1. Bennett's Pit Bar-be-que
One of the most well-known restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Bennett's Pit Bar-be-que is top-rated for a reason! Their menu of pork, chicken, and beef is hickory smoked for 14 hours and basted in their special sauce for intense flavor in every bite. We recommend starting with their hickory wings and bleu cheese dressing or potato skins topped with hickory smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, and scallions, and you can add pulled pork for even more meaty goodness! Some of their top entrees include the classic pork shoulder, smoked BBQ chicken, and the oh-so-good burnt ends. While the meats are the focus, they definitely don't skimp on the sides! Choose from a loaded baked potato, spicy mac and cheese, coleslaw, baked beans, deep-fried corn, and more!
2. Delauder's BBQ
A hidden gem on the outskirts of Gatlinburg, Delauder's BBQ is a local family restaurant serving up mouthwatering pulled pork, smoked pork belly, brisket, ribs, and more. Their smoked pork belly makes the most incredible twist on a classic BLT sandwich that will make you never want a boring bacon sandwich again! We also recommend trying their Smoky Mountain Nachos with pulled pork, nacho cheese, tomatoes, jalapenos, lettuce, onions, and sour cream. It's delicious! You won't find better service or friendlier staff at this favorite local spot.3. Hungry Bear BBQ
Another local spot you might not know about is Hungry Bear BBQ. Their casual, Southern atmosphere is inviting'" you'll feel right at home! They smoke their own meats and are the perfect lunch spot since they have two convenient Gatlinburg locations. We recommend trying their rib sandwich as well as their delicious smoked sausage, but really, everything on the menu is well worth it!
4. Calhoun's
Of course, we couldn't neglect to mention Calhoun's! This popular downtown Gatlinburg restaurant's mountain lodge atmosphere makes it a unique dining experience, plus the food is out of this world! For example, their bacon-wrapped burnt ends served with Tennessee whiskey barbeque sauce will blow away your tastebuds, and the wet wings tossed in their sweet and spicy thunder road sauce are unbelievably good'" and those are just the starters! From sandwiches and burgers to all of the smoked meats and their famous steak basted with BBQ sauce, there's something for everyone at Calhoun's.5. Smokehouse
If you're planning on exploring Anakeesta, then you have to eat at Smokehouse! Not only is their food delicious, but you can soak in the stunning views from the mountaintop while you enjoy your meal. You can't go wrong with any of their menu items, but the Mountain Mac loaded with smoked pulled pork and their fall-off-the-bone ribs are just a couple of the fan favorites you should try!Since you have a great list of the best BBQ in Gatlinburg, knowing where to eat on your next trip to the Smokies is all taken care of, so the next step is getting ideas of what attractions to visit! Find out what to do in the Smoky Mountains and start making plans to stay with us again soon!