Title: A Foodie’s Paradise: Discover the Best Places for Brunch in the Smoky Mountains
Introduction:
Nestled on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the US, is a wonderland not only for nature enthusiasts, but also food lovers. If you’re planning a trip to this picturesque region, be sure to indulge in one of the area’s most celebrated mealtime traditions – brunch. From fluffy pancakes to hearty biscuits and gravy, the Smokies promise a brunch experience like no other. This blog post offers a guide to the best places for brunch in the Smoky Mountains.
1. Crockett’s 1875 Breakfast Camp, Gatlinburg
Located in Gatlinburg and renowned for its unique ambiance, Crockett’s 1875 Breakfast Camp is a must-visit brunch spot in the Smoky Mountains. Their menu takes you on a culinary journey back to the 19th century, offering hearty portions of traditional southern comfort food such as cathead biscuits, griddle cakes, and country ham. The restaurant’s decor, featuring antique iron skillets and old photographs, pays tribute to its namesake – David C. “Crockett” Maples, pioneer and war hero.
2. Log Cabin Pancake House, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg
Another fantastic brunch spot is the Log Cabin Pancake House. Operating in the Smokies since 1979, this family-owned restaurant specializes in pancakes but also offers a great selection of Belgian waffles, crepes, and omelettes. Their peach crisp, a local favorite, is a perfect delight to satisfy your sweet tooth.
3. The Wild Plum Tea Room, Gatlinburg
If you are craving a brunch with a twist, head to The Wild Plum Tea Room in Gatlinburg. Set in the quaint and serene Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, this tea room serves a rotating menu of fresh, seasonal fare. The Wild Plum chicken salad, lobster pie, and their namesake Wild Plum Muffins are all must-tries, as well as their extensive selection of loose leaf teas.
4. Pancake Pantry, Gatlinburg
Believed to be Tennessee’s first pancake house when it opened in 1960, Pancake Pantry has been serving up pancake perfection for over six decades. Made from scratch, there is a pancake for everyone here, from the all-world favorite traditional buttermilk to extravagant Swiss chocolate chip concoctions.
5. The Park Grill, Gatlinburg
Only a stone’s throw away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Park Grill offers a Smoky Mountain dining experience like no other. Their brunch menu is a mix of comfort food like cornbread and apple fritters combined with innovative dishes such as rainbow trout and buffalo chili.
6. Sawyer’s Farmhouse Breakfast, Pigeon Forge
Sawyer’s Farmhouse incorporates a playful approach to brunch with their famous Mickey Mouse or Elsa pancakes, specially designed for children, making it a favorite among families. Their waffles, crepes, and different egg dishes are also delightful picks for a memorable brunch.
7. The Old Mill Restaurant, Pigeon Forge
Located in Pigeon Forge, The Old Mill Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone interested in the area’s rich history. Grains for the pancakes, grits, and biscuits are ground just next door at The Old Mill, and the generous portions of classic Southern staples like country ham, hash brown casserole, and pecan pie are unbeatable.
Conclusion:
Brunch isn’t just a meal in the Great Smoky Mountains—it’s an experience. Whether you adore classic comfort food or desire unique culinary offerings, the Smokies provide a cornucopia of memorable brunch options. As you plan your visit to this breathtaking region, be sure to take time to sit down and enjoy a leisurely brunch at one (or more) of the eateries mentioned above. Each offers a distinct taste of mountain charm that you’re sure to remember for a long time.
So, pack your appetite and prepare your palate for an exceptional brunch across the Smoky Mountains. It will complete your trip with a gastronomic adventure that you’ll crave long after you’ve left the mountains.
And remember, no matter how many flavors you sample, the taste and hospitality found in the Smoky Mountains will make you feel instantly at home and keep calling you back for more. Happy brunching!