Looking for a place to eat in Townsend? Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying for the week, one of these places will be a great choice. I’ve chosen some of my personal favorite spots. After a day of hiking in the mountains, it sure is nice to grab a burger at Apple Valley or a cold cider and a pizza at Peaceful Side Social. All of these places have my stamp of approval for great food! There are many delicious options in Townsend. This lovely town has something for every taste. Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food or fresh, farm-to-table dishes, you’re sure to find the perfect spot.
Townsend’s Perfect Location: Gateway to Adventure
No matter where you’re headed to or driving from, Townsend, Tennessee, is conveniently located close to many popular spots:
- Knoxville: Just about 28 miles away, making it an easy 40-minute drive from the city.
- Knoxville Airport: Approximately 25 miles away, providing a convenient 35-minute drive for those flying into the area.
- Pigeon Forge: Around 20 miles away, offering a quick 30-minute trip to its attractions.
- Chattanooga: Approximately 110 miles away, so it’s a little bit of a drive, but not too long.
- Gatlinburg: Roughly 25 miles away, giving you quick 35-minute access to the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
- The Great Smoky Mountains: Townsend is right at the entrance, so planning a day of hiking and exploring is easy—you’re just minutes away from adventure.
Meals & Moments: Connect, Laugh, Enjoy
Sharing a meal together is always a good idea because it allows us to slow down, sit down, and connect with others. So, whether you’re starting the day with breakfast to anticipate the adventures ahead, or refueling with lunch to continue the fun, sitting down for a meal is a perfect way to share special moments. As for my favorite meal, dinner—I love making reservations at the Appalachian Bistro for a date night with my hubby or a fun night with friends. Good food and laughter are certainly good for the soul. There are plenty of great places to eat in Townsend that offer delicious food and Southern hospitality.
So, let’s dive in! These are my personal favorite spots in Townsend, and I highly recommend them—I promise, they won’t disappoint. Plus, I’ll share some of my favorite things to order too.
Little River Pub & Deli
How do moonshine BBQ pork nachos sound? Well, you can find them here at Little River Pub and Deli in Townsend. During your visit, grab a seat outside and kick back to sip on a local beer or craft cocktail. They have a great menu with a little bit of everything, from sandwiches to nachos. Also, they offer kids’ meals and vegetarian and gluten-free options, making it basically a win-win for everyone.
- Little River Pub & Deli
- 7503 West Old Hwy 73 Townsend, TN
- Indoor seating and also outdoor riverview seating available
- Check out their website for hours and menu HERE!
The Abbey at the Heartland Chapel
The Abbey is a perfect spot to spend the afternoon, enjoying a cold local beer by the river or maybe a glass of some iced Southern sweet tea—your choice! So, I suggest that you plan a few hours here to hangout and enjoy some great food and play a game of cornhole. Additionally, The Abbey offers shareables for lighter options, or if you’re on the hungrier side, make it a meal and grab a flatbread, a sub sandwich, or a salad—any of these are great choices. Check their website for live music events on the weekend, and I’m going to highly recommend that you try their pork belly, apple, and BBQ flatbread. It’s certainly AMAZING!
- The Abbey
- 7765 River Road Townsend, TN
- Indoor and outdoor seating also available
- Shareables available on menu, as well as flatbreads and more!
- Also, a great spot to hang out for the afternoon.
- Check out their website for hours & menu HERE!
Apple Valley Cafe
Apple Valley Cafe serves everything! From breakfast to burgers, BBQ, and amazing salads, they even have some great desserts—how about a fried pie? I highly recommend their breakfast bowl; it’s perfect for fueling up for your day. My daughter loves the burgers, and we always share an order of sweet potato fries. And yes, I’m confessing that my hubby and I have been known to stop by, grab dessert to go, and drive the loop in Cades Cove while enjoying our tasty treat.
- Apple Valley Cafe
- 7138 East Lamar Alexander Parkway Townsend, TN
- Indoor seating and also outdoor Beer Garden seating available
- Check out their website for hours & menu HERE!
- Also, Check out the Dancing Bear Lodge too!
Peaceful Side Social
Of all the places to eat in Townsend, I’d say that Peaceful Side Social is my favorite spot to take the family and grandkids for an afternoon get-together. So, first of all, their truffle fries are delicious, and I love their smoked trout sandwich. Also, their menu has great options—pizzas, sandwiches, and salads. Plus, a taco truck is also open several days a week too. In addition to their great food, they have local beers and ciders. You’ve got to try my all-time favorite cider, the Vaudevillian, which is a tart cherry cider. It’s certainly delicious! Also, another favorite thing is their amazing outdoor play area for the kids and cornhole games. Overall, it’s a great area to hang out and enjoy a few hours of your afternoon.
- Peaceful Side Social
- 7967 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN
- Indoor & outdoor seating
- Corn Hole and also a outdoor play area for kids
- Check out their website for hours & menu HERE!
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro
Ok, I’m going to say that The Appalachian Bistro is a “you must go” kind of place. The food here is what I consider high-end farm-to-table cuisine, locally sourced and prepared amazingly. The Appalachian Bistro offers what I call rustic farm-to-table meets modern cuisine. With its beautiful location in Townsend, nestled amongst trees and the Smoky Mountains, the atmosphere here is perfect, just like the food. They also have amazing craft drinks. My hubby and I stayed at The Dancing Bear Lodge for a few days and were able to walk here for dinner each night. It was so much fun. Definitely check out the cabins here too—great place to eat and stay! You can book a room at the Dancing Bear Lodge HERE!
- The Appalachian Bistro
- 7140 East Lamar Alexander Pkwy. Townsend, TN
- Indoor and outdoor seating available
- A outdoor fire pit area also available, perfect for pre-dinner cocktails
- Menu: Check Menu HERE!
Little River BBQ
Do barbecue ribs, seasoned chicken, and brisket sound good to you? If so, The Little River BBQ is the place for you! I love some barbecue myself and highly recommend the brisket here. Plus, here at The Little River BBQ, the smoker is always going. They also offer BBQ family to-go packs, which are super convenient to grab and take back to your cabin. Located on the Little River, you’ll love eating here. Plus, it’s right next to River Rage Tubing, so you can grab dinner after your float. Definitely a fun spot for the whole family!
- Little River BBQ
- 8303 TN-73-SCENIC Townsend, TN
- Indoor and outdoor seating available
- To-Go: BBQ family to-go packs are also available
- Check Menu HERE!
I’m ready to go grab a bite, how about you? These places to eat in Townsend are all great spots, and I’m excited for you to give them a try. Whether you’re in the mood for a Southern breakfast, a light lunch, or a farm-to-table dinner, you’re sure to find something that hits the spot. So, take your time exploring these delicious options and let me know which one becomes your favorite. Happy eating!
Show Us Your Townsend Tastes
Now go explore these places to eat in Townsend! Afterwards, we’d love to hear about your favorite—share your adventures with #TennesseeTrekkn. Also, be sure to check out our Facebook page for more Tennessee adventures. Well, friends, I hope you have fun exploring these great spots! Happy eating.
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