Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

With all-you-can-eat buffets, soul-satisfying southern food, and generous portions, you’ll have an epic culinary adventure in this town.

What’s more, the town is home to a few scintillating, family-friendly dinner shows.

And, we’re helping you with your gastronomic journey here by highlighting the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge.

1. Blue Moose Burgers & Wings

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

2430 Teaster Ln # 108
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 286-0364

Known for its award-winning chicken wings, this family sports grill wows guests with its mouth-watering American fare.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

Blue Moose isn’t just home to some of the best food in Pigeon Forge.

With an inviting vibe and over 20 large flat televisions, it’s a fantastic spot to chill and watch exciting live sports games.

In fact, it’s one of the top Pigeon Forge restaurants for sports team gatherings and family dinners.

What to Eat

You can’t go wrong with wild ranch chicken wrap.

It’s a light, grilled chicken treat with a ton of flavors.

The lightly-breaded honey garlic flavored boneless wings are also filling, large, and flavorful.

2. Pigeon Forge Deli

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

159 E Wears Valley Rd #13, OF
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 908-3713

Founded by a local couple, this foodie magnet is beloved for its wallet-friendly rates, friendly service, and high-quality sandwiches.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

In the mood for freshly baked goodies, but don’t know where to eat in Pigeon Forge?

Then, don’t forget to put this deli at the top of your list of can’t-miss good restaurants in Pigeon Forge.

Whether you’re into sub rolls or whole wheat bread, you’ll find a plethora of baked treats to appease your cravings at this deli.

As a bonus, this eatery offers gluten-free alternatives to their special treats.

What to Eat

Their soft pretzels are to die for.

Each pretzel is oversized and comes with savory or sweet toppings.

And, it has a dipping sauce of your choice, such as marinara and caramel.

3. Local Goat

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

2167 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 366-3035

Everything at this family-friendly eatery is sustainable, locally sourced, and made from scratch.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

Local Goat is perfect for anyone looking for lively casual spots to eat in Pigeon Forge.

Along with its appetizing farm-to-table menu, the restaurant also serves superb craft beer.

Furthermore, the restaurant features HD televisions and a vintage shuffleboard table.

What to Eat

We can’t get enough of their medium-rare BGT burger with friends.

The burger is quite big, juicy, and loaded with bacon jam and goat cheese.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ramsey Hotel and Convention Center

Also See:
Best Restaurants in Sevierville
Spring Hill Restaurants

4. The Pottery House Cafe and Grille

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

3341 Old Mill St
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 453-6002

Situated in the Old Mill Square, this quaint cafe offers delectable weekend brunch entrees, homemade desserts, and daily fresh baked goodies.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

Everything at this casual cafe exudes comfort, from its cabin-like feel to its yummy Southern food.

Like many restaurants near you, this cafe has plenty of choices for dessert, including 2-layer chocolate cakes and homemade lemon pie.

What to Eat

Do yourself a favor, and grab a serving of their pecan fried chicken.

It’s breaded perfectly, juicy, moist, and incredibly flavorful.

The pecans also add a pleasant twist to this dish.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Margaritaville Island Hotel

5. Lil’ Black Bear Cafe

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

3068 Veterans Blvd
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 366-1181

Nestled along the town’s trolley route, this cafe will sweep you away with its breakfast meals and homemade goodies.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

Don’t let its facade fool you!

Sure, it doesn’t look appealing from the outside, but it’s still one of the best-rated restaurants in Pigeon Forge.

Once you arrive at this restaurant, you’ll see loyal fans and foodies lining up at its door.

Everyone in Pigeon Forge knows that it’s the place to go for those who want to fill their bellies up with a hearty meal.

Here, you’ll enjoy simple yet delectable sandwiches, desserts, and soups.

What to Eat

Go for their hot golden pancakes.

At 2 inches thick each, these goodies aren’t your grandma’s pancakes.

They are piping hot and wonderfully covered with your preferred topping.

You may go with chocolate sauce, blueberry, or classic maple syrup.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

6. Brick and Spoon – Pigeon Forge

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

136 Community Center Dr
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 410-1221

Open daily, this upscale eatery has a tempting menu featuring filling lunch and breakfast fare paired with outstanding cocktails.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

For the best lunch in Pigeon Forge, head to this sophisticated yet casual restaurant.

With a refined vibe and innovative southern-inspired eats, this eatery is one of the most popular restaurants to try in the Smokies.

What to Eat

Even if it’s not breakfast, we still recommend trying their stuffed French toast.

It’s an utterly luscious treat stuffed with chocolate chips, whipped cream, Foster’s suance, and fruit compote.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa

Related: Fun Things to Do in Pigeon Forge at Night

7. The Old Mill Restaurant

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

164 Old Mill Ave
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 429-3463

Housed in an 1830 gristmill, this old-fashioned eatery is filled with history and scrumptious classic southern eats.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

The Old Mill is one of the best restaurants downtown for traditional southern food.

At this restaurant, you may fill your stomach with their divine treats, like beef pot roast, and chicken with dumplings.

What to Eat

Grab a plate of their southern-style fried chicken.

It’s crispy on the outside, and incredibly tender and juicy inside.

Throw in some coleslaw and gravy to the mix, to make it even more appetizing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Riverside Tower

Also See:
Places to Eat in Mountain City
Restaurants in Pulaski

8. Bullfish Grill

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

2441 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 868-1000

Praised for its aged steaks, this elegant, lodge-like eatery is a solid pick for fine dining in Pigeon Forge.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

Searching for unique Pigeon Forge eats?

Why not drop by this uniquely named grill?

Trust me, even the picky eaters will appreciate the wines and high-end spins on the ahi tuna and Angus beef.

Plus, it’s one of the best birthday restaurants in Pigeon Forge.

If you call them a week in advance, they can help you plan the perfect celebration for your special day.

What to Eat

Foodies will definitely adore the cilantro lime chicken.

Tender juicy and full of flavor, this meat is cooked to perfection and is drizzled with a tangy sauce.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Inn at Christmas Place

9. Sawyer’s Farmhouse Restaurant

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

2831 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 366-1090

Welcoming guests since 2014, this locally-owned daytime eatery is renowned for its American breakfast entrees.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

A great way to kick-start a day in Pigeon Forge is to enjoy the breakfast specials at this restaurant.

From Belgian waffles to extra-thick pancakes, you’ll find a plethora of delish breakfast goodies at Sawyer’s Farmhouse.

What to Eat

Want something diverse and a bit heavy?

You might want to indulge in their Mountain Man.

This hearty and pleasant option actually offers an array of food, under a single menu item.

There’s gravy, 3 pancakes, potatoes, bacon, sausage, ham, and eggs.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Cascades Waterpark Resort

10. Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

119 Music Rd
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 908-7469

With side-splitting comedy and jaw-dropping stunts, this 2-hour dinner show is truly beyond amazing.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

There’s nothing quite like this entertaining family-oriented dinner show.

Not only does it flaunt exceptional performances, but it’s also an all-you-can-eat feast.

What to Eat

Grab a bowl of their famous signature creamy soup.

Served hot, this soup is delectable and an excellent appetizer.

Afterward, sample their tender, flavorful pulled pork barbecue, and crispy fried chicken.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Resort at Governor’s Crossing

Related: Best Things to Do in Pigeon Forge

11. Dolly Parton’s Stampede

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

3849 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 453-4400

Featuring live animals, pyrotechnics, and music, this 4-course dinner delivers a one-of-a-kind experience.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

They don’t call this dinner the most exciting place to eat in the Smokies.

Unlike the typical local restaurants, this dinner showcases a dazzling performance that includes acrobats, music, and 32 exquisite horses.

What to Eat

Every bite of their hickory smoked pork loin bursts with flavor.

Cooked perfectly, the meat is also tender and soft.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Super 8 by Wyndham Pigeon Forge-Emert St

Also See:
Restaurants in Jackson, TN
Restaurants in Murfreesboro, TN

12. Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

2713 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 505-2469

Ideal for families, this dinner provides an immersive and heart-pumping experience for kids and adults alike.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

Pirates Voyage isn’t just one of the coolest and best dinner places in Pigeon Forge.

With mind-blowing acrobatics and water stunts, it’s a spectacle and a show that keeps the entire family at the edge of their seat.

What to Eat

Families will appreciate the multi-course meal that includes the yummy mac and cheese, bone-in pork chops, and buccaneer biscuit.

There’s also unlimited coffee, tea, or soda to go along with the meal.

Alternatively, you may opt for the vegetarian meal, which includes an apple pie turnover and garden veggie pasta.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn Near the Island Pigeon Forge

Related: Things to Do in Pigeon Forge with Kids

13. Junction 35 Spirits & Kitchen

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

2655 Teaster Ln
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 365-1019

Opened in 2019, this establishment is a fabulous mash-up of a bar, gift shop, kitchen, and distillery.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

Although it’s relatively new, this distillery is already listed as one of the best places to eat in Pigeon Forge.

Besides its house spirits and cocktails, this restaurant also has a packed menu that features burgers, wings, and barbecue.

What to Eat

Their smoked wings are a delicious barbecue powerhouse.

Smoked to perfection, these juicy and hot wings are often paired with spicy Asian sauce and Carolina mustard to enhance their flavor.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Econo Lodge Riverside

14. Elvira’s Cafe

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

4143 Wears Valley Rd
Sevierville, TN 37862
(865) 366-2263

Located in Sevierville, this home-style restaurant offers a smorgasbord of savory Southern food, like hamburger steak and pork chops.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

Elvira’s Cafe is a local favorite and a hidden gem with extraordinary takes on several southern classics.

Thanks to its mountainside location, this cafe will also enthrall you with its picture-perfect views.

What to Eat

If you’re stopping by the cafe for breakfast, opt for their mountain man omelet.

It’s a filling and delish 3-egg omelet with ham, bacon, sausage, red bell pepper, mushrooms, and caramelized onions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Tennessean Personal Luxury Hotel

Related: Best Hotels in Pigeon Forge

15. Apple Valley Creamery

Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Top restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

230 Apple Valley Rd
Sevierville, TN 37862
(865) 429-4113

You’ll find this old-fashioned bakery and ice cream parlor on the foot of the Smokies in Sevierville.

Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat

Technically, Apple Valley Creamery sits outside the town’s borders.

Still, this casual seasonal eatery deserves a spot on our list of the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge.

After all, this cafe is just a 20-minute drive away from the heart of Pigeon Forge.

And, more importantly, it boasts the best handmade ice cream in the area.

Moreover, this store offers other luscious treats, including banana splits, milkshakes, and deep-dish apple pies.

What to Eat

Appease your sweet tooth with a scoop of their super smooth and creamy caramel apple ice cream.

It has chunks of fresh apple and huge scoops.

Also, try their black raspberry cobbler bread, which has dense, rich, and moist flavors with a cobbler crumb-like topping.

What food is Gatlinburg famous for?

Famous Foods of.
fresh rainbow trout..
stone ground cornmeal and grits..
local wildflower and sourwood honey..
homemade candies like taffy and fudge..
homemade maple syrup..
locally grown preserves and jellies..
homemade biscuits and sawmill gravy..
apple butter and apple dumplins..
Top 250: The Ranking.

Which is better for adults Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?

All in all, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are both incredible spots to visit. If you're looking to experience the true tourist experience of the Smoky Mountains, you'll want to visit Gatlinburg. If you're looking for an equally thrilling experience, but a little away from the crowds, Pigeon Forge is your answer.

What is Smoky Mountains famous for food?

Seven Must-Try Foods in the Smoky Mountains.
Old-Fasioned Buttermilk Pancakes at the Pancake Pantry. ... .
Kettle Korn at Dollywood. ... .
Pit-Smoked Barbecue at the Hungry Bear. ... .
Signature Corn Chowder at the Old Mill Restaurant. ... .
Apple Fritters at the Apple Barn. ... .
Old-Fashioned Taffy at the Smoky Mountain Candy Makers..