A bit off the beaten path in the Arts and Crafts Community, this little cabin in the woods serves quintessential family and community recipes, whereas the seasonal menu changes and is often sourced from the garden. But, there are some standard offerings such as the hot pimento cheese dip and lobster pie definitely worth a try. Known for the Wild Plum Tea served hot or cold, there’s no need for pinkies up, and the dog-friendly outdoor seating is a plus. Open Thursday through Sunday for lunch only, 24-hour advance reservations are highly recommended and are required for parties of 6 or more.

Founded in 1938, this beautifully appointed, luxury bed and breakfast overlooking the Smoky Mountains bucks the norm. Inn guests automatically are served an elegant, yet hearty Southern breakfast while outside guests with reservations can also enjoy the experience for $15. Evening dining is also available to the public nightly at 7pm made by reservations. The chef-driven 3-course prix fixe seasonal menu features soup, salad, entree, dessert, and warm fresh-baked bread for $40. Vegetarian options available with advance notice. Take time to also walk the grounds and meditation at Rachel’s Labyrinth, one of the nation’s largest. 

Featuring Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisine, shared small plates is this exquisite tapas bar’s specialty, along with a unique and thoughtful wine list, high-end bourbons, and beers. Chef Olga Branka takes pride in sourcing her ingredients from area farmers' markets and invites all to “come in as guests and leave as friends.” Dinner service is only Thursday through Sunday, and reservations are highly recommended.  

Led by executive chef Aaron Ward, the entire team invites all to absolutely one of the finest Gatlinburg dining experiences within the iconic log cabin dining room. Start with a dozen oysters finished with smoked salmon rillettes, ceviche, and salmon roe before devouring a prime in-house, dry-aged, hand-cut steak (a Gatlinburg exclusive), or perhaps the lamb shank roasted low and slow is more your taste. The wine and spirits list reads like a who’s who. Well beyond the main drag in a peaceful mountain setting, make sure to designate a driver to enjoy every last drop.

*Reservations highly recommended

Somewhat the third coast of Gatlinburg restaurants, this Knoxville-based seafood-forward hotspot boasts a bounty of flown-in-daily catches. The steamed seafood feast and seafood tower are great options for those who can’t make up their minds. And, oysters are done up right. Definitely get them raw on the half shell, but also don’t miss the namesake oysters Chesapeake topped with creamy blue crab, mushrooms and Benton’s bacon. Steak, chicken, a smattering of sides, and desserts round up the menu, along with full bar service.

*Nightly dinner and weekend lunch service only at this location.

Enjoy a mountaintop day in this award-winning outdoor adventure-themed park. There are several dining options all boasting 360° views of the Great Smoky Mountains, including The Bar at The Top of the World if you just want to simply sip and savor the views. For a finer dining experience with sweeping views of Mt. Le Conte, Cliff Top features classic American cuisine from signature salads and steaks to bison short ribs and sea scallops. Skip the ticket line and ride a chondala up the mountain with the Express Pass. 

Partnering with Discovery Channel’s “Moonshiners Legends”, award-winning products include moonshine, whiskey, and canned cocktails. Private Blended cocktails tour offers a 30-minute tour of the stillhouse with two hand-crafted cocktails for $12. Currently unavailable, but expected to return are Meet The Distiller, and Distiller for the Day Workshops. 

Said to be America’s most visited moonshine distillery, see an authentic still in what the flagship location calls “the Holler.” Featuring a myriad of moonshine flavors, the distillery also makes whiskey and canned cocktails. Live music performances are on the regular, as are distillery tours for 10 people at a time when guests will enjoy 13 samples while on the behind-the-scenes tour. Ages 13 and up admitted for $10), with tastings for 21+ running $34.95.

*Arrive 30-minutes prior to scheduled tour time. 

The oldest craft brewery in East Tennessee, its original location in Gatlinburg opened in 1996, with the Pigeon Forge, Knoxville, and Maryville locations to follow. “A cross between a Bavarian brew hall, and a ski lodge...with the Smoky Mountains in the background,” the Calhoun Village brewery features six flagship beers on tap, four seasonals rotate several times throughout the year, along with the Brewmaster Special every couple of weeks. Traditional brewpub fare such as wings, burgers, and nachos are always a favorite. But, the pub’s specialty is hand-tossed pizzas and calzones.  

Built from local barn wood, the winery focuses on local history and heritage and is a member of the Rocky Top Wine Trail. The best-selling wine is the Elmont made from loganberries paying homage to the nearby Appalachian logging community situated in the Little River Valley. While many clamor for the plentiful fruity wines made here, more traditional ones like the 1802 dry red hit discerning palates as well. The family-friendly winery offers free daily tastings for those 21-years-old and up.