As more people seek out dining experiences that align with their values, sustainable and eco-friendly restaurants have become a growing trend across the U.S. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, a town nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, is no exception. Known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor adventures, Pigeon Forge is also home to a growing number of restaurants that prioritize sustainability, local sourcing, and eco-friendly practices. Whether you’re a long-time environmental advocate or someone just starting to consider how your dining choices impact the planet, this guide to sustainable restaurants in Pigeon Forge will introduce you to eateries that make a conscious effort to reduce their environmental footprint while serving up delicious, locally sourced dishes.
This blog post will take you on a culinary journey through Pigeon Forge TN’s sustainable restaurant scene, showcasing the dining spots that not only focus on serving wholesome food but also prioritize eco-friendly practices. From sourcing organic produce and supporting local farmers to reducing waste and minimizing their carbon footprint, these restaurants in Pigeon Forge are setting the bar for environmentally conscious dining.
1. The Greenbrier Restaurant: A Commitment to Local Sourcing and Sustainability
Located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, The Greenbrier Restaurant is a prime example of a sustainable dining establishment that takes eco-consciousness seriously. This beloved restaurant focuses on bringing seasonal, local ingredients to the table, ensuring that guests experience the freshest produce while supporting the local farming community.
Why It’s Sustainable: The Greenbrier Restaurant’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the food they serve. They work closely with local farms and food producers to source ingredients that are not only organic but also ethically raised. They also minimize waste by composting food scraps and using eco-friendly packaging when applicable. The restaurant also operates with energy-efficient appliances, ensuring that they reduce their overall carbon footprint.
Top Picks:
- Farm-to-Table Dishes: The Greenbrier specializes in creating seasonal menus that highlight locally grown ingredients, offering everything from fresh salads to hearty entrees.
- Grass-Fed Beef: For meat lovers, their grass-fed steaks are sourced from local farms that focus on humane animal treatment and sustainable practices.
- Organic Vegetable Sides: Complement your meal with sides like organic roasted vegetables, sourced from nearby farms.
Key Features for Sustainability:
- Locally sourced, organic ingredients
- Sustainable sourcing practices and partnerships with local farmers
- Energy-efficient kitchen and waste-reduction practices
- Composting food scraps
2. Pigeon Forge’s Smoky Mountain Brewery: Craft Beer and Eco-Friendly Practices
For those who appreciate craft beer alongside delicious food, Smoky Mountain Brewery offers an experience that caters to both your taste buds and your environmental values. Known for its high-quality beers and American comfort food, the brewery has committed to sustainable brewing processes and practices that minimize its environmental impact.
Why It’s Sustainable: Smoky Mountain Brewery focuses on reducing its energy consumption by using energy-efficient brewing equipment, and they also emphasize waste reduction practices. The brewery has partnered with local farmers to repurpose food waste, ensuring that everything from barley to hops is used in a way that’s beneficial to the local environment. Additionally, they support green energy initiatives, offsetting their carbon footprint wherever possible.
Top Picks:
- Smoky Mountain Ale: One of their signature brews, this craft beer is made with local ingredients that support sustainable farming.
- Beer-Battered Fish and Chips: The beer batter is made using the brewery’s own craft ale, showcasing the connection between food and beer in a sustainable way.
- Grass-Fed Beef Burger: For an eco-friendly meal, try their burger made with grass-fed beef sourced from local farms that practice sustainable and ethical farming.
Key Features for Sustainability:
- Energy-efficient brewing equipment
- Support for local sustainable farms
- Green energy initiatives and carbon offsetting
- Repurposing food waste with local partners
3. The Island in Pigeon Forge: Sustainable Dining with a View
Located at the Island in Pigeon Forge, Margaritaville and several other dining options on the property offer a commitment to sustainability while providing delicious meals and stunning views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains. The island’s dining venues prioritize sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly practices while giving visitors a fun, relaxing experience.
Why It’s Sustainable: The Island features restaurants like Margaritaville that work to reduce their environmental footprint through a variety of initiatives, including using locally sourced ingredients and supporting sustainable seafood practices. These restaurants also make a conscious effort to reduce water and energy consumption, helping to preserve the beautiful natural surroundings of Pigeon Forge.
Top Picks:
- Margaritaville Cheeseburger in Paradise: Made with locally sourced beef, this iconic burger features sustainable ingredients for a guilt-free indulgence.
- Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Enjoy sustainably sourced seafood in this popular appetizer.
- Island Salad: Fresh, local produce is used to make this healthy, sustainable dish perfect for a lighter meal.
Key Features for Sustainability:
- Sustainable seafood sourcing practices
- Local, organic ingredients used in many dishes
- Energy-efficient kitchens and waste-reduction measures
- Water conservation practices
4. The Peddler Steakhouse: Fine Dining with Sustainability in Mind
For those looking for a fine dining experience, The Peddler Steakhouse in Pigeon Forge offers high-quality steaks and seafood with an eco-friendly twist. This renowned restaurant combines the best of Southern hospitality with a strong commitment to sustainable practices and locally sourced ingredients.
Why It’s Sustainable: The Peddler Steakhouse prioritizes grass-fed beef and free-range chicken, supporting local farmers who raise animals with respect for the environment. The restaurant also minimizes waste by composting food scraps and working with local food banks to redistribute unused food.
Top Picks:
- Filet Mignon: Tender and ethically sourced, this premium steak is served with a variety of organic sides.
- Grilled Shrimp: Locally sourced shrimp, grilled to perfection, showcasing sustainable seafood practices.
- Organic Side Dishes: Complement your meal with a side of organic, locally grown vegetables.
Key Features for Sustainability:
- Grass-fed beef and free-range poultry
- Composting food scraps and reducing food waste
- Support for local food banks and charitable efforts
- Use of organic ingredients
5. Blue Moose Burgers & Wings: Sustainable Comfort Food
For a casual yet eco-conscious dining experience, Blue Moose Burgers & Wings in Pigeon Forge provides a variety of hearty meals made with locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Known for its delicious burgers and wings, this pet-friendly restaurant strives to reduce its environmental impact while offering a comfortable and laid-back atmosphere.
Why It’s Sustainable: Blue Moose works with local farmers and suppliers to source fresh, organic produce, grass-fed beef, and free-range chicken. The restaurant also incorporates sustainable packaging practices, using biodegradable and compostable materials whenever possible.
Top Picks:
- Bison Burger: Made with locally sourced bison, this lean protein is both sustainable and delicious.
- Organic Wings: These wings are prepared with locally sourced ingredients and available in a variety of sauces, all made in-house.
- Vegetarian Tacos: Filled with fresh, organic vegetables and beans, these tacos are a great choice for vegetarians looking to eat sustainably.
Key Features for Sustainability:
- Locally sourced, organic ingredients
- Sustainable packaging and waste reduction efforts
- Support for local farmers and sustainable food production
6. Wildflour Bakehouse: A Sustainable Bakery Experience
Wildflour Bakehouse, located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, is a charming bakery that specializes in organic, freshly baked goods made with sustainable ingredients. From artisan bread to decadent pastries, Wildflour emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients and environmental responsibility in every recipe.
Why It’s Sustainable: Wildflour Bakehouse uses organic flour, free-range eggs, and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The bakery also works to minimize food waste, composting leftover scraps and recycling packaging. Their commitment to sustainability extends to the way they operate their kitchen, using energy-efficient appliances and reducing their carbon footprint.
Top Picks:
- Organic Sourdough Bread: Made with organic flour, this tangy and chewy bread is perfect for any meal.
- Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies: Made with plant-based ingredients, these cookies are both delicious and environmentally friendly.
- Seasonal Fruit Pies: Made with local, organic fruits when in season.
Key Features for Sustainability:
- Organic, locally sourced ingredients
- Energy-efficient baking practices
- Composting and minimizing food waste
Sustainable Dining in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge may be famous for its family-friendly attractions and scenic mountain views, but it is also emerging as a leader in sustainable dining. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning an extended stay, these eco-friendly restaurants in Pigeon Forge provide a diverse array of dining options that allow you to enjoy delicious meals without compromising your environmental values. From farm-to-table offerings to sustainable seafood and waste-reduction efforts, these restaurants make it easy to dine with a conscience. So, the next time you visit Pigeon Forge, be sure to check out these sustainable and eco-friendly dining spots and enjoy a meal that supports both the local community and the environment.
