On your Gatlinburg vacation, seek out restaurants you won’t find elsewhere. Dine at these five spots to experience authentic local flavor.  

The lace-covered tables and log walls evoke a gracious past. The tearoom is modeled on Austrian tea houses, bringing European mountain heritage to the Smokies. Open for lunches and teas, Wild Plum offers sandwiches and juicy burgers, seafood specials, soups, stratas, salads, and desserts. Plan in advance to experience the Wild Plum’s hospitality because reservations are required. 

This small gem sits above The Cheese Cupboard in Gatlinburg’s Village Shops. Climb the stairs to Hofbrauhaus, a restaurant that transports you to Germany instantly. Hot sandwiches feature here, like Reubens, bratwurst, pastrami, corned beef and roast beef. Of course, there’s German beer to wash down the hearty fare and favorites like pretzels and potato salad. 

Red Oak Bistro’s specialty is small, shared plates of Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines. Bite into smoked salmon bruschetta or vegetable-filled crepes. Pluck delicious prosciutto or salami from the charcuterie board. The savory dishes accompany the extensive collection of red and white wines, champagnes and sparkling wines, whiskeys, bourbons, and beers. Savor your wine in the intimate dining room or at one of the loveliest local bars. 

Roll up at the Fox & Parrot for a touch of London. This pub serves traditional British fare cooked to order. Have a beer while you wait because Fox & Parrot has one of the best selections of draft beers in the area. Sip your Guinness, Newcastle Brown Ale, or Bombardier, then order fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, a Cornish pasty, or “bubble and squeak” (corned beef with cabbage and potatoes). You’ll almost believe you’re in Blighty! 

Though Elvira’s is down the road, it’s worth the short drive. This relaxed restaurant, set against a beautiful mountain backdrop, begins with breakfast: Try hot cakes, loaded biscuits, or Southern chicken and waffles. Tender crepes are an old-world treat, sweet at breakfast and lunch, stuffed with roasted turkey or veggies. Elvira’s serves dinner only on Fridays and Saturdays, with weekly specials. The highlight is Sunday brunch, starring crepes, omelets, sandwiches, and chicken or seafood dishes. 

For the wealthiest vacation experience, seek what you can only find in Gatlinburg. Book a Gatlinburg cabin rental, so you’re close to these tasty destinations.