1. Elvira’s Cafe
Although you have to travel a little ways to get there from the main area of Pigeon Forge, Elvira’s Cafe is a true hidden gem! If you happen to eat here for breakfast, you’ll find fixings like hot cakes, biscuits, eggs to order, country ham, crepes, and more. There’s no better way to start the day than a full meal from Elvira’s! If you happen to be there for lunch, the cafe sandwiches are some of the best you’ll find in the area. Try the unique flavor of their fried green tomato BLT, or get something light, like a roasted turkey or veggies crepe! No matter what you decide to try at this eatery, you’ll find one of your new favorite restaurants!
2. Boss Hogg’s BBQ Shack
Boss Hogg’s BBQ Shack is absolutely one of the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge off the beaten path. There’s no better place to go when you find yourself craving southern barbecue. All of their meats have been slowly smoked for hours to get that signature flavor. They have pulled pork, brisket, chicken, and sausage. Of course, the sides are some of the best parts of the meal, and you can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes and gravy, potato salad, baked beans, green beans, and coleslaw. Plus, you can get family packs and take Boss Hogg’s on your picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
3. Lil Black Bear Cafe
A true hidden gem locals will tell you to try is Lil Black Bear Cafe. This family owned and operated joint is almost hiding in plain sight on Veterans Boulevard! If you need a great start to the day, their breakfast sandwiches will give you the energy you need. When you’re on the hunt for a great place for lunch, their restaurant has patty melts, salads, reubens, and much more! You can’t go wrong with Lil Black Bear Cafe!
4. Junction 35
Another place you will want to try that’s not on the popular trail is Junction 35. Located at The Mountain Mile, this restaurant isn’t just an eatery; it’s also a distillery! You can enjoy delicious cocktails made with spirits from the distillery next door, and they will pair perfectly with just about anything on the menu. You can’t go wrong with brisket or baby back ribs when you’re in the mood for barbecue. When you’re craving a juicy burger, find the one that has all the toppings you want and pair it with crispy fries or another side of your choice. Junction 35 also has other sandwiches, artisan pastas, seafood, and chicken entrees.
5. El Ranchero Loco
When you find yourself craving chips and queso, El Rancho Loco is the best restaurant in Pigeon Forge to satisfy that craving! Tucked away on Teaster Lane, this Mexican restaurant serves traditional cuisine, like tamales and molcajete rancheros. Of course, they also have all the Tex Mex options as well, from fajitas to quesadillas to tacos. You’ll find a margarita in every flavor, as well as several other popular cocktails or beers that will pair perfectly with your food. This is a great option when you’re on the hunt for places to eat off the beaten path!
Now you know about some of the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge that are off the beaten path. You may just find your new favorite place to eat when you’re in town! Are you ready to come back and try these fantastic restaurants? Start planning your next trip by booking one of our Pigeon Forge hotel rooms now!
