BBQ in the Smoky Mountains
Best Time to Visit for BBQ Lovers
While BBQ joints in the Smoky Mountains serve up mouthwatering meals year-round, the best time to visit depends on your preferences:
Spring & Fall: Mild temperatures make outdoor seating enjoyable, and the scenery adds to the experience.
Summer: Expect larger crowds, especially in peak tourist months (June-August). Be prepared for long waits at popular spots.
Winter: Some restaurants may have reduced hours, but the upside is fewer crowds and a more relaxed dining experience.
Top BBQ Joints You Can’t Miss
1. Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que (Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg)
What to Try: Hickory-smoked ribs, burnt ends, pulled pork
Price Range: $12-$25 per person
Why Go? Known for slow-smoked meats and house-made sauces, this is a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM (hours may vary by season)
Parking: Free parking available at both locations
2. Boss Hogg’s BBQ Shack (Pigeon Forge)
What to Try: Brisket, pulled chicken, and BBQ nachos
Price Range: $10-$20 per person
Why Go? A family-run joint offering tender, flavorful meats with generous portions.
Hours: 11 AM - 8 PM (Closed Sundays)
Parking: On-site parking available
3. Smoky Mountain Brewery & Restaurant (Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge)
What to Try: BBQ wings, smoked brisket, and local craft beer
Price Range: $12-$30 per person
Why Go? A great mix of barbecue and locally brewed beer, perfect for those who want a relaxed dining experience.
Hours: 11 AM - Midnight
Parking: Public and paid parking nearby
4. Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant (Pigeon Forge)
What to Try: Smoked meatloaf, baby back ribs, and pulled pork platter
Price Range: $15-$35 per person
Why Go? Southern hospitality meets incredible flavors in this classic Tennessee eatery.
Hours: 7 AM - 10 PM
Parking: Free parking available
5. Delauder’s BBQ (Gatlinburg)
What to Try: Smoked sausage, pork belly burnt ends, and the Hillbilly Nachos
Price Range: $10-$25 per person
Why Go? A hidden gem with some of the best BBQ in Gatlinburg, known for its smoky, tender meats.
Hours: 11 AM - 6 PM (Closed Sundays & Mondays)
Parking: Limited; arrive early or carpool
Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting BBQ Spots
Expect to Wait: Some BBQ joints, especially the popular ones, can have wait times of 30 minutes to an hour during peak hours.
Go Early or Late: Arriving before noon or after 7 PM can help avoid peak crowds.
Bring Cash: Some smaller BBQ joints may have cash-only policies.
Dress Comfortably: Many BBQ places have casual dining setups, sometimes with outdoor seating.
Estimated Budget for a BBQ Road Trip
Meals: $10-$35 per person per meal
Gas: $30-$80 (depending on your starting location)
Parking: Free or minimal fees ($5-$10 in some areas)
Total per Day: $50-$100 per person (including food, transportation, and extras)
Where to Stay: Smith Creek Resort
For those looking to make a weekend out of their BBQ tour, Smith Creek Resort offers the perfect stay. Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, it provides luxury accommodations with easy access to the best BBQ joints in the area.
Why Choose Smith Creek Resort?
Spacious Cabins: Fully furnished with flat-screen LED TVs in every room
Premium Amenities: Private hot tubs, game rooms, indoor pools
High-Speed Wi-Fi: Stay connected while enjoying your getaway
Proximity to Attractions: Just a short drive from Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and top dining spots
Parking: Free on-site parking available
Additional Fees: Late check-out available for an additional fee
Final Thoughts
A BBQ adventure through the Smoky Mountains is a must for any food lover. Whether you’re craving slow-smoked brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, or Tennessee-style pulled pork, these BBQ joints deliver some of the best flavors in the region. Pair your trip with a comfortable stay at Smith Creek Resort for a complete Smoky Mountain experience filled with good food, scenic views, and relaxation.
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