9 Great Smoky Mountains Restaurants You Must Visit
You’ve hiked to misty mountain overlooks, waded through cascading streams, and explored trails framed by fiery fall foliage. But when it comes time to refuel, the Great Smoky Mountains have even more to offer than just breathtaking views. Here, an extraordinary selection of restaurants awaits, each with flavors as bold and unforgettable as the scenery.
From cozy, hidden gem restaurants tucked away in the foothills to farm-to-table dining that makes the most of regional produce, these Great Smoky Mountains restaurants promise culinary experiences that match the wild beauty around you.
Our list highlights the best Smoky Mountain food, from classic Southern comfort to creative twists on top dining spots worth every scenic mile. Read on, and discover where to eat in the Smokies that’ll make your trip a little more delicious; and a whole lot more memorable.
1. Aunt Granny’s Buffet: Iconic Southern Flavors and Classic Dishes
When you’re ready for some real Southern cooking, the Smoky Mountains have just the place. Aunt Granny’s Buffet in Dollywood, for example, has been serving up heaping helpings of Southern classics that make you feel like you’re right at a family gathering.
Fried chicken, buttery biscuits, and country-style sides like creamy mashed potatoes and fresh greens come together to remind you why Southern food is the ultimate comfort cuisine. The atmosphere? It’s just as inviting, with that warm, homey touch you’d expect from a place named Aunt Granny’s.
2. The Old Mill Restaurant: Hearty Plates and Timeless Flavors
A local favorite is the Old Mill Restaurant, where the food just might be the best Smoky Mountain food for anyone seeking comfort on a plate. At this spot, you’ll find generous servings of slow-cooked pot roast, cornbread, and a sweet ending of peach cobbler that’ll knock your socks off.
Pair it with sweet tea, and you’ve got a meal as Southern as it gets, ideal for kicking back and refueling after a day of mountain adventures.
3. Seasons 101: A Taste of Local Ingredients and Sustainable Dining
Want a taste of the Smokies’ natural bounty? Seasons 101 in Sevierville is one of those top dining spots that sources its ingredients straight from local farms, delivering fresh mountain goodness right to your plate.
The chefs here embrace seasonal flavors, offering dishes that reflect the time of year. Depending on when you visit, you might enjoy a savory fall ravioli or a bright, crisp summer salad. And let’s face it, there’s nothing like tasting the region through ingredients harvested just a few miles down the road.
Top tip: Check out their nightly specials for something extra special. Our favorite is their Monday night oyster special where you can get a dozen fresh oysters for $24.
4. The Cliff Top Grill & Bar: Scenic Dining with Panoramic Mountain Views
Nothing says “Smoky Mountains” quite like dining with a view of the mountains themselves. The Cliff Top Grill & Bar at Anakeesta is where you’ll find sweeping mountain vistas paired with creative, crowd-pleasing dishes like gourmet burgers and fresh salads.
Sunset diners get a real treat here, with the golden hour lighting up the peaks as you dig into your meal. Honestly, that view alone is worth the reservation.
5. The Wild Plum Tea Room: Warm Hospitality in Cozy Settings
Some places are all about atmosphere, and The Wild Plum Tea Room in Gatlinburg nails it with its charming, cottage-like setting. The restaurant, tucked away in the Arts and Crafts Community, feels more like a cozy mountain cabin than a dining spot. Their homemade wild plum muffins, served with a side of local jam, are a treat you won’t forget.
Please note: The Wild Plum Tea Room is currently closed for the season and anticipates reopening in March 2025. In the meantime, you can still enjoy a taste of their charm by purchasing their Wild Plum Jelly, available year-round on their website!
6. The Donut Friar: Must-Try Dessert Shops and Bakeries
Got a sweet tooth? Swing by The Donut Friar, located in The Village Shops in Gatlinburg, where the smell of freshly baked donuts and pastries practically pulls you in. Their cinnamon bread is legendary, and they fill their eclairs with creamy, sweet goodness that keeps folks coming back for more.
After a long day hiking, there’s nothing like treating yourself to a little slice of heaven from a shop that’s been serving the area for more than 55 years.
7.Bullfish Grill: Surprising Fresh Catches in the Mountains
Seafood in the Smokies? You bet. Bullfish Grill in Pigeon Forge is where seafood meets Southern flair. Their dishes often include Southern classics with seafood, like their famous shrimp and grits or seafood platters featuring the day’s fresh catch.
If you’re looking for hidden gem restaurants with a twist, Bullfish Grill adds something unexpected to the Smokies dining scene.
8. Taste of Italy: A Slice of Italy in the Smokies
Sometimes, a change of pace is just what you need. While Taste of Italy has sadly closed, there are still fantastic options for indulging in authentic Italian cuisine right here in Gatlinburg.
Restaurante DellaSantina offers a traditional and romantic dining experience with classic Italian dishes crafted with authenticity and care. If you’re looking for a modern twist, Roma Table delivers fusion-inspired Italian cuisine with bold, innovative flavors in a stylish setting. Both restaurants provide an exceptional taste of Italy—you can’t go wrong dining at either!
For the best pizza in the Smokies, JDels is the go-to spot. They specialize in both Chicago-style and New York-style pizzas, using premium ingredients and authentic Italian techniques. If pizza perfection is what you’re after, JDels is a must-visit!
Learn more about these local favorites:
9. Big Daddy’s Pizzeria: A Wood-Fired Haven for Pizza Lovers
Then there’s Big Daddy’s Pizzeria, a name known to just about every pizza lover in town. They serve wood-fired pies with a crispy crust and fresh toppings that range from classic pepperoni to more adventurous combinations. There isn’t even a freezer on the premises, ensuring every bite is as fresh as it gets.
Big Daddy’s, like your favorite neighborhood pizzeria, has that down-to-earth charm and quality that keeps you coming back. Big Daddy’s is a perfect stop for anyone wanting something comforting yet unexpected.
Discover More Great Smoky Mountains Restaurants and Hidden Gems
If you’ve packed your time in the Smokies with epic views and adventures, these Great Smoky Mountains restaurants are the perfect way to round out an extraordinary visit. From soulful Southern dishes to scenic spots and must-try local cuisine, this list showcases the best places to eat to keep you fueled for the next trail or scenic drive.
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Content on this page is subject to change. Please contact the locations mentioned to see if promotions, hours, pricing, etc. are still valid.
About Nicole Miller
Nicole Miller is a native Tennessean who currently resides in Asheville, North Carolina. She loves spending time in the great outdoors, such as camping, hiking, and mountain biking. She also enjoys exploring all that the Smoky Mountains have to offer.
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