Category: Dining

10 Under $16: Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Maryville and Alcoa

Posted on May 9, 2025 by - Blog, Dining, Maryville, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Eating out doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially in Maryville and Alcoa. Whether you’re after tacos, burgers, soups or something more unique, these locally owned spots offer good food without the markup. Here’s a guide to places where you can eat well for $16 or less. 

REO Cheesewagon Cafe.

REO Cheesewagon Cafe (Alcoa) 

Originally a food truck, REO now serves grilled cheese combos and homemade soups in a casual indoor space. Expect creative spins on comfort food, like the award-winning Blackberry Smoke (provolone, blackberry jam, pickled jalapeños and bacon). Nearly everything is under $10; gluten-free options cost a bit more. Pair your sandwich with the soup of the day for the full experience. 

The Soup Kitchen (Alcoa) 

This place does exactly what the name promises—soups, sandwiches and cornbread served hot and fast. Their menu changes daily, offering eight kinds of soup at a time. Most meals are well under $10. They’ve proudly been in business for over 40 years. 

Maryville Corner Market (Maryville) 

A hidden gem that offers a rotating take-home family dinner posted daily on Instagram and Facebook. At the restaurant, you’ll find grilled sandwiches, soups and salads—all priced under $15. For just $10.99, you can mix and match two favorites: the soup of the day, a small garden salad, a homemade side or a small scoop of protein salad. 

Southern Grace Coffee Co. (Maryville) 

Charming Southern breakfast spot and coffee shop. The menu includes biscuits, waffles, muffins, cookies and cakes. They also serve coffee and low-caffeine alternatives. Find a cozy corner in this historic home, or sprawl out on the wraparound porch. 

Blackhorse Pub & Brewery (Alcoa) 

Hip pub and brewery with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Their pastas, sandwiches, burgers, flatbreads and salads are all under $15. Stop by on a Friday evening to enjoy live music and local brews. 

Waterfront Bar & Grill (Maryville) 

Overlooking a sparkling pond, this place looks like it should be expensive, but it’s not. Most sandwiches, salads and daily specials are $16 and under. Enjoy steak, fish, sandwiches, burgers, nachos, tacos and more. 

Chapulines (Maryville) 

Authentic Mexican food that feels like a taquería, not a Tex-Mex chain. Street tacos come in a wide range of fillings, from al pastor to cactus, and are less than $4 each. The quesadillas are $10 and under, and the $11 tortas are large enough to split. 

Cafe at Southland Books (Maryville) 

Cozy café tucked inside a used bookstore and record shop. It serves breakfast and lunch all day, with a large selection of vegan sandwiches, burgers and salads. The pick-two option lets you mix and match a sandwich with a soup or salad for $12.95. They also offer coffee and cold drinks, if you just want something to sip on.

The Hop 50’s Drive-In (Alcoa) 

Classic drive-in vibe with burgers, hot dogs, sloppy joes and fries. The smashed burgers are under $5, while old fashioned burgers stay under $8. Round out your meal with a milkshake, banana split, arctic blast or ice cream sundae. A soft-serve ice cream cone is under $2. 

Lemon Grass (Maryville) 

Thai food and sushi with generous lunch specials—just around $16 including your choice of miso soup or salad. You’ll find plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Dine-in is quick, and takeout is even faster. 

Where’s your favorite place to grab a bite to eat on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies? Tag us on our social media (@PeacefulSmokies). 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.

19th Annual Taste of Blount

Posted on August 26, 2021 by - Blog, Dining, Drinking, Events

Taste of Blount vendor food samples

It is no secret that the restaurant industry has taken a significant hit over the past year, and although this is Blount County’s 19th Annual Taste of Blount, this year is a little different. This year we need to come together and support our local restaurant industry more than ever. And what’s a more flavor-filled and exciting way to do that than attending this year’s Taste of Blount?

Frisby full of food

What is Taste of Blount?

Taste of Blount is a collection of savory food favorites from restaurants, caterers, food trucks, and gourmet grocers who offer samples to event attendees. In return, each ticket holder places a vote for their favorite “Culinary Excellence Awards,” including Best Appetizer, Best Sandwich, Best Beverage, Best Main Course, Best Dessert, Best Presentation, and Best Overall.

Vendor Booth festival serving

Who is Participating in the 19th Annual Taste of Blount?

  1. A Spoonful of Sugar – Buttermilk Pie, Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Brownies
  2. A&R Texas BBQ – Baby Back Ribs, Brisket, and Texas Twinkies
  3. Apple Valley Cafe – Chicken Salad Mini Croissants, Tony’s Townsend Brownies
  4. Between the Slices – Salted Caramel Cheesecake, Almond Wedding Cake, Apple Crumble Pie
  5. Clean Eatz Cafe – Bowl of Happiness, Energy Bites, Clean Crunch
  6. Crafted Jolt – Caramel Frappe, Iced Mocha Cold Brew Latte, Sunshiner Lemonade, Ocean Breeze Italian Soda
  7. DaddyO’s Filipino Food Truck – Filipino BBQ, Turon
  8. Dunkin’ Donuts – Donuts, Munchkins, Coffee
  9. Full Service BBQ – Pork, Chicken and Beef Sliders, Banana Pudding, Sweet Tea
  10. It’s Not the Coffee – Ridin’ Shotgun Coffee
  11. Joe’s Italian Cuisine – Lasagna, Chicken Parmesan
  12. Little River Pub & Deli – Moonshine BBQ, Pork Nachos, Pimiento Cheese w/Pita Chips
  13. McAlister’s Deli – Tea
  14.  Metz Culinary – Chicken Fajita, Shrimp Quesadilla, Churro Bites
  15. Petro’s – The Petro, Hint of Orange Tea
  16. Pistol Creek Eats – Brisket, Banana Pudding
  17. “Pop” Korns – Assorted Gourmet Popcorn Flavors
  18. Quick Fix Coffee – Brewed Favorites
  19. REO Cheesewagon – Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Featuring Old Favorites and Unexpected Pairings
  20. Richy Kreme Donuts – Braised Short Ribs, Myrtles Bakehouse Cookies, Donut Bread Pudding, Rosemary Lemonade
  21. Rocky’s Jamaica Sunrise – Jerked Pulled Pork, Jerk Chicken, Rice & Beans, Mac ‘n Cheese
  22. RT Lodge – Watermelon Salad, Pimento Cheese
  23. Sadie’s BBQ – BBQ
  24. Shaun & Sherrie’s Soul Food – Meatloaf, Mac ‘n Cheese, Green Beans, Mini Fried Apples Pies
  25. Southern Grace Coffee Co. – Jam Bar, Pumpkin Muffin, Iced Chai Latte, Iced Butterbear Cold Brew Latte, Southern Blend Brewed Coffee, and Smoky Mountain Sunset
  26. The Colonel’s Coffee Co. – The Colonel, Cafe ConBon, Raspberry-Chocolate Frappe, Nitro, Latte, Pear-Raspberry Green Tea
  27. Walnut Kitchen – Charcuterie, Smore’s Cheesecake
  28. Windy City Grille (Maryville) – Sandwiches
  29. Windy City Grille on the Water (Friendsville) – Shrimp Tacos
Food Cooking on an open grill

Event Details

  • Who? – The Taste of Blount is hosted by the Blount County Chamber of Commerce.
  • Where? – Theater in the Park in Maryville, TN
  • When? – Thursday, September 9, 2021, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm
  • How? – Tickets are $25 (plus tax) for Chamber members and $30 (plus tax) for the public. All children, five years and under, get in free. Tickets can be purchased at the Chamber office (201 S. Washington St., Maryville, TN), on the Chamber website, or by phone at 865.983.2241. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event on a cash-only basis.

This year’s event will also include the ability to purchase cold brews and spirits, thanks to a partnership with Cherokee Distributing and members of the East Tennessee Distillers Guild, including Heath Clark, Old Forge, and Sugarlands & Co. Distilling.

Make sure to get your tickets ahead of time because this will be a sold-out event. We look forward to sharing some fantastic food and beverages with everyone next month!

Taste of Blount Fall Presentation

Check out these posts for similar activities in Blount County:

Smoky Mountain Coffee Houses

Gourmet S’more Ideas

Eat Your Way Through the Peaceful Side at These Local Restaurants

5 Blount County Restaurants Perfect for a Romantic Valentine's Day Dinner

Posted on February 6, 2019 by - Blog, Dining

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and this year you can get a jump start on the rest of the world by booking your romantic dinner out right away. After all, it is shocking how quickly the tables at the area’s most romantic spots fill up and waiting until a week or two ahead of Valentine’s Day often means you don’t get a reservation. Lucky for you, there are plenty of options for romantic dinners in Blount County.

If you are going for that sort of super-romantic evening out, we have five local Blount County restaurants that are ideal for a Valentine’s Day dinner for two.

The Barn at Blackberry Farm – If your goal is to impress and enjoy amazing and authentic local food, you will have a tough time matching the options at this Walland restaurant. Featuring expert chefs, bakers, and even a sommelier to help you pair your Foothills Cuisine with local wine, it is a dining adventure perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Dancing Bear Lodge – The bistro in this wonderful Townsend restaurant allows you to make reservations even if you are not staying at the lodge. Noted as one of the most romantic settings in the entire region, the bistro’s menu is a fantastic blend of local favorites with a new twist. Opt for local cheeses, innovative appetizers, local greens and vegetables, and classics that include an Appalachian Hot Pot, a blue cheese-encrusted pork chop, and more. Excellent wines and irresistible desserts make it perfect for a romantic night out.
Foothills Milling Company – Located in the heart of Maryville, this is a popular choice and reservations are required. In a charming and welcoming setting, you can take your choice from the ever-changing wine list and a menu that reflects the season. Your Valentine’s Day dinner for two could include everything from truffle fondue or crab soup to a warm cabbage salad, rack of lamb, salmon and more!
Sullivan’s – Another fine food establishment in Maryville, this features a tremendous menu of innovative dishes that includes everything from a steak, strawberry and blue cheese salad to classic “blue plates” and local favorites. An impossible to resist dessert menu and a low-key, almost casual atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a delicious evening out on Valentine’s Day.
Aubrey’s – Less romantic and more fun, this is a great spot if you are taking yourselves, and maybe even the kids out to celebrate this day that’s all about love. Enjoy selections from an excellent beer and wine menu. Remain in awe of the fantastic dinner menu with small plates, specialties and a great “Perfect Pairs” option. Rich desserts and even a kids’ menu ensures that an entire family can enjoy a Valentine’s Day dinner that is fun, tasty and relaxed. This is also a Maryville location.

Other options for a dinner out for two or even the family can include Calhoun’s, the Smoky Mountain Brewery, the Walnut Kitchen, Roland’s Bistro, Gondolier, and Lemon Grass, all in Maryville.

There are a lot of options, but you won’t want to wait much longer to book your table. Use the links here to choose your ideal spot on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, and whether it is a meal for two or the entire gang, you’re sure to enjoy your Valentine’s Day dining together.

7 Upscale Restaurants in Maryville, TN 

Posted on February 25, 2026 by - Blog, Dining, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

Maryville, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, has a growing list of upscale dining options. From a MICHELIN-recommended dining room to a downtown steakhouse with caviar service, these seven restaurants are worth a reservation. 

DSB Provisions 

Photo: DSB Provisions

DSB Provisions, recently opened, brings an intimate Italian dinner experience to Greenway Village. Pasta is made from scratch by hand, using local and imported ingredients, including eggs from chef Dustin Busby and Stacey Busby’s farm.  

Busby trained through Le Cordon Bleu and has cooked in Charleston and Orlando, with stages at restaurants including The French Laundry and The Fat Duck. He later joined Blackberry Farm, serving as executive sous chef at The Barn and managing the Farmstead program.  

Dinner is served Wednesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended. A daytime Grab & Go option runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with fresh and dried pastas, sauces, pestos and farm-fresh eggs. 

235 Greenway Village Ln., Maryville, TN 37801 

Raven Steakhouse and Lounge 

Photo: Raven Steakhouse and Lounge 

Raven Steakhouse and Lounge is a dinner-only steakhouse in downtown Maryville, with a main dining room for reservations and a lounge for walk-ins.  

The dinner menu centers on USDA Prime steaks, with seafood-forward starters and towers, caviar service and a small set of entrées beyond beef. The wine program is guided by sommelier Aileen Carroll, who has a Court of Master Sommeliers education. 

The Raven is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

211 W Broadway Ave., Maryville, TN 37801 

The Walnut Kitchen 

Photo: The Walnut Kitchen

The Walnut Kitchen on High Street serves dinner, lunch and Sunday brunch. The menu features seasonal ingredients and Tennessee beef, with a full bar program. 

Chef Jason Scott brings experience as former executive chef at Lonesome Dove, along with a feature in Cityview’s Top Chefs series. 

Lunch runs Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner runs Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday service runs 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. While walk-ins are accepted, reservations are recommended. 

606 High St., Maryville, TN 37804 

The Restaurant at RT Lodge 

Photo: The Restaurant at RT Lodge

The Restaurant at RT Lodge, designated MICHELIN Guide Recommended, offers an elevated dinner in the Maryville College Woods. The kitchen makes many staples in-house, including bread, pickles, mayonnaise and pimento cheese, and bases the menu on seasonal availability. 

Chef Trevor Stockton trained under chefs Rick Mace and Josh Feathers before joining RT Lodge as sous chef in 2013. Today, he works closely with regional farmers and purveyors, including his family’s Stockton Farms. 

For a lighter dinner option, The Morningside Room runs as RT Lodge’s bar and lounge. They have cocktails, local beer and spirits, and a curated wine list, along with snacks and a casual dinner menu. Lunch is limited to hotel and spa guests. 

Dinner at The Restaurant at RT Lodge runs Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations are required. The Morningside Room is usually open Monday through Saturday, 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are not accepted. Hours are posted on RT Lodge’s bar and restaurant availability calendar. 

1406 Wilkinson Pike, Maryville, TN 37803 

Foothills Milling Company 

Photo: Foothills Milling Company

Foothills Milling Company is a white-tablecloth restaurant in downtown Maryville. The menu spans steaks and seafood, plus vegetarian options. Ingredients include regional staples such as Benton’s Bacon, Cruze Farms dairy and Vienna Coffee.  

The restaurant opened in Wears Valley in 2001 and relocated to Maryville in 2006. Today, the dining room sits in a former Studebaker and Edsel showroom from 1921 to 1948. 

Dinner service runs Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations are available. 

315 S Washington St., Maryville, TN 37804 

Bella 

Photo: Bella Maryville

Bella sits on West Broadway in downtown Maryville, with a menu that mixes Italian staples with steak and seafood, plus a full bar program. The kitchen runs from scratch across the board, and the “Pasta in the Wheel” service has become one of the restaurant’s signatures. 

Chef Cory Giaquinta was named a Top Chef in 2025 by Cityview Magazine. His background also includes time at Dancing Bear Lodge. 

Bella is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday brunch runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with dinner service from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

121 West Broadway Avenue, Maryville, TN, 37801 

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro

Photo: Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro is a short drive from Maryville, located in Townsend near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The restaurant serves modern Appalachian cuisine with a farm-to-table focus, using produce grown on-site and local ingredients.

Executive chef Jeff Carter returned to Dancing Bear in summer 2021 and leads the kitchen’s seasonal approach to Appalachian cooking. The Bistro was named one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in America for 2026, and it was also recognized by TripAdvisor as one of America’s 25 Most Romantic Restaurants in 2019.

Dinner runs Tuesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday brunch runs 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended.

7140 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Related Read: Luxury Stays on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies: Walland, Townsend and Maryville 

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region. 

An Afternoon Chocolate Break at Townsend's Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe

Posted on June 4, 2018 by - Blog, Dining, Townsend

Everyone knows what 3 PM feels like, that particular circumstance when it’s too early for dinner, but you’ve been busy sightseeing and shopping since lunch and are ready for a break. You feel a little tired, a little listless…you really could use a break, after all.
Plenty of breaks are designed to be as quick as possible – maybe a trip to the vending machines, or a quick snack from a gas station. Some days this just doesn’t feel right, though. There has to be a little more enjoyment in those few moments we have with ourselves and our nearest and dearest, doesn’t there – especially when you’re on vacation? A chance to step away from what you’re doing and treat yourself could be just the thing to get you back on track.

Head to the Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe!

The Little River Village Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe, at 8521 E Lamar Alexander Parkway in Townsend, Tennessee, is a hidden gem in the Smokies region. It has a little something for everyone, with delicious fudge, ice cream, and other sweets, as well as souvenirs like T-shirts and bear-themed items, like bear backpacks. The goodies are fresh, and the service is friendly. Oh, yeah, and about that fudge itself?

The Fudge is Incredible

Something pretty great is coming out of the kitchen at the Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe: fudge! OK, no surprise there – but what will surprise you is just how good this fudge is, and how many different flavors there are. With over a dozen varieties available, including creative flavors like Jelly Donut, Better than Butterfinger, Pumpkin, and Carrot Cake, plus stalwarts of the fudge trade, like Peanut Butter and Maple Nut, there’s sure to be one that’s a perfect match for your taste buds. You don’t even have to buy to try; they offer free samples.

There’s Amazing Ice Cream, Too

The Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe serves hefty scoops of Blue Bell ice cream, known for its mastery of classic flavors like rocky road, Dutch chocolate, mint chocolate chip, strawberry, and chocolate chip cookie dough, as well as southern favorites like banana pudding and buttered pecan. They’ll even dip your cone in chocolate for you! There’s nothing like sitting down with a few good scoops piled on top of a cone in the middle of a summer afternoon, is there?

Why Not Stop By Today?

Every lifetime comes with a few regrets, but squeezing in a few moments with friends and family, sharing delicious treats made with care, is never one of them. The Little River Village Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe closes in the winter, so don’t wait for the perfect opportunity to treat yourself. Make a few moments perfect with handcrafted fudge, and enjoy some of the best flavors in the Smokies while you can!

Beat the Heat with an Ice Cream Treat; Check Out Blount County's Ice Cream Shops

Posted on August 1, 2018 by - Blog, Dining

Summers in Blount County are long and hot, and there’s no better way to take a break from the heat than to step on out and treat yourself to something cold and frosty. There are plenty of places to choose from in Blount County; here are a few worth checking out!
Scoops & Slices
Alcoa’s Scoops & Slices is a must-visit for fans of pizza and ice cream. Besides classic pizza combinations, they offer a dessert pizza (which is a chocolate peanut butter pie) and all the ice cream sundae, shake, and soft serve combinations that you would expect from a restaurant committed to longtime favorites and good fun.
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream in Maryville offers a big menu of ice cream treats every day – around 40 flavors! They actually make around 150 flavors all together, and one of the company’s signature features is how Bruster’s handcrafts each flavor in the store. Instead of making everything at a central location, Bruster’s ships the cream and other basic ingredients to their locations, where the ice cream is mixed and made locally.
Little River Village Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe
The Little River Village Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe is serving up more than just fudge – they’ve got large scoops of Blue Bell ice cream on offer, too. Customers can choose from classics like Rocky Road or new favorites like banana pudding, and chocolate-dipped cones are also available. Check them out in Townsend!
Capitol Coffee & Ice Cream Parlor
This treat stop located at the Capitol Theatre in Maryville offers gourmet coffee and blended drinks, as well as ice cream delicacies. Everything on the menu has its own old-timey cinema theme, with beverages like the Here’s Lookin’ at You Kid, an espresso drink with caramel and macadamia nut, and sundaes like the The Midnight Showing, which features chocolate ice cream with Ghirardelli dark chocolate, dark chocolate chips, whipped cream and a Ghirardelli chocolate square. Now that’s some movie magic!
Maryville’s Dairy Queen
Sometimes there’s nothing like an American classic. Dairy Queen was founded in 1940 in Joliet, Illinois, and it’s been spreading cheer across America ever since. The Grill & Chill location on West Broadway in Maryville offers everyone’s favorites, from Dilly Bars to Peanut Buster Parfaits, and it also keeps up with the latest DQ trends nationwide.
Now that you’ve gotten to know a few of the local joints a little better, why not plan your next visit to one of Blount’s hot spots for sweet treats?

Beat the Summer Heat with a Refreshing Treat at Bruster's Real Ice Cream

Posted on July 25, 2018 by - Blog, Dining, Maryville

Some summer days are just too much to handle. It’s too hot for anyone to be comfortable, the humidity is heavy, and it seems like the sun is never going to give in and retreat behind the clouds. There’s only one thing to do with weather like this: grin and bear it.
How on earth, though, are you supposed to come up with a reason to grin? When excessive heat and the suffering it brings seems never-ending, what do you have to smile about?

Luckily, There’s One Thing That’s Better in the Heat

Ice cream was made for days like this, and Bruster’s Real Ice Cream in Maryville has dozens of flavors!
They’ve got classics like rocky road and strawberry, as well as new flavors, like “Pucker Up,” which is lemon ice cream with blue raspberry and sour cherry ribbons, plus Nerds candy, and “Cotton Candy Explosion” a cotton-candy-flavored ice cream with popping candy, so there’s plenty to choose from at Bruster’s.
In fact, Bruster’s recipe book contains about 150 different flavors, and there are around 40 flavors to pick from daily. This wide variety is possible because of the way Bruster’s ice cream is made, which is also one of the company’s hallmarks. Basic ingredients are delivered to each Bruster’s shop, and the ice cream is handcrafted right there in the store. It never sees the inside of a deep freezer, which is why it has such a rich taste. It also has a short shelf life, but it always disappears before that becomes an issue!

More Than Just Ice Cream Cones

There’s more to choose from at Bruster’s than just a couple scoops in a cone. Bruster’s also offers sundaes and splits, both available in either a waffle cone bowl or a regular bowl. Love banana splits? Every Thursday at Bruster’s is Banana Thursday, where customers can bring their own banana and get ½ off the price of a banana split. Other treats include blasts – soft serve with mix-ins like Oreos and Reese’s Pieces – milkshakes, freezes made with sherbet or Italian ice, and ice cream sodas and floats. Even your dog can join the fun! Bruster’s offers free “doggie sundaes” every day they are open.
Looking for something to suit a crowd? Bruster’s will hand-pack pints, quarts, and half gallons of their ice cream for you to take away, and they also offer pies and ice cream cakes. Ice cream cakes are available for pickup anytime, but they can be easily custom ordered with different flavors of cake and ice cream, as can the pies. Both are iced with Bruster’s vanilla ice cream, so there’s more than enough good feeling to go around.

Where to Find Ice Cream in Maryville

Bruster’s is located on 1400 W. Broadway in Maryville, Tennessee, and is open from 11 AM to 11 PM, 7 days a week. Next time the heat gets to be too much, you know where to go!
 

Check Out These Restaurants for a Hearty Weekend Brunch in the Smokies

Posted on November 30, 2018 by - Blog, Dining

There is something about being on vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains that seems to make just about everyone wake up hungry. It could be the water, maybe it’s the fresh air, or perhaps it’s all that extra hiking you’ve been putting in. But, if you wake up hungry in the Townsend, TN area on the weekend, we suggest you try these great local restaurants that serve up some amazing weekend brunches.

Country Steak N’ Eggs

Located at 7613 Old Highway 73, Townsend, Country Steak N’ Eggs serves up a full range of All-American brunch fare, vegetarian fare, and vegan dishes. From steak and eggs cooked to perfection to some of the finest biscuits and gravy,  you will leave full and happy. Their famous “Garbage Can” omelet may be the largest omelet you have ever seen. There is an outside dining area where you can enjoy your brunch while looking out over the river.

Riverstone Family Restaurant

Located at 8503 State Highway 73, Townsend, the Riverstone Family Restaurant serves a range of American cuisine and vegetarian-friendly food. Come for western omelets and country ham or try the frog’s legs, rainbow trout, or be brave and have a good old-fashioned fried bologna sandwich. The service here is superb, the food excellent, and the prices are very reasonable, plus they are right outside the gateway into the park.

Carriage House Restaurant

Located at 8310 State Hwy 73, Townsend, the Carriage House Restaurant offers buffet-style dining with a breakfast/brunch bar, homemade bread, fried okra, burgers, fried chicken, and many other tasty dishes. You can also order eggs cooked to your tastes, have custom-made omelets, and best of all, for one low price, the Carriage House offers all you can eat. No need to be shy here; be sure you bring your appetite, as you need plenty of fuel for your afternoon hike.

Elvira’s Café

Located at 4143 Wears Valley Rd. in Sevierville, Elvira’s Café is home to fresh food made every day using locally sourced ingredients. You just can’t get any fresher than this. Elvira’s serves up a range of local Southern Tennessee dishes with a slight Russian twist to them as a nod to Elvira’s homeland. Enjoy a Mountain Man omelet, your choice of breakfast or sweet crepes, and so much more. They also cater to vegetarian and vegan diets and are one of the most popular restaurants in the area.

Hillbilly’s Restaurant

Located near the middle of the strip in Wears Valley, TN, Hillbilly’s Restaurant/Wears Valley Café is easy to spot. It’s the only place in the area with a 1950s pickup truck on the roof. Once you walk in, the first thing you will see is another 50s-style truck with a whiskey still in the bed. The pancakes are to die for; you can order yours straight up with syrup, add fresh strawberries or blueberries, chocolate chips, or your choice of nuts. Add in the best burgers in the area, and a host of sandwiches, and you can’t go wrong, especially when you always get ham, bacon, or sausage with your breakfast.

Dig Into Maryville's Mouth-Watering BBQ at Full Service BBQ

Posted on April 10, 2014 by - Blog, Dining

When strolling through Maryville, passersby may notice a large smoker on the side of the road near downtown. That smoker belongs to Full Service BBQ, a locally-owned outdoor barbecue joint nestled in the same lot on South Washington Street that’s been around since 2007. If you’re looking for the Screen Shot 2014-04-10 at 4.13.47 PMperfect meal to pick up on your way to Cades Cove, or just to stop and relax after a long day of driving, then look no further. From colorful chalk for the little ones to play with, to the corn hole sets and multiple HD TV screens, Full Service BBQ has something to entertain every member of your group.
The food is pretty legendary as well. We suggest stocking up on the delicious side items (we were still dreaming of Yo’ Mama’s Mac & Cheese days later) and, dare we say, the best sweet tea in Maryville! Whether your group is craving ribs, Screen Shot 2014-04-10 at 4.14.23 PMpulled pork or the unique Hawg Dawg (beer boiled hot dog topped with BBQ pork), the entire menu will keep you coming back for more. Oh, and don’t even think about skipping the banana pudding (if you’re too full, it packages nicely in a to-go container).
Full Service BBQ also offers family packs for up to 25 people, or catering services for larger groups. Check out their website here and then “like” them on Facebook to receive exclusive deals and keep up with their daily specials. Screen Shot 2014-04-10 at 4.14.10 PMTrust us, this is one local spot you won’t want to miss during your trip to The Peaceful Side!
Full Service BBQ is located at 113 South Washington Street, Maryville, TN 37804 and are open daily from 11am – 9pm. For more info, call them at (865) 981-4414.

Eat Your Way Through the Peaceful Side at These Local Restaurants

Posted on April 15, 2019 by - Blog, Dining

One of the best parts about traveling is the ability to eat and experience new dining options that you don’t have at home. Finding new kinds of cuisines or just a new way to arrange ingredients in a dish can really broaden your culinary horizons.
A vacation to the Peaceful Side of the Smoky Mountains comes with plenty of gastric treats for your taste buds. In this list, you will find some of the amazing local restaurants that you can enjoy when you travel the East Tennessee area.
Maryville Dining Options
Anaba: Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in an Izakaya atmosphere. Seisuke Fukuoka, the head chef, is an expert in Japanese culinary delights. You will find sushi, hibachi, and traditional ramen dishes.
Barley’s: Enjoy excellent food, plenty of beer options, and occasional live music. There are 70 different beers on tap and daily drink specials. They have a full menu that includes items like the Fried Pork Belly appetizer and the Salmon Grit Cakes.
Dockside Grille: If you find yourself at the Tellico Marina, make sure you grab a meal at this great restaurant that offers light lunch options and grilled steaks. There is often live entertainment to round out the experience.
Foothills Milling Co: If you are looking for up-scale fare, head to this farm to fork restaurant that sources ingredients from local farms and businesses. You can find interesting options for your taste buds including the Lamb Meatball appetizer and Tempura Lobster Tails.
Townsend Dining Options
Apple Valley Cafe: Attached to the Apple Valley Country Store, this is a popular spot in Townsend. You can get breakfast or lunch in this establishment, but no matter when you come, the World Famous Apple Pie should be part of your meal.
Burger Master: This historic spot has been serving the residents and tourists for over fifty years. You can get classic fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken sandwiches. However, the real reason for the visit will definitely be one of the ice-cream desserts!
Little River BBQ: If you want good old fashioned BBQ, then Little River will be right up your alley. Choose from beef, pork, or chicken in your choice of sauce. You can even pick up a family pack to-go for a BBQ picnic.
Richmont Inn: Those staying at the Richmont Inn are in for a treat! In addition to the classic breakfast (included in the price of your room), you will also get a complimentary candlelight dessert each evening at 8 pm. They sometimes offer a four-course fondue dinner as well.  
There are plenty of other dining options in on the Peaceful side too! In Alcoa, you will find the sophisticated Cooper’s, Hot Rod’s 50s Diner, and Shrimp Dock’s seafood. In Walland, there is Becky’s Grocery and Grille, the Snoring Bear Diner, and The Barn and Blackberry Farm. When traveling on the Peaceful Side, you can eat somewhere different for each meal and never have to repeat restaurants! You might want to get your foodie list together before you leave for your trip, you may not be able to decide once you arrive.
 

Fine Dining on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies

Posted on May 14, 2025 by - Blog, Dining, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Long rooted in Appalachian traditions of resourcefulness and seasonal cooking, the Peaceful Side of the Smokies has quietly grown into a destination for fine dining. Here, chefs aren’t just drawing on advanced culinary training—they’re working with local farmers and finding inspiration in the Smokies themselves. These are our top picks in Maryville, Townsend and Walland.

The Restaurant at RT Lodge — Maryville

Tucked in the Maryville College woods, The Restaurant at RT Lodge combines rustic charm with a refined, seasonal menu focused on from-scratch cooking. The kitchen makes everything in-house, from pickles to pimento cheese, and sources locally whenever possible. After dinner, guests are invited to enjoy s’mores by the fire pit. This hidden gem was ranked one of the top 13 things to do in Maryville by Southern Living.

About the Chef:

Executive Chef Trevor Stockton brings thoughtful, Southern-inspired dishes to life with precision and creativity. Named one of Plate Magazine’s “Top Chefs to Watch,” he’s helping put Maryville on the culinary map.

View Sample Menu

The Barn at Blackberry Farm — Walland

Tucked inside a century-old, cathedral-like barn on the grounds of Blackberry Farm, The Barn offers a fine dining experience unlike any other in the region. This James Beard Award-winning restaurant crafts multicourse meals using seasonal Appalachian ingredients—many harvested just steps from the kitchen. Elegant service, a world-class wine cellar and a 300+ bottle spirits list elevate every meal into a celebration.

Please note, the Barn is open to outside guests by reservation only. Availability resumes Winter 2025.

About the Chef:

Executive Chef Cassidee Dabney leads the culinary team with a deep-rooted respect for seasonality and Southern heritage. A New England Culinary Institute grad with a Four Seasons pedigree, she’s earned national acclaim including multiple James Beard nominations and features in Food & Wine and Art Culinaire.

View Sample Menu

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro — Townsend

At Dancing Bear, modern Appalachian cuisine takes center stage, rooted in local tradition and elevated with contemporary flair. Known for its warm ambiance and award-winning cuisine, it’s an ideal spot for romantic dinners and special occasions. The bistro has earned national attention, including multiple Travelers’ Choice Awards from TripAdvisor and a spot on OpenTable’s list of the 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the U.S.

About the Chef:

Executive Chef Jeff Carter brings deep regional roots and serious culinary pedigree to the table. His elevated approach to comfort food reflects the heart of the Smokies—warm, soulful and beautifully composed. In 2025, he was recognized by Cityview Magazine as the region’s top chef, sweeping first place in appetizer, entrée, dessert and overall experience.

View Sample Menu

The Walnut Kitchen — Maryville

With its upscale-rustic charm and devotion to Tennessee-grown ingredients, The Walnut Kitchen delivers a refined yet approachable dining experience. Set in a restored historic building in downtown Maryville, the restaurant blends Southern hospitality with contemporary culinary technique. The open kitchen, wood-fired grill and thoughtful seasonal menus highlight the best of East Tennessee’s bounty, from prime cuts to heirloom vegetables.

About the Chef:

Executive Chef Jason Scott brings both precision and heart to the kitchen. A Massachusetts native with family ties to the restaurant world, he’s spent the last decade honing his craft in Tennessee. Formerly Executive Chef at Knoxville’s Lonesome Dove, he was named Cityview Magazine’s Top Chef in 2022 (Dessert Category) and now leads the Walnut Kitchen’s culinary team with passion, technique and a love for elevated Southern fare.

View Seasonal Menu

Foothills Milling Company — Maryville

Rooted in the Appalachian tradition of the community mill, Foothills Milling Company transforms the spirit of the Smokies into an elegant fine dining experience. What began as a humble 13-table restaurant in Wears Valley has evolved into one of Maryville’s most celebrated destinations, known for its seasonal menus, Southern hospitality and devotion to local sourcing.

Now housed in a historic 1920s-era building once home to a Studebaker showroom, the restaurant honors its heritage through both its name and its philosophy, blending refinement with a deep respect for the land and people of East Tennessee. Dishes are crafted with ingredients from regional producers like Benton’s Bacon, Cruze Farm and Vienna Coffee, celebrating the bounty and resilience of Appalachian foodways in every bite.

View Menu

Looking for a more casual dining experience on the Peaceful Side? Check out these 10 restaurants where you can eat well for $16 or less.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.

Indulge in Southern Appalachian Cuisine on the Peaceful Side 

Posted on March 7, 2025 by - Blog, Dining, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Southern Appalachian cuisine is a blend of British, German and Italian immigrant traditions, along with Cherokee and African American influences—at least, that’s what Google says. Ask a local, and they’ll tell you it’s about clearing your plate, going back for seconds (or thirds), and still heading home with leftovers—especially if Mamaw’s cooking. 

Shaped by rugged mountains and harsh winters, Southern Appalachians have long mastered the art of making the most of what’s available. For generations, foraging for ingredients like ramps, blackberries and black walnuts, along with canning, pickling and preserving, has been a way of life. Today, restaurants on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies carry on these traditions with their own modern twist.

Well, what are you waiting for? We’ve saved you a seat. 

Southern Appalachian Staples 

Before diving into the best places to try these dishes, here’s a breakdown of some key ingredients and meals that define Southern Appalachian cuisine: 

  • Benton’s Bacon & Country Ham: World-famous ham slow cured in East Tennessee using salt, brown sugar and sodium nitrite. 
  • Biscuits and Gravy: Not to be confused with the British cookie. Soft, flaky bread rolls served for breakfast. 
  • Blackberries: In season from July to October. Enjoyed as-is, or in jams and cobblers. 
  • Black-eyed Peas: Bean introduced to the region by West African enslaved people in the 17th century. Said to bring good luck in the New Year. 
  • Cobbler: Dessert consisting of a fruit poured into a large baking dish and covered with a batter or biscuit. 
  • Collards: Hardy greens that can survive the winter and summer. Like black-eyed peas, said to bring good luck in the New Year. 
  • Fried Green Tomatoes and Fried Okra: Southern summertime delight. Maybe not what the doctor had in mind when they said to eat your vegetables. 
  • Pimento Cheese: A.K.A. “Southern Caviar”. A blend of shredded cheddar cheese, pimentos, mayo and spices, typically served with crackers or as a sandwich. 
  • Pinto Beans and Cornbread: Budget-friendly and hearty meal. 
  • Ramps: Wild onion in season from mid-March to early April. Eaten raw or cooked. 
  • Wild Mushrooms: Oyster mushrooms, Chicken of the Woods and morels are some of the most common. 
  • Wild Nuts: Black walnuts, pecans and American Chestnuts are some of the most common. 

Blackhorse Pub & Brewery

  • Fried Green Tomatoes – Served with house-made pimiento cheese and house-made tomato jam.  
  • Cheddar Pimiento Cheese – Served with fresh baguette slices and house-made tomato jam. 
  • Cletus Burger – Served with fried green tomato, pimiento cheese and tomato jam.  

Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro 

  • Confit Rabbit Pasta – Confit rabbit leg, roasted ham hock meat, Benton’s bacon, preserved lemon, local oyster mushrooms, braised onions, smoked chicken velouté, baby kale and Italian apron pasta. 
  • Veal Picatta & Pasta – Crispy veal sweetbreads, Benton’s bacon, preserved lemon, crispy capers, local oyster mushrooms and Italian apron pasta. 
  • Green Goddess Salad – Artisan lettuce, cucumber, heirloom tomatoes, shaved radish, pickled red onion, cornbread croutons and spring herb dressing. 

Elvira’s Cafe 

  • Tennessee Haystack – Open-faced biscuit topped with bacon, ham, two eggs your way and homemade sausage gravy. 
  • Fried Green Tomato BLT – Applewood smoked bacon, fried green tomatoes, romaine lettuce and bacon aioli sauce, served on multigrain bread. 

Foothills Milling Co. 

  • Fried Green Tomatoes – Fried green tomatoes topped with tomato chutney, basil aioli and goat cheese. 
  • Pimento Cheese & Pork Rinds – Served with Vermont white cheddar and smoked gouda. 
  • Mixed Green Salad with Fried Okra – Mixed greens, crispy fried okra, tomatoes, grilled red onion, cheddar cheese and buttermilk garlic dressing. 
  • Baby Spinach Salad – Baby spinach, Benton’s bacon, goat cheese, shaved red onion, roasted black-eyed peas and warm bacon Dijon dressing. 

Peaceful Side Social 

Appalachian Trail Board. Photo courtesy of Peaceful Side Social.
  • Appalachian Trail Board – Salami, Benton’s ham, pepperoni, regional cheese, pepper relish, pickled veggies, crackers and trail mix. 

REO Cheesewagon 

Blackberry Smoke. Photo courtesy of REO Cheesewagon.
  • Blackberry Smoke – Gourmet grilled cheese. Provolone, blackberry jam, pickled jalapeños and bacon. 
  • Grilled Pimiento Cheese – Cheddar pimiento cheese. 

The Shed Smokehouse

  • Pinto Bean Plate – Pinto beans, collard greens and two hoecakes, served with a side of chow-chow. 

The Walnut Kitchen 

Grit Chips & Pimiento Cheese. Photo courtesy of The Walnut Kitchen.
  • Grit Chips & Pimento Cheese – House-made grit chips and pimento cheese. 
  • Appalachian Lardon Pasta – Blistered heirloom tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, northern beans, arugula, bucatini pasta, pecorino Romano cream sauce and Benton’s ham lardons. 
  • Elevation Burger – 8 oz. Simpson’s burger, pimento cheese, tomato jam, bacon, lettuce and tomato. 
  • Seasonal Cobbler – Local fruit marinated in seasonal spices and sugar, topped with a brown sugar crumble and served with vanilla bean ice cream. 
  • Southern Grilled Cheese – House-made pimento cheese, bacon, lettuce and tomato, served on Texas toast. 

Want to dive deeper into Appalachian Cuisine? Check out our directory of restaurants on the Peaceful Side. 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.

  • 1
  • 2