Posted on 2/18/2025 by Jordan Baker Watts

THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN GATLINBURG, TN

Planning a trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee? Get ready for a culinary adventure in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. From cozy local eateries to upscale restaurants, Gatlinburg's food landscape caters to every palate and preference.

As always, Mountain Laurel Chalets remains your best choice for Gatlinburg vacation rentals. We offer a selection of luxury cabins in Gatlinburg, TN. We also have plenty of budget-friendly Gatlinburg rentals. We're proud of the variety of lodging options we provide.

Juicy steak grilled to perfection at The Peddler Steakhouse in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The Peddler Steakhouse stands out as a must-visit destination. Located by the Little Pigeon River in downtown Gatlinburg, this famous restaurant blends rustic charm with gourmet food. You won't forget this special dining experience.

The chef perfectly grills the Peddler's prime cuts over Tennessee hickory charcoal. From Filet Mignon to a flavorful Ribeye, every steak is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality.

No visit to The Peddler is complete without trying their famous salad bar. It has a variety of fresh ingredients that go well with your main course. With options ranging from crisp vegetables to unique toppings like steamed oysters, it's a meal in itself.

Crispy crab cakes at Cherokee Grill, a top Gatlinburg steakhouse and seafood restaurant

For a hearty meal with Southern charm, visit Cherokee Grill. Located on the Parkway, this upscale steakhouse has a menu that features everything from BBQ ribs to fresh seafood. Guests can enjoy perfectly grilled USDA Choice and Prime steaks. They can also savor seafood from the coast and tasty rotisserie-style dishes.

Popular menu highlights include:

  • crispy crab cakes
  • savory ribeye steak
  • a seafood combo platter that showcases the freshest catches
  • a generous kid’s menu
  • gluten-free options

Cherokee Grill is not just about great food; it's about creating memorable experiences. With its great service and cozy charm, locals and visitors love this Gatlinburg gem. Don't miss this unforgettable dining experience.

Mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich from Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

No trip to Gatlinburg is complete without enjoying real Southern barbecue. Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que is a must-visit for BBQ lovers. This local favorite has been serving mouthwatering hickory-smoked meats for over 30 years. Bennett's special sauce enhances their pork ribs, chicken, pulled pork, and beef briskets.

Bennett's menu offers a variety of BBQ delights, including:

  • The Texan Sampler: A feast featuring baby-back ribs, beef brisket, sausage, chicken, and pulled pork
  • Famous Hickory Wings: Slow-smoked chicken wings served with blue cheese dressing
  • Burnt Ends: A popular menu item among BBQ connoisseurs

Pair your chosen BBQ dish with Southern comfort sides like baked beans, coleslaw, or their renowned garlic biscuits. For those with a sweet tooth, don't miss out on the blackberry cobbler for dessert. It's a true Smoky Mountain experience!

Perfectly grilled salmon fillet at The Greenbrier Restaurant, a top Gatlinburg steakhouse and seafood destination

4. THE GREENBRIER

The Greenbrier Restaurant stands out as one of Gatlinburg's premier steakhouses. It offers a unique blend of modern dining and Appalachian tradition, boasting creative dishes to suit every taste. The Greenbrier's menu, crafted by Executive Chef Aaron Ward, showcases a range of mouthwatering options.

The menu includes:

  • Hand-cut prime steaks, including dry-aged USDA prime beef
  • Fresh seafood like Chilean sea bass and pan-seared scallops
  • Signature dishes such as duck breast and lamb shanks
  • The always-popular bone-in ribeye or the filet of beef, perfectly complemented by fresh, organic produce
Elevate your dining experience with craft cocktails and other libations courtesy of The Greenbrier's well-stocked bar. Standout features include:
  • Unique craft cocktails created by House Mixologist Brooklyn Steinway
  • An extensive wine list, with half-priced bottles on Thursdays
  • A impressive selection of bourbon and whiskey

Bountiful salad bar at The Park Grill, featuring fresh vegetables and house-made dressings in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The Park Grill in Gatlinburg, TN offers a true taste of the Smokies in a rustic mountain lodge setting. This family-owned restaurant serves up classic Appalachian flavors and premium Certified Angus Beef cuts. The Park Grill is also renowned for its massive salad bar, overflowing with fresh vegetables, fruits, and house-made dressings.

Other acclaimed dishes include hickory-grilled steaks, fresh rainbow trout, and award-winning baby back ribs.

You can find the Park Grill right next to the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It offers free parking on-site. The restaurant can accommodate large groups and private events. Guests can enjoy call-ahead seating and make online reservations for convenience.

Crispy chicken tenders from Calhoun's, a popular Gatlinburg restaurant known for Southern comfort food

Calhoun's Gatlinburg offers a true taste of Tennessee cuisine in a rustic mountain lodge setting. Known for their smoked meats, baby back ribs, and long menu, Calhoun's has become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists.

Guests enjoy dishes like the popular Calhoun's Trio, which features baby back ribs, chicken tenders, and hickory-smoked pork. You also won't want to miss the signature ale steak and fresh mountain rainbow trout. 

Calhoun's also offers a selection of craft brews, including their own Cherokee Red Ale, brewed at the adjacent brewery. The restaurant also features a full bar, making it an ideal spot for happy hour or a relaxing evening out. With large dining areas and private parking, Calhoun's is well-equipped to handle the bustling crowds of Gatlinburg.

Fresh oysters on the half shell at Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar brings a taste of the ocean to the heart of the Smoky Mountains. This upscale dining destination offers fresh seafood flown in daily from coastal waters. The menu features impressive options, from Maine lobsters and Maryland crab cakes to oysters on the half shell and pan-seared scallops.

For land-lovers, premium beef is also available. The restaurant's nautical-themed decor and riverside views create a unique dining atmosphere that complements the coastal-inspired cuisine.

Chesapeake's is part of the Copper Cellar family of restaurants. You can enjoy a heated patio, a raw bar and grill, and a bar and lounge. They also have happy hour specials.

Conveniently located along the Purple and Pink Trolley Lines, it's easily accessible for visitors exploring downtown Gatlinburg. Don't miss this memorable dining experience.

Juicy oak-fired steak sizzling on the grill at Alamo Steakhouse, a top Gatlinburg restaurant for hand-cut Texas-style steaks

Alamo Steakhouse offers a taste of Texas in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. This popular locally-owned eatery has been serving hand-cut, oak-fired steaks since the early 1990s. The restaurant's rustic decor, inspired by the historic Alamo, creates a perfect atmosphere for family dinners or special occasions.

With its full bar, outdoor seating, and riverside views, Alamo Steakhouse provides a complete dining experience, including:

  • Rio Grande Ribeye & El Presidente Porterhouse
  • Fresh seafood, chops, and house-ground burgers
  • Homemade soups, sauces, and gravies
  • Full bar with cocktails and wine selection
  • Outdoor seating with riverside views
  • Family-friendly with a kid's menu

Artisanal tapas platter featuring locally-sourced ingredients at Red Oak Bistro, a European-inspired restaurant in Gatlinburg's Arts & Crafts Community

Red Oak Bistro, located on Glades Rd in Gatlinburg, specializes in European-style tapas and small plates. Those seeking a unique dining experience away from the bustling tourist areas will especially enjoy it. The bistro's seasonal menu showcases locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring fresh and flavorful dishes year-round.

Popular offerings include Spanish tapas, oysters, and foie gras, complemented by delectable desserts like chocolate mousse and baklava. Red Oak Bistro also boasts a broad drink menu featuring local craft beers, bourbon, and an excellent selection of wines.

Red Oak Bistro is easy to find in the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. It has several fireplaces, a cozy outdoor patio with a fire pit, and rustic decor. We highly recommend you pay them a visit.

Make Mountain laurel chalets your home base for a culinary adventure!

After exploring Gatlinburg's delicious dining scene, relax and unwind in one of Mountain Laurel Chalets' cozy Smoky Mountain cabins. The majority of our cabins are minutes away from these top-rated restaurants. This allows you to easily sample the best flavors Gatlinburg has to offer.

  • Our cabins are in a great location (many are in Chalet Village). This makes it easy for you to reach all the dining spots and fun activities in Gatlinburg.
  • For nights when you prefer to eat at home, our cabins feature equipped kitchens, perfect for preparing your own Smoky Mountain feast.
  • You'll enjoy breathtaking mountain views from your private deck or hot tub.
  • From game rooms to theater rooms, our cabins offer plenty of amenities for everyone to enjoy.
plan your smoky mountain adventure today!

Don't miss out on the chance to create lifelong Smoky Mountain memories. Browse our selection of Gatlinburg cabin rentals and book your stay with Mountain Laurel Chalets today. Your perfect blend of mountain charm and culinary delights awaits in Gatlinburg!

Ready to plan your Gatlinburg getaway? Explore our Smoky Mountain vacation rentals and start planning your culinary adventure in the heart of the Smokies! There are endless incredible things to do in Gatlinburg!

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