among countless other attractions. Visit these top 10 restaurants for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Regardless of if you’re single, with family or spouse, it is the perfect place and makes your smokey mountain visit even better.
FAQ
What food is Gatlinburg known for?
Southern comfort food, BBQ, trout, pancakes, and steak.
Are there kid-friendly restaurants?
Yes, Big Daddy’s Pizzeria and Log Cabin Pancake House are great for families.
Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, Wild Plum Tea Room and Crockett’s offer vegetarian-friendly dishes.
