Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a popular vacation destination in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Southern comfort food to international cuisine, Gatlinburg’s restaurants are a culinary delight. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a quick bite on-the-go, Gatlinburg has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your dining experience.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Gatlinburg’s breakfast and brunch scene is a must-try for any visitor. From fluffy pancakes to crispy waffles, and from omelets to eggs benedict, Gatlinburg’s restaurants serve up a delicious morning meal.
The Donut Friar
This beloved institution has been serving Gatlinburg’s sweet tooth since 1962. The Donut Friar offers a wide variety of freshly baked donuts, including classic glazed, strawberry frosted, and chocolate iced. Try their famous “Gatlinburg Donut,” a sweet treat topped with chocolate chips and pecans.
The Alamo Steakhouse & Saloon
This rustic steakhouse serves up a hearty breakfast, complete with eggs, sausage, bacon, and pancakes. Try their signature “Alamo Breakfast,” featuring two eggs, two strips of bacon, and two sausage links, all served with a side of hash browns.
Other Breakfast and Brunch Options
- The Pancake Pantry: A Gatlinburg staple serving up fluffy pancakes, waffles, and omelets.
- The Breakfast Club: A fun, retro-themed restaurant serving up breakfast favorites like eggs, pancakes, and waffles.
- The Creekside Cafe: A cozy cafe serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Lunch and Dinner Options
Gatlinburg’s lunch and dinner scene is just as diverse as its breakfast options. From classic American comfort food to international cuisine, there’s something for every taste and budget.
The Cherokee Grill
This casual, family-friendly restaurant serves up a wide variety of American classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Try their famous “Cherokee Burger,” topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and a fried egg. (See Also: Where to Eat Solo in Seoul? Solo Foodie Adventures)
The Alamo Steakhouse & Saloon
This rustic steakhouse serves up a wide variety of steaks, including ribeye, filet mignon, and sirloin. Try their signature “Alamo Ribeye,” a tender and flavorful cut served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes.
Other Lunch and Dinner Options
- The Park Grill: A casual, outdoor restaurant serving up American favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
- The Melting Pot: A fondue restaurant serving up a variety of dipping options, including cheese, chocolate, and meat.
- The Cherokee Grill: A casual, family-friendly restaurant serving up American classics like burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
International Cuisine
Gatlinburg’s international cuisine options are a must-try for any foodie. From Italian to Mexican, and from Chinese to Japanese, Gatlinburg’s restaurants serve up a wide variety of international flavors.
La Piazza Italian Restaurant
This cozy Italian restaurant serves up a wide variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and risottos. Try their signature “Lasagna Bolognese,” a classic Italian dish featuring layers of pasta, meat sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.
El Fogoncito Mexican Restaurant
This casual, family-friendly Mexican restaurant serves up a wide variety of tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Try their signature “Carne Asada Tacos,” featuring grilled steak, sautéed onions, and fresh cilantro.
Other International Cuisine Options
- The Japanese Steakhouse: A unique restaurant featuring teppanyaki-style cooking and a wide variety of Japanese dishes.
- The Chinese Restaurant: A family-owned restaurant serving up a wide variety of Chinese favorites like lo mein, fried rice, and wonton soup.
- The Thai Restaurant: A cozy restaurant serving up a wide variety of Thai dishes like pad thai, curry, and noodle soups.
Special Dietary Needs
Gatlinburg’s restaurants are happy to accommodate special dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Here are a few restaurants that cater to these needs:
The Donut Friar
This beloved institution offers a variety of gluten-free donuts, including classic glazed and strawberry frosted. (See Also: Where to Eat in Disney Springs? Foodie Guide)
The Creekside Cafe
This cozy cafe offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including salads, sandwiches, and entrees. Try their signature “Vegan Burger,” featuring a black bean patty topped with avocado and sweet potato fries.
Other Options
- The Park Grill: A casual, outdoor restaurant serving up gluten-free options like burgers and salads.
- The Melting Pot: A fondue restaurant serving up a variety of dipping options, including gluten-free cheese and chocolate.
Recap
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a culinary delight, offering a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Southern comfort food to international cuisine, Gatlinburg’s restaurants are a must-try for any foodie. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a quick bite on-the-go, Gatlinburg has something for everyone. In this article, we’ve explored the best places to eat in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and provided you with a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best place to eat in Gatlinburg?
The best place to eat in Gatlinburg depends on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Some popular options include The Donut Friar, The Alamo Steakhouse & Saloon, and The Creekside Cafe.
Are there any gluten-free options in Gatlinburg?
Yes, many restaurants in Gatlinburg offer gluten-free options. Some popular options include The Donut Friar, The Creekside Cafe, and The Park Grill.
Can I find international cuisine in Gatlinburg?
Yes, Gatlinburg offers a wide variety of international cuisine options, including Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese. Some popular options include La Piazza Italian Restaurant, El Fogoncito Mexican Restaurant, and The Japanese Steakhouse. (See Also: Where to Eat in Rome on Sunday? Best Kept Secrets)
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Gatlinburg?
Yes, many restaurants in Gatlinburg offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some popular options include The Creekside Cafe, The Park Grill, and The Melting Pot.
Can I find a romantic dinner in Gatlinburg?
Yes, Gatlinburg offers a wide range of romantic dinner options, including The Alamo Steakhouse & Saloon, The Creekside Cafe, and The Park Grill.