Places To Eat In Gatlinburg near The Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Ready to dive into an adventure that combines the grandeur of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park Gatlinburg with an explosion of mouthwatering flavors? This journey is not just about nature's breathtaking beauty; it's a delightful exploration of the culinary gems tucked away in the park's vicinity. We're about to embark on a high-energy culinary odyssey, from toe-tapping country vibes to the invigorating ocean breeze, sizzling steaks that'll fire up your senses, and authentic Mexican feasts that bring the fiesta to your taste buds. Lace up those hiking boots, and let's catapult into a whirlwind of delectable discoveries!

1. Ole Red: A Taste of Country

Gatlinburg knows how to set the stage for a Southern soirée, and Ole Red is the rockstar of the show. It's not just a restaurant; it's a concert that leaves your taste buds singing along. Owned by country superstar Blake Shelton, Ole Red offers a lively atmosphere with a constant stream of live music. But here's the kicker – their specialty menu takes the country experience up a notch. The "Redneck Nachos" and the famous "Sloppy Tots" are must-tries. But it's the "Smokin' Hot Chicken" that steals the show, offering a fiery kick with every bite. Ole Red isn't just a meal; it's a country music party you won't want to miss.

2. LandShark Bar & Grill: Beach Vibes and Seafood

Gatlinburg serves up an unexpected surprise – a slice of the beach right in the Smokies! LandShark Bar & Grill, inspired by Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, invites you to kick off your shoes and feel the sand between your toes. Seafood takes center stage here, and the "Fish Tacos" is a taste of coastal heaven. But it's their specialty "Coconut Shrimp" that'll transport you straight to a tropical paradise. Golden-fried and served with a zesty dipping sauce, it's an explosion of flavor that'll keep you coming back for more. Wash it down with the "LandShark Lager" and savor the sunshine vibes as you dine by the water's edge.

3. Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar: Fresh Seafood Galore

Gatlinburg's seafood secret is out! Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar is all about keeping it fresh. From crab legs to oysters and lobster, it's a seafood lover's sanctuary. But what sets them apart is their specialty raw bar menu. The "Chesapeake's Sampler" is a seafood lover's dream, featuring an assortment of oysters, shrimp, and crab legs. The "Alaskan King Crab Legs" are particularly renowned for their size and flavor, making Chesapeake's a seafood haven you can't afford to miss.

4. El Sonador Mexican Restaurant and Grill: Authentic Mexican Fiesta

Dive into the heart of Mexico without leaving Pigeon Forge. El Sonador Mexican Restaurant and Grill beckons with authentic flavors that make your taste buds dance. The menu is a journey through Mexican cuisine, from sizzling fajitas to irresistible enchiladas. But the star of the show is their specialty "Molcajete" – a sizzling lava stone filled with grilled steak, chicken, and shrimp, all smothered in a tantalizing red or green sauce. Served with rice, beans, and tortillas, it's a feast that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine. "Carne Asada" is a star on the stage, and their homemade guacamole sets the scene for a fiesta of flavors. El Sonador is more than a restaurant; it's a Mexican getaway you'll love.

5. Daiquiri Shack and Grill by Margaritaville: Frozen Delights and Grilled Goodies

Adjacent to the Margaritaville Island Hotel in Pigeon Forge, the Daiquiri Shack and Grill is a one-way ticket to a tropical state of mind. Immerse yourself in frozen daiquiris that will transport your taste buds to the beach. "Boat Drink," anyone? But when it comes to their specialty menu, the "Daiquiri Shack's Classic Daiquiri" is the crown jewel. A mix of light rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup, it's the ultimate frozen classic that'll have you coming back for seconds. Pair it with the "Volcano Nachos," and you've got yourself a party. Live music, outdoor dining, and a laid-back atmosphere complete the Margaritaville experience.

6. Atrium Pancakes: Breakfast Fit for Champions

Atrium Pancakes in Sevierville isn't just a breakfast spot; it's a breakfast paradise. The menu is a love letter to breakfast enthusiasts, featuring a dazzling array of pancakes, waffles, and omelets. The "Blueberry Pancakes" are an absolute hit, and the "Country Benedict" adds a savory twist to a classic. But the real star here is the "Atrium Skillet." A hearty ensemble of home fries, scrambled eggs, and a choice of meat, it's a breakfast fit for champions. Atrium Pancakes is where mornings become a delicious celebration.

7. Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse: Premium Steaks

In Gatlinburg, the Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse take steak to a whole new level. With premium aged steaks cooked to perfection, it's a carnivore's dream come true. The "Cherokee House Special," starring filet mignon and shrimp, is a culinary masterpiece. But don't overlook their specialty menu, featuring the "Tomahawk Ribeye." A colossal 32-ounce bone-in ribeye, dry-aged for over 28 days, it's the epitome of steak perfection. The rustic mountain lodge ambiance is the perfect backdrop for a dinner that's worth every indulgent moment.

8. Smoky Mountain Trout House: Trout Paradise

Gatlinburg unveils a hidden gem for trout enthusiasts at the Smoky Mountain Trout House. This restaurant's specialty? Trout, and they do it exceptionally well. With the freshest rainbow trout prepared in various mouthwatering ways, it's a paradise for seafood lovers. The "Stuffed Rainbow Trout," brimming with crab meat and a drizzle of lemon butter, is a must-try. Set in an intimate and cozy atmosphere, the Great Smoky Mountains Gatlinburg Trout House is a feast for the senses.

9. Southern Comfort - Westgate Resort: Southern Soul Food

Within the Westgate Resort near National Park Gatlinburg, you'll find Southern Comfort, a culinary haven for lovers of hearty, soul-satisfying Southern comfort food. The menu showcases classics like fried chicken, country-fried steak, and savory collard greens. But when it comes to their specialty menu, the "Fried Catfish" is a star. Golden-brown and crispy, it's a taste of the South you won't forget. "Shrimp and Grits" is a Southern staple that's executed with perfection. Beyond the food, the resort offers a host of amenities, including a spa and entertainment options, making it a destination for a full day of relaxation and indulgence.

10. Burg Steakhouse: A Steak Lover's Paradise Revisited

Let’s conclude the culinary journey with the Burg Steakhouse, a gem tucked away in Gatlinburg. If you're a die-hard steak enthusiast, this is your paradise. The menu features a variety of steak options, each carefully prepared to perfection. The Filet Mignon is the star of the show, celebrated for its tender, flavorful appeal. But their specialty "Bone-In Ribeye" is a carnivore's delight. A succulent 22-ounce bone-in ribeye, it's a masterpiece of marbling and flavor. The restaurant's upscale yet cozy ambiance sets the stage for a dining experience that lingers in your memory.

Last but not least, as you prepare to explore the awe-inspiring Great Smoky Mountains Gatlinburg National Park, don't forget to explore the vibrant culinary scene in the surrounding areas. These restaurants are more than just places to eat; they're vibrant celebrations of flavor. From the harmonious tunes of country melodies to the invigorating ocean breeze, sizzling steaks that'll fire up your senses, and authentic Mexican feasts that bring the fiesta to your taste buds, your Smoky Mountains adventure is about to get even more electrifying. So, gear up for nature's beauty and culinary delights, and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey of their own!