Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, is more than just a family-friendly vacation destination. While its theme parks, attractions, and outdoor adventures draw millions annually, the town’s thriving culinary scene is equally deserving of attention. Offering everything from Southern comfort food to modern, innovative dining, Pigeon Forge’s restaurants provide an unforgettable experience for food lovers.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the Top 10 Restaurants to Visit in Pigeon Forge, each offering a unique blend of flavors, atmosphere, and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty BBQ, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, or classic comfort food, Pigeon Forge has something to satisfy every palate.
1. The Old Mill Restaurant: A Historic Southern Experience
Address: 164 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Southern comfort food in a historic setting
Few places capture the heart of Southern dining like The Old Mill Restaurant. Situated in a historic gristmill dating back to the 1800s, this iconic restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking traditional Appalachian fare. Diners are treated to stunning views of the Little Pigeon River while enjoying classics like fried chicken, pot roast, and corn chowder.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Southern Fried Chicken
- Stone-Ground Grits
- Homemade Cornbread
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Meals here are hearty, generous, and served with warm Southern hospitality. Everything, from their creamy mashed potatoes to their buttery biscuits, is made from scratch.
2. Calhoun’s Restaurant: Award-Winning BBQ
Address: 2532 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Smoky, fall-off-the-bone BBQ
For the ultimate BBQ experience, Calhoun’s is the place to go. Known for their award-winning ribs and slow-cooked pulled pork, this restaurant is a haven for barbecue enthusiasts. Their sauces are legendary, offering just the right balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Hickory-Smoked Ribs
- Pulled Pork Plate
- Loaded Potato Skins
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Calhoun’s has won numerous accolades for its BBQ, and the rustic, welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to indulge in Southern-style comfort food.
3. Local Goat: Farm-to-Table Perfection
Address: 2167 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Locally sourced, fresh ingredients
Local Goat is a standout in Pigeon Forge’s dining scene, known for its dedication to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With an extensive menu featuring everything from gourmet burgers to fresh seafood, Local Goat is perfect for foodies who want to experience high-quality farm-to-table dining.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Bison Burger
- Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
- Spinach & Artichoke Dip
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
The emphasis on locally sourced ingredients ensures every dish is fresh and flavorful. Their craft beer selection, featuring regional brews, adds to the appeal.
4. Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant: Southern Comfort with Live Music
Address: 2480 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Comfort food and live entertainment
Bringing a piece of Nashville to Pigeon Forge, Puckett’s offers classic Southern fare in a lively, music-filled atmosphere. Known for its homey vibe and hearty portions, Puckett’s serves up Southern favorites like chicken and waffles, country-fried steak, and meatloaf.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Shrimp & Grits
- Piggy Mac (Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese)
- Chicken & Waffles
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Puckett’s combines great food with live music, offering guests a true taste of Tennessee’s vibrant culture.
5. Bullfish Grill: Fresh Seafood and Steaks
Address: 2441 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Premium steaks and fresh seafood
Bullfish Grill offers a refined dining experience with an emphasis on fresh seafood and hand-cut steaks. Whether you’re craving a perfectly grilled ribeye or fresh Atlantic salmon, Bullfish Grill delivers high-quality dishes in an upscale yet relaxed setting.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Filet Mignon
- Shrimp & Grits
- Grilled Atlantic Salmon
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
The combination of premium cuts of meat and fresh seafood makes Bullfish Grill a top choice for those seeking a more upscale dining experience in Pigeon Forge.
6. Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen: Classic Southern Comfort
Address: 131 The Island Drive, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Family-style Southern dining
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen offers a true Southern feast, served family-style in a charming, down-home atmosphere. Guests are treated to all-you-can-eat platters of Paula’s famous recipes, including fried chicken, collard greens, and gooey butter cake.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Fried Chicken
- Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- Macaroni and Cheese
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
The family-style service makes it perfect for large groups, and the hearty, soul-satisfying dishes are pure Southern comfort at its best.
7. Smoky Mountain Brewery: Craft Brews and Casual Eats
Address: 2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Craft beer and hearty pub fare
Smoky Mountain Brewery is Pigeon Forge’s go-to spot for craft beer lovers. With an on-site brewery producing a variety of local beers, this casual spot is perfect for those who want to unwind with a cold brew and a pizza or burger.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Brewery Ale Pizza
- Beer Cheese Pretzels
- Mountain Light Lager
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
The relaxed atmosphere, combined with excellent beer and hearty food, makes Smoky Mountain Brewery a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
8. Timberwood Grill: Rustic Charm and Big Flavors
Address: 131 The Island Drive, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Rustic American dining with bold flavors
Located at The Island in Pigeon Forge, Timberwood Grill offers a rustic, lodge-like setting with a menu full of bold, hearty flavors. From juicy burgers to slow-cooked ribs, Timberwood Grill delivers big portions and big taste.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Grizzly Bear Burger
- Baby Back Ribs
- Campfire S’mores Dessert
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
The rustic, cozy atmosphere pairs perfectly with the bold, satisfying dishes that Timberwood Grill is known for.
9. Blue Moose Burgers & Wings: Casual Dining Done Right
Address: 2430 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Gourmet burgers and wings
For casual dining with a focus on burgers and wings, Blue Moose is the place to be. This family-friendly sports bar offers a wide selection of wings in various sauces and gourmet burgers stacked high with fresh ingredients.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Big Moose Burger
- Garlic Parmesan Wings
- Loaded Cheese Fries
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Perfect for a laid-back meal, Blue Moose offers great food in a relaxed, fun atmosphere, ideal for families and sports fans alike.
10. Junction 35 Spirits: Distillery Dining at Its Best
Address: 2655 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN
Best For: Unique dining with craft spirits
Junction 35 Spirits combines a distillery with a restaurant, offering a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy craft cocktails alongside Southern-inspired dishes. The menu features whiskey-glazed ribs, bourbon-marinated steak, and other dishes infused with the flavors of their house-made spirits.
Signature Dishes to Try:
- Whiskey-Glazed Pork Chops
- Bourbon Marinated Steak
- Craft Bourbon Flight
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
For a unique dining experience, Junction 35 Spirits offers the perfect blend of Southern cuisine and craft distilling, making it a one-of-a-kind stop in Pigeon Forge.
Discover the Best of Pigeon Forge Dining
Pigeon Forge’s dining scene offers an incredible variety of flavors, experiences, and atmospheres that cater to every kind of foodie. From traditional Southern comfort food to modern farm-to-table fare, the town’s top restaurants are a testament to the rich culinary heritage and evolving dining culture of the Smoky Mountains.
Plan your culinary journey today, and be sure to visit these top 10 restaurants for an unforgettable taste of Pigeon Forge’s vibrant food scene.
