Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers more than outdoor adventures and country music. This charming town is now a diverse culinary hotspot. It surprises visitors with its impressive array of dining options. Pigeon Forge’s restaurants serve all tastes and budgets. They offer both Southern comfort food and global dishes. This mountain paradise has it all. You can find a family diner or a romantic, fine dining spot. Join us to explore the best restaurants in and near Pigeon Forge. Discover why it’s a hidden gem for food lovers.
Local Specialties | Fine Dining | Southern Comfort Food | Barbecue | International Flavors | Breakfast | Desserts | Hidden Gems | Family-Friendly | Budget-Friendly | Scenic Dining | Dietary Accommodations | Wrapping Up
Local Specialties: Must-Try Pigeon Forge Dishes
To enjoy the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge, try some local dishes. These dishes highlight the region’s flavors and cooking traditions. They offer a taste unique to the Smoky Mountains.
Iconic Local Dishes
- Tennessee Hot Chicken: A spicy twist on fried chicken. It began in Nashville but has found a home in Pigeon Forge.
- Stack Cakes: A traditional Appalachian dessert made of thin layers of cake with apple filling between each layer.
- Moonshine Cocktails: Many restaurants feature drinks made with local moonshine, a nod to the region’s history.
Classic Southern Dishes to Try
- Fried Chicken: Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection.
- Banana Pudding: A sweet, creamy dessert that is a Southern staple.
- Peach Cobbler: Another classic dessert you won’t want to miss.
Pigeon Forge BBQ Specialties
- Pulled Pork: A Tennessee specialty, often served on a bun with coleslaw.
- Dry Rub Ribs: Seasoned with a blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection.
- Smoked Brisket: Tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
- Pig Nachos: A local favorite featuring BBQ pork atop crispy tortilla chips.
Must-Try Breakfast Specialties
- Pancakes: A Pigeon Forge specialty, often served with unique toppings and flavors.
- Country Ham and Eggs: A classic Southern breakfast.
- Biscuits and Gravy: A hearty start to any day in the mountains.
- Chicken and Waffles: A sweet and savory combination that is gaining popularity.
Fine Dining Experiences
When you’re in the mood for an exceptional dining experience, Pigeon Forge doesn’t disappoint. The city’s upscale restaurants rival those in major cities. They offer exquisite food, perfect service, and a great vibe.
Top-Rated Upscale Restaurants in Pigeon Forge
The Peddler Steakhouse:
The Peddler offers a unique dining experience. It has tableside salad prep and hand-cut steaks. Set in a rustic cabin by the Little Pigeon River, it combines romantic ambiance with top-quality beef. Their extensive wine list and cozy fireplace make it perfect for special occasions or a memorable night out.
Bullfish Grill:
Bullfish Grill stands out with its upscale yet comfortable atmosphere and diverse menu. Known for premium steaks and fresh seafood, they also offer unique appetizers like Shrimp and Grits Egg Rolls. Their full bar features craft cocktails, and the dessert menu, including the famous Bullfish Bananas Foster, is not to be missed.
Local Goat:
Local Goat embodies farm-to-table dining in Pigeon Forge. They source local ingredients, craft their own beer, and make everything from scratch – even the ketchup! Try their award-winning burgers or unique dishes like Redneck Egg Rolls. With a casual atmosphere and commitment to quality, it’s a true taste of Tennessee.
Southern Comfort Food: A Taste of Tennessee
No trip to Tennessee is complete without savoring some authentic Southern comfort food. Pigeon Forge is home to several restaurants that specialize in traditional Tennessee flavors, offering hearty meals that warm both the belly and the soul.
Best Southern Comfort Food Restaurants
Old Mill Restaurant:
Housed in a 200-year-old mill, the Old Mill offers history with every bite. Famous for Southern staples like fried chicken and corn fritters, they use grains ground on-site. The generous portions, complimentary corn chowder and fritters, and picturesque water wheel views make for a quintessential Pigeon Forge dining experience.
Mama’s Farmhouse:
Mama’s Farmhouse brings family-style dining to life with all-you-can-eat country favorites served in skillets. Their menu changes daily, ensuring fresh variety. Known for fried chicken and buttermilk biscuits, the homey atmosphere and friendly service make you feel like part of the family. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que:
Bennett’s stands out with its hickory-smoked meats prepared fresh daily. Their ribs and pulled pork are local favorites, but don’t miss the unique BBQ Stuffed Potato. With generous portions, a casual atmosphere, and a sauce bar for customizing your meal, it’s a must-visit for barbecue lovers.
Barbecue Bonanza: Smoky Mountain Style
Barbecue is a way of life in Tennessee, and Pigeon Forge is no exception. The city boasts some of the best BBQ joints in the Smoky Mountains, each with its unique take on this beloved cuisine.
Top BBQ Joints in Town
Corky’s Ribs & BBQ:
Corky’s is famous for fall-off-the-bone ribs and a tangy signature sauce that keeps locals coming back. Their diverse menu includes BBQ nachos and a renowned banana pudding. Its casual, family-friendly vibe and quick service make it ideal for a satisfying meal after a day of Pigeon Forge adventures.
Tony Gore’s Smoky Mountain BBQ & Grill:
Beyond great BBQ, Tony Gore’s offers a unique blend of food and entertainment. The owner, a gospel singer, performs for diners from time to time. Try their smoked turkey or the “Feast for Two” for variety. The homemade desserts, especially the caramel cake, are legendary among locals and tourists alike.
International Flavors in the Heart of Tennessee
While Pigeon Forge is renowned for its Southern fare, the city also offers a surprising array of international dining options. These restaurants bring global flavors to the Smoky Mountains, satisfying cravings for everything from Italian pasta to Mexican tacos.
Fusion Cuisine: Where East Meets West
Blue Moose Burgers & Wings:
Blue Moose offers a fun twist on American classics with international flavors. Their diverse menu features unique items like Thai peanut wings and Mediterranean burgers. With a casual, family-friendly atmosphere and a full bar for adults, it’s a great spot for groups with varied tastes.
Pigeon Forge Deli:
Don’t let the name fool you – this isn’t your average deli. Pigeon Forge Deli serves up sandwiches with global inspirations. Their Cuban sandwich and Greek wrap are local favorites. With quick service and generous portions, it’s perfect for a unique, satisfying lunch between Pigeon Forge attractions.
El Paso Mexican Restaurant:
El Paso brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to Pigeon Forge. Known for generous portions and strong margaritas, their fajitas are a local favorite. The festive atmosphere and quick service make it great for families or groups. Don’t miss their tableside guacamole preparation for a fun dining experience.
Rise and Shine: Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast at one of Pigeon Forge’s many morning eateries. This town takes breakfast seriously, with many restaurants serving their morning menu all day long.
Top Morning Eateries
Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin:
As the name suggests, Flapjack’s is pancake heaven. With unique flavors like Sticky Bun and Reese’s Peanut Butter, there’s something for everyone. The rustic cabin atmosphere adds charm to your breakfast experience. Large portions and all-day breakfast make it a crowd-pleaser at any time.
Sawyer’s Farmhouse Restaurant:
Sawyer’s is known for serving breakfast all day in a cozy farmhouse setting. Their homemade biscuits and gravy are legendary, and the country-fried steak breakfast is a local favorite. With friendly service and hearty portions, it’s the perfect start to a day of Smoky Mountain adventures.
Sunliner Diner:
Step back in time at this 50s-style diner. Sunliner offers all-day breakfast and classic American fare in a nostalgic setting. Their classic eggs Benedict and milkshakes are standout items. With vintage decor and occasionally costumed staff, it’s as much about the experience as it is about the food.
Sweet Indulgences: Dessert Destinations in Pigeon Forge
No meal is complete without dessert, and Pigeon Forge has plenty of options to please your sweet tooth. From old-fashioned candy shops to modern dessert bars, you will find treats for every taste.
Must-Visit Dessert Spots
The Old Mill Creamery:
The Old Mill Creamery isn’t just about ice cream – it’s about experiencing unique, homemade flavors that capture the essence of the Smokies. Try their Oat Mill Cream Pie or Smoky Mountain Blackberry flavors. With freshly made waffle cones and a charming setting, it’s the perfect sweet treat after a day of exploring.
Mad Dog’s Creamery & Donuts:
Mad Dog’s is worth the drive to nearby Gatlinburg. It offers a two-in-one treat experience with both ice cream and donuts. Their maple bacon donut is a must-try for adventurous eaters. With a fun, quirky atmosphere and a wide variety of flavors, it’s a great spot for families or anyone with a sweet tooth.
Dollywood’s Grist Mill:
While it requires park admission, Dollywood’s Grist Mill is worth the visit for their famous cinnamon bread alone. Watch as they make this gooey, warm treat right before your eyes. The rustic mill setting adds to the charm, making it a unique and delicious Pigeon Forge experience.
Hidden Culinary Gems
While popular eateries line the main strip in Pigeon Forge, you can find some of the city’s best dining experiences off the beaten path. These hidden gems offer unique menus and atmospheres that are worth seeking out.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Restaurants
The Wild Plum Tea Room:
Hidden in the arts and crafts community, The Wild Plum Tea Room offers a quaint, intimate dining experience. Their chicken salad and daily quiche specials are local favorites. With a charming atmosphere that feels like dining in someone’s home, it’s perfect for a ladies’ lunch or a quiet, romantic meal.
Brick and Spoon:
Brick and Spoon elevates breakfast and lunch with creative, upscale twists on classic dishes. Their Killer Creole Omelet and Bananas in Pajamas (bananas foster French toast) are standout items. With a trendy atmosphere and a full bar serving breakfast cocktails, it’s perfect for brunch enthusiasts looking for something beyond the typical pancake house.
Smokies Cuban Cafe:
For a surprise, try Smokies Cuban Cafe. It brings Havana flavors to the Smoky Mountains. Their Cuban sandwich and plantains are as close to Cuba as you’ll get in Tennessee. With a cozy, no-frills atmosphere and friendly service, it offers a unique break from traditional Southern fare.
Family-Friendly Fare: Dining with Kids in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is a family destination, and many of its restaurants cater to diners of all ages. These family-friendly spots have kid-approved menus. They also have entertainment or unique atmospheres to engage the little ones.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen:
Experience Southern hospitality at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. Served family-style, their comfort food classics like fried chicken and banana pudding are sure to please. The interactive dining experience of passing dishes around the table adds fun for families. Don’t miss the gift shop for souvenirs.
Huck Finn’s Catfish:
Huck Finn’s Catfish offers a taste of the South with a fun, rustic atmosphere. Known for their all-you-can-eat catfish, the hushpuppies are a crowd favorite. Kid-friendly with a casual vibe, it’s great for families. The Cajun-spiced options add a nice kick for those seeking extra flavor.
Smoky Mountain Pancake House:
More than pancakes, this local favorite serves breakfast all day in generous portions. Their potato pancakes and cinnamon roll pancakes are unique must-tries. With a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere and efficient service, it’s perfect for fueling up before a day of mountain activities.
Budget-Friendly Bites: Affordable Eats in Pigeon Forge
Dining out in Pigeon Forge doesn’t have to break the bank. The city offers plenty of budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on flavor or portion sizes.
Wallet-Friendly Restaurants
Smoky Mountain Brewery:
Smoky Mountain Brewery combines great pub fare with house-brewed craft beers. Their pizzas and burgers are perfect for sharing, and the beer flights let you sample their brewing expertise. With a casual atmosphere and occasional live music, it’s ideal for a relaxed dinner or drinks with friends.
J.T. Hannah’s Kitchen:
J.T. Hannah’s offers hearty American classics in a unique setting filled with automotive memorabilia. Known for generous portions, their pot roast and hand-cut steaks are local favorites. With a full bar and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s great for everything from casual family dinners to group outings.
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria:
Big Daddy’s stands out with wood-fired pizzas cooked in a 550-degree brick oven. Their create-your-own pizza option caters to all tastes, and they make the dough fresh daily. With a casual, family-friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices, it’s perfect for a laid-back meal that pleases everyone.
Scenic Dining: Restaurants with a View in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge’s natural beauty extends to its dining. Several restaurants offer stunning views of the Smoky Mountains or local attractions. These scenic dining spots combine great food with breathtaking vistas, making for a memorable meal.
Best Restaurants with Scenic Views
The Pottery House Cafe and Grille:
Located in the Old Mill Square, The Pottery House Cafe offers Southern cuisine in a charming setting. Enjoy fresh-baked bread and pottery-inspired decor while overlooking the Little Pigeon River. Their pot pies and corn chowder are local favorites. It’s ideal for a leisurely lunch or dinner after exploring the historic area.
Timberwood Grill (at The Island):
Timberwood Grill offers mountain-inspired cuisine with a view to match. Large windows provide stunning Smoky Mountain vistas while you dine. Known for their rotisserie chicken and robust burgers, they also offer unique cocktails. It’s perfect for those wanting to soak in the mountain atmosphere with their meal.
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville:
For a taste of the tropics in the mountains, Margaritaville brings island vibes to Pigeon Forge. With a menu featuring coastal-inspired dishes and famous margaritas, it’s a fun escape. The outdoor seating offers great views of The Island’s fountain show, making it perfect for a lively dinner out.
Dietary Accommodations: Options for All in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge’s restaurants are better at meeting diverse dietary needs. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have specific allergies, you’ll find options to suit your needs.
Vegetarian, Vegan, and Allergy-Friendly Options
Mellow Mushroom:
Mellow Mushroom offers more than just great pizza; it’s a haven for those with dietary restrictions. With vegan cheese, gluten-free options, and a variety of unique toppings, there’s something for everyone. The funky, art-filled atmosphere and extensive beer list make it a fun spot for groups.
Crystelle Creek Restaurant & Grill:
Crystelle Creek combines great food with a beautiful natural setting. Their diverse menu caters to all tastes, with a separate gluten-free menu available. The creekside dining and occasional live music create a peaceful atmosphere. Don’t miss the light-covered tree – it’s a local landmark!
Seasons 101:
Seasons 101 has a seasonal, locally sourced menu. It also accommodates dietary restrictions. Their clearly labeled menu makes it easy for those with allergies or preferences. With a modern, upscale atmosphere and creative cocktails, it’s perfect for a special night out or date night.
Wrapping Up: Savoring the Flavors of Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge’s food scene is a delight. It has a mix of flavors, from Southern comfort food to global cuisines. The city’s restaurants serve delicious food and local culture. They offer a taste of local hospitality, too. As you plan your visit, remember that dining here is key to your Smoky Mountain adventure. Come hungry, leave happy, and prepare for a gastronomic journey you won’t soon forget.
We’d love to hear about your favorite dining experiences in Pigeon Forge! Have you tried any of the restaurants we’ve mentioned? Do you have a hidden gem to share? Drop a comment below and let us know your thoughts.
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