There are a lot of great places to eat in Gatlinburg, TN. The people who know the local restaurants better than anyone are, of course, the locals. That’s why we’re providing you with the answer to the question we know you’ve been asking: where do the locals eat in Gatlinburg? Here are the top restaurants in Gatlinburg where you can find the locals.
Three Jimmy’s Good Time Eatery
One of the most popular places where locals eat in Gatlinburg is Three Jimmy’s Good Time Eatery. This not-so-hidden gem in the Arts & Crafts Community serves fresh, scratch-made food that’s sourced locally. They have a large outdoor patio with live music throughout the week. Three Jimmy’s serves house-smoked meats and Southern comfort foods, but most locals go there for their artisan pizza, burgers, and beer. Take note that Three Jimmy's may close temporarily during the off-season, so we recommend giving them a call to make sure they're open when you plan to visit.
Read More: "Top 5 Gatlinburg Restaurants in the Arts & Crafts Community"
Split Rail Eats
Another spot somewhat off the beaten path is Split Rail Eats. This restaurant is where locals will go for fun takes on Southern comfort food. You can find everything from traditional burgers and sandwiches to “tater bowls” and salads, plus unique food fusion like Fredo Fries and the Hot Seoul sandwich. Stop by for lunch most days, or check out their brunch on Sundays. You can even find a full-service coffee bar as well as signature cocktails.
Pancake Pantry
If you’re trying to figure out where the locals eat breakfast in Gatlinburg, look no further than the original Gatlinburg pancake house. Pancake Pantry has been around since 1960 and has maintained its title as one of the best pancake restaurants in the area. Locals agree that it’s a Gatlinburg breakfast staple. You can find both breakfast and lunch at this restaurant, but it’s obviously one of their 24 varieties of pancakes that you need to order.
The Wild Plum Tea Room
The Wild Plum Tea Room is only open a few days of the week and solely for lunch. This local restaurant and tea room is so popular you have to make reservations in advance to get a table. The Wild Plum Tea Room is known for having fresh, homemade offerings, including seafood specials, sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads, and desserts. What they’re most famous for, though, is their chicken salad and, of course, tea.
New Orleans Sandwich Company
A place where locals will go for lunch in Gatlinburg is New Orleans Sandwich Company. This Cajun restaurant serves Louisiana favorites, including various takes on the traditional po’ boy sandwich, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, gumbo, and much more. New Orleans Sandwich Company uses authentic Creole seasonings and spices that will make you feel like you’re down on the Gulf coast. Don’t let the paper plates and plastic silverware deter you from trying this tasty hole-in-the-wall restaurant.
Tennessee Jed’s
Another sandwich shop makes the list of where locals eat in Gatlinburg. Tennessee Jed’s is a craft sandwich shop that is known for serving some of the best sandwiches in the Smokies. They serve a variety of sandwiches for breakfast and lunch from meats they slow-cook overnight and roast fresh each day. Choose a classic Reuben or hot ham and swiss, or go more exotic with a spicy tofu sandwich.
Save Money with Gatlinburg Restaurant Coupons
There are so many great places to eat in Gatlinburg for every meal. If you enjoy saving money and tend to choose where you eat based on the best deals, then you’ll definitely want to check out this list of Gatlinburg restaurant coupons and deals.
