Food & Dining
A few of our favorites in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Good food is part of a great Smokies vacation, whether you are planning a relaxed lunch, a special dinner or an evening of family entertainment. Our family has a few favorites in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, from smoky barbecue and Southern comfort food to Tex-Mex, classic diner treats and dinner with a show. Here are the places we like to point guests toward when it is time to take a break from cooking at the cabin.
Where to eat in Gatlinburg
Calhoun's
When you are in the mood for barbecue, Calhoun's brings a mountain-lodge feel to the Gatlinburg Parkway. Hickory-smoked baby-back ribs and pulled pork lead the menu, while Calhoun's Trio combines ribs, chicken tenders and smoked pork for anyone who would rather not choose. It is an easy choice for a hearty meal after a day exploring the Smokies.
No Way Jose's Cantina
Add a little Tex-Mex flavor to your Gatlinburg plans at No Way Jose's Cantina. The menu highlights sizzling fajitas, tamales and street-vendor-style tacos, with fried ice cream for a sweet finish. Its location across from Ripley's Aquarium makes it a convenient stop during a downtown outing. When the weather cooperates, ask about a table on the riverside patio.
Alamo Steakhouse
For an evening built around a good steak, head to Alamo's Gatlinburg location on East Parkway. The restaurant ages and hand-cuts its steaks, then grills them over an oak fire. Choose a rib eye or try the horseradish-crusted filet for something a little different. Bacon-wrapped shrimp offers another option, making this a good pick for a date night or a vacation celebration.
Three Jimmy's / Jimmy's Smokehouse & Pizza Joint
Listed in our original favorites as Three Jimmy's, the restaurant at this East Parkway address is now listed online as Jimmy's Smokehouse & Pizza Joint. Its current menu brings together smoked meats, pizza and comfort food. The Blackberry Pig pizza combines pulled pork, bacon, caramelized onions and smoked Gouda, while Blackberry Pig Mac adds a barbecue twist to mac and cheese. Check the current menu when planning your visit.
Where to eat in Pigeon Forge
Local Goat
Local Goat is one of our Pigeon Forge favorites for a scratch-made New American menu. Try the bison meatloaf, served with demi-glace, crispy onions and caramelized-onion mashed potatoes, or start with beer cheese fondue to share. Craft beer and cocktails round out the choices. It is a good place to settle in when your group wants something beyond the usual quick bite.
Mel's Diner
Step into a classic 1950s-style diner just off the Parkway. Family-owned Mel's serves familiar comfort food, from bacon cheeseburgers to made-from-scratch meatloaf, in a setting that adds a little nostalgia to your meal. Leave room for its banana split, available with three or six scoops. Whether you are stopping for a meal or sharing dessert, this is a fun addition to a Pigeon Forge day.
Margaritaville
Bring a little island spirit to your mountain vacation at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. Located at The Island in Pigeon Forge, the restaurant serves favorites such as Cheeseburger in Paradise, Volcano Nachos and crispy coconut shrimp. The tropical setting and deck overlooking the Little Pigeon River make it a fitting place to pause between the shops and attractions.
The Old Mill Restaurant
For Southern comfort food in a historic setting, make time for The Old Mill Restaurant. Beside the old mill and the Little Pigeon River, it serves hearty favorites including pot roast and Southern fried chicken, alongside its signature corn chowder and corn fritters. This is a meal to sit down and enjoy rather than rush through. Pair your visit with a wander around the Old Mill area afterward.
Dinner with a show
Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud
Kim's daughter's favorite dinner show turns an evening meal into part of the vacation entertainment. The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud combines singing, dancing, comedy and stunts with an all-you-can-eat Southern feast served family-style. Expect fried chicken, pulled pork barbecue, creamy soup and mashed potatoes. This is a ticketed show rather than a walk-in restaurant, so choose your performance and follow the arrival instructions when booking.
Before you head out
Menus, hours and availability can change, especially around holidays. Check the restaurant's current information before setting off, and contact the venue directly about reservations, larger groups or dietary needs. For dinner shows, book ahead and allow time to arrive before your performance.
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