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Posted by Jon Hoffman in Places to Eat
Some of our guests like to leave their alarm off and snuggle deeper into the pillows in their Wears Valley, TN cabin rental. Others want to rise early and get a tasty start on their adventures for the day. Here are some suggestions for that most important first meal of the day, with menus and operating hours provided.
The most venerated location requires the earliest arrival, since in high season the lines extend down the street. The Pancake Pantry is a downtown Gatlinburg tradition, one of those "gotta go" places to check off your list. A broad menu of options for breakfast awaits. The first pancake restaurant in Tennessee, they have been serving up meals since 1960, and in its current location since 1975. Not really a place for a quiet meal here (unless it's off season), since the restaurant does a high customer volume (though not rushed). They also serve lunch with good sandwiches, burgers, soups and salads. Cash only, so be prepared.
7 am-4 pm June-October, 7 am-3 pm November-May, 7 days
In Pigeon Forge, consider Log Cabin Pancake House at the north end of the city, just before leaving Pigeon Forge toward Gatlinburg. This family breakfast diner is another in-season busy location. Hearty Southern breakfast choices like ham, biscuits and gravy are offered, in addition to sweet options. Known for country cooking, think good food and large portions: you will not be left wanting more here. Friendly service, and also a simple country lunch buffet complements their breakfast. There is a second location in Gatlinburg, an option to Pancake Pantry when it is too crowded.
7 am-2 pm, 7 days
Frank Allen's Market and Grill in Sevierville is a local hangout diner that is also a gas station. Clean and basic, grab a stool at the counter and enjoy a fresh meal from the griddle. Sausage and egg biscuit? Yum. If you need local endorsement, Dolly Parton really likes to eat here too. If you slept into lunchtime, Frank Allen's is also known for pretty great burgers too: voted best burgers in the area for several years straight.
9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, 10 am-4 pm Sun, 7 days
My few comments regarding these establishments: they are all straightforward basic eats, certainly not gourmet (unless you consider crepes highbrow). All are family-owned, with food made-to-order. If you want chain restaurant pricing and quality, go to the chains: there are plenty in the area. I think it's unfair to compare family restaurants to chain establishments, especially regarding service. If pricing is a concern, check the menu prior to visiting. Please tip generously for friendly, efficient service. Servers make the majority of their income from tips, just like in your hometown.
So don't eat at dining places you can find at home while on vacation. Experience our local Southern cooking: it's a treat, even for us locals. Bon appetit...y'all!
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