Savor the Flavors of Local Craft Beverages in Pigeon Forge
Nestled at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is more than just a stunning vacation destination. It’s a hub of local culinary delights, where farm-to-table dining is celebrated and Southern comfort food reigns supreme. But beyond the meals, Pigeon Forge’s vibrant craft beverage scene is making waves, offering a unique selection of local wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails that perfectly pair with your dining experience.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the exciting world of local craft beverages in Pigeon Forge, highlighting the best restaurants that serve locally-sourced wines from nearby vineyards, craft beers brewed in Tennessee, and inventive cocktails crafted with love. We’ll explore the fascinating world of flavor pairings, helping you find the perfect drink to complement your meal in one of the most charming towns in the South. From upscale dining experiences to casual spots with a welcoming vibe, Pigeon Forge’s craft beverage scene is as diverse as its culinary landscape.
Join us as we take a closer look at the local drink offerings in Pigeon Forge and discover where you can sip, savor, and enjoy expertly paired craft beverages that elevate your meal to a whole new level.
1. The Old Mill Restaurant – Tennessee Wines and Southern Comfort Pairing
The Old Mill Restaurant, with its rustic charm and historic backdrop, isn’t just known for its Southern comfort food but also for its thoughtful selection of local craft beverages. This beloved Pigeon Forge restaurant, situated alongside the Little Pigeon River, offers a variety of local wines and spirits that enhance the dining experience.
Tennessee Wines to Pair with Southern Comfort
Tennessee boasts a growing wine industry, and The Old Mill Restaurant takes full advantage of this by offering wines from local vineyards that pair beautifully with Southern fare. For a classic pairing, try the Chardonnay or Viognier from Tennessee Valley Winery, which has notes of ripe fruit and oak that complement dishes like Fried Chicken or Chicken and Dumplings. If you’re in the mood for a red wine, the Tennessee Cabernet Sauvignon offers robust flavors that work well with Smoked Ribs or Pulled Pork.
Craft Cocktails for a Southern Twist
In addition to wines, The Old Mill also offers a selection of Tennessee-inspired cocktails. Sip on a Smoky Mountain Mule made with locally distilled vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime, or enjoy a twist on the classic Old Fashioned with Tennessee whiskey, muddled cherry, and orange peel.
Pair these craft beverages with comfort dishes like Cornbread Dressing or Sweet Potato Fries for a true taste of Tennessee. Whether you’re enjoying a family meal or a quiet dinner, the local craft beverages at The Old Mill Restaurant make the experience even more memorable.
2. Smoky Mountain Brewery – Craft Beers and Pizza Pairings
For beer lovers, Smoky Mountain Brewery offers an extensive selection of local craft beers that are brewed in-house, making it one of the best spots in Pigeon Forge for pairing beer with food. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and mountain views, the brewery provides an ideal setting for enjoying a cold craft brew alongside a hearty meal.
Craft Beers Brewed in Tennessee
Tennessee is home to a thriving craft beer scene, and Smoky Mountain Brewery proudly showcases local flavors with its array of brews. From light, refreshing Pale Ales to rich, robust Porters, there’s a beer for every palate. Try the Smoky Mountain Pale Ale, a balanced brew with a citrusy hop profile that pairs perfectly with Wood-Fired Pizza or BBQ Wings. For a deeper, maltier flavor, the Smoky Mountain Stout complements hearty dishes like Beef Brisket or Smoked Sausage.
Perfect Pairings with Pizza and More
If you’re enjoying a pizza, Smoky Mountain Brewery offers several signature options like the Buffalo Chicken Pizza or the Mountain Man Pizza with sausage and bacon. Pair these flavorful pies with a crisp Tennessee IPA, which will cut through the richness of the cheese and meats, enhancing the overall taste. Whether you’re enjoying a casual night out or celebrating with friends, the combination of craft beer and delicious food makes this Pigeon Forge spot a must-visit.
3. The Greenbrier Restaurant – Upscale Wines and Classic Southern Dishes
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, The Greenbrier Restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere with an excellent selection of local wines and craft cocktails. This fine dining establishment combines the best of Southern elegance with Tennessee’s burgeoning wine scene.
Tennessee Wines to Pair with Southern Elegance
The Greenbrier offers a carefully curated selection of wines from some of Tennessee’s finest vineyards. The Tennessee Viognier, with its floral aromas and balanced acidity, is a perfect match for lighter dishes like Grilled Shrimp or Pan-Seared Scallops. For something bolder, the Tennessee Cabernet Sauvignon pairs excellently with Grilled Ribeye or Lamb Chops, offering rich tannins that complement the depth of these meats.
Signature Cocktails with a Local Twist
For a unique drinking experience, try The Greenbrier’s signature cocktail, the Smoky Mountain Mule, which combines locally distilled whiskey with fresh ginger beer, creating a refreshing and slightly spicy drink to enjoy with your meal. Their Southern Belle cocktail, a blend of bourbon, peach, and mint, also provides a sweet and tangy complement to the rich flavors of Southern cuisine.
4. Big Daddy’s Pizzeria – Tennessee Brews and Casual Dining
For a more casual dining experience, Big Daddy’s Pizzeria in Pigeon Forge is the place to be. Known for its delicious pizzas and fun, laid-back vibe, Big Daddy’s offers a variety of Tennessee craft beers that pair wonderfully with its menu.
Craft Beer Selections from Local Breweries
Big Daddy’s offers an impressive selection of Tennessee craft beers, sourced from local breweries. If you’re in the mood for something light, try the Tennessee Lager—a crisp, refreshing beer that pairs well with Cheese Pizza or a light Caprese Salad. For something heartier, the Tennessee IPA adds a bold hoppy flavor that complements BBQ Chicken Pizza or a Bacon Cheeseburger.
Perfect Pairings for Pizza Lovers
The extensive beer list at Big Daddy’s allows for plenty of experimentation, and their pizzas are the perfect accompaniment. A Smoked Sausage Pizza pairs well with a Red Ale, which complements the smoky flavors of the sausage. If you’re enjoying something sweeter, like the Hawaiian Pizza, try pairing it with a light Pilsner or a crisp Wheat Beer to balance out the pineapple’s sweetness.
5. Calhoun’s Pigeon Forge – Local Craft Beverages and BBQ Pairings
At Calhoun’s Pigeon Forge, you’ll find a casual yet vibrant atmosphere with a focus on Tennessee’s best craft beverages. Known for its hearty BBQ and Southern specialties, Calhoun’s takes great care in selecting local craft beers and wines that pair perfectly with its menu.
Tennessee Craft Beers and BBQ
Tennessee’s craft beer scene thrives at Calhoun’s, where you can enjoy beers from local breweries like Tennessee Brew Works and Blackberry Farm Brewery. The Tennessee Pale Ale pairs wonderfully with BBQ Ribs, while the Tennessee Amber complements the sweetness of the Pulled Pork Sandwich.
For a richer pairing, try the Tennessee Stout, which goes beautifully with a plate of Smoked Brisket or a BBQ Beef Plate.
Wine and Cocktail Pairings with Southern BBQ
If you’re more into wine, Calhoun’s offers local reds and whites that pair perfectly with its BBQ dishes. A Tennessee Red Wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, complements smoky meats like ribs and brisket, while a refreshing Tennessee Chardonnay pairs well with lighter BBQ fare like Pulled Chicken or Grilled Veggies.
A Toast to Local Craft Beverages in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge’s local craft beverage scene is a true reflection of Tennessee’s rich culture and heritage. Whether you’re sipping a locally crafted beer, enjoying a fine Tennessee wine, or savoring a creative cocktail, there’s no better way to complement the delicious Southern cuisine of the area than with a local drink that adds depth and flavor to your meal.
From the rustic charm of The Old Mill Restaurant to the vibrant, fun atmosphere at Big Daddy’s Pizzeria, Pigeon Forge offers something for every taste and occasion. The thoughtfully curated local craft beverages available at these restaurants elevate the dining experience, creating unforgettable moments for both locals and visitors alike.
So, next time you find yourself in Pigeon Forge, don’t just focus on the food—explore the local craft beverages that make the area’s culinary scene so unique. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion, there’s a local drink waiting to perfectly pair with your meal, ensuring an experience that is as refreshing and exciting as the beautiful Smoky Mountains that surround you. Cheers!
