Without question, Pigeon Forge and the surrounding area is one of the most popular destinations for families. With dozens of attractions and activities, the sky's the limit to your options. However, one of the best ways to enjoy family time is by eating out for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Fortunately, with our breakdown of the best family restaurants in Pigeon Forge, that perfect meal is within your grasp.
So Many Restaurants, So Little Time
There are so many family-friendly restaurants in Pigeon Forge that it's challenging to narrow your choices even when staying in town for a week. That's why we've compiled our list of favorites designed to match any mood, ensuring nothing less than 100% satisfaction while out with your loved ones.
Mel's Diner
From 7am to Midnight, Mel's Diner is one of the best options for feeding the whole family without breaking the wallet. This diner brings back 1950s style with the corresponding foods to create a unique experience for locals and visitors alike.
Arguably, one of the best features of eating here is that breakfast is served all day, letting you satisfy your appetite for eggs, bacon, and pancakes. However, if you're in the mood for something different, there are plenty of burgers and sandwiches to enjoy. The kids will love Mel's mac and cheese.
Make sure to save room for dessert, thanks to several options like:
- Cobbler
- Milkshake
- Banana Split
- Strawberry Shortcake
- and More!
Paula Deen's Family Kitchen
Are you in love with Southern food? Paula Deen's Family Kitchen is the perfect solution. Stopping by this family restaurant means hearty portions for all to share. In addition, guests will enjoy unmatched flavor for the ideal experience. Some options to look forward to include but aren't limited to:
- Creamy Hash Brown Casserole
- Apple Cinnamon French Toast
- Fried Chicken
- Meatloaf
- Pork Chops
- and More!
For downhome eating, you can't go wrong with this popular dining option while on vacation in Pigeon Forge.
Mellow Mushroom
When you're hungry for more than just food, head to Mellow Mushroom. With lava lamps, colorful artwork, and more, everyone in your group will enjoy a feast for the eyes. However, that doesn't mean the food is lacking in any way.
Guests will enjoy yummy options, from the stone-baked pizzas to sandwiches, wings, and calzones. No matter what you're craving, you'll find something tasty to satisfy your tummy before playing more in Pigeon Forge and Sevierville.
Sunliner Diner
Diners are among the best options, especially if you're a breakfast lover. Sunliner Diner is no exception, thanks to breakfast all day plus lunch and dinner. When not dining on a yummy breakfast, you'll go all in on their delicious hand-spun milkshakes, ensuring every bite is a treat.
Dolly Parton's Stampede
Dolly Parton's Stampede is the best choice for those who love entertainment with their meal. During the experience, you'll enjoy a four-course feast while watching horses, trick riders, aerial performers, singing, and dancing, making it one of the best places to eat in Pigeon Forge.
The authentic Southern meal starts with a creamy vegetable soup followed by whole rotisserie chicken, hickory smoked barbecue pork loin, and buttery corn on the cob. Make sure to save room for a hot flaky apple turnover for dessert!
Bonus tip: If you arrive early, the kids can enjoy the horse walk where guests meet and take pictures with the horses.
Bennet's Pit Bar-B-Que
One option that's a guaranteed hit for the family is Bennet's Pit Bar-B-Que. Step inside this barbecue joint and feel your mouth water at all the options. During the visit, you can choose between ribs, pulled pork, and other smoked meats. In addition, Bennet's boasts a wide selection of sides, such as:
- Baked Beans
- Mac and Cheese
- Corn on the Cob
- and More!
Alamo Steakhouse
When you want to step up the restaurant game without going too fancy, the Alamo Steakhouse has plenty to offer everyone. With a Texas-style approach, everyone in your family will enjoy options from hand cut steaks to homemade soups.
In addition, there is a kid's menu with popular favorites like chicken tenders and grilled cheese, ensuring even the little ones enjoy every bite during your visit. Remember to save room for dessert before heading to another Pigeon Forge adventure.
Big Daddy's Pizzeria
We can't cover all the best options without talking about pizza. Pizza is a universal love for families, and Big Daddy's Pizzeria is determined to ensure everyone loves every bite of their food.
This pizzeria sets itself apart from the others by using fresh ingredients and handmade dough, followed by cooking the pizzas in a wood-fired brick oven. You'll practically melt at the first bite.
In addition, the kids will remain entertained when not eating, thanks to Big Daddy's Hollywood Arcade, which has a selection of arcade and video games.
Hard Rock Café
Combine music and excellent food in one perfect experience by swinging by the Hard Rock Café. There is a robust kid's menu for the little ones while the adults can enjoy plenty of delicious food and yummy drinks. Without exception, everyone will enjoy good vibes, good food, and excellent souvenir options, ensuring a can't-miss experience.
Inside Your Cabin
When you don't feel like going out because you played too hard already, nothing beats a home-cooked meal in our Pigeon Forge cabin rentals. Many of our rentals offer a fully equipped kitchen with plenty of space, letting you bake, cook, and eat to your heart's content in the dining area.
In addition to the kitchen, our rentals boast a wide selection of amenities to keep you relaxed and having fun, such as:
- Fire Pit
- Jetted Tub
- Game Room
- and More!
Take your relaxation to new heights in our cabins with a hot tub or enjoy a classic movie night after dinner in our theater room cabins. Between our picks for the best family restaurants in Pigeon Forge and our cabins, you'll love every part of your Pigeon Forge vacation.