Most Romantic Restaurants in Gatlinburg That Couples Need To Try

Local ranks most romantic restaurants in the tourist town Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is a popular wedding, honeymoon and romantic getaway destination. As such, it is appropriate that this village in the mountains offers a certain amount of romantic dinner destinations. After all, not every bride wants to dine at Dick’s Last Resort on her wedding night.

But each person has a different idea about what’s romantic. For instance, maybe it’s the memory of the location where they fell in love. Maybe it’s a place where they can dance. With this in mind, I’ve put together a list of the best romantic restaurants in the mountains:

As a major tourist town, Gatlinburg, Tennessee in the Great Smoky Mountains naturally has a few romantic places to eat. The most romantic restaurant is The Buckhorn Inn, a bed and breakfast with dining that is open to the public. Other popular places include The Greenbrier Restaurant, The Melting Pot and Chesapeake’s.

1. The Buckhorn Inn

The Buckhorn, a classic country inn, offers grand views of the Smokies from an elegant bed and breakfast that offers the charm of a Smoky Mountain lodge. Its restaurant, which is open to the public, offers a three-course prix fixe dinner at 7 pm seven nights a week. Reservations are required.

And with a romantic dinner at The Buckhorn, there is an option of an additional romantic overnight stay. The Buckhorn, established in 1938, offers private rooms, private guest houses and in-room indulgences. For example, you can have a spa basket and matching Buckhorn bathrobes awaiting your loved one upon your arrival. After that, at the risk of getting too crass here, at the end let me just say, bow-chicka-wow-wow. Parking is available on-site. For more information on dining, visit the website. It is located at 2140 Tudor Mountain Rd in Gatlinburg.

2. Clifftop Restaurant at Anakeesta

While this one will require an admission ticket to Anakeesta, it can’t be overlooked. Dine at the Cliff Top restaurant in Anakeesta’s Black Bear Village with incredible views of the mountains. While you dine, take in the spectacular view at sunset as the mountains plunge into darkness. The American-themed cuisine is good, yet not pretentious. After that, have a glass of wine.

Then, you can stroll around the village at night looking up at the stars. Or perhaps enjoy a stroll through an interactive walking path, Astra Lumina (which, fair warning, will also require an extra ticket). Finally, you can descend back down into Gatlinburg on the Chondola where you can cruise comfortably down the mountain into the bright lights of the city below. The soothing, quiet ride is perfect for snuggling. This is a whole experience, not just a simple dinner. Check Tripster for discounts before you go. Reservations are not accepted at the restaurant, so be sure to put your name down on a waitlist ahead of time on-site. For more information or to see the menu, visit the website. Anakeesta is located at 576 Parkway in Gatlinburg. Check the calendar for dates of operation.

3. The Greenbrier Restaurant

The Greenbrier Restaurant is for those seeking out a more intimate, unique dining experience with great food off the beaten path. Billed as Gatlinburg’s premier steakhouse, The Greenbrier features higher-end fine dining options like hickory-smoked chicken, duck breast, bone-in ribeye, pork chops and New York Strip. The menu rotates seasonally.

They are also known for their unique craft cocktails. The restaurant is housed in an authentic historic log cabin converted into a restaurant with limited seating. Guests are encouraged to book reservations online using Greenbrier’s website. Free parking is available. The restaurant can be found at 370 Newman Rd in Gatlinburg.

4. Chesapeake’s

Chesapeake’s easily offers some of the best seafood in the region. The crab cakes are delicious. And the pan-blackened scallops are divine. Plus, they are conveniently located on the edge of downtown Gatlinburg within walking distance to popular attractions but away from the parts of town most notorious for traffic jams. And, the river views aren’t too shabby, either, for those seeking a romantic dining experience. Make your reservation ahead of time online. Parking can be a bit more tricky at Chesapeake’s, but paid lots are available nearby. Chesapeake’s is located at 437 Parkway in Gatlinburg.

5. The Melting Pot

As the only chain restaurant on the list, The Melting Pot is still a personal favorite of mine. And it’s a great choice for couples looking for a unique experience. The Melting Pot offers several fondue cooking styles, which can set the tone for a romantic evening out. Keep in mind that the first attempt at fondue can be tricky. You’ll want to avoid a culinary mishap on your date night. Just remember, the likelihood of an injury is lessened using the broth method rather than oil.

Firstly, a traditional fondue starts with a melted cheese course with fruits, vegetables and other items like assorted bread options for dipping. After that, comes the main course. All come with a variety of sauces.

As a romantic bonus, it’s a French custom that if an item comes off your fondue fork, you’re to give the person to your left a kiss on the cheek. At least, that’s what my French teacher said. And why I spent a good portion of my fondue lesson trying to get to the left of Stephanie Poplin. Alas, Stephanie’s fork game was impeccable.

Finally, for dessert, melt her heart with melted chocolate fondue. Cheesecake, pound cake, fresh fruit and berries, it’s all good when it’s covered in chocolate. Make your reservation online. Paid parking lots are available nearby. The Melting Pot is located at 959 Parkway #2.

6. The Peddler Steakhouse

I would say that The Peddler is not overtly romantic except in the ambiance of quality and class that our society has decided is an indication of the romantic ideal. But, going out for a fine dinner, enjoying each other’s company and a night on the town is romantic in all the right ways, even without a side of mood lighting and violins. The Peddler, a local favorite located in the heart of Gatlinburg, is a great place for those who love great steaks, a cozy cabin-like atmosphere and a robust salad bar – which is included with every entree.

It’s the perfect place for guests staying downtown who love a classic steakhouse. Meat lovers will want to try the filet mignon or the prime rib – both naturally aged and grilled over real Tennessee hickory charcoal. And don’t forget to sample some of their delicious desserts. Make a reservation ahead of time online. And if you have any trouble getting in, you may also want to check out The Park Grill – their sister restaurant located just a few blocks away. Limited free parking is available on-site at both restaurants. The Peddler is located at 820 River Rd in Gatlinburg.

What do you think? What is your favorite romantic restaurant? Let me know in the comments.

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