Vacationing in Gatlinburg, TN has a way of sweeping you up and keeping you in the moment. Whether you’re admiring the mist-shrouded Great Smoky Mountains, creating memories with family-friendly activities, or exploring the attractions of downtown Gatlinburg, it’s easy for meals to go by the wayside. Instead of settling for the quickest option, be sure to set aside some time to explore Gatlinburg’s ever-emerging culinary scene. From quintessential pancake houses to homecooked southern dishes and international fare, Gatlinburg’s dining scene offers it all. Plan to purposefully refuel at these top casual dining in Gatlinburg spots!
Log Cabin Pancake House
Don’t let the sheer number of breakfast joints in Gatlinburg detract you from hitting up one of the best pancake joints in town. You can’t miss Log Cabin Pancake House, with its large, covered wagon serving as a sign over the old-fashioned log building. Before you can even make it onto the welcoming front porch, you’ll likely be stopped by a long line of hungry patrons streaming from the door. Don’t let this deter you – the line tends to move fast, and the extra wait time will allow you to ramp up your appetite in preparation for their hearty menu options. Go for the traditional favorites such as their cornmeal or buckwheat pancakes or cater to your sweet tooth with an order of the pancake royale, topped with banana slices and a house cream cheese sauce. Eggs, biscuits, and waffles are just a few of the other breakfast offerings at Log Cabin Pancake House.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
Indulge in finger-licking good BBQ at Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que. This locally owned and operated restaurant serves up slow-smoked ribs, beef, chicken, sausage, and pork accompanied by their homemade BBQ sauce. The atmosphere is casual, with red and white checkered tablecloths and plenty of napkins to catch all that sauce. From appetizers such as deep-fried pickle chips and onion straws to homemade peach or blackberry cobbler for dessert, the Bennett’s menu has got you covered from start to finish. Dinner entrees come with the choice of hearty sides such as BBQ beans, deep fried corn, and spicy mac n cheese. The BBQ beef brisket is a favorite here, whether you opt for it in sandwich form or sliced on a platter. And for the diner who wants to try it all, the Texan Sampler provides the chance, with a generous portion of pulled pork, beef brisket, hog leg, chicken, and baby back ribs. This is definitely one of the best dining in Gatlinburg spots to visit!
Smoky Mountain Brewery
Enjoy your meal alongside a local brew at Smoky Mountain Brewery. Their micro brewed beer and casual atmosphere make this a great stop after a grueling day hike or a day of skiing. Meals are served in baskets lined with black and white checkered paper at Smoky Mountain Brewery, and the service is friendly. Their soft pretzels served with hot beer cheese dip are a favorite way to start off a meal. For mains, you’ll find an assortment of wings, burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas. For families or groups, this is a great place to order a pizza or two to share. They offer several unique options, including the buffalo chicken pizza, topped with blue cheese crumbles, onions, and chicken tossed in their sweet and spicy thunder road sauce. Wash it all down with a local microbrew, which they handcraft in small batches. Enjoy your favorite onsite in a pint or 33 oz super mug, or order some to go in a bottle, growler, mini keg, 1/3 keg, or keg.
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
Named for David C. “Crocket” Maples, known for his military service in the area as well as his penchant for feeding home cooked breakfasts to hungry travelers and guiding people through the area’s rugged mountains, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is a Gatlinburg mainstay. A large wooden statue of Crocket welcomes you into this casual breakfast eatery, where you’ll find a nice variety of breakfast options. Crockett’s is known for their perfectly sweet and gooey cinnamon rolls, so even if you prefer not to start your day on such a sweet note, you won’t regret ordering one to be enjoyed later. Their menu offers a variety of items from the griddle, as well as hearty breakfast platters, omelets, grits, and benedicts. All of their egg dishes are served with a delicious side of sweet corn pone as well as an additional side. For a hearty start to the day, opt for the steak and eggs or the 3-egg grande burrito stuffed with chorizo. Wash it all down with a glass of freshly squeezed juice or a bottomless cup of coffee to power through the day!
Still in search of accommodations for your Gatlinburg getaway? Check out our Gatlinburg cabins, which offer the perfect balance between a getaway in nature as well as easy access to Gatlinburg’s best restaurants.
