Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a vacation destination renowned for its family-friendly attractions, stunning mountain views, and, of course, its mouthwatering barbecue. With a plethora of restaurants vying for the title of the best BBQ in town, choosing where to indulge can be a daunting task. This article aims to guide you through the smoky landscape, highlighting some of the top contenders and what makes them stand out. From traditional slow-smoked ribs to innovative BBQ creations, Pigeon Forge offers a diverse range of options to satisfy every craving. Whether you're a seasoned BBQ aficionado or a curious newcomer, prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure that will leave you wanting more. We'll delve into the unique flavors, cooking techniques, and atmospheres that define the best BBQ joints in Pigeon Forge, ensuring you make the most of your dining experience.
Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que
Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que is a long-standing favorite in Pigeon Forge, known for its slow-cooked meats and signature BBQ sauce. Their ribs are a must-try, falling off the bone with a smoky flavor that's hard to resist. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal after a day of exploring the area's attractions. Bennett's commitment to quality and tradition has solidified its place as a top contender for the best BBQ in Pigeon Forge. They offer a variety of BBQ options, including pulled pork, chicken, and brisket, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. Their sides, such as coleslaw and baked beans, are also highly praised and complement the meats perfectly. Bennett's also caters to larger groups, making it an excellent choice for family reunions or corporate events.
Calhoun's
Calhoun's is another well-established BBQ restaurant in Pigeon Forge, renowned for its hickory-smoked ribs and Tennessee hospitality. The restaurant boasts a rustic and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Calhoun's prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create its signature BBQ dishes. Their ribs are cooked low and slow, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that's sure to satisfy any BBQ craving. In addition to ribs, Calhoun's offers a variety of other BBQ options, including pulled pork, chicken, and brisket. They also have a selection of delicious sides, such as mac and cheese and green beans, to complete your meal. Calhoun's commitment to quality and customer service has earned it a loyal following and a reputation as one of the best BBQ restaurants in Pigeon Forge. The portions are generous, so come hungry!
Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction
While primarily known for its spectacular show, Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction also serves up a surprisingly delicious BBQ feast. The meal includes a whole rotisserie chicken, hickory-smoked pork loin, and a variety of sides, all served without utensils (as part of the show's theme). While the BBQ experience is intertwined with the entertainment, the quality of the food is undeniable. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the pork loin is flavorful and well-prepared. The sides are also a crowd-pleaser, adding to the overall dining experience. Dolly Parton's Stampede offers a unique and memorable way to enjoy BBQ in Pigeon Forge, combining great food with world-class entertainment. It's a fantastic option for families and groups looking for a fun and engaging evening out. While maybe not a traditional BBQ restaurant, the best experience and BBQ offerings are notable.
Junction 35 Spirits
Junction 35 Spirits is a unique destination that combines a distillery with a full-service restaurant, offering a wide range of BBQ options alongside their handcrafted spirits. This establishment provides a modern and stylish atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a more upscale BBQ experience. Their menu features traditional BBQ favorites, such as pulled pork and brisket, as well as creative dishes that incorporate their spirits into the recipes. The BBQ is cooked using a variety of smoking techniques, resulting in unique and complex flavors. Junction 35 Spirits also offers a selection of handcrafted cocktails that pair perfectly with their BBQ dishes. The combination of great food, exceptional spirits, and a stylish atmosphere makes Junction 35 Spirits a must-visit for BBQ lovers in Pigeon Forge. It is a great place to spend your happy hour. They are known for having some of the best brisket in the area!
Corky's Ribs & BBQ
Originating from Memphis, Corky's Ribs & BBQ brings its signature dry-rub ribs and slow-smoked meats to Pigeon Forge. Known for its distinct Memphis-style BBQ, Corky's offers a different flavor profile compared to the more traditional sauces found in other local establishments. Their ribs are cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat. The dry rub adds a layer of flavor that's both savory and slightly spicy. Corky's also offers a variety of other BBQ options, including pulled pork, chicken, and brisket, all prepared with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality. The restaurant has a casual and inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a delicious BBQ meal with family and friends. Corky's is consistently ranked among the best BBQ restaurants in the area for a good reason, with great options for catering as well!
Tips for Finding the Best BBQ
Finding the best BBQ in Pigeon Forge involves more than just picking a restaurant at random. Here are some tips to help you narrow down your choices and ensure a satisfying BBQ experience:
Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Before heading out, take some time to read online reviews from other diners. Websites like Yelp and TripAdvisor can provide valuable insights into the quality of the food, service, and atmosphere of different BBQ restaurants. Pay attention to reviews that mention specific dishes or aspects of the dining experience that are important to you. Additionally, don't hesitate to ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations. They often have insider knowledge of the best hidden gems and local favorites. Getting a personal recommendation can significantly increase your chances of finding a truly exceptional BBQ meal. Look into current deals and discounts to potentially save money on your meal!
Consider the Style of BBQ
BBQ is a diverse culinary art, with different regions and restaurants offering their unique styles and flavors. Before choosing a BBQ restaurant, consider what style of BBQ you prefer. Are you a fan of Memphis-style dry-rub ribs, Carolina-style pulled pork with vinegar-based sauce, or Texas-style brisket with a smoky bark? Pigeon Forge offers a variety of BBQ styles, so it's important to find a restaurant that aligns with your taste preferences. Reading the menu descriptions and looking at photos of the dishes can help you get a sense of the restaurant's BBQ style. Don't be afraid to try something new, but also consider your own preferences when making your decision. A good indicator of a restaurant’s reputation is the wait, so if there is a long line outside, you know it is a good place to eat. This is a perfect opportunity to try the best!
Look for the Smoke
A good BBQ joint will usually have a noticeable smoky aroma wafting from its premises. This is a sign that the meats are being slow-smoked over wood, which is essential for achieving that authentic BBQ flavor. If you don't smell smoke, it's possible that the restaurant is using alternative cooking methods, which may not result in the same depth of flavor. Keep an eye out for restaurants with visible smokers or wood piles, as these are good indicators that they take their BBQ seriously. The presence of smoke doesn't guarantee a great BBQ experience, but it's a good starting point. The art of the grill is something that takes time to master, and you want to pick a place that has taken the time. This is what makes for the best BBQ.
Don't Forget the Sides
While the meats are the star of the show, the sides are an important part of any BBQ meal. A good BBQ restaurant will offer a variety of flavorful and well-prepared sides to complement the meats. Look for sides like coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, potato salad, and cornbread. The quality of the sides can be a good indicator of the restaurant's overall attention to detail and commitment to quality. Pay attention to reviews that mention the sides, as they can often be overlooked. Some restaurants may even have unique or signature sides that are worth trying. In some cases, you may even find yourself enjoying the sides more than the BBQ itself. If this is the case, consider purchasing sides a-la-carte to get your fill! Having quality sides helps make the best BBQ.
Beyond the BBQ: Exploring Pigeon Forge
While indulging in the best BBQ is a must-do in Pigeon Forge, the town has much more to offer. From thrilling attractions to stunning natural beauty, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Consider visiting Dollywood, a world-class theme park with thrilling rides and captivating shows. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Take a stroll through the shops and attractions along the Parkway, the main thoroughfare in Pigeon Forge. Catch a live music show at one of the many theaters in town. No matter your interests, Pigeon Forge has something to keep you entertained. Combining your BBQ adventure with other activities will make your visit even more memorable. Make sure to plan for some downtime to relax and enjoy the scenery. Pigeon Forge is a truly special place, and there's no shortage of things to see and do.
Conclusion
Pigeon Forge is a BBQ lover's paradise, offering a diverse range of restaurants and flavors to satisfy any craving. From traditional slow-smoked ribs to innovative BBQ creations, the town has something for everyone. By considering the tips and recommendations in this article, you can increase your chances of finding the best BBQ in Pigeon Forge and making the most of your dining experience. Remember to read reviews, consider the style of BBQ, look for the smoke, and don't forget the sides. And while you're in town, be sure to explore the other attractions and activities that Pigeon Forge has to offer. With its stunning natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere, Pigeon Forge is a destination that will leave you wanting more. So, grab your bib, get ready to dig in, and enjoy the delicious BBQ that Pigeon Forge has to offer! Enjoy your restaurant experience!
Post a Comment for "Best Bbq in Pigeon Forge"