Local reviews Gatlinburg’s first pancake eatery
In 1960, a pair of tourists from Indiana decided to bet their futures on a specialty pancake restaurant in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. I think of June and Jim Gerding as visionaries determined to start a hotcake revolution. When the Pancake Pantry opened, it was Tennessee’s first and only pancake house. And today, the Pancake Pantry still stands out, both for the quality of the menu items, as well as the 1970 Willy Wonka-esque European-style architecture. Pancake Pantry sits adjacent to the Village Shops which carry that European style throughout.
The Pancake Pantry in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It was Tennessee’s first and original pancake house. Today, it serves delicious, huge pancakes as well as a wide variety of other breakfast favorites. The popular restaurant does not take reservations, so it’s best to show up early or you’ll be waiting in line outside the restaurant. However, you will likely find the meal to be worth it.
IN THIS ARTICLE
A review of Pancake Pantry’s cuisine
Happily, I can report that the Pancake Pantry lives up to the billing. Locals and visitors alike love the Pancake Pantry. And they come in hearty, generous portions of five per plate. I once asked a friendly staff member how often she sees a guest finish their plate of five to which she responded: “Most of the time, they give up around the two-and-a-half mark.” The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, closing in the afternoon at either 3 or 4 pm, depending on the time of year. The breakfast menu is robust, with many options for those who don’t want pancakes.
Insider tips, what you should know
I don’t have a lot of insider tips here. Go. Order some pancakes. The one thing I will tell you is that after 60 years, the Pancake Pantry remains incredibly popular and rightfully so. If patrons are not there when the doors open at 7 am, there’s a chance you’re gonna have a long wait. Long lines are par for the course. The Pancake Pantry does not accept reservations or call-ahead seating. It’s first-come, first-served and guests are usually asked to queue up outside while waiting for a table. Visit them online to see the breakfast menu or the lunch menu.
Where do you park for the Pancake Pantry?
Unfortunately, parking can be an issue. Therefore, if you can swing it, try to find a spot along River Road. Or, you can park in the garage by Ripley’s Aquarium.
Top 5 things to order at the Pancake Pantry
Pancake Pantry offers great food no matter what you order, but if you would like some suggestions, try one of these:
1. Wild Blueberry Pancakes
I like my blueberries like I like my women, wild and covered in syrup.
2. Caribbean Pancakes
Bananas, nuts, coconut and powdered sugar are just a great flavor combination. A word of warning, if you try and order this using a bad Jamaican accent, your server is empowered to slap you upside the head with a whole wheat pancake. It’s the law.
3. Any flavor of waffle
Your mileage may vary here but there’s something very satisfying about saying the word “waffle”. I like a dramatic pause before really joyously enunciating the double F like Eddie Murphy in “Shrek”. Also, they taste good and have little square syrup traps. Waffles are great.
4. Parisienne Pancakes
When I was in Paris (adjusts beret), I preferred savory crepes. Ham, Swiss and mushrooms, maybe some egg with salt and pepper. Lovely. The Pancake Pantry’s version of Paris is no less tasty but exceptionally sweet with whole strawberries and whipped cream. Bonus points that when I order these, I get to wax poetic about going to Paris.
5. Western Omelette
As I said above, I’m more of a savory guy and I love good Western omelets. But John, what about your rule about eating the food in the name of the restaurant? It’s cool, baby. Western Omelette comes with three buttermilk pancakes. It’s the best of both worlds, just as Jim and June Gerding would have wanted.
The Pancake Pantry is located at 628 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN. Have you been to the Pancake Pantry? Does it live up to the hype? Let us know in the comments below!
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Order the Apricot Lemon Delight crepe. Best pancake creation on the menu.
Don’t overlook Strawberry Delight ,amazing. I had the pleasure of being one of their suppliers for many years.They were meticulous in product development and ingredients for all items. Do try the lunch .Each item is from scratch just like the breakfast selections.
Been eating there since ’64. Never a disappointment. My personal favorite is the “Georgia Peach” crepes. Just the right amount of sweet and the absolute lightest crepes. Oh, and the peach compote and whipped cream, too!
Could be wrong, but I bet this is the only pancake place in the US that offers black walnut pancakes with orange syrup!!! The flavor explosion in your mouth of earthy black walnuts and citrussy orange is worth standing in a long line to experience. Absolutely delicious!!
I’ve been coming to Gatlinburg ever since I was a baby, with my family. Now my husband and I return each year – usually in the Fall – ever since our Honeymoon, 31yrs this October. The Pantry is a must-stop for my beloved buckwheat pancakes!!! and since I need a lil savory with all that sweet, I opt for the bacon and cheese omelette. oh. my. gracious . . . .
Maybe the best pancakes ever served up with plenty of southern hospitality. Stand in line and watch happy diners exit and when it’s your turn…AHH! Dave, Robin,Amanda and all the staff treat you like family-good-natured gibes included.
Faye and I have been eating at the Pantry since the mid eighties. Everything on the menu is the best you will find anywhere. Tip: go about mid-morning (10:30). Order one of the sandwich combos with a side salad and share it. Then order pancakes (blueberry, peach delight, whatever) and share that. Faye and I did this every morning. Only place I can drink 5 cups of coffee. This will be your every morning breakfast place. Remember: there’s only one PANCAKE PANTRY !!
Blueberry Pancakes! The best in the world! I have been eating at the Pancake Pantry since Mr Gerding opened it in 1960. I was 8 years old and it has become a tradition and a treat for my family ever since. I have no idea how many times I’ve eaten there in the last 64 years but I can assure you if I’m anywhere in the area it’s where I eat breakfast. My favorite restaurant anywhere. I highly recommend it!
Actually there is a Pancake Pantry in Nashville.
Do they still put the cucumber salad on the tables at lunch time?
Hi Mechelle:
It is best to check with Pancake Pantry regarding the menu. The phone number is 865-436-4724.
Thank you for reaching out!