Best Places to Eat in Pigeon Forge: The Discerning Diner’s Guide
When it comes to dining in Pigeon Forge TN, the choices are as vast as the Great Smoky Mountains surrounding this charming town.
Whether you’re craving classic Southern comfort foods, unique local favorites, or family-style feasts, this Pigeon Forge dining guide will take you through the top restaurants you must visit. From fried chicken and mashed potatoes to fried green tomatoes, these are the top places to eat in Pigeon Forge.
Top Places to Eat in Pigeon Forge
Ready to try the must-try dishes Pigeon Forge has to offer? Take a bite out of these mouth-watering picks:
1. The Old Mill Restaurant: Southern Tradition at Its Finest
164 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Number one on our
Pigeon Forge food guide is located in the heart of Pigeon Forge. The Old Mill Restaurant is a local favorite and a true embodiment of Southern hospitality. Set by the Little Pigeon River, this iconic restaurant has been serving hearty, family-style meals for decades. Known for its Southern-style fried chicken, corn chowder, and pot roast, this is one of the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge TN for comfort food that warms your soul.
Must-Try Dishes: Don t forget the mashed potatoes and corn fritters—these side dishes alone make The Old Mill one of the best places to eat in Pigeon Forge. The portions are generous, and you’ll leave feeling like part of the family.
2. Mama’s Farmhouse: Family-Style Feasts You’ll Never Forget
208 Pickel St, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
For a true Southern family-style dining experience, head to Mama’s Farmhouse. This spot is perfect for groups, as the meals are served on large platters for sharing. The menu changes daily, but expect staples like fried chicken, country ham, and catfish. The buttermilk biscuits and banana pudding are crowd favorites and perfectly round out your meal.
If you’re searching for the best place to eat in Pigeon Forge with the whole family, this is it. Locals love it, and for good reason—Mama’s Farmhouse offers the best food in Pigeon Forge, served with a side of charm and nostalgia.
Must-Try Dish: The fried chicken is a winner here, but the fried green tomatoes steal the show as the perfect Southern starter.
3. Pottery House Café & Grille: A Pigeon Forge Gem
3341 Old Mill St, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Nestled next to The Old Mill, Pottery House Café & Grille is a hidden gem in the Pigeon Forge food scene. If you want a quieter dining experience but don’t want to compromise on flavor, this is the place. With its eclectic menu of homemade quiches, grilled sandwiches, and seasonal soups, this charming eatery is one of the top-rated Pigeon Forge restaurants.
Their bread is made in-house, and the pottery plates your meal is served on are crafted in the adjacent shop, making for a truly local dining experience. You can also expect Southern staples like chicken pot pie and pulled pork sandwiches, all made with love.
Must-Try Dish: The chicken and dumplings are an undeniable comfort food, but don’t miss out on their signature grilled pimento cheese sandwich.
4. Local Goat: A Modern Twist on Southern Comfort
2167 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Looking for the local’s favorite? One of the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge for those who want to blend traditional Southern flavors with contemporary twists, Local Goat is famous for its farm-to-table approach. This popular Pigeon Forge eatery focuses on using local ingredients to create standout dishes like bison burgers, chicken tenders, and fried deviled eggs.
You’ll also find plenty of options for vegetarians and those seeking healthier fare. Local Goat’s laid-back atmosphere makes it one of the top places to eat in Pigeon Forge for both locals and tourists.
Must-Try Dish: The bison burger is a must, but for those who prefer lighter options, try the beet salad or fish tacos.
5. Alamo Steakhouse: A Carnivore’s Dream
3050 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
If you’re looking for the best eats in Pigeon Forge for meat lovers, the Alamo Steakhouse is where you need to go. Known for its wood-fired grilled steaks and seafood, Alamo prides itself on cooking everything from scratch.
The steaks are expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection, while the seafood options, like the blackened shrimp and crab legs, are equally mouth-watering. The rustic atmosphere adds to the charm, making this one of the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge TN for a date night or special occasion.
Must-Try Dish: Try the prime rib or the signature Alamo New York Strip for an unforgettable steakhouse experience.
6. Huck Finn’s Catfish: A Southern Fish Fry Experience
3330 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
No list of top restaurants in Pigeon Forge TN and Pigeon Forge dining experiences would be complete without mentioning Huck Finn’s Catfish. This local favorite serves all-you-can-eat catfish and Southern sides in a casual, family-friendly setting.
With its fried fish and home-cooked accompaniments like coleslaw, hush puppies, and white beans, Huck Finn’s is a must for anyone craving traditional Southern comfort food.
Must-Try Dish: Go for the all-you-can-eat catfish platter, and make sure to add a side of fried okra.
7. Pigeon Forge Deli: Sandwich Heaven
159 E Wears Valley Rd #13, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Not all of the best restaurants Pigeon Forge offers are fine dining. For a more casual meal, Pigeon Forge Deli is the perfect spot to grab a bite on the go. Known for its hand-rolled pretzel bread sandwiches, this deli has a loyal following among both tourists and locals. The menu is simple but flavorful, with options like Italian sandwiches, Philly cheesesteaks, and turkey clubs.
It’s an unassuming place that packs a punch in flavor, making it one of the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge if you’re looking for a quick yet delicious meal.
Must-Try Dish: The pretzel bread sandwich filled with fresh deli meats is a fan favorite.
8. The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant: A Taste of Tradition
240 Apple Valley Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862
Located near the Great Smoky Mountains, The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant is a Pigeon Forge staple (although technically in Sevierville). Offering Southern-style comfort foods like fried chicken, country-fried steak, and mashed potatoes, this place has been serving up Pigeon Forge’s best for over 30 years. Every meal starts with a sampling of their famous apple fritters and apple butter, making it a unique dining experience you can’t find anywhere else.
Must-Try Dish: The fried chicken is unbeatable, but make sure to leave room for their apple cobbler.
Ready to Eat in the Smokies?
From comfort foods served in family-style portions to modern farm-to-table cuisine, the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge TN cater to every palate. Whether you’re enjoying the rustic charm of The Old Mill, indulging in the all-you-can-eat Southern specialties at Huck Finn’s Catfish, or relishing a quieter dining experience at Pottery House Café & Grille, there’s no shortage of top-rated Pigeon Forge restaurants to explore.
These popular Pigeon Forge eateries not only offer some of the best food in Pigeon Forge, but also provide a taste of the region’s culture, history, and heart. So, the next time you’re in town, don’t forget to take this Pigeon Forge dining guide along for a delicious culinary journey through the best places to eat in Pigeon Forge TN!
For more Pigeon Forge tips, check out our travel guide and plan your trip with these discount tickets, special deals, and hotel packages.
