Sevierville, Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, offers more than just scenic landscapes—it’s also a haven for food lovers. The town’s culinary scene features a delightful blend of traditional Southern dishes and local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, exploring Sevierville’s local eats is an experience that leaves you craving more.
From comforting breakfasts to indulgent desserts, this guide will introduce you to the top five local specialties you shouldn't miss.
One of the most iconic breakfast dishes in the South, biscuits and gravy, is a great way to kick off your morning in Sevierville. The dish features warm, flaky biscuits that are topped with a rich, creamy sausage gravy. The biscuits are typically made from scratch, giving them a soft, buttery texture that melts in your mouth.
The magic of this dish lies in the gravy, which is prepared with crumbled sausage, milk, and a touch of black pepper. It’s poured generously over the biscuits, creating a flavorful, filling breakfast that locals swear by. Whether you're an early riser or prefer a late breakfast, you’ll find this dish in many eateries across the area. It's a hearty, comforting start to a day filled with adventures in the Smoky Mountains.
Barbecue is a culinary tradition deeply rooted in Sevierville, and one of the best places to experience it is Buddy’s bar-b-q. This Sevierville restaurant specializes in slow-smoked meats, offering everything from pulled pork to beef brisket. The aroma of barbecue alone is enough to draw you in, but the flavors are what keep visitors coming back.
At Buddy’s bar-b-q, you’ll find generous platters that come with perfectly smoked meats, slathered in tangy sauces, and paired with Southern sides like baked beans and creamy coleslaw. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a to-go plate, this spot delivers an authentic taste of Tennessee barbecue that is hard to beat. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies both your hunger and your soul.
For seafood lovers, fried catfish with hushpuppies is a dish that shouldn’t be missed. This Southern delicacy features catfish fillets coated in cornmeal batter and fried to golden perfection. The crispy exterior gives way to tender, flaky fish inside, offering a delicious contrast of textures.
Hushpuppies—small balls of deep-fried cornmeal batter—are the traditional sidekick to fried catfish. They add just the right amount of crunch and sweetness to the dish. Many places in Sevierville serve this meal with tartar sauce, coleslaw, and a slice of lemon, completing a Southern feast that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
If you like your food with a bit of heat, Sevierville’s take on hot chicken is sure to impress. This dish originated in Nashville but has found its way into many kitchens throughout Tennessee. Hot chicken consists of crispy fried chicken coated in a spicy cayenne-based sauce, delivering a fiery kick with every bite.
The spice level can range from mild to extremely hot, allowing diners to customize their experience. Served with slices of white bread and pickles, hot chicken is both satisfying and flavorful. It’s a dish that will wake up your taste buds and leave you wanting more, especially if you enjoy bold flavors.
No meal in the South is complete without something sweet, and pecan pie is a must-try when visiting Sevierville. This classic pie features a rich filling made from caramelized pecans, brown sugar, and butter, all baked inside a flaky crust. The filling is soft and gooey, contrasting perfectly with the crunchy pecans on top.
Pecan pie is often served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding an extra layer of sweetness to the dish. Whether you enjoy it after dinner or as a treat during the day, this pie offers a taste of Southern hospitality in every bite.
Country ham is a Southern favorite that brings a bold, salty flavor to the table. Unlike regular ham, it is cured and aged, giving it a firmer texture and a more intense taste. When paired with red-eye gravy, this dish becomes a must-try for those looking to experience authentic Southern cooking.
Red-eye gravy is made by mixing the drippings from the ham with strong black coffee, resulting in a savory, slightly bitter sauce. This unique combination creates a burst of flavor that complements the saltiness of the ham. Often served with eggs, grits, or biscuits, country ham with red-eye gravy is a popular breakfast or brunch option in Sevierville.
Cornbread and collard greens are staples of Southern cuisine, offering a comforting and satisfying meal. Cornbread, often baked in cast iron skillets, has a golden crust with a soft, crumbly interior. It is slightly sweet but savory enough to accompany a variety of dishes.
Collard greens, on the other hand, are cooked low and slow, often with ham hocks or bacon, to infuse them with flavor. This side dish is rich, earthy, and nutritious, balancing the sweetness of the cornbread. Together, these two items create a simple yet delightful combination that reflects the essence of Southern comfort food.
Tennessee is famous for its moonshine, and some local bakeries have found creative ways to incorporate this tradition into their desserts. Moonshine-infused cakes and cookies are popular treats that offer a unique twist on classic recipes. While the alcohol content is minimal, the moonshine adds depth and character to the flavors.
These desserts are often served during special events or available as souvenirs to take home. Whether you choose a moonshine-flavored cupcake or a cookie with a hint of peach moonshine, these sweet treats provide a playful way to experience a piece of Tennessee’s heritage.
In conclusion, Sevierville offers a diverse range of dishes that showcase the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. Whether you stick to familiar favorites or venture into new flavors, every bite in Sevierville promises a memorable experience.
