10 Best Restaurants in Pigeon Forge

Come hungry—these Pigeon Forge restaurants are the kind of places you'll be talking about long after the last bite.

Pigeon Forge is synonymous with the reasons that tourists visit: Dollywood, beautiful mountain vistas, family-friendly activities, and never-ending entertainment. But do you know  that the city has turned into one of the most exciting spots to grab a bite to eat in the state of Tennessee! Whether it's classic Southern cooking, barbecue, farm-to-table dining, or retro dining, Pigeon Forge restaurants can come as a surprise to even the most seasoned foodies.

But what should you do if you get hungry after a day in the Smokies? What restaurant is good? This guide points out local authentic and open restaurants that are consistently recommended by locals and tourists. From Southern classics to delicious family meals, these restaurants offer some of the best Pigeon Forge food experiences.

There are not many iconic Pigeon Forge restaurants like The Old Mill Restaurant. The popular restaurant is in the 1800s Old Mill District, where there is a still-operating gristmill next door. The restaurant is renowned for its Southern comfort food, including fried chicken, meatloaf, pot roast, and homemade cornbread. All dishes are home-cooked quality with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Wanting to experience a true taste of Tennessee? The Old Mill is a go-to restaurant for both locals and tourists.

Address:

164 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Local Goat is now one of the most popular dining spots in Pigeon Forge because of their focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is especially famous for its hand-created burgers, but this menu is not limited to that, offering steaks, seafood, wings, and innovative appetizers. It is a popular choice among foodies for its contemporary decor and focus on homemade dishes. Looking for some of the best burgers in town? Many visitors will tell you to check out Local Goat.

Address:

2167 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Pottery House Café & Grille is a quiet dining spot that's located in the lovely Old Mill District, where you can enjoy historic buildings and lovely gardens. The restaurant is the place to find freshly baked bread, sandwiches, salads, steaks, and Southern cuisine. Its tranquil location is perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. This little-known gem is a great place for food and a warm ambiance.

Address:

3341 Old Mill Street, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

But can a visit to Tennessee be complete without barbecue? For decades, the family-owned Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que has been providing authentic smoked meats. The restaurant is famous for its slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and smoked chicken and employs traditional hickory wood smoking methods to achieve rich flavors. Each meal is complete with classic Southern dishes like baked beans and coleslaw and tastes like a true Smoky Mountain feast.

Address:

2910 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

The retro-and-the-mood-of-the-1950s theme is enhanced by classic cars, chrome accents, and the nostalgic ambience, and the whole scene is complemented by the retro décor. Items on the menu include burgers, milkshakes, pancakes, breakfast plates, and sandwiches. The fun theme and friendly service are especially loved parts of the restaurant by families. If you're in the mood for a restaurant to enjoy yourself like you enjoy the food, then you've got to look into this. Sunliner Diner offers food and memories.

Address:

2302 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Junction 35 Kitchen & Bar is within the confines of The Mountain Mile entertainment complex, featuring Southern soulful food and a distillery experience on site. Smoked meats, burgers, tacos, steaks, and handcrafted cocktails are available. Modern industrial design of the restaurant, which makes it a lively place that is loved by families as well as couples. This is a good option for anyone looking for something other than a Southern meal.

Address:

2655 Teaster Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Blue Moose Burgers & Wings is a casual eatery, offering award-winning wings and hearty burgers. Its laid-back atmosphere as a sports bar makes it an ideal place to meet friends and family. There's something for everyone with various flavors of wings, sandwiches, appetizers, and refreshing drinks. After an adventurous day in the Smokies, do you need a relaxed place to unwind? Blue Moose provides just that.

Address:

2430 Teaster Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Mama's Farmhouse is the place for Southern hospitality. The meals are family-style with a platter of fried chicken, meatloaf, mashed potatoes, biscuits, and seasonal vegetables. An all-you-can-eat type of service guarantees no one will go away hungry. The atmosphere in this restaurant is unmistakable defining what sets it apart is its friendly, familial feel rather than that of a restaurant.

Address:

208 Pickel St, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Another, more classic American diner favorite, is Mel's Classic Diner. Burgers, fries, sandwiches, breakfast, and oversized desserts are served to guests in a colorful environment that includes vintage memorabilia. The restaurant is very popular for late-night meals and family outings. Looking for a big bowl of bananas with ice cream after supper? Mel's is one of the best places in town to satisfy everyone’s palate.

Address:

119 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Pigeon Forge Deli is a local favorite that serves a quick but satisfying meal. A deli known for its freshly baked bread, oversized sandwiches, homemade soups, and salads, this place offers quality ingredients and generous portions. A great place to eat during the day before visiting Dollywood or the Great Smoky Mountains. The best food is often the home-cooked stuff—and Pigeon Forge Deli is just that.

Address:

3985 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Book your stay at Lodge at Mill Creek and enjoy convenient access to Pigeon Forge's top attractions.