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When searching for the best restaurants in Gatlinburg, you'll discover a dining scene that surprises even discerning food lovers. From upscale steakhouses to hidden tea rooms, this destination proves that exceptional cuisine thrives at every elevation.
This guide features only the best places to eat in Gatlinburg with stellar reputations. Whether planning romantic dinners, feeding families after hiking, or organizing group celebrations at your Gatlinburg cabin, these establishments enhance your getaway.
Quick Reference: Best Restaurants in Gatlinburg by Category
- Local Favorites
- Family Restaurants
- Date Night Spots
- Cheap Eats
- Group Dining
- Something Different
- Smart Strategies for Your Stay
- Answers to FAQs
- Bottom Line
Local Favorites
The Peddler Steakhouse
Welcome to Gatlinburg's premier steakhouse, where every cut is hand-selected and custom-prepared to your exact specifications. Located along the Little Pigeon River, this upscale establishment combines exceptional beef with riverside ambiance that turns a good vacation into a memorable one.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Steakhouse, fine dining
- Price: $25-45/person
- Best For: Date nights, special occasions, steak lovers
- Group Size: Accommodates groups; call ahead.
- Parking: On-site lot (fills early on weekends)
Contact & Hours:
- 820 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.436.5794
- Sun-Fri 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Sat 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Reservations recommended
Must Try: Custom-cut ribeye, salad bar, blackberry cobbler
Good to Know: Wheelchair accessible; all major cards accepted
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Request riverside seating when you call — the peaceful water views make it extra special.
- Arrive by 5:30 PM on weekends to avoid the dinner rush.
- Perfect for celebrating anniversaries or birthdays during your stay!
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in your cabin’s kitchen the next day.
Crockett's Breakfast Camp
A legendary breakfast destination, Crockett’s is beloved for huge, shareable portions and a rustic, family-friendly atmosphere. This local institution serves up hearty Southern breakfast fare that'll fuel your entire day of Smoky adventures.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Southern breakfast, American
- Price: $12-18/person
- Best For: Hearty breakfast, families, sharing plates
- Group Size: Perfect for families & groups
- Parking: Free lot, fills quickly
Contact & Hours:
- 1103 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.325.1403
- Daily 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Walk-in only
Must Try: Aretha Frankenstein Pancakes, Tennessee skillet, cinnamon rolls
Good to Know: Wheelchair accessible; cash & cards accepted
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Share plates — portions are absolutely massive and perfect for groups.
- Arrive by 7:30 AM for minimal wait, especially on weekends.
- Ask for extra syrup containers to take back to your rental.
- Perfect spot to fuel up before hitting national park trails
The Greenbrier Restaurant
An upscale yet cozy steakhouse featuring premium cuts, fresh seafood, and an impressive bourbon collection in an elegant setting, The Greenbrier is known for exceptional service and a refined atmosphere that doesn't sacrifice the warmth of Southern hospitality.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Steakhouse, seafood, American
- Price: $30-60/person
- Best For: Date nights, special occasions, bourbon lovers
- Group Size: Great for couples & small groups
- Parking: On-site parking available
Contact & Hours:
- 370 Newman Rd, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.412.1576
- Tue-Thu 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM; Fri-Sat until 10:00 PM; Sun until 9:00 PM; closed Mon
- Advance booking recommended
Must Try: Dry-aged ribeye, crab cakes, signature craft cocktails
Good to Know: Wheelchair accessible; all major cards accepted
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Request tables with views when making your booking.
- Sunday brunch specials are a local secret worth discovering.
- Perfect for adults-only getaways and romantic evenings
- Their bourbon selection pairs perfectly with a hot tub session later.
Bennett’s Pit BBQ
Favorited by locals, this Appalachian barbecue joint keeps it simple with authentic, slow-smoked meats and homestyle sides. Among restaurants in Gatlinburg, TN, this no-frills spot focuses on what matters most — incredible flavor and generous portions at honest prices.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Barbecue, Southern
- Price: $12-20/person
- Best For: Authentic BBQ, takeout, casual meals
- Group Size: Great for families & groups
- Parking: Available on River Road
Contact & Hours:
- 714 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.436.2400
- Sun-Thu 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Fri-Sat until 10:00 PM
- Dine-in or takeout; no advance booking required
Must Try: BBQ nachos, Ultimate Sandwich, deep-fried deviled eggs
Good to Know: Wheelchair accessible; cash and cards accepted
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Call ahead for large orders — perfect for feeding your entire group!
- Their family platters to-go are ideal for deck meals at a cabin with mountain views.
- This restaurant shares space with a pizzeria, so you can feed diverse taste buds.
- Hickory wings travel well and make great movie night snacks.
Family Spots
Pancake Pantry
Come on in to Gatlinburg's most beloved breakfast spot, famous for fun bear-shaped pancakes and a cozy, historic atmosphere. This family institution has been delighting kids and adults alike with creative breakfast creations and warm Southern hospitality since 1960 — as Tennessee’s first pancake specialty restaurant.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Breakfast, American, family friendly
- Price: $10-17/person
- Best For: Kids, pancake lovers, family breakfast
- Group Size: Excellent for families of all sizes
- Parking: Metered parking behind The Village Shops
Contact & Hours:
- 628 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.436.4724
- Daily 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Walk-in only
Must Try: Bears in the Snow pancakes (kids favorite), sweet potato pancakes
Good to Know: Kids menu available; coloring sheets provided
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Arrive before 8:00 AM or after noon to beat the weekend crowds.
- Request recommendations from your server, as there are 24 pancake varieties!
- Buy their pancake mix as a souvenir for weekend breakfasts.
- Ask for extra butter and syrup containers for your rental stash.
Calhoun's
A lively, family-friendly restaurant combining authentic Tennessee barbecue with a fun, rustic atmosphere, Calhoun’s is known for generous portions, an excellent kids' menu, and the kind of relaxed vibe that makes family meals truly enjoyable. It’s one of many fun places to eat in the Smokies!
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Southern, BBQ, American
- Price: $13-26/person
- Best For: Families, BBQ lovers, groups
- Group Size: Large booths for big families
- Parking: On-site parking available
Contact & Hours:
- 1004 Parkway #101, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.436.4100
- Sun-Thu 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM; Fri-Sat until 11:00 PM
- First come, first served
Must Try: BBQ ribs, Calhoun's Trio, smoked chicken
Good to Know: Kids' menu available; wheelchair accessible
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Family packs to-go are perfect for deck meals with views.
- Big booths easily accommodate families with multiple kids.
- Their cornbread recipe is legendary — ask for extras to take back!
- Kids' portions are generous enough to share between younger siblings.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
A movie-themed family restaurant featuring Forrest Gump memorabilia, interactive games, and a seafood-focused menu, the entertaining atmosphere and kid-friendly activities make eating at Bubba Gump’s an experience, not just a meal.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: American, seafood, family entertainment
- Price: $14-28/person
- Best For: Families with kids, movie fans, interactive experiences
- Group Size: Accommodates large families & groups
- Parking: Available nearby
Contact & Hours:
- 900 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.430.3034
- Mon-Thu 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Fri until 10:30 PM; Sat 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM; Sun until 10:00 PM
- Advance booking available online or by phone
Must Try: Shrimpers Heaven, Dixie Fishwich
Good to Know: Interactive Forrest Gump trivia; coloring activities; kids meals with surprises
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Request group seating in advance for parties of 8 or more.
- Kids can build their own sundae — perfect for group celebrations.
- The trivia games keep kids entertained while waiting for food.
- Movie quotes and decorations provide endless photo opportunities for family memories.
Big Daddy's Pizzeria
Family-owned, this local pizzeria features hand-tossed, wood-fired pizzas made with fresh ingredients daily. The highlight for kids is watching dough being tossed and even getting to make their own mini pizzas at special activity tables.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Pizza, Italian-American
- Price: $12-20/person
- Best For: Families, pizza lovers, interactive experiences
- Group Size: Great for families & casual groups
- Parking: Available on River Road
Contact & Hours:
- 714 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.436.5455
- Sun-Thu 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Fri-Sat until 10:00 PM
- No advance booking; quick turnaround
Must Try: Big Kahuna Pizza, cheese bread, unlimited salad bar
Good to Know: Kid-friendly pizza-making station; quick service
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Perfect for takeout during movie nights — they travel well.
- Bring extra clothes for the kids so they can make their own pizzas without worry.
- Order ahead for large groups to ensure quick pickup.
- Their pizza boxes stack perfectly in refrigerators for next-day breakfast.
Date Night Spots
Red Oak Bistro
An intimate European-inspired bistro featuring seasonal small plates, an extensive wine selection, and cozy fireplace seating, this hidden romantic eatery in Gatlinburg offers the perfect mood-setting atmosphere, complemented by sophisticated cuisine that rivals any major city restaurant.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, European, wine bar
- Price: $20-40/person
- Best For: Date nights, wine lovers, intimate experiences
- Group Size: Best for couples & small groups
- Parking: Available in shopping complex
Contact & Hours:
- 669 Glades Rd, Unit 10, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.325.1717
- Thu-Sun 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM; closed Mon-Wed
- Reservations strongly recommended
Must Try: Chef's tasting menu, wine flights, seasonal small plates
Good to Know: Limited seating; intimate atmosphere
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Book patio tables for a romantic firepit ambiance under the stars.
- Thursday jazz nights are a local secret — perfect for special occasions.
- Small plates are perfect for sharing and trying multiple dishes together.
- Their wine flights prep beautifully for a movie night later.
The Melting Pot
An interactive fondue restaurant perfect for romantic celebrations and special occasions, The Melting Pot offers a four-course fondue experience that fosters intimate conversation and creates lasting memories that linger long after your getaway.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Fondue, interactive experiences
- Price: $30-55/person
- Best For: Anniversaries, special occasions, couples
- Group Size: Perfect for couples or double dates
- Parking: Available in complex
Contact & Hours:
- 959 Parkway #2, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.430.4430
- Mon-Thu 12:00 PM (noon) – 9:00 PM; Fri-Sat until 10:00 PM; Sun until 9:00 PM
- Advance booking essential; weekends fill quickly!
Must Try: Four-course experience, chocolate fondue
Good to Know: Interactive experience; perfect for celebrations
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Request a booth in the "Wine Room" for maximum privacy and romance.
- Make advance bookings well ahead during peak seasons and holidays.
- Perfect spot for groups of couples staying in large rentals together
- Order the chocolate fondue course to-go for sharing a Smoky Mountain dessert back at your cabin.
Cheap Eats
Mama's Chicken Kitchen
A cozy, locally-owned eatery serving Southern comfort food and homemade sides at an incredibly reasonable price, Mama’s Chicken is known for their famous fried chicken made from scratch. On weekends, you can pop in for a breakfast menu to fuel up before heading into the national park!
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Fried chicken, Southern comfort
- Price: $10-15/person
- Best For: Budget meals, comfort food, living like the locals
- Group Size: Perfect for small groups & families
- Parking: On-site parking available
Contact & Hours:
- 1244 East Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.412.1333
- Mon-Fri 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sat-Sun 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- No advance booking needed
Must Try: Chicken fried chicken, chicken & dumplings, hot honey breaded wings
Good to Know: Limited weekend breakfast menu; cash and card accepted
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Fussy eaters? J.O.E. and Pop’s Sub Shoppe is in the same building for even more options.
- Their biscuits are legendary — order extra to take back to your budget-friendly cabin rental.
- Try their chicken and waffles on the weekends…you won’t regret it.
- Locals eat here regularly, so you know you're getting authentic flavors!
Tennessee Jed's
Jed’s is a hidden gem sandwich shop tucked away from the main tourist areas, serving outstanding deli creations and homemade sides. When looking for places to eat in Gatlinburg that won't break the bank, this local favorite proves you don't need to spend a fortune to eat incredibly well.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Sandwiches, deli, American
- Price: $9-14/person
- Best For: Quick lunch, budget meals, sandwich lovers
- Group Size: Great for families & casual groups
- Parking: Available in shopping area
Contact & Hours:
- 631 Parkway #A8, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.412.1131
- Daily 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- No reservations needed
Must Try: Reuben, BLT, loaded potato salad
Good to Know: Quick service; great for takeout; cash and cards accepted
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Sandwiches travel well for hiking lunches in the Smoky Mountains
- Perfect for a quick lunch to-go before shopping downtown
- Order ahead by phone for large groups to ensure quick pickup.
- Their loaded potato salad makes an excellent side dish for deck meals.
Group Dining
The Park Grill
Lodge-style, this Gatlinburg restaurant features rustic décor, hearty American cuisine, and private rooms that accommodate groups of up to 150 guests. The spacious layout and group-friendly service at The Park Grill make this the go-to spot for large reunions and celebrations.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: American, steakhouse, lodge style
- Price: $18-36/person
- Best For: Large groups, family reunions, celebrations
- Group Size: Private rooms for parties of 10-150 diners
- Parking: Limited parking lot available
Contact & Hours:
- 1110 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.436.3800
- Daily 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Advance booking strongly recommended for parties 10+
Must Try: Hickory grilled moonshine chicken, salad bar
Good to Know: Dedicated server teams; group-friendly menu
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Pre-set menus available for large groups — perfect for reunion planning!
- Request the group room when booking for privacy and better service.
- Dinner hours vary, starting at 4:30 PM on Saturdays and 5:00 PM on other days.
- Close enough to walk back to downtown rental areas after meals
Smoky Mountain Brewery
A lively brewpub, this Appalachian establishment features house-made beers, wood-fired pizzas, and a sports-friendly atmosphere with multiple TVs. The communal tables and relaxed vibe make this Gatlinburg restaurant ideal for large groups who want to watch games and enjoy local craft beer.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Pub food, pizza, American, craft beer
- Price: $10-22/person
- Best For: Groups, sports fans, beer lovers, casual meals
- Group Size: Large communal tables available
- Parking: Available in downtown area
Contact & Hours:
- 1004 Parkway #501, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.436.4200
- Daily 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight); Kitchen closes at 11:00 PM, Sun-Thu.
- Call ahead for large groups.
Must Try: Flight of local brews, wood-fired pizza, wings
Good to Know: Live music/karaoke; NFL Sundays
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Try a flight of local brews to sample Tennessee's craft beer scene.
- Sports teams and large groups often gather here after outdoor activities.
- Trivia nights are perfect for competitive groups.
- Their pizza travels well for late-night snacking at a large group lodge in the Smokies.
Chesapeake's Seafood & Raw Bar
This upscale seafood restaurant features fresh catches, raw bar selections, and spacious areas perfect for celebrations. The flexible menu caters to a wide range of tastes within large groups, from seafood enthusiasts to those who prefer land-based options.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Seafood, raw bar, American
- Price: $26-52/person
- Best For: Seafood lovers, celebrations, large groups with varied tastes
- Group Size: Large tables accommodate groups easily.
- Parking: Available nearby
Contact & Hours:
- 437 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.622.6999
- Mon-Thu 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Fri until 11:00 PM; Sat 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Sun until 11:00 PM; closes an hour earlier Jan-Feb
- Advance booking accepted & recommended for groups
Must Try: Crab cakes, raw oysters platter, seafood combinations
Good to Know: Outdoor seating available (heated in winter); river view
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Perfect for milestone celebrations during your stay
- Opt for the daily specials that use seasonal ingredients.
- The raw bar is perfect for adventurous eaters in your group.
- Request to sit in the lounge for a more intimate setting.
Something Different
Wild Plum Tea Room
Gatlinburg's only Austrian-style tea room offers a tranquil escape from the bustling scene. This charming cottage-style restaurant specializes in unique sandwiches, vegetarian options, and an extensive tea selection, all set in a beautiful garden.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Café, tea room, vegetarian friendly, Austrian inspired
- Price: $10-18/person
- Best For: Quiet meals, tea lovers, vegetarian/vegan/GF options, unique experience
- Group Size: Small groups preferred, intimate setting
- Parking: Limited parking; arrive early
Contact & Hours:
- 555 Buckhorn Road, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.436.3808
- Thu-Sat 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (seasonally); closed Sun-Wed
- Reservation required; same day not accepted
Must Try: Rosemary chicken salad, vegetarian quiche, tea selections
Good to Know: Quaint cottage atmosphere; dog-friendly patio available; seasonal operation
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Perfect peaceful stop after browsing the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
- Their garden patio offers a serene break from crowded tourist areas.
- Excellent options for groups with diverse dietary needs
- Tea selections are available for purchase to enjoy back at your rental.
Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina
This vibrant Mexican cantina features a rooftop deck with views, live music, and a family-friendly atmosphere — complete with a mechanical donkey. The fresh Tex-Mex cuisine and festive environment create a fun adventure beyond typical tourist spots.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex, cantina style
- Price: $12-24/person
- Best For: Families, groups, rooftop experience, live music
- Group Size: Great for families & medium groups
- Parking: Available nearby
Contact & Hours:
- 735 Parkway #1, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.430.5624
- Sun-Thu 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Fri-Sat until 11:00 PM
- Walk-in seating available
Must Try: Fajita quesadillas, tableside guacamole, margaritas
Good to Know: Rooftop seating; live music; mechanical burro for kids
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Request the rooftop deck for some of the best views while you dine in town.
- Kids are thoroughly entertained by the colorful décor and mechanical burro.
- The live music schedule varies — check their social media for tonight's entertainment.
- Perfect spot for groups who want authentic flavors with a fun atmosphere
The Baht
Authentic Thai is served at this riverside restaurant, offering traditional Asian cuisine made with Appalachian ingredients in an unexpected setting. Skilled chefs whip up wow-factor dishes while servers make you feel right at home at The Baht on the Roaring Fork.
Quick Facts:
- Cuisine: Thai, curry, noodles, cocktail bar
- Price: $22-53/person
- Best For: date nights, scenic dining, adventurous eaters
- Group Size: couples, small to medium groups
- Parking: Available on site
Contact & Hours:
- 122 Spruce Lane, Gatlinburg, TN
- 865.325.1059
- Sun-Fri 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sat until 11:00 PM
- Reservations recommended for groups; walk-ins accepted
Must Try: Pad Thai, green curry, satay skewers, Thai donuts
Good to Know: Riverside experience; accommodates dietary restrictions
Cabins for YOU Insider Tips:
- Opt for an outdoor table next to the river for a unique dining experience.
- Great for those with varying dietary restrictions, including vegan and vegetarian options.
- Order different Thai-inspired cocktails and share among friends to try more unexpected flavors.
- Try the Singha original Thai beer — endorsed by royalty in 1939!
Create Unforgettable Gatlinburg Food Memories
Restaurants in Gatlinburg offer a stretch far beyond typical town fare. From legendary breakfast camps serving massive pancakes to intimate wine bars tucked away from the crowds, this destination offers authentic flavors that rival those of any major food city.
Smart Strategies for Your Stay:
- Book ahead for steakhouses — The Peddler and Greenbrier fill up fast, especially on weekends.
- Embrace takeout culture — many restaurants excel at packaging meals for scenic deck experiences.
- Time your visits wisely — arrive early for breakfast spots, late lunch for better parking downtown.
- Pack coolers strategically — bring leftovers back to enjoy during late-night relaxation.
The real magic happens when you combine Gatlinburg's incredible restaurant discoveries with the privacy and comfort of your Cabins for YOU rental. Sharing hickory wings from Bennett's on your deck while watching a sunset over the Smokies or warming up leftover Peddler steaks in your kitchen after a day of hiking creates unforgettable moments.
Frequently Asked Questions - Gatlinburg Restaurants
Do I need reservations at the best restaurants in Gatlinburg?
Yes, for upscale spots like The Peddler Steakhouse, The Greenbrier, and Red Oak Bistro, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends. Many family-friendly places like Pancake Pantry and Crockett's Breakfast Camp are walk-in only.
Which Gatlinburg restaurants are best for takeout to my cabin?
Big Daddy's Pizzeria, Bennett's BBQ, and Tennessee Jed's excel at takeout. Many restaurants offer family packs perfect for cabin deck dining, and most are happy to package leftovers in extra containers for easy transport back to your rental.
What time should I arrive at popular Gatlinburg restaurants to avoid crowds?
For breakfast spots, arrive before 8:00 AM or after noon. For dinner restaurants, try arriving before 5:30 PM or after 7:30 PM on weekends. Weekday visits generally have shorter waits at all locations.
Do restaurants in Gatlinburg have different hours during peak seasons?
Yes, many restaurants extend their hours during peak seasons (summer, fall foliage, and holidays) and may have reduced hours during winter months. The Wild Plum Tea Room operates seasonally, whereas most others remain open year-round. Always call ahead during off-peak times to confirm current hours.
Are there gluten-free options at Gatlinburg restaurants?
Many restaurants accommodate gluten-free diets. The Park Grill's salad bar offers safe options, while upscale spots like The Greenbrier and Red Oak Bistro can accommodate modifications to dishes. Always inform your server about dietary restrictions when ordering to ensure proper preparation.
What restaurants in Gatlinburg are open late?
Smoky Mountain Brewery stays open until 11:00 PM on most days, while The Melting Pot serves until 10:00 PM on weekends. Most other restaurants close by 9:00 or 10:00 PM. For late-night options, consider takeout from earlier dinner visits to enjoy back at your cabin.
Are any Gatlinburg restaurants open for Thanksgiving?
Yes, a few restaurants typically offer a seasonal Thanksgiving dinner in the Smokies. This varies annually, with more options available in neighboring Pigeon Forge if you’re not up for cooking at the cabin. Be sure to call ahead for specifics on reservations and menu items.
Bottom Line
Don't settle for generic tourist traps: restaurants in Gatlinburg offer authentic, highly-rated options perfect for every stay scenario. Whether you're feeding a crowd, fueling family adventures, or celebrating special moments, these carefully selected spots deliver exceptional food, fair prices, and memorable experiences that complement your Smoky getaway. Plan smart, eat well, and create delicious memories alongside those mountain views.