The Great Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee are renowned for their natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delectable local cuisine. From classic Tennessee barbecue to fresh mountain trout, the region’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in its Southern Appalachian roots, offering a diverse range of dishes that showcase the unique flavors and traditions of the area.
Classic Smoky Mountain Dishes
- Tennessee BBQ: The Smoky Mountains are famous for their mouthwatering pork barbecue. Visit Delauder’s BBQ in Gatlinburg for a taste of this local specialty.
- Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes: The Pancake Pantry in Gatlinburg has been serving up fluffy, made-from-scratch pancakes since 1960, offering 23 different varieties to choose from.
- Corn Chowder: The Old Mill Restaurant in Pigeon Forge is known for its rich and creamy corn chowder, served with a side of delicious corn fritters.
- Fresh Mountain Trout: The Smoky Mountains are home to excellent trout fishing, and local restaurants like the Smoky Mountain Trout House and the Homecraft Restaurant in Maggie Valley offer delicious trout dishes.
- Cherokee Fry Bread: This traditional Cherokee dish is a local favorite, often served with a variety of savory or sweet toppings.
Best BBQ in the Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are renowned for their exceptional barbecue, and there are several local establishments that stand out for their mouthwatering offerings:
- Delauder’s BBQ: Located in Gatlinburg, this small BBQ joint serves up classic Tennessee-style barbecue in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que: With multiple locations throughout the Smoky Mountains, Bennett’s offers a wide range of barbecue options and a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
Most Popular Local Food
While the Smoky Mountains are known for their diverse culinary offerings, there are a few local favorites that stand out:
- BBQ: Pork barbecue is a staple in the Smoky Mountains, with many local restaurants serving up their own unique versions of this classic dish.
- Fresh Trout: The region’s abundant trout fishing makes fresh trout a popular menu item in many local restaurants, often served grilled, fried, or smoked.
- Cherokee Fry Bread: This traditional Cherokee dish is a beloved local favorite, often served with a variety of savory or sweet toppings.
Additional Resources
For those looking to explore the Smoky Mountain food scene further, there are several resources available:
- Smoky Mountain Foods: This online store offers a range of gourmet products, including meats, seafood, and snacks, all sourced from the Smoky Mountain region.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: While the park itself offers limited food and beverage services, the surrounding communities have a wide range of accommodations and dining options to explore.
By delving into the rich culinary traditions of the Smoky Mountains, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the region’s unique cultural heritage and savor the flavors that make this area so special.
References
- Smoky Mountain Faith, Food & Fun – YouTube
- Eating & Sleeping – Great Smoky Mountains National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- Tempt Your Tastebuds with These 7 Classic Smoky Mountain Dishes – Smokies Adventure
- Smokey Mountain Foods: Home
- Restaurants near Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tripadvisor