If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, you’re in for a culinary delight—especially when it comes to breakfast. Gatlinburg is celebrated for its vibrant morning dining scene, offering a diverse selection of restaurants that cater to every taste.
Whether you crave fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, hearty biscuits and gravy, or a simple yet satisfying cup of coffee to energize your day, Gatlinburg has something for everyone. From beloved pancake houses that have been local favorites for years to creative breakfast spots that put a unique spin on traditional morning meals, the options are truly endless.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best breakfast spots in Gatlinburg, ensuring you find the perfect place to start your day in this picturesque Smoky Mountain town.
The Pancake Pantry is a landmark in Gatlinburg, and for good reason. Opened in 1960 by the Gerding family, it was the first pancake house in Tennessee and has since become a beloved tradition for visitors to the area.
This iconic restaurant is renowned for its secret pancake recipe, which has been passed down through the years and remains a closely guarded secret. The pancakes here are celebrated for being light, fluffy, and full of flavor, making them a must-try for anyone visiting Gatlinburg. The restaurant’s German-themed menu and atmosphere add a unique touch, setting it apart from other breakfast spots.
With generous portions, super-friendly staff, and a clean and orderly dining area, the Pancake Pantry continues to be a favorite among both locals and tourists.
One of the standout features of the Pancake Pantry is its long-standing staff. Some servers have been working there for over 40 years, which speaks to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Families have made it a tradition to visit the Pancake Pantry year after year, creating lasting memories over their signature pancakes and other breakfast delights.
The Log Cabin Pancake House is another beloved institution in Gatlinburg, although it opened about 15 years after the Pancake Pantry. Despite being a later entrant, it has carved out its own niche and loyal following. Known for its rustic, log cabin-themed decor, this restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that complements the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
The Log Cabin Pancake House is particularly famous for its biscuits and gravy, a Southern favorite that is often cited as a reason for its enduring popularity. The generous portions and friendly service here ensure that visitors leave feeling full and satisfied, ready to take on the day in Gatlinburg.
While the Log Cabin Pancake House may not have the same historical significance as the Pancake Pantry, it has its own unique charm and a menu that caters to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for pancakes, French toast, or a hearty breakfast plate, the Log Cabin Pancake House is a reliable choice that has stood the test of time in Gatlinburg’s competitive breakfast scene.
For a breakfast experience that feels like a warm hug from home, Trish’s Mountain Diner is an excellent choice. Located on the outskirts of Gatlinburg, this diner offers a serene escape from the bustling downtown area, with its charming log cabin-like appearance and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. The diner is renowned for its simple yet delicious breakfast basics, including hearty breakfast platters, biscuits, cheese grits, and oatmeal.
What sets Trish’s apart is its genuine Southern hospitality; the staff, often addressing patrons with affectionate terms like “honey” or “sweetie,” make every visitor feel right at home.
The portions at Trish’s Mountain Diner are generous, ensuring you leave feeling full and satisfied. The diner also offers unlimited refills on coffee, tea, and soft drinks, adding to the value and comfort of your meal. With its home-cooked style and friendly service, Trish’s Mountain Diner is a hidden gem that provides a unique and welcoming breakfast experience in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is another standout in Gatlinburg’s breakfast scene, offering a unique and memorable dining experience. Located on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, just a short drive from Gatlinburg, this restaurant is themed around the life and times of Davy Crockett, adding a fun and historical twist to your breakfast. The menu is filled with creative and hearty options, including their famous buckwheat pancakes, which are a must-try for any breakfast enthusiast.
The atmosphere at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is rustic and inviting, with decor that reflects the pioneer spirit of the Smoky Mountains. The service is friendly and attentive, and the portions are large enough to keep you energized for a day of exploring. Whether you’re in the mood for pancakes, omelets, or a full breakfast plate, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp provides a unique and satisfying start to your day.
The Little House of Pancakes may not have a dedicated gluten-free menu, but it does offer several options that can cater to various dietary needs. Although none of the menu items are specifically labeled as gluten-free or vegan, the restaurant provides a range of vegetarian options that can be adapted to suit different diets. For example, you can enjoy freshly made omelets with your choice of ingredients, served alongside Southern-style grits, a biscuit, and country potatoes.
Another great choice is the veggie plate, which lets you pick from 12 different vegetarian options, such as fried okra, pinto beans, and coleslaw. This makes it a versatile option for those with dietary restrictions.
It’s important to note that while the Little House of Pancakes does not offer gluten-free pancakes or specific gluten-free preparations, the staff is approachable and friendly, which can help in customizing your meal to some extent. However, if you have severe gluten intolerance or celiac disease, it might be better to consider other restaurants with more robust gluten-free offerings.
Tennessee Jed’s, while not widely recognized for its gluten-free options, is another restaurant in the Gatlinburg area that can accommodate special dietary needs to some extent. Although there isn’t extensive information available about their gluten-free menu, Tennessee Jed’s is known for its flexible and accommodating service.
The restaurant often caters to various dietary requests, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, by allowing patrons to customize their meals.
If you’re looking for gluten-free options, it’s recommended to inform the staff of your dietary needs upon arrival. Tennessee Jed’s dedication to customer satisfaction and their willingness to adapt menu items make it a viable choice for those with special dietary requirements. However, for a more reliable gluten-free experience, it may be better to choose restaurants that explicitly offer gluten-free menus and preparations.
Gatlinburg boasts a diverse and delicious breakfast scene that caters to all tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re craving classic pancakes at the Pancake Pantry or Log Cabin Pancake House, or seeking a more unique dining experience at Trish’s Mountain Diner or Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, there’s truly something for everyone.
For those with special dietary needs, options like the Little House of Pancakes offer adaptable and satisfying meals to ensure you start your day on the right note. Keep in mind that planning ahead, especially during peak times, can help you avoid long waits. Visiting these spots early is a great way to enjoy your breakfast without hassle.
Begin your day in Gatlinburg with a full stomach, a smile, and the energy to explore this beautiful Smoky Mountain town to its fullest.
The most popular breakfast items at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp include Griddle Cakes, Fried Cinnamon Roll, Pot Roast Benedict, Black Bear Camp Skillet, Biscuits and Gravy, and Crockett’s Thick French Toast. Other favorites are the Cathead Stackers and the Crockett’s Mountain Omelet.
Yes, there are pet-friendly breakfast restaurants in Gatlinburg. Tennessee Jed’s offers pet-friendly outdoor tables and serves a variety of breakfast and lunch options.
To avoid long wait times at popular breakfast spots in Gatlinburg, arrive early, especially before 11 am. For places like Pancake Pantry, consider visiting on weekdays instead of weekends when it is less busy. Arriving early ensures the line moves swiftly and reduces waiting time outside.
Yes, several breakfast restaurants in Gatlinburg offer breakfast buffets. For example, Reagan’s House of Pancakes, Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, and the Vista Grill at The Park Vista hotel all provide breakfast buffet options.
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