A Guide to the Best Local Restaurants for a Romantic Dinner in Gatlinburg

For a special occasion, or “just because,” an intimate dinner for two is easy to find in Gatlinburg. Just try one of these elegant, yet relaxed, restaurants.

1. The Heirloom Room

Ask for a table by the windows or outside–you’ll want a view of the Little Pigeon River flowing past. The historic restaurant’s roots reach back to the earliest days of Gatlinburg, and that history shows in the Southern and Appalachian menu. Dine on hearty fare including steaks, chops, lamb, and venison. Not in the mood for dinner? Relax in the bar, where expert mixologists show their skills with craft cocktails and offer a wide range of spirits and wines. 

2. Red Oak Bistro

For an intimate evening, take your honey to Red Oak Bistro. The chalet-like building, perched on a hillside, offers an ever-changing menu, reflecting each day’s freshest ingredients. Order shared plates inspired by Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines. Enjoy an extensive selection of wines, champagnes, whiskeys, bourbons, and beers from around the world. Sip and dine on the deck or in the contemporary dining room. 

3. The Park Grill

Dine in a gorgeous wood-and-stone lodge with a romantic fireplace. For a true taste of Tennessee, order hickory-grilled chicken marinated in moonshine. The menu is loaded with steaks, pork dishes and ribs, burgers, and seafood–including fresh rainbow trout, a Smokies favorite. If your sweetheart has a sweet tooth, save room for luscious desserts like blackberry cobbler, or creme brulee drenched in whiskey.

4. The Greenbrier

The Greenbrier’s signatures are hand-cut, dry-aged steaks, and an extensive menu of cocktails, wines, and spirits for discerning drinkers. Appalachian-inspired dishes include venison and duck. The setting makes this place so romantic: Nestled among trees, the stone exterior and authentic log interior are natural and soothing. 

5. Crystelle Creek Restaurant

Lights twinkle in the trees, a bubbling creek flows by, and a waterfall cascades from the roof. This is Crystelle Creek, where fine dining and a magical setting create an unforgettable date night. Indulge in one of the rich pasta dishes, or steaks, seafood, Southern food, or entree salads. Each day brings different, homemade desserts. Whether you’re sitting by the fireplace or dining alfresco next to the creek, you’ll want to linger. 

After dinner, return to your private Gatlinburg cabin rental for a nightcap or a late-night movie. Reserve a cabin today, and start planning your romantic couple’s getaway.