When you visit Gatlinburg, you’ll have nearly endless options for delicious places to eat. Why not try something different that will satisfy everyone in your vacation group? Read on to find out the best Gatlinburg restaurants off the beaten path!
1. Wild Plum Tea Room
Located in the historic Arts & Crafts Community, the Wild Plum Team Room offers a seasonal lunch menu using recipes passed down from grandmothers, aunts, uncles, and fellow crafters. You’ll find daily chef specials, soups, salads, desserts, and more, along with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free items. Everything on their menu is made daily with fresh ingredients, and some local favorites include the salmon burger and the chicken salad.
2. Red Oak Bistro
Red Oak Bistro is just up the road from Alewine Pottery and provides European flavors in the Smoky Mountains. The husband and wife duo serve up innovative small plates using fresh local ingredients, and their menu also includes an extensive list of wine, bourbon, and beer. It’s another hidden gem in Gatlinburg you won’t want to miss!
3. Tom & Earl’s Back Alley Grill
Looking for great food and fun in a relaxed Smoky Mountain atmosphere? Head to Tom & Earl’s Back Alley Grill tucked away in downtown Gatlinburg! You can kick back and relax as you listen to live music and enjoy popular menu items like the Hillbilly Philly cheesesteak and Rocky Top loaded nachos!
4. Crystelle Creek Restaurant & Grill
is the perfect place to visit for a relaxing meal with friends or a romantic dinner for two. The menu includes everything from prime rib and seafood to signature pasta dishes. Surrounding the restaurant are a creek, koi pond, and water cascading from the roof! You’ll love having dinner and drinks while admiring the view from the large picturesque windows.
5. The Greenbrier
The Greenbrier is another fantastic Gatlinburg restaurant off the beaten path that’s perfect for date night, anniversary, or birthday celebrations! The chef-inspired menu is unlike anything else in the Smoky Mountains, with options like hot fried oysters, dry-aged steak, crispy skin salmon, and delicious handcrafted co*cktails.
6. Split Rail Eats
Another spot along the Arts & Crafts Loop is Split Rail Eats. You can choose from a variety of classic American dishes, from chicken sandwiches and wraps to salads, burgers, and fish tacos. They also stand out due to their full coffee and tea menu, their craft beer wall, and a list of co*cktails!
7. Cobbly Nob Cafe
This casual mountain eatery has some of the best burgers and pizzas in town, along with delicious subs, salads, wings, and more! Cobbly Nob Cafe offers dine-in and take-out, and they also have a small market, so you can pick up anything you might need during your stay in Gatlinburg.
8. New Orleans Sandwich Company
You’ve probably walked right past New Orleans Sandwich Company and not even realized it! Tucked away in Baskins Square, this authentic Cajun-style restaurant serves jambalaya and gumbo, along with po boy sandwiches, crab cakes, muffuletta, and more.
9. The Rampant Lion
If you’re looking for an authentic Celtic pub, The Rampant Lion is the place to go! Both their inside and outdoor seating areas are pet-friendly, making it a hot spot for both locals and tourists. You’ll find all the pub favorites on their menu, from bangers and mash to shepherd’s pie. Even if you just stop by for a pint, you’re guaranteed to have a great time!
10. Delauder’s BBQ
DeLauder’s BBQ definitely makes the list of best Gatlinburg restaurants off the beaten path! This friendly family-run business specializes in mouthwatering barbeque and all the fixings. Choose from barbeque-topped burgers, dogs, baked potatoes, and nachos, or simply enjoy a platter of your meat of choice–brisket, pork, ribs, or sausage. We also highly recommend the Holy Bologna Sandwich topped with pulled pork, onions, pickles, sweet jalapeno mustard, and BBQ sauce!
More Restaurants in Gatlinburg TN
These Gatlinburg restaurants off the beaten path provide a unique dining experience for visitors, and there is a place to eat in the Smokies to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, Italian, or traditional Southern cuisine, Gatlinburg has it all!
Check out more delicious Gatlinburg restaurants to help you decide where to eat during your Smoky Mountain vacation!
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