Would you love to visit Gatlinburg and the Smokies but avoid traffic on most days? If so, staying with us at Bearskin Lodge on the River is perfect for you. During your stay with us, you will be in downtown Gatlinburg on the river and within walking distance of the national park and all of the best spots around town. You’ll also be able to take a stroll to the top culinary experiences in the area as well. Here are the top 3 Gatlinburg restaurants on the Strip that you must try while you’re on vacation in the Smoky Mountains.
1. Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
First, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is the home of the most famous cinnamon rolls in all of the Great Smoky Mountains. The cinnamon rolls are huge and they’re certainly delicious but that’s not all that Crockett’s has to offer their guests. Built on a legacy of providing mountain men and women the food they need for adventures in the mountains and to replenish themselves after a long journey, Crockett’s has a little bit of something for everyone. Chopped steak & eggs, pan-fried pork chops, White Oak Flats eggs benedict, heaping plates of griddle cakes, oatmeal, grits, omelettes, scrambler plates, and more fill up their menu. You can walk to Crockett’s Breakfast Camp from Bearskin Lodge on the River in less than five minutes and you can join this downtown Gatlinburg restaurant’s waitlist ahead of time to help get you seated quickly.
2. Smith & Son Corner Kitchen
Smith & Son Corner Kitchen is one of Gatlinburg’s newest restaurants and it’s located in the heart of downtown. The restaurant is packed with beautiful photos and quotes from the mountains and the ambiance is cozy and friendly. They have a balcony for outdoor seating with a great view of the mountains. If you’re hoping to catch a game on TV while enjoying drinks and a good vibe, Smith & Son Corner Kitchen is a wonderful place to do so. Fill up on their BBQ samples, Mama Bear burger, french dip, fish & chips, chicken wings, smoked meatloaf, a variety of hot dogs, delta catfish, pastas, salads, and much more. They also have a list of signature cocktails that were inspired by our mountain heritage. Sip on a moonshine mule, Miss Kennedy, or Hillbilly Hurricane.
3. The Park Grill
On the main strip of downtown Gatlinburg, just down the road from the entrance of the dearly loved Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits The Park Grill . Part restaurant, part national park museum. Ok, so maybe it’s not an actual museum, but it should be! The interior is filled with beautiful historical photos from the park and the downtown Gatlinburg restaurant was designed to pay tribute to the Smokies. Having lunch or dinner at The Park Grill is a great choice on any day but especially on a day when you’ve spent time exploring the national park. Menu items include a great selection of appetizers, burgers, soups & salads, local favorites, fish & shrimp, aged hickory grilled steaks, numerous side dishes, and more. Just make sure you leave room for some Nanner Puddin’ or Hot Blackberry Cobbler. The Park Grill is within walking distance from Bearskin Lodge on the River but they do also offer free parking. Tip: Book a table ahead of time via their website or Resy to save some of your valuable vacation time.
After you enjoy a meal from any of these awesome Gatlinburg restaurants, enjoy any of the awesome activities on the Gatlinburg strip ! From museums to wine tastings, there is something that everyone will enjoy in the heart of downtown. Check out these wineries in Gatlinburg and the Smokies with free tastings !
If you’re looking for something a little different for your meal, check out a few of the other great restaurants in downtown Gatlinburg that we know you’ll love!
Now that you more about a few of the best Gatlinburg restaurants, you can start planning where you want to eat. Still looking for a place to stay? Browse the rooms at our Gatlinburg hotel and book your stay today!
