Pigeon Forge, TN, is a popular destination known for its stunning mountain views, exciting attractions, hiking trails, and family-friendly atmosphere. While many visitors flock to the well-known eateries, some of the best culinary experiences are found off the beaten path. Keep reading to discover the top hidden gem restaurants in Pigeon Forge that promise delicious food and a memorable dining experience away from the crowds!
1. Boss Hogg’s BBQ Shack
One of the best hidden gem restaurants in Pigeon Forge is Boss Hogg’s BBQ Shack. This restaurant serves some of the best BBQ in Pigeon Forge, and it’s a favorite among the locals! It can be found off the beaten path on Wears Valley Road. You can enjoy a delicious meal with traditional smoked BBQ meats and sides. Favorites include the pulled pork, beef brisket, pork ribs, and half chickens. Everything is rubbed or sauced by hand and smoked onsite, delivering a juicy, hometown flavor that you’re sure to love!
2. Blue Moose Burgers & Wings
Blue Moose Burgers & Wings is another one of the hidden gem restaurants in Pigeon Forge that you won’t want to miss! This restaurant serves American food in a laidback sports bar atmosphere. As the name suggests, they are most known for their unique burgers and tasty chicken wings. The menu also includes sandwiches, wraps, salads, and platters. Make sure you save room for dessert so you can enjoy the iconic Blue Velvet Dream Cake or Peanut Butter Fudge Pie. These desserts are big enough for the whole family to share!
3. Cookie Dough Monster
You won’t want to miss your chance to dine at Cookie Dough Monster! While the name suggests dessert, this is also one of the best hidden gem restaurants in Pigeon Forge for lunch and dinner. It has even been voted one of the top 10 restaurants in town! This restaurant is known for using high-quality ingredients and culinary creativity to make delicious burgers, gourmet grilled cheeses, chicken sandwiches, and more. For dessert, you can choose from a variety of thick milkshakes in unique flavors, floats, waffle ice cream sandwiches, and, of course, their famous cookie dough bites!
4. Little Tokyo
If you get a craving for Japanese cuisine during your Smoky Mountain vacation, you’re in luck! Little Tokyo is the top hidden gem restaurant in Pigeon Forge for hibachi and sushi. You can choose to dine at a regular table or sit at the grill to watch a skilled chef prepare your hibachi with theatrical flair! The hibachi menu includes your choice of meat alongside fried rice and vegetables. This restaurant also has a full sushi bar with everything from traditional rolls to local creations!
5. Elvira’s Cafe
Elvira’s Cafe is tucked away off the beaten path on Wears Valley Road. As one of the best hidden gem restaurants in Pigeon Forge, this is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This restaurant specializes in fresh food made right in front of you. For breakfast, Elvira’s Cafe serves all your favorites like biscuits and gravy, omelets, and mouthwatering crepes. Stop by for a hearty lunch or dinner, too! Enjoy a variety of sandwiches, burgers, salads, savory crepes, and Southern entrees, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
More Restaurants in Pigeon Forge to Try
These are some of the best hidden gem restaurants in Pigeon Forge that you’ll want to find! Are you looking for more great places to dine that you won’t find anywhere else? Check out this list of the best local restaurants in Pigeon Forge where the locals love to eat!
