Mel’s Classic Diner in Pigeon Forge: Back to the Fifties

Experience Classic American Dining at Mel’s Diner in Pigeon Forge

Step into a nostalgic slice of Americana at Mel’s Diner, where the charm of the 1950s is brought to life with retro décor, neon signage, cozy booths, and the unmistakable tunes of jukebox favorites. Located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, this well-loved local gem offers a warm, upbeat atmosphere and a wide-ranging menu that appeals to every appetite—from early-morning breakfast to late-night desserts.

Whether you're visiting with family, friends, or enjoying a solo bite, Mel’s Diner delivers a timeless dining experience that has made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

All-Day Breakfast, Served Your Way

Start your morning—or enjoy breakfast any time of day—with hearty classics made to order. The breakfast menu includes everything from eggs with bacon or sausage to traditional Southern favorites like fried bologna, country fried steak, and beef tips.

Other breakfast options include:

  • Golden pancakes in short or tall stacks with syrup and butter
  • Sweet, fluffy French toast
  • A variety of omelets with fresh ingredients
  • Biscuits and sausage gravy
  • Sides like grits, hash browns, and toast

Breakfast is served from 7:00 a.m. to midnight daily, with all menu items available at any hour.

Classic Lunch and Dinner Selections

Mel’s lunch and dinner menu celebrates American diner fare with a creative twist. Start your meal with appetizers like:

  • Trevor’s Cheese Fries with Bacon
  • Tony’s Onion Rings
  • John Wayne’s Chicken Quesadilla
  • Abbot & Costello Jumbo Wings

For something lighter, the menu features fresh soups and salads, including:

  • Chicken Noodle Soup and Hearty Chili
  • Cori’s Chef Salad
  • Julie’s Grilled Chicken Salad
  • Spicy Taco Salad

The sandwich lineup is packed with nostalgic flair. Highlights include:

  • The Bette Davis BLT
  • Darlene’s Fried Bologna and Cheese
  • Matt’s Meatloaf Sandwich
  • Fabulous Thunderbird (chicken, bacon, BBQ, and cheese)

Burger lovers will enjoy classics like the Beach Boy Hamburger or opt for specialty options such as the Chubby Checker Cheeseburger or the Buddy Holly Chili Cheeseburger. Hot dog fans can take on the Big Foot’s Foot Long Dog for a memorable bite.

Homestyle Entrées

For those craving traditional comfort food, Mel’s features a rotating selection of made-from-scratch dishes that showcase Southern flavors:

  • Miss Stella’s Country Fried Steak with Gravy
  • Randi’s Pulled Pork Barbecue
  • Grandpappy’s Pot Roast
  • Hungry Eddie’s Hamburger Steak
  • Bad Boy’s Beef Liver and Onions
  • Miss Dee’s Hand-Breaded Catfish
  • Sudlow’s Signature Meatloaf

These homestyle meals are ideal for guests looking for authentic, hearty fare.

Desserts Worth the Trip

No visit to Mel’s is complete without indulging in one of their signature desserts. Choose from:

  • Classic milkshakes, malts, sundaes, and floats
  • Homemade peach cobbler
  • Strawberry shortcake
  • Hot fudge cake

For the ultimate treat, try Mel’s Famous Banana Split—available in both full and half sizes. The full version features six scoops of ice cream topped with banana, pineapple, strawberry topping, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, chopped nuts, and a cherry on top.

Planning Your Visit

Conveniently located near major attractions and just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Mel’s Diner offers a perfect stop for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a sweet treat after a day of exploring. Takeout is available, and guests can purchase exclusive merchandise, including limited-edition T-shirts, to remember their visit.

Address:119 Wears Valley Road, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865) 429-2184
Website:melsdinerpf.com
Hours:Open daily from 7:00 a.m. to midnight

Dining