Johnson Family Restaurants in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg

Why Johnson Family of Restaurants Stands Out in the Smokies

What began decades ago as Bruce Johnson’s dream of opening a barbecue restaurant has since evolved into a respected group of culinary destinations across the Smoky Mountains. Today, the Johnson Family of Restaurantsincludes a variety of establishments, each known for welcoming service, a relaxed atmosphere, and consistently fresh, flavorful food.

Each restaurant offers something unique while maintaining the same commitment to quality that has become the hallmark of the Johnson family brand.

Please note: All restaurants in this group are closed on Wednesdays.

Alamo Steakhouse

Regularly voted as a top local steakhouse, Alamo Steakhousehas earned recognition not only from regional patrons but also from national publications such as The Washington Post. With two convenient locations, the restaurant provides a welcoming setting where families and friends can gather for an exceptional meal.

The menu showcases hand-cut, aged-in-house Black Angus steaks cooked to your specifications. Cuts include Ribeye, Porterhouse, and Filet Mignon. For guests looking beyond steak, Alamo offers a diverse selection of appetizers, seafood, and other entrées. A dedicated children’s menu, private booths, and a large banquet room for up to 50 guests round out the experience.

Locations:
705 E. Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 — (865) 436-9998
3050 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 — (865) 908-9998
alamosteakhouse.com

Bennett’s Pit BBQ

For authentic hickory-smoked barbecue, Bennett’s Pit BBQremains a local favorite. Celebrated for its fall-off-the-bone meats and signature sauces, this restaurant has been perfecting barbecue for more than 25 years.

Slow-cooked for up to 14 hours, menu staples include pork shoulder, brisket, chicken, and baby back ribs—available as platters, sandwiches, or combo meals. Bennett’s is consistently praised by guests who call it some of the best barbecue they've ever had.

Locations:
714 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 — (865) 436-2400
2910 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 — (865) 429-2200
bennetts-bbq.com

Big Daddy’s Pizzeria

At Big Daddy’s Pizzeria, pizza is crafted the old-fashioned way—with fresh dough made daily, premium toppings, and cooked in a wood-fired brick oven. With no freezer on-site, all ingredients are prepared fresh to ensure the highest quality.

Guests can choose from creative specialty pizzas or build their own. Homemade meatballs and other starters round out the menu. Families especially appreciate the on-site arcade at the Pigeon Forge location, making it a fun stop for both kids and adults.

Locations:
1820 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862 — (865) 908-1123
714 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 — (865) 436-5455
3053 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 — (865) 429-7171
bigdaddyspizzeria.net

Mama’s Farmhouse

At Mama’s Farmhouse, the focus is on Southern-style comfort food served family-style with no menu required. Whether you're in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the experience is hearty and nostalgic.

Rotating entrees include fried chicken, meatloaf, and country fried steak, accompanied by classic sides like macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and creamed corn. The homemade buttermilk biscuits are award-winning and a guest favorite. Breakfast includes generous helpings of traditional favorites for those preparing for a day in the Smokies.

Location:
208 Pickel Street, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 — (865) 908-4646
mamasfarmhouse.com

Mad Dog’s Creamery & Donuts

For a sweet treat, Mad Dog’s Creameryoffers a wide range of hand-dipped ice creams, sundaes, donuts, and funnel cakes. Both locations provide a casual and cheerful atmosphere for families looking to indulge.

Ice cream is available for 10 months out of the year (closed in January and February), and visitors can also purchase special dog treats—making this a pet-friendly dessert stop.

Locations:
3048 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 — (865) 774-5558
731 East Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 — (865) 430-5757
maddogscreamery.com

Mama’s Chicken Kitchen

Sometimes, only fried chicken will do. Mama’s Chicken Kitchen, located on the east side of Gatlinburg, is ideal for a satisfying sit-down meal or grabbing a bucket to go—perfect for a picnic in the national park nearby.

Offerings include classic fried chicken meals, tenders, chicken livers, and regional dishes like chicken and dumplings. The sides menu features Southern staples such as mashed potatoes, creamed corn, green beans, and coleslaw. A kids’ menu and salads provide additional variety.

Location:
1244 East Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 — (865) 412-1333
mamaschickenkitchen.com

J.O.E. and Pop’s Sub Shoppe

Located next door to Mama’s Chicken Kitchen, J.O.E. and Pop’sspecializes in fresh, made-to-order deli subs and sandwiches. Popular selections include Philly cheesesteaks, Reubens, open-faced roast beef, and club sandwiches. Guests may also build their own custom sub from a variety of meats, cheeses, and toppings.

In addition to their sandwich menu, customers can also order from Mama’s Chicken Kitchen. This dual-concept spot offers flexibility for groups with different tastes. J.O.E. and Pop’s also serves beer and unique desserts not found next door.

Location:
1244 East Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 — (865) 412-1333
joeandpops.com

Each of the Johnson Family Restaurants brings its own flavor to the Smoky Mountains dining scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a steakhouse experience, smoky BBQ, Southern comfort food, or a sweet treat, you’ll find a place—and a meal—you’ll want to come back to.