1. Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria
Serving Gatlinburg since 1976, Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria is a local institution famous for its generous portions, house-made pastas, and legendary garlic rolls. With two locations—the full-service Elks Plaza spot and an Express location right on the Parkway—it’s a crowd favorite for visitors and locals alike.
Must-Try: Golden garlic rolls with dipping sauce, House-Made Lasagna, Spicy Rigatoni with Crispy Chicken Cutlet, and the Black Bear Specialty Pizza.
Vibe: Casual, cozy, and family-friendly with timeless Italian trattoria charm.
Tip: The garlic rolls are a non-negotiable appetizer; order an extra batch to share across the table.
2. Big Daddy's Pizzeria
For pizza purists who love a crispy, slightly charred crust, Big Daddy's cooks all their handcrafted pies in a 550-degree wood-fired brick oven. They use fresh ingredients and homemade sauces, making it one of the premier pizza spots in the area.
Must-Try: The "Carnivore" (loaded with savory meats), the "Great White" (Alfredo base topped with five cheeses), and wood-fired chicken wings.
Vibe: High-energy, rustic, and welcoming for families and large groups.
Tip: Save room for dessert or check out their arcade games while you wait for your brick-oven pie.
3. Pizzeria of Gatlinburg
Located conveniently in downtown Gatlinburg, Pizzeria of Gatlinburg serves up a broad menu featuring hand-crafted pizzas, classic pasta dishes, oven-baked hoagies, and calzones.
Must-Try: Capricciosa Pizza (topped with prosciutto, fresh mushrooms, and mozzarella), classic baked ziti, and garlic knots.
Vibe: Relaxed, unpretentious local pizzeria setting perfect for a quick bite or takeout.
Tip: Great destination if your party has diverse cravings, as they also offer gyros and hot subs.
4. New York Pizza & Pasta
Tucked inside the Gatlinburg Mountain Mall, this counter-service hidden gem is ideal for shoppers and sightseers looking for an authentic NY-style slice on the go.
Must-Try: New York-style thin-crust cheese slice, meat lovers pizza, and classic spaghetti with meatballs.
Vibe: Nostalgic mall counter-service setup with fast turnaround.
Tip: Perfect for a quick lunch break while exploring the shops along the Parkway strip.
5. Mellow Mushroom Gatlinburg
While part of a popular regional chain, Mellow Mushroom's downtown Gatlinburg location stands out with its unique mountain art, funky atmosphere, and reliable stone-baked pizzas.
Must-Try: Holy Shiitake Pie, Kosmic Karma Pizza, and oven-baked pretzels with beer cheese dip.
Vibe: Vibrant, eclectic, and laid-back with craft beer on tap.
Tip: Offers excellent vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free crust options if anyone in your group has dietary restrictions.