Savoring the Smokies! Culinary Gems Revealed in Townsend, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and Gatlinburg

Hey there, food explorers! If you’re on a mission to uncover the best bites in the Smoky Mountain towns – Townsend, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg – you’re in for a treat. From popular iconic spots and dinner theaters, to breakfast wonders and farm-to-table gems, let’s journey through these towns and discover their culinary secrets.

Townsend: Sunrise Eats and Artisanal Delights

Start your day with pastries and coffee at The Artistic Bean, where they roast organic beans and serve freshly brewed perfection.  Townsend’s artistic flair continues at The Peaceful Side Social, where farm-to-table ingredients and selection of craft beers will make for a memorable experience. Oh, and they have a great kids’ playground where you can keep an eye on them from the plentiful outdoor seating. And arguably the best for last, Appalachian Bistro’s elevated mountain cuisine is a must. If the weather is right, sit outside and enjoy the sunset into the trees, and be sure to have their s’mores self-serve bar alongside the massive open fire pit. 

Pigeon Forge: Plentiful Dining and Feudin’ Fun

For a taste of nostalgia, can’t go wrong with the 50’s themed Sunliner Diner. Open breakfast through dinner, this retro-inspired eatery serves up classic American diner dishes with a side of vintage charm. Be sure to check out the Local Goat, where Southern hospitality meets modern flavors, and one of the most popular and packed eateries in town. And so might be the The Pottery House Café, which offers serene garden views to accompany your plate. And it’s an entertaining meal you seek, The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud is a must, bringing family feuds and finger-licking Southern cuisine to the stage. Ultimately, the options are endless along Pigeon Forge Parkway’s five mile strip.

Sevierville: Refined Dining and Italian Elegance

Downtown Sevierville’s got quite the food scene, and brings a less touristy vibe than Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg. Start by elevating your dining experience at Seasons 101, nestled within the Historic Central Hotel, this American Bistro has ever changing selection of signature dishes & cocktails inspired by the current season. Or for a more casual experience, Graze Burger offers a twist on the classic burger, with flavor-packed creations that redefine comfort food, and Pinchy’s Lobster brings coastal vibes to the mountains with their fresh seafood & sushi. Or get out to the Sevierville burbs to Ristorante DellaSantina, where flavors of Tuscany meet the charm of the Smoky Mountains. Grab a Peroni or glass of wine at the bar before getting seated, the owner/bartender will make you feel right at home.

Gatlinburg: Flavor Adventures and Nostalgic Noshing

Gatlinburg’s dining scene is a tantalizing journey with options to suit every palate. Start your day at the iconic Pancake Pantry where fluffy pancakes meet creative toppings, or hit Crockett’s Breakfast Camp with their massive portions and down-home charm. For those seeking a Mexican fiesta, No Way Jose’s Cantina serves up lively flavors and festive vibes. Foodies can indulge in the classic charm of The Peddler Steakhouse, where aged steaks take center stage. If seafood is your craving, Crawdaddy’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar offers fresh catches in a vibrant setting. Gatlinburg’s best restaurants promise a culinary adventure that’s as diverse as the mountain landscape itself.

Elevate Your Stay: Luxury Cabins and Private Chefs  

If your Cabin already has an indoor pool and movie theater, why not hire a private chef for a night? Imagine being able to curate your own culinary journey, choosing your favorite cuisine, and allowing a skilled chef to craft exquisite dishes right in the comfort of your Cabin. As you and your guests enjoy a relaxing night in, sipping drinks by the crackling fireplace or surrounding the outdoor fire pit while taking in the sunset, your private chef will be preparing a personalized gastronomic adventure. And don’t worry, they’ll also take care of the kitchen cleanup leaving you and your companions with nothing to worry about except relishing the fine food and creating unforgettable memories. It’s the ultimate blend of pampering, convenience, and culinary delight that transforms your luxury getaway into an experience that truly caters to your every desire.

No matter how you slice it (pun intended), food culture is at the heart of the Smoky Mountains and its dining scene makes for a flavorful journey. As you explore its culinary offerings, remember to factor in the location of these eateries when planning your adventures. Whether you’re hiking the trails, ziplining, riding the Alpine Coaster, or shopping Tanger Outlets, we recommend planning your restaurant choices to coincide with your schedule and maximizing your experience. So embrace the spirit of these charming towns and all their culinary creations. Happy feasting!

When booking your reservation with Modern Pines, be sure to ask us about some of our personal favorites and recommendations!