Pigeon Forge is one of the most loved places by tourists visiting Tennessee, and for all the right reasons. Located in the midst of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is home to one of the best vacation spots, not only in terms of adventure but also in terms of culinary experiences!
If you are a foodie or someone who has an extensive palette, then Pigeon Forge has a lot to offer. From comfort food to fancy dinners, you will find a wide range of delicious dishes in the area. Here are some foods you must try on your next visit to Pigeon Forge:
1. Fried Chicken
Who doesn’t love fried chicken? This delicious entrée, often associated with Southern cuisine, is a must-try for everyone visiting Pigeon Forge. Hot and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, fried chicken is a delicious and inexpensive meal. And you can get it with sides like vegetable soup, taters, and coleslaw.
2. Mexican Cuisine
Nothing beats the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine. From street tacos to hearty enchiladas, you can find a variety of mouthwatering Mexican dishes at the numerous restaurants in Pigeon Forge. While each restaurant puts its own twist on the traditional recipes, ensuring a unique and delightful experience with every order, Azul Cantina does it the best! This Mexican restaurant in Pigeon Forge is a true paradise for Mexican food enthusiasts.
If you’re not in the mood for a full meal, you can still savor the delicious taste of Mexico by trying BBQ-flavored appetizers like corn, tomatoes, or cheese bites. Whether you’re a meat lover or not, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
3. Pancakes
Pancakes are thin, round hotcakes made with flour, eggs, and milk. Known to be slightly thicker than a crepe, pancakes are one of the most delicious and popular items in Pigeon Forge. They are not only enjoyed for breakfast but also make for a delightful treat any time of the day.
Their versatility allows them to be a canvas for a wide range of flavors and toppings, making them a beloved comfort food for people of all ages. You can top them with your favorite fruits, melted butter, or delicious chocolate sauce. You can also pair pancakes with other items such as maple syrup, ice cream, oatmeal, eggs, bacon, and sausages.
4. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic dish made from shelled and halved hard-boiled eggs. The boiled egg yolks are blended with ingredients like mayonnaise, relish, mustard, and various seasonings, creating a smooth and flavorful paste. This filling is then scooped back into the egg cavities, resulting in a delightful appetizer or snack.
Deviled eggs are widely enjoyed and can be found in various restaurants, often served as a gourmet delicacy. Their creamy texture and delicious taste make them a popular choice for tourists visiting Pigeon Forge.
5. Mac n CheeseÂ
A classic American food item, mac and cheese is a dish loved by all. Not only is it easily found in many restaurants, but its creamy and cheesy taste will take your taste buds on a rollercoaster experience. If you are a bit skeptical of trying new dishes, ordering mac and cheese is a safe option.
A variety of restaurants in Pigeon Forge serve mac and cheese with their own special twists as well. You can also get side dishes with mac and cheese, like garlic bread or pulled pork, elevating the entire experience.
6. Sweets
Appetizers, side dishes, and a full-course meal are one thing, but having a sweet dish is essential to complete your dining experience. You can find sweet dishes in every corner of Pigeon Forge. Whether it’s local candy shops, bakeries, or restaurants serving delicious desserts, there are plenty of interesting places throughout Pigeon Forge that can help satisfy your sweet tooth.
7. BeveragesÂ
You’ll be interested to know that alcohol was banned in Pigeon Forge for a very long time. The liquor-by-the-drink law was passed only in recent years, allowing vendors to sell and dispense alcoholic beverages.
You can explore various distilleries in Pigeon Forge, each offering its own unique tastes and recipes. Some of these distilleries have a friendly atmosphere with live music, making them enjoyable places to visit.
8. Trout
Pigeon Forge and its surrounding areas are renowned for their fresh rainbow trout. These fried trout dishes are skillfully marinated with either wine or beer, enhancing their flavors. For those seeking a fancier experience, numerous restaurants offer the option of enjoying the trout with sautéed mushrooms or a side of onions.
If you happen to be a bacon enthusiast, the hickory smoked trout stuffed with bacon is a must-try delicacy. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you can have the trout prepared spicier and paired perfectly with your favorite vegetables.
9. Ribs
Slow-cooked, juicy ribs are sure to get you to lick your fingers. Cooked slowly until the meat falls directly off the bone, you’ll find some of the freshest pork ribs in Pigeon Forge. Restaurants use a variety of special seasonings to give a spin on this traditional dish. You can also get them in a variety of sweet, spicy, and tangy sauces. To complement the ribs, you can pair them with a flaky biscuit or creamy mac and cheese for an unforgettable dining experience.
10. Burgers
Burgers, without a doubt, demand your attention. You will find a wide range of burgers available in every corner of Pigeon Forge. From colossal creations loaded with tons of ingredients to smaller sliders tailor-made for the kids joining you on your adventure, there’s something for everyone.
With toppings like cheese, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, and sauces such as the classic Thousand Island dressing, the burgers there are an absolute must-try!
Conclusion
You will find many eateries in Pigeon Forge offering delicious and budget-friendly food options suitable for all ages. Whether you’re craving pancakes for breakfast, barbecue for your main dish, or snacks like ice cream and deviled eggs, rest assured that you will never have to worry about finding satisfying food during your visit!
