If you’re anything like us, you start fantasizing about what you’re going to eat during your vacation long before you hit the road! While Gatlinburg is most famous for its pancake houses, this fun town in the Smoky Mountains is no slouch when it comes to lunch either. To help you make the most of your next getaway, we have put together a guide to a few of our favorite places to eat lunch in Gatlinburg.

1. New Orleans Sandwich Company

The New Orleans Sandwich Co. brings the flavors of the Big Easy to the Smokies. This “hole-in-the-wall” restaurant is located in the Baskins Square shopping area and has a great selection of New Orleans po’ boys (large French bread sandwiches that typically come “dressed” with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo). Some of the most popular po’ boys at New Orleans Sandwich Co. include the Saints Smoked Sausage, Bourbon Street Roast Beef, Creole Ham Sandwich, and the Louisiana Oyster Sandwich. In addition to po’ boys, you can enjoy red beans and rice, gumbo, crab cakes, jambalaya, and other traditional New Orleans dishes.

2. Tennessee Jed’s

Tennessee Jed’s is one of downtown Gatlinburg’s hotspots for lunch; their sandwich ingredients are locally sourced and crafted with care. They make a fantastic BLT, Cuban, Reuben, chicken salad, hot ham n’ Swiss, and even a spicy tofu sandwich for vegetarians! They also serve Nathan’s hot dogs you can top with chili, bacon and cheese, or sauerkraut, or cole slaw. Enjoy tasty sides, drinks, and desserts with your sandwich, and sit inside or at their outside seating area.

3. Delauder’s BBQ

Delauder’s BBQ is another great place for lunch in Gatlinburg that’s off the beaten path. This unfussy restaurant does Smoky Mountain barbeque right, plus their hometown service is unmatched! The owner’s super secret 24-spice rub, homemade sauces, and classic Southern sides made from family recipes make it a must-stop for all barbeque lovers. You know it’s good because they made Yelp’s 2024 list of the Top 100 BBQ Restaurants in the US- they came in at the #10 spot!

4. Morning Mist Cafe

Located in the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, Morning Mist Cafe is considered a hidden gem in the Smokies. This quaint restaurant has developed a loyal following for its mouthwatering burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads. The Cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating and offers a relaxing and friendly atmosphere. Highlights of the menu include the catfish sandwich, cranberry turkey wrap, homemade chicken salad, and creamy vegetable soup. Be sure to save room for dessert; their homemade cobbler is delicious!

5. Parton’s Deli

No list of spots for lunch in Gatlinburg would be complete without Parton’s Deli! This beloved restaurant has been a mainstay of the Parkway since 1974 and a favorite among the locals for its down-home and exceptionally friendly service. Their indoor seating is limited to just a few tables and booths, but they do run a great take-out service. You’ll find tasty sandwiches, chili dogs, deviled eggs, homemade potato salad, lemon pound cake, and more. If you like Rueben sandwiches, you must try their famous steamed Rueben hoagie on pumpernickel bread…it’s amazing!

We hope you’ll try one of these unique places for lunch in Gatlinburg! Want more dining recommendations while you’re in town? Check out our complete guide to the best local restaurants in Gatlinburg TN.