If you're a barbecue lover visiting Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, you're in for a treat. These towns are home to some of the best barbecue restaurants in the region, each with its unique flavor and style. We had BBQ twice even though we were there just 6 days. But before we delve into the mouthwatering details of where to eat, let's first take a look at the history of barbecue in Eastern Tennessee.
BBQ History in Eastern Tennessee
Barbecue in Eastern Tennessee is deeply rooted in the region's history. Many early settlers in the area were of Scotch-Irish descent, and they brought with them a tradition of slow-cooking meats over an open flame. Over time, this method of cooking meat became known as barbecue.
The region's mountainous terrain and abundant natural resources also played a role in the development of barbecue in Eastern Tennessee. The mountains provided a source of hardwoods, which were used to smoke and flavor meats. The abundance of hogs in the region also made pork the meat of choice for many barbecue enthusiasts.
Over time, different regions of Eastern Tennessee developed their unique barbecue styles, each with its sauce and flavor profile. In Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, you'll find a mix of traditional styles and modern interpretations of classic barbecue.
Now that we've covered the history let's dive into where to eat. Keep in mind you can order to go online from most of these restaurants.
The Locally owned Hungry Bear BBQ is a must-visit spot for barbecue enthusiasts in Gatlinburg. The restaurant offers a range of meats, including pulled pork, brisket, chicken, and ribs, all smoked in-house over hickory and cherry wood. The sauces are all made in-house and pair perfectly with the smoky, tender meats. Their smoked chicken wings are also a standout dish.
Smoky Mountain Brewery is known for its award-winning craft beer, but their barbecue is also worth a try. Their meats are slow-cooked over hickory wood and come with a choice of sauce, including a sweet and tangy Memphis-style sauce and a spicier Carolina-style sauce. Their pulled pork sandwich is a crowd-pleaser, and their barbecue nachos are a perfect shareable appetizer. SMB is the oldest craft brewery in East Tennessee. Check out their live music calendar.
Delauder's Smoky Mountain BBQ is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving up delicious barbecue since 2008. Their meats are slow-cooked over hickory wood and served with a range of homemade sauces, including a spicy mustard sauce and a tangy vinegar-based sauce. Their brisket is a standout dish, but their pulled pork and ribs are also not to be missed.
Corky's Ribs & BBQ is a chain restaurant that originated in Memphis, but their Pigeon Forge location is still worth a visit. Their barbecue is slow-cooked over hickory wood, and they offer a range of meats, including pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. Their sauces are all made in-house, and their dry-rubbed ribs are a standout dish.
Calhoun's BBQ is a staple in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area and has been serving up barbecue since 1983. Their meats are slow-cooked over hickory wood and served with a choice of sauce, including a tangy tomato-based sauce and a spicy mustard sauce. Their baby back ribs are a crowd-pleaser, and their smoked turkey is a unique and flavorful option.
Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que is another longstanding barbecue restaurant in Gatlinburg and has been serving up slow-cooked meats since 1991. Their meats are cooked over hickory wood and served with a range of homemade sauces. Sides include coleslaw, deep-fried corn, French fries, green beans, collard greens, potato salad, mac & cheese, or BBQ beans.
No matter which BBQ joint you choose, you're sure to get a taste of East Tennessee's rich BBQ tradition. So next time you're in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, be sure to stop by one of these restaurants and try some slow-cooked, smoky goodness.