If your idea of a perfect day includes a fresh, juicy steak and you happen to be in Gatlinburg, this mountain town might be known for its small area and natural beauty, but when it comes to dining, especially steaks, it can give tough competition to Texas. You can pick a rustic place in the middle of the woods where the steak looks as good as the views, or a fine dining room where chefs prepare the best cuts for you. Gatlinburg has both, and the list below covers where to find the best steaks in town.
Quick facts
| Areas to know | Outside Gatlinburg, Downtown Gatlinburg, East Gatlinburg |
|---|---|
| Money | USD; typical daily budget about US$120 per person |
| Most comfortable months | June, July, September, October |
Downtown Gatlinburg centers on Anakeesta, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Ober Gatlinburg and Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. A typical stay is 3 to 7 days, and the usual budget is about US$120 per person per day.
The Peddler Steakhouse
With No. 1 ranking, we would like to start with The Peddler Steakhouse, one of the most popular dining spots in Gatlinburg. They serve some of the best steaks in town, along with the beautiful views of the Pigeon River and warm ambience. We would recommend you try prime Rib on the menu, which melts in the mouth and has a juicy flavor to it. All the steaks here are served with extra sides and delicious sauces.
The Greenbrier Restaurant
Giving tough competition to The Peddler, The Greenbrier Restaurant is already close to taking the spot of serving the best steak in Gatlinburg. When in reality, both are equally good when it comes to delivering quality. Their bone-in rib-eye steak charts the menu in terms of popularity, and the reason is its dry-aged Iowa beef seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. Both food and service at The Greenbrier are great, and it's one of the best go-to answers to the “Where to eat in Gatlinburg?” question.
For a more upscale experience, visit Cherokee Grill, which is known as one of the most high-end steakhouses in Gatlinburg. Apart from delicious steaks, they also serve a wide range of seafood and rotisserie-style staples, ensuring a memorable Southern experience. The ambience is modern and chill, with friendly staff making sure each guest is served properly. Their prosperity steak is the one most people order. It features a ten-ounce sirloin prepared with pepper, olive oil, garlic, and butter. It's soft and juicy.
Located in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Alamo is also a great steakhouse that deserves recognition. Visitors should try filet strip, rib-eye steak, and T-bone, which are popular among the menu options. With its amazing location and large vacant area around the property, visitors should not worry about parking. And note that the reservations can only be made for two people.
Opened in 2020, Burg Steakhouse is a restaurant with an old rustic vibe serving a classic American menu. Their steaks are the standout, which are served with delicious hot side dishes and salad. The ambience is super chill, and the interior is a bit New Orleans style with white cloth covering the tables. We would suggest you try their 14 oz prime Rib, which is one of their most demanded menu option.
This eatery is known as the sister of The Peddlers Steakhouse. Well, to be less dramatic, they are owned by the same company. Located close to the entrance gate of Smoky Mountain National Park, the Park Grill offers its guests a full salad bar and a wide range of menu items, including steaks. Their hickory-grilled rib-eye and filet mignon are both standouts, so don’t forget to check them out.
Gaucho Urbano Brazilian Steakhouse
Gaucho Urbano Brazilian Steakhouse is an authentic Brazilian eatery serving an all-you-can-eat menu and a separate salad bar. They are located in Pigeon Forge and are also known for their high-quality steaks, offering premium grilled meat, seasonal offerings, and classic favorites. Guest can pair their meals with a wide range of cocktails, beers, and wines. The ambience is classy, and the large windows give direct mountain views, making the dining experience more memorable. Go for the Gaucho Experience from this restaurant, where guests can get access to all 16 cuts of meat, the chef's hot table, and the harvest table.
Located in a busy area of downtown Gatlinburg, Texas Roadhouse is an eatery known for its generous servings, refreshing drinks, and excellent steaks. The setting is casual and lovely, perfect for a friend's or family's hangout, and the staff is attentive and helpful. From the variety of menu options, visitors should try their Bone-in Ribeye Steak, which is prepared fresh and served sizzling hot.