10 Best Restaurants in Gatlinburg

Warning: reading this on an empty stomach is a risky decision. From legendary pancakes to sizzling steaks and smoky BBQ, Gatlinburg knows exactly how to steal your appetite.

Gatlinburg, also known as the Heart of the Smokies, is situated in eastern Tennessee at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The city is famous for its breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, Southern hospitality, and a wide range of attractions like SkyPark and Anakeesta, drawing visitors from all around the world.

But did you know the city also boasts a vibrant food scene and offers everything from delicious breakfast to a premium steakhouse, authentic Italian cuisine, and more? From enjoying custom-cut steaks at the Peddler Steakhouse and legendary pancakes at the Pancake Pantry to indulging in authentic wood-fired pizzas at Big Daddy’s Pizzeria or enjoying a huge variety of trout at the Smoky Mountain Trout House, this city has something for every palate.

Below is the list of the best Gatlinburg restaurants. Check them out and make your culinary journey to the city a memorable one!

The Peddler Steakhouse is situated along the Little Pigeon River near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and has been a Gatlinburg favorite since the 1970s. It is housed in the former home of a fourth-generation local merchant and is known for its tableside custom-cut ribeye and New York strip steaks.

Some of the other famous items on the menu include filet mignon, prime rib, grilled salmon, fresh rainbow trout, and Portobello chicken. Every entrée includes the restaurant's famous salad bar and a choice of sides. Finish your meal with hot blackberry cobbler for dessert.

Address:

820 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

Howard’s Restaurant was established in 1964 and is the oldest restaurant in Gatlinburg, situated on the Parkway in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. This two-story dining spot features a steakhouse and an upstairs pub serving generous portions in a welcoming atmosphere.

Popular entrées include the Cowboy Ribeye, Porterhouse, T-Bone, Filet, Smoky Mountain Trout, Alaskan Salmon, and Creekside Chicken Breast. Families can also enjoy the steak burger and pulled pork sandwich. There is also a steak for two that can be shared by couples, making it a great choice for a hearty meal.

Address:

976 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

Big Daddy’s Pizzeria is one of the most popular Gatlinburg restaurants, known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas baked in a 550-degree wood-fired brick oven. Every pizza is made with handcrafted dough, homemade sauces, and fresh ingredients, with no freezer used on-site to ensure quality.

In addition to signature wood-fired pizzas, the menu also features O.G. Wings, Dough Daddies, homemade meatballs, bruschetta, and The Primo Sandwich. Finish your meal with a classic New York-style cheesecake or homemade cannoli while enjoying the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.

Address:

714 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

The Smoky Mountain Brewery is situated just minutes away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is the oldest craft brewery in Gatlinburg that combines a microbrewery, a restaurant, and a lively pub atmosphere. It is known for its handcrafted beers, classic American comfort food, and live entertainment.

The popular menu items include the Brewery Burger, Smoky Mountain BBQ Ribs, pizzas, Big City Reuben, Chicken Cheese Philly, and Original Wet Wings. You can also pair your meal with one of the signature craft beers while enjoying scenic mountain views from the outdoor deck.

Address:

1004 Parkway, Suite 501, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

Cherokee Grill is an upscale mountain lodge-style restaurant in the heart of Gatlinburg, famous for its warm atmosphere, Cherokee-inspired décor, and classic American cuisine. The menu features a wide range of options for your entrée, including Smoky Mountain Fried Chicken, Rotisserie Chicken, Prosperity Pork Chop, Fresh Herb-Crusted Trout, Char-Grilled Wild Alaska Salmon, and Maryland Crab Cakes.

After the main course, end the experience with a slice of cheesecake or a warm seasonal fruit cobbler for a sweet finish. Its quality steaks and welcoming service make it a local favorite.

Address:

1002 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

When looking for where to eat in Gatlinburg, Smoky Mountain Trout House stands out as the best option. It has been serving fresh trout in Gatlinburg since 1975 and is a favorite restaurant for seafood lovers. Start your meal with their signature trout fritters or crispy fried pickles, and then indulge in specialties like broiled, grilled, blackened, lemon pepper, or Parmesan trout.

The menu also includes New York Strip and Fried or Blackened Catfish for people wanting to try other options. You can also pair your meal with a baked potato or a loaded baked potato to enhance the experience.

Address:

410 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

The Pancake Pantry is Gatlinburg's original pancake house and has been serving breakfast favorites for decades. It is famous for its 24 varieties of pancakes, including signature choices like Wild Blueberry Pancakes, Sweet Potato Pancakes, Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes, and Swiss Chocolate Chip Pancakes.

The menu also features specialty crepes such as Parisienne, Peach Delight, and Swedish crepes, along with Continental-style French toast. The restaurant is known for its generous portions, homemade syrups, and fluffy pancakes, making it an iconic breakfast spot for anyone exploring Gatlinburg.

Address:

628 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

Delauder’s BBQ is a family-run restaurant near Gatlinburg that opened in 2015 and is famous for its award-winning barbecue, relaxed atmosphere, and warm Southern hospitality. It is consistently ranked among Tennessee’s top BBQ spots and specializes in slow-smoked meats and homemade sides.

Start with Fried Green Beans, Corn Nuggets, or Smoky Mountain Nachos, and then enjoy Pulled Pork, Beef Brisket, BBQ Ribs, BBQ Chicken, or the Dinner Sampler. Some of the famous sides include fried mac and cheese and baked beans, providing a true Tennessee barbecue experience.

Address:

1305 Dolly Parton Pkwy, Sevierville, TN 37862.

Best Italian Café and Pizzeria has been serving authentic New York-style Italian cuisine in Gatlinburg since 1976. It is known for its traditional pizzas, creamy pastas, oversized calzones, and signature garlic rolls. It also offers favorites like Chicken Parmigiana, Chicken Marsala, calamari, bruschetta dip, and homemade meatballs.

Don’t forget to save room for cheesecake, olive oil cake, or rotating gelato. The restaurant also serves Italian-inspired cocktails, wines, craft beers, and refreshing limoncello, while the family-friendly atmosphere and generous portions make it a longtime local favorite.

Address:

968 Parkway, Suite 9, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is one of the most popular breakfast restaurants in Gatlinburg, featuring a rustic, cabin-themed setting with Appalachian-inspired cuisine. The menu features fluffy griddle cakes, biscuits, waffles, and made-to-order omelets to start the morning.

Other famous items on the menu include the Black Bear Skillet, loaded with ham, bacon, sausage, and eggs, the Hungry Hunter's Huntcamp Skillet, and the indulgent Fried Cinnamon Roll topped with caramel sauce and whipped cream. It is situated on the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg and is an excellent option if nearby restaurants have long wait times.

Address:

1103 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

Stay at Brookside Lodge for a convenient Gatlinburg location near the city center, Anakeesta, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Check availability and book your stay today for an easy base for exploring Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains.