Hey there, foodies! Welcome to Best Vacation Dealz, your go-to guide for uncovering the best restaurants in Gatlinburg. If you’re heading to the Smoky Mountains, you’re in for a treat—not just with the stunning views and outdoor adventures, but with some yummy dining options as well. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed by all the choices, then don’t worry. We’ve done the hard work for you. From fine dining gems to Gatlinburg best restaurants with a view, and everything in between, we’ve rounded up the top-rated restaurants, local favorites, and must-try dishes that will make your trip unforgettable.
Gatlinburg Best Restaurants With A View
Anakeesta Cliff Top Grill & Bar
Perched high above Gatlinburg in the Anakeesta theme park, the Cliff Top Grill & Bar offers one of the most breathtaking dining experiences in the area. The restaurant features an outdoor deck with sweeping views of the Smokies, making it a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Whether you’re savoring a burger or enjoying a cocktail, the stunning vistas provide a perfect backdrop.
Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Smoked Gouda Burger, Grilled Salmon Salad.
Smoked Gouda Burger
Southern Comfort Restaurant
Located within Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park, Southern Comfort Restaurant offers not only a taste of traditional Southern dishes but also beautiful views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere is perfect for families, providing a cozy setting to enjoy fresh, local ingredients while soaking in the stunning scenery.
Address: 915 Westgate Resort Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Recommended dishes to try: Southern Fried Chicken, Shrimp and Grits
southern fried chicken with gravy, mashed potatoes, and collard greens
Smoky Mountain Vacation Package: 3 Night Gatlinburg Getaway for $99:
Crystelle Creek Restaurant & Grill
Visitors staying at the Creekstone Inn will find Crystelle Creek Restaurant & Grill nearby, offering a unique creekside dining experience. The restaurant is beautifully lit with twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere as you dine by the water. The sound of the flowing creek and the sight of the serene landscape add a special touch to your meal.
Address: 1654 East Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Blackened Trout, Prime Rib.
Blackened Trout With Lemon Wedge
Best Fine Dining Restaurants In Gatlinburg
The Peddler Steakhouse
The Peddler Steakhouse is approximately a 13-minute walk from the River Terrace Resort and Convention Center. Located along the Little Pigeon River, The Peddler Steakhouse offers a fine dining experience with a rustic charm. Known for its hand-cut steaks and fresh salad bar, this restaurant provides a cozy ambiance perfect for a romantic evening or special occasion.
Address: 820 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Rib-eye Steak, Fresh Salad Bar.
Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Gatlinburg
Here are some of the best restaurants in Gatlinburg, with a great family-friendly atmosphere! Also, if you’re visiting Gatlinburg with children, be sure to check out our guide on Things to Do in Gatlinburg with Kids.
The Pancake Pantry
pancake pantry restaurant
The Pancake Pantry has been serving up delicious breakfast and brunch since 1960. With a menu boasting over 24 varieties of pancakes, including classics like Buttermilk and specialties like French Toast, it’s a hit with both kids and adults.
Address: 628 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Buttermilk Pancakes, French toast
(Kids love pancakes and water slides! Get both with this vacation package that gives you FREE Wild Bear Water Park Tickets. and 2 nights at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park for $59)
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
bbq assortment
For some of the best BBQ in town, head to Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que. Known for its slow-smoked meats and savory sauces, this family-friendly restaurant offers a relaxed setting and generous portions.
Address: 714 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Smoked Pork Shoulder, Beef Brisket.
Best Romantic Dining In Gatlinburg
Here we delve deep on the best restaurants in Gatlinburg with a really romantic atmosphere. We also go more in depth in our Romantic Things to Do for Couples in Gatlinburg, TN blog.
The Melting Pot Looking for a romantic night out? The Melting Pot is Gatlinburg’s premier fondue restaurant, offering an intimate dining experience. Perfect for couples, the menu includes cheese fondue, a variety of meats and seafood for the main course, and decadent chocolate fondue for dessert.
Address: 959 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: The Complete Fondue Experience for Two.
The Greenbrier Restaurant
greenbrier restaurant dining area with view
Known as a food and spirit outpost, The Greenbrier Restaurant offers a secluded, upscale dining experience surrounded by lush forests. The historic log cabin setting adds to the romantic atmosphere, making it perfect for a special evening out.
Address: 370 Newman Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Recommended dishes to try: Filet Mignon, Pan-Seared Scallops
Budget-Friendly Options
Tom & Earl’s Back Alley Grill
tom and earl’s back alley grill food options
If you’re looking for delicious food that won’t break the bank, Tom & Earl’s Back Alley Grill is the place to go. This casual eatery offers a variety of affordable menu items, from burgers and sandwiches to salads and tacos.
Address: 651 Parkway #110, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Back Alley Burger, Fish Tacos.
Fannie Farkle
Fannie Farkle’s: Guests at Country Cascades Water Park Resort can head to Fannie Farkle’s for quick, delicious snacks as it is so close. For a quick bite and some fun, Fannie Farkle’s is a must-visit. Known for their foot-long corn dogs and sausage subs, this snack bar offers tasty treats at great prices.
Address: 656 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Foot-long Corn Dog, Sausage Sub.
Unique and Themed Restaurants
The Alamo Steakhouse Step into the Alamo Steakhouse for a dining experience with a Western flair. Themed after the famous Alamo mission, this restaurant serves up mouth-watering steaks, seafood, and classic sides.
Address: 705 E Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Mesquite-Grilled Rib Eye, Flame-Grilled Oysters.
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
breakfast assortment
Inspired by the legendary Davy Crockett, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp offers a hearty start to your day with its rustic charm and generous portions. The breakfast menu includes Southern favorites like Cathead Biscuits and Gravy and Crockett’s Signature Pancakes.
Address: 1103 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Cathead Biscuits and Gravy, Crockett’s Signature Pancakes.
Sweet Treats and Desserts in Gatlinburg Tennessee
The Donut Friar
No visit to Gatlinburg is complete without a stop at The Donut Friar. Known for their freshly made donuts and pastries, this charming shop is a local favorite. Popular choices include the Cinnamon Bread and Bavarian Cream-Filled Donuts, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Address: 634 Parkway, Suite 15, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Cinnamon Bread, Bavarian Cream-Filled Donuts.
Kilwin’s Chocolates
Indulge in handmade chocolates and creamy ice cream at Kilwin’s. This dessert shop offers a wide variety of sweets, from fudge and caramel apples to rich, flavorful ice cream. It’s the ideal place to treat yourself after a day of sightseeing.
Address: 645 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: Fudge, Caramel Apples.
Which Celebrities Have Restaurants in Gatlinburg?
Gatlinburg isn’t just a popular destination for its natural beauty and charming attractions—it’s also a hot spot for celebrity chefs and famous personalities who have left their mark on the local dining scene. Here are some notable celebrities who have opened some of the best restaurants in Gatlinburg:
Paula Deen – Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
The queen of Southern cooking, Paula Deen, has brought her signature style to Gatlinburg with Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. Located in The Island in Pigeon Forge, just a short drive from Gatlinburg, this restaurant offers a family-style dining experience with all the comfort food you could dream of. Paula’s down-home recipes, such as her famous fried chicken, mac and cheese, and ooey gooey butter cake, are served in generous portions perfect for sharing. The restaurant’s decor reflects Paula’s Southern charm, making it a cozy and inviting place to enjoy a meal with loved ones.
Address: 131 The Island Drive, Suite 8101, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.
Recommended dishes to try: Fried Chicken, Ooey Gooey Butter Cake.
Blake Shelton – Ole Red
Country music star Blake Shelton has also made his culinary mark in the Gatlinburg area with Ole Red, a restaurant and live music venue located in Gatlinburg’s neighboring city, Pigeon Forge. Named after his hit song, Ole Red features a menu inspired by Blake’s favorite Southern dishes, along with live music performances that make it a lively spot for a night out. The menu includes hearty favorites like fried green tomatoes, BBQ brisket, and catfish. Whether you’re a fan of Blake’s music or just looking for a fun dining experience, Ole Red is a must-visit.
Address: 511 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Recommended dishes to try: BBQ Brisket, Fried Green Tomatoes.
Jimmy Buffett – Margarittaville
While not directly in Gatlinburg, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville in Pigeon Forge offers a taste of paradise just a short drive away. This tropical-themed restaurant captures the laid-back vibe of Jimmy Buffett’s music and lifestyle, featuring a menu of island-inspired dishes and refreshing cocktails. From fish tacos to cheeseburgers in paradise, the food here is designed to transport you to a beachfront escape. The lively atmosphere, complete with live entertainment and a volcano erupting margarita blender, makes it a fun and festive place to dine.
Address: 130 The Island Drive, Suite 6101, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.
Recommended dishes to try: Cheeseburger in Paradise, Volcano Nachos.
Guy Fieri – Downtown Flavortown
Celebrity chef and television personality Guy Fieri has brought his bold flavors to the area with Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown in Pigeon Forge. Known for his larger-than-life personality and love of comfort food, Guy’s restaurant offers a menu packed with his signature dishes, such as trash can nachos, bacon mac and cheeseburger, and dragon’s breath chili. The vibrant and energetic atmosphere reflects Guy’s style, making it a great place to enjoy a meal that’s big on flavor and fun.
Address: 2655 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.
Recommended dishes to try: Trash Can Nachos, Bacon Mac and Cheeseburger.
These celebrity-owned restaurants add a touch of star power to the Gatlinburg area, offering visitors a chance to enjoy dishes crafted by some of their favorite personalities. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cooking, country music, tropical vibes, or bold flavors, these restaurants provide a unique and memorable dining experience. So, next time you’re in Gatlinburg, be sure to check out these spots and see what all the buzz is about!
Check Out More Gatlinburg Blogs!
Here is a more extensive list for adults! Things To Do In Gatlinburg For Adults
For more exciting activities in the area indoors, check out Top 10 Indoor Activities in Pigeon Forge.
If you’re going to Dollywood with the littles, check out Dollywood Kiddie Rides: Ultimate Parents Guide
And, after a fun day at Dollywood Theme Park in Gatlinburg explore other Things to Do in Gatlinburg with Kids.
