Start your day off right with a delicious pancake breakfast at Pancake Pantry. This local institution has been serving up fluffy stacks of pancakes for over 60 years, and their menu has something for everyone - from classic buttermilk to more unique options like Swiss chocolate chip and Caribbean pancakes. Make sure to try out their homemade syrup options, too!
For a taste of Southern comfort food, head over to the Old Mill Restaurant. The historic building and rustic decor create a cozy atmosphere for diners to enjoy classics like fried chicken, pot roast, biscuits, and gravy. Don’t forget to pick up some of their freshly ground grains and baking mixes at the accompanying general store!
If you’re looking for a modern twist on Southern cuisine, look no further than the Local Goat. With an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and creative flavor combinations, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Their favorites include the mac and cheese egg rolls, smoked gouda and bacon burger, and chicken and waffles. Wash it all down with one of their signature cocktails or local craft beers.
For another taste of classic Southern dishes, head over to the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant. This family-owned restaurant serves up classic favorites like fried chicken, country ham, and biscuits with apple butter. Their apple fritters are a must-try, and if you’re there for breakfast, don’t miss their famous apple pancakes!
If you’re in the mood for some steak, the Peddler Steakhouse is the place to go. They offer a variety of cuts and preparations, but their standout item is their famous salad bar. Diners can load up on fresh greens, vegetables, and homemade dressings to complement their entrees. Don’t leave without trying their homemade cornbread!
Round out your foodie adventure with some classic Tennessee barbecue at Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que. This family-owned restaurant slow-cooks their meats over hickory wood, resulting in tender and flavorful ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and more. Make sure to try their famous corn pudding and banana pudding for a true taste of the South.
Most of the restaurants on this itinerary are close to each other, so driving or taking a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft should be sufficient. However, if you want to explore more of the area, consider renting a car for a day or two. The cost of renting a car can vary depending on the rental company and time of year, but expect to spend around $50-$75 per day.
If you have extra time, consider visiting some of Pigeon Forge’s other popular attractions, like Dollywood, the Titanic Museum, or the Great Smoky Mountains. If you have less time, you can cut down the itinerary to just a few restaurants or combine days. Reservations are recommended for most of the restaurants on this itinerary, especially during peak travel seasons.
Pigeon Forge does not have a commercial airport. The closest airport is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), located in Knoxville, about 45 miles from Pigeon Forge. Many major airlines, including Delta, American, and United, operate out of this airport. You can rent a car at the airport, take a taxi or ride-share service, or book a shuttle service like Airport Shuttle Knoxville to get to Pigeon Forge.