Savor the Best BBQ in the Smoky Mountains at These 5 Restaurants

The Great Smoky Mountains may get their name from the mysterious mist that rises from its peaks, but foodies will tell you that the region’s BBQ is what really puts the smoke in the Smokies. Follow the sweet and savory aroma into a sublime olfactory haze that stretches all the way from eastern Tennessee into western North Carolina. You’ll find the Smokies are dotted with mouthwatering BBQ made by friendly locals who have deep roots in the food traditions of these ancient mountains.

In the 19th century, pigs were a low-maintenance source of meat, and pork barbecue became a popular dish across the Smokies. From dry-rubbed ribs, sauce-drenched pork shoulder, homestyle smoked BBQ – and even beef, chicken, and shrimp – the Smoky Mountains does BBQ better than anyone else in the South. 

There is some debate over which sauces and seasonings reign supreme, and the spirited feud among local BBQ loyalists can turn spicy. Join in and judge for yourself when you dive into the best BBQ in the Smoky Mountains. You could even make it a tasty food pilgrimage with a classic road trip and find the best spot in every town! 

Delauder’s BBQ – Gatlinburg, TN

When you step through the doors of Delauder’s BBQ, you instantly feel the essence of their motto, “We feed people like you are family.” A small spot just 10-minutes from Gatlinburg’s bustling center, it’s like stopping by your neighborhood BBQ joint and sharing a meal with your friends. Pull up a chair to a table covered with a red and white checked tablecloth and relax amid classic Smoky Mountain décor as your friendly waitstaff welcomes you with a smile. Delauder’s serves up all their personal favorites. Start off with appetizers like nachos or fried green beans. Then sink your teeth into the flavors you came for with a hearty rib dinner. You’re gonna want to ask for extra napkins.

1875 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | 865-325-8682

Boss Hogg’s BBQ Shack – Pigeon Forge, TN

Get a taste of true southern hospitality with this locally owned and operated BBQ joint in Pigeon Forge. The folks at Boss Hogg’s BBQ Shack use their 20 years of culinary experience to feed hungry locals and visitors alike. They’re always learning and growing, so you know you’ll get a delicious meal every single time. Whether you opt for a quick meal or carryout, try their classics like ribs, pulled pork, brisket, or BBQ chicken. And there’s no skimping on the extras with generous sides like green beans, baked beans, coleslaw, and potato salad. Try their pork by the pound for a BBQ feast! 

1198 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | 865-446-4592

Pop’s Butts on the Creek – Maggie Valley, NC

If you’ve got a taste for the best hickory-smoked meats in the mountains, then follow the locals to Pop’s Butts on the Creek. Maggie Valley’s oldest BBQ restaurant makes award-winning homemade sauces that burst with flavor and will have you ordering a second plate to take back to your motel for later. Order a sandwich plate or a large picnic-style meal and grab a table on the outdoor deck that stretches along scenic Jonathan Creek. Oh, and don’t forget the sides. The fresh vegetables are served in season, and the delectable desserts – like everything else on the menu – are always homemade. 

1584 Soco Rd, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 | 828-926-7885 

Haywood Smokehouse – Dillsboro, NC

Serving up the best Texas-style BBQ outside of Texas, Haywood Smokehouse is a must-visit. Passionate about their food, the folks at Haywood Smokehouse say it all comes down to great meat. They smoke their brisket for 16-20 hours and butts for 14-18 hours with only local hickory wood. The result? Fall-off-the-bone BBQ that will have you coming back for more. Add in their flavor filled house-made sauce and classic sides like green beans and mac-and-cheese, and you’ve got an unforgettable meal to fuel the rest of your BBQ journey through the Smokies. 

403 Haywood Rd, Dillsboro, NC 28725 | 828-631-9797