If you're planning a Thanksgiving trip to the Smokies and prefer to leave the cooking to the experts, you're in luck! Many fantastic restaurants in the area open their doors to offer delicious Thanksgiving meals, ensuring you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable holiday feast. Here’s are some of the top Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg restaurants open for Thanksgiving this year:
1. Calhoun’s

Calhoun’s is one of the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg restaurants open for Thanksgiving, with a location in both towns. This restaurant is popular for its delicious American comfort food and award-winning BBQ. You can expect a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for a family gathering as you celebrate Thanksgiving together!
2. Pizza Rio
Another one of the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg restaurants open for Thanksgiving is Pizza Rio. You can dine at this restaurant in either town for a memorable, one-of-a-kind feast. Pizza Rio offers a continuous Brazilian-style dining experience, where varieties of pizzas are brought around to each table. You can enjoy as many slices as you like for a hearty Thanksgiving meal!
3. Crockett’s Breakfast Camp

If you’re looking for a great way to start your holiday, head to Crockett’s Breakfast Camp. This is one of the Gatlinburg restaurants open for Thanksgiving that serves some of the best breakfast in Gatlinburg. The Appalachian-inspired menu includes everything from sweet cinnamon rolls to savory scrambles to extra thick griddle cakes and more!
4. Smith & Son Corner Kitchen
Smith & Son Corner Kitchen is also open for Thanksgiving. This Gatlinburg restaurant serves up Smoky Mountain flavors with a side of Southern hospitality. It’s located right on the main Parkway, making it a convenient spot to pause and enjoy a meal together during your busy day! The menu includes Southern comfort food and American classics, ranging from burgers to slow-cooked ribs to country fried chicken and more.
5. No Way Jose’s Cantina

Visit No Way Jose’s Cantina in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg this Thanksgiving for a Mexican feast! Enjoy fresh, authentic cuisine in a fun atmosphere with your family and friends. This restaurant serves traditional favorites and unique twists on classics, with varieties of enchiladas, quesadillas, burritos, fajitas, and other flavorful dishes!
6. JT Hannah’s
J.T. Hannah’s is located directly on the Pigeon Forge Parkway and is known for an extensive menu of all-American dishes, including steaks, ribs, and burgers. This Pigeon Forge restaurant is open for Thanksgiving, allowing you to enjoy a tasty meal in a casual, family-friendly environment. There are delicious and affordable options for every member of the family!
7. Gaucho Urbano Brazilian Steakhouse

Do you want to enjoy a lot of good food this Thanksgiving? Gaucho Urbano is one of the most unique Pigeon Forge restaurants open for Thanksgiving. This Brazilian steakhouse offers a modern yet authentic churrasco dining experience with masterfully roasted meats and other gourmet offerings. Enjoy an endless flow of skewered cuts of meat brought right to your table as well as all-you-can eat sides and sweet desserts!
8. Chesapeake’s
If you love seafood, one of the best Gatlinburg restaurants open for Thanksgiving is Chesapeake’s. This restaurant offers a refined dining experience with fresh, quality seafood in the heart of the Smokies. You can expect an elevated dining experience in a warm, mountain setting on the river. Your family will love this new take on a Thanksgiving meal!
9. Smoky Mountain Brewery

Combining a casual pub atmosphere with delicious food and craft beers, Smoky Mountain Brewery is a great option for a relaxed Thanksgiving meal. They have both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg restaurants open for Thanksgiving, providing tasty options no matter where you find yourself this holiday. Favorites on the menu include specialty pizzas, burgers, wings, steaks, and more!
10. Five Oaks Farm Kitchen
Located just outside of Pigeon Forge, Five Oaks Farm Kitchen is one of the best restaurants open for Thanksgiving. This Southern restaurant offers tasty food and plenty of hospitality to make you feel right at home! On Thanksgiving, you can enjoy a family feast with all your holiday favorites, such as turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and other fixin’s.
Where to Stay This Thanksgiving in the Smokies
These are some of the best Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg restaurants open for Thanksgiving! If you’d rather cook your own Thanksgiving meal during your vacation, you can take advantage of the full-size kitchens in our Smoky Mountain cabin rentals! These cabins have plenty of room for your whole family, fantastic amenities, and all the comforts of home for a special holiday with loved ones. Find out why you’ll love spending your Thanksgiving at our Smoky Mountain cabins and start planning your stay today!













