Top 3 Restaurants at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg

A day at Anakeesta calls for delicious dining. All the fresh air and fun at this nature-themed, mountaintop park work up an incredible appetite. Plan your Anakeesta visit around these top three eateries.

1. Cliff Top Restaurant

Open 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily

Casual enough for the family, upscale enough for a date, Cliff Top’s stunning dining room is wall to wall windows, framing views of forested mountains. Exposed wood beams and a unique chandelier, crafted from antlers, bring nature indoors.

The mouth-watering menu starts with hearty appetizers. Nosh on beer-battered onion rings, wings, cheddar cheese curds, and that Southern classic, fried green tomatoes. Turn salads into main meals by adding chicken, beef or shrimp.

Sandwiches and burgers include a bison burger, beef burgers and a fried chicken sandwich. Got a bigger appetite? Go for ribs, steak, shrimp and grits, or honey bourbon salmon. Throughout the menu, Southern touches abound, like smoky bacon jam and andouille sausage.

2. Smokehouse BBQ

Open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily

Grab extra napkins–you’ll need ‘em! The sauce flows freely at this BBQ joint, where a wood fire smokes brisket, pork and chicken to tangy-sweet perfection. 

Here in the South, rich, delicious sides are essential. Creamy mac and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, and slabs of fresh cornbread are just some of the traditional sides here. Order a platter with your choice of meat. Try a signature dish like mac and cheese topped with meat, or nachos slathered in meat, cheese and jalapenos. 

The Smokehouse echoes Anakeesta’s outdoorsy vibe: This dining room has whole walls of windows and so many views, you’ll think you’re picnicking! Sit indoors or on the large patio. You’re on the same level as the mountaintops all around you!

3. Kephart Cafe

Open 10 a.m.-8 or 9 p.m. daily

This walk-up eatery keeps the whole family full and fueled for adventure. Flatbread pizza is the main attraction, with classic cheese, pepperoni, and veggie pizzas, plus a daily chef’s special.  Hot dog lovers will appreciate the gourmet all-beef dogs nestled in soft buns. Add chili, cheese and more toppings to create the dog of your dreams.

Kephart Cafe is close to the kids’ splash pad, outdoor stage, and ample seating all around.

Planning a trip to Anakeesta? Stay close by, in a private Gatlinburg cabin rental full of amenities. Book your Smoky Mountains cabin now.