Eating out on vacation doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg! There are several restaurants in the area that are affordable and have delicious food you’ll want to try! When you’re ready for the midday meal, you’ll want to know about the best places to eat that won’t break the bank. Here are 5 of the best budget friendly restaurants for lunch in Pigeon Forge.
1. Pigeon Forge Deli
When you’re in need of a quick bite for lunch so you can get back to having fun, you should head to Pigeon Forge Deli. It is tucked away off the main road, making it a true hidden gem, and it won’t break the bank! All of the bread is made fresh every day, and they even offer gluten free options. You can create your own sandwich, or you can choose from one of their signature sandwiches, like The Chub. Pigeon Forge Deli also makes fresh pretzels, and you’ll want to try one!
2. Mel’s Diner
If you want something a little heartier for lunch, you can’t go wrong eating at Mel’s Diner. This 1950s-inspired diner has all of the classic diner meals, from burgers to liver and onions to meatloaf. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something on the menu! Be sure to save room for a malt, milkshake, or banana split!
3. Cookie Dough Monster
In the mood for gourmet burgers and sandwiches? Then you should head over to Cookie Dough Monster. Although the name makes you think of dessert, which they do have, this restaurant serves savory meals you’ll love. Get a burger topped with mac and cheese, covered in blue aioli, or as spicy as you can stand it! There are also chicken sandwiches for every taste, as well as gourmet grilled cheeses and melts! Be sure to end your lunch in Pigeon Forge with edible cookie dough!
4. Lil Black Bear Cafe
Another hidden gem that’s perfect for lunch in Pigeon Forge is Lil Black Bear Cafe. They have chicken salad and a chef salad for something light, as well as soup. You also can get a juicy burger or cheese burger topped with your favorites. You can also get hot dogs or other types of sandwiches! A unique sandwich you’ll want to try is their Smoky Mountain Squealing burger, which is a beef patty topped with pulled pork and barbecue sauce.
5. Huck Finn’s Catfish
Need a southern meal since you’re in East Tennessee but don’t want to break the bank? Head on over to Huck Finn’s Catfish! They have crispy fried chicken and cornmeal fried catfish you won’t be able to get enough of! Every meal comes with vittles, which include onion slices, pickles, white beans, hush puppies, coleslaw, and your choice of fries, green beans, or mashed potatoes and gravy!
Any of these restaurants for lunch in Pigeon Forge are great options when you’re on a budget but don’t want to miss out on incredible food. You don’t have to sacrifice experiences just because you want to save money! Want even more ways to save and have fun? Check out our free attraction tickets to see what kind of fun you can have when you stay with us!
