The Smokies offer plenty of high-energy activities, from hiking the trails to experiencing the thrills of go-carts and amusement parks. To keep up the energy to hike, play, and explore all that the area has to offer, you’ll need to make sure you’re well-fed. Fortunately, Gatlinburg provides plenty of high-quality options! Sometimes it’s fun to stick to the Parkway and choose from one of our many world-famous chain restaurants. Other times, however, it’s fun to get off the beaten path and discover a few hidden gems. This article will help you do just that–we’ve rounded up great options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that take you off the most well-traveled path and into a different side of Gatlinburg. We hope you’re coming hungry!
The Donut Friar
If you want to experience a unique restaurant with local flair but don’t want to travel too far, the Donut Friar is an excellent choice. This tiny local donut shop is nestled in The Village Shops, right off the Parkway. Despite its proximity to attractions, this restaurant is beloved by locals and tourists who found it over the years. Donuts are handmade at the shop every morning and are very reasonably priced. Be ready to wait in a long line, though, and plan to eat elsewhere–the shop is small and gets crowded! Insider tip: bring cash, as no credit cards are accepted, and make sure you try the cinnamon bread.
Elvira’s Cafe
Travel closer to Sevierville for a delicious lunch at this local favorite. Elvira, the owner, originally hails from Siberia, so expect down-home country fare with some exciting Old Country twists. The restaurant serves most breakfast items all day but closes for dinner on weekdays–if you want to try Elvira’s hearty beef liver and onions, you’ll need to visit on a Friday or Saturday night. Be aware that Elvira’s is a relatively long drive from the major towns nearby, but it’s worth it–this hidden gem proves that “off the beaten path” is a genuinely great place to be.
The Wild Plum Tea Room
An Austrian-style tearoom in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains? As incredible as it sounds, Wild Plum Tea Room delivers a relaxed Austrian-inspired experience without requiring any international travel. The restaurant offers delicious lunch options from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday only. Choose from fresh selections like the restaurant’s famous chicken salad, and don’t leave without sampling their signature Wild Plum tea. No matter what entree you choose, you’ll enjoy Wild Plum muffins for free, so save room! Note that the Wild Plum Tea Room is open seasonally, and closes from late November to February or March, so check the website before visiting to make sure the cafe is open.
Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant
This restaurant is a favorite with tourists and locals, but its unique, fresh menu featuring items from straight off the farm, plus its location in an authentic old farmhouse, gave it a place on our list. This family-friendly restaurant offers southern-style farm cuisine served with complementary apple fritters and apple butter. Try the homestyle fried chicken, or opt for a hearty pork chop with a delicious homemade apple glaze.
Three Jimmy’s
Enjoy a relaxed and friendly evening meal with a down-home local atmosphere at Three Jimmy’s Good Time Eatery! Located off 321, this hidden classic isn’t sophisticated, but it offers delicious homemade food and plenty of friendly faces. All the meats are smoked right on-site, and the sauces are homemade. If you’re looking for something less heavy, they also offer a selection of salads and even pizzas. On many evenings, the restaurant hosts live music and even karaoke, so if you want to unwind with a local musician or even try out your skills, you can’t go wrong with Three Jimmy’s.
If you’re hungry for something a little less accessible or a little more local, we’ve got you covered. Whether it’s a delicious morning donut straight from the fryer at Donut Friar’s, some authentic Old World cooking from Elvira’s, or even an apple fritter served in a historic old farmhouse, the Gatlinburg area has plenty for you to choose from. We’re confident that no matter which restaurant you try, you won’t leave hungry.
