Italian Restaurants in Pigeon Forge TN: 9 Places That’ll Have You Saying “Mamma Mia!”
There’s something wildly specific about a craving for garlic knots and bubbling baked ziti that hits mid-vacation—right after the thrill of Dollywood but before the family meltdowns in a go-kart line.
The good news? Italian restaurants in Pigeon Forge understand the assignment and are fully prepared to deliver carbs, cheese, and comfort with zero judgment.
Pasta lovers, picky eaters, and sauce-obsessed travelers will find themselves in good hands with the lineup of Italian restaurants in Pigeon Forge TN.
Whether it’s an upscale dinner with candlelight or a quick pizza pit stop between attractions, the options are both satisfying and shockingly legit.
So cancel that sad salad plan and keep reading—this list will absolutely ruin Olive Garden for you forever!
Where the Pasta’s Fancy and the Vibes Are Date-Night Approved
Bullfish Grill
Dig into upscale comfort at Bullfish Grill, where date night doesn’t mean sacrificing your fried pickles or your filet mignon. Known for fresh seafood and steaks grilled to juicy perfection, this local favorite is also a sleeper hit when you’re craving creamy Italian pasta without the formal fuss.
Go big with the Chicken Pasta packed with spinach, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes in a white wine cream sauce, or turn up the heat with the spicy New Orleans Shrimp Pasta. For something decadent, the Pan-Seared Crab Cakes and Garlic Mashed Potatoes are here to seduce your taste buds.
Kids can chow down on penne pasta with butter or marinara—or go full Southern with crispy chicken tenders and fries.
Bonus: Their cocktail game is strong, from the Strawberry Cosmo to the Honey Old Fashioned, all of which go down easily after a day exploring the Parkway.
Ristorante DellaSantina
Romance gets a serious upgrade at Ristorante DellaSantina, a cozy, candlelit gem tucked away in Sevierville with old-school Italian charm and a “wait, are we in Tuscany?” vibe.
Widely considered the best Italian restaurant in Pigeon Forge, this family-run spot nails the details: organic ingredients, seafood flown in daily, and sauces you’ll want to drink with a straw.
Menu standouts include the Shrimp Valentino (fettuccine in a spicy buttercream sauce) and the show-stopping Lobster Ravioli. Carnivores can level up with the Filet Mignon Special (yes, it comes with fried shrimp and pasta, because luxury is layered).
The kids’ menu keeps little ones happy with a personal Cheese Pizza or a solid plate of Pasta with Alfredo, Pesto, or Valentino sauce—spicy kiddos, step up. Be sure to book ahead and skip the wait, especially on weekends when the pasta-loving crowd rolls in thick.
Roma Table
Make a reservation or just walk in—either way, a delicious night awaits at Roma Table, a sleek Italian kitchen that blends cozy vibes with modern plating.
As far as Italian dining goes, this spot checks all the right boxes: house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a lunch menu that’s dangerously affordable.
Try the Meatball Lasagna layered with ricotta and marinara, or go mushroom-forward with the Roasted Mushroom Fettuccine drenched in sherry cream sauce and truffle oil. The Chicken Caprese piadina (that’s a fancy flatbread sandwich) is a lunchtime win, especially when paired with the Soup & Salad combo.
For younger diners, the kids’ menu offers Cheese Pizza and build-your-own pasta with five sauce choices—because even tiny foodies deserve options. Don’t sleep on the cocktail list either: the Aperol Spritz and Blood Orange Margarita are basically vacation in a glass.
The Appalachian
Settle in for a Southern-meets-elevated-Italian experience at The Appalachian, where the setting is intimate, the ingredients are local, and the plating looks straight out of a chef’s Instagram.
While technically not a full-blown Italian spot, the menu often flirts with Italian flavors in a creative, Appalachian way, making it a strong contender for refined date nights.
The Hanger Steak comes with potato dumplings and mushroom gravy, but if you see shrimp and grits on the menu, get it, as it’s got andouille sausage and fermented peppers for that extra kick.
Vegetarian? Go for the Rainbow Trout with mustard greens and green apple.
The wine list is curated, and the bar leans craft and seasonal, perfect for lingering over a cocktail like the Wildflower or the Midnight Hole. Between the wood-fired meats and mood lighting, this place is more than a meal—it’s a whole experience.
The Greenbrier Restaurant
Expect elevated mountain lodge energy at The Greenbrier Restaurant, a cozy Gatlinburg hideaway that feels like the kind of place where you propose, celebrate, or low-key move in.
While the menu stretches beyond red-sauce fare, it still earns its spot among the most memorable Italian restaurants in Pigeon Forge Tennessee thanks to dishes like Scallops over Risotto and a creamy Lobster Mac & Cheese that’s basically a cheese spa day.
The Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi is rich, earthy, and unforgettable. Plus, the cocktails (hello, Greenbrier Old Fashioned) are just as thoughtfully crafted as the entrées. Sides like Roasted Asparagus or Truffle Fries take your meal from great to five-star.
For dessert, the Chocolate Torte or Crème Brûlée seals the deal in the sweetest way. Reservations are recommended, especially if you’re angling for a scenic, dimly-lit table with forest views and main-character energy.
Where the Sauce Is Simmering and the Dress Code Is Stretchy Pants
Johnny Carino’s
Kick off your comfort‑food mission by diving into the giant, fully loaded menu at Johnny Carino’s, a long‑time favorite sitting right in the heart of Pigeon Forge.
The Italian Nachos, with crispy pasta chips, jalapeños, Alfredo sauce, and your choice of chicken or sausage, are a must for anyone who snacks like it’s a sport.
Families who travel with bottomless appetites will love their classics like Johnny’s Fresh Baked Lasagna or the sizzling Skilletini Cacciatore, which arrives bubbling in spicy marinara with peppers and onions.
Seafood fans should go straight for the Lobster Ravioli topped with Asiago and lemon basil cream sauce because it’s indulgent in a way vacation calories fully support.
The kids’ menu keeps things easy with Penne Alfredo, Cheese Tortelloni, or kid‑size Pepperoni Pizza, plus a simple Mac and Cheese that works like a charm on picky eaters.
Wash it all down with their Italian Soda (raspberry is a sleeper hit) or reward yourself with a Pomegranate Granita that tastes like dessert disguised as a cocktail.
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria
Slide into a booth or grab a spot near the arcade buzz, because the pies at Big Daddy’s Pizzeria are fired in a brick oven that makes everything taste 10% crispier and 100% more addictive.
The Mamma Mia pizza is the showstopper, piled high with pepperoni, salami, Italian sausage, prosciutto, olives, mushrooms, and peppers for the full “say less, bring napkins” experience.
Cheese lovers can’t go wrong with The Great White, ricotta, provolone, feta, and parmesan layered on an Alfredo base that somehow stays perfectly balanced and not overwhelmingly rich.
Sharing an appetizer? The Wood‑Roasted Wings in Sticky, Sweet & Spicy sauce are legendary, but the Dough Daddies brushed in garlic and parmesan are just as dangerous.
Little travelers get their own Personal Kids’ Pie plus a cinnamon‑sugar Little Daddy for dessert, which honestly feels like a vacation rite of passage. If you somehow have room left, split a Chocolate Chip or Caramel Pretzel Cannoli and thank your stretchy waistband later.
J. Del’s Pizza
Get ready to be surprised, because the unassuming storefront of J. Del’s Pizza hides some of the best New York–style slices you’ll find anywhere near the Smokies.
Classics like the thin‑sliced pepperoni pizza win over locals and visitors alike, but the Chicken Parmesan Sub dripping with marinara and mozzarella is equally worth a detour.
Their Meatballs appetizer, smothered in homemade sauce, is the kind of starter you order “for the table” but end up guarding with your life. If you’re craving something lighter, the Chef Salad loaded with ham, turkey, provolone, and veggies is a solid reset before diving back into carb territory.
Families appreciate how friendly and fast the service is; owners and staff often remember regulars, making meals feel warm and personal. Whether you’re picking up garlic knots for a cabin night or staying to enjoy a fresh pie, J. Del’s Pizza delivers that neighborhood‑pizzeria charm without feeling staged.
Gondolier Italian Restaurant & Pizza
Settle in for a classic, no‑nonsense Italian feast at Gondolier Italian Restaurant & Pizza, where the portions are hearty, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the menu is huge in the best possible way.
Start with their Oven‑Baked Lasagna or Baked Spaghetti, both bubbling with mozzarella and sized like they’re feeding someone who just hiked five miles at sunrise.
Their pizza lineup ranges from simple Cheese and Pepperoni to more loaded options like the Mediterranean with spinach, olives, onions, and feta. If you’re craving pasta, dishes like Chicken Alfredo or the Stuffed Shells hit the spot without feeling too heavy.
Kids get their own menu with choices like Spaghetti, Cheese Ravioli, or a small personal pizza, paired with fries or veggies depending on the mood. Finish strong with a slice of Baklava Cheesecake or classic Cannoli, because dessert is practically a requirement here.
Craving Even More Saucy Stops And Cheesy Meals?
From bubbling lasagna to wood-fired pizza that deserves its own fan club, these Italian restaurants in Pigeon Forge deliver big flavor with no passport required. Whether you’re team tortelloni or loyal to pepperoni, there’s a spot on this list that’ll hit exactly what you’re craving.
Now’s the perfect time to start planning your trip—bundle your stay, snag discounts, and save on vacation packages through Tripster that make indulging in pasta (and playtime) even more rewarding.
You can book Pigeon Forge attractions, shows, and hotels in one click, so your itinerary is as satisfying as your dinner plate.
From garlic knots to go-karts, we’ve got your whole trip covered. Bring your appetite and your stretchy pants, it’s gonna be a delicious ride!
Italian Restaurants in Pigeon Forge FAQs
Do any Italian restaurants in Pigeon Forge have gluten-free options?
Yes, several spots like Johnny Carino’s and Big Daddy’s Pizzeria offer gluten-free substitutions, including gluten-free pizza crusts and pasta upon request. Always ask your server about preparation methods to avoid cross-contamination.
Is it necessary to make reservations at fine dining Italian restaurants in Pigeon Forge TN?
For upscale places like Ristorante DellaSantina and The Greenbrier, making a dinner reservation is highly recommended—especially on weekends or during peak travel seasons. Walk-ins may have long waits or limited availability.
Which Italian restaurant is best for date night?
Ristorante DellaSantina and Roma Table are both great choices with romantic ambiance, candlelit tables, and pasta made in-house daily. They offer upscale dishes perfect for celebrating anniversaries or just escaping the chaos of the Parkway.
Are there any Italian restaurants in Pigeon Forge TN with vegetarian options?
Yes, most Italian menus feature several vegetarian dishes such as Margherita pizza, Eggplant Parmesan, Mushroom Fettuccine, and meat-free pastas with Alfredo or marinara sauce. Roma Table and Big Daddy’s Pizzeria both have excellent veggie-friendly options.
Can I order takeout or delivery from Italian restaurants in Pigeon Forge?
Absolutely—Johnny Carino’s, J. Del’s Pizza, and Gondolier all offer takeout, and some have local delivery or partner with third-party apps. It’s a convenient option if you’re staying in a cabin or hotel nearby.
What’s a good Italian spot for large groups or celebrations?
Johnny Carino’s and Gondolier are ideal for groups, thanks to their large dining spaces and family platters designed for sharing. Call ahead for parties over 6 to ensure availability, especially during peak dinner hours.
Which restaurant has the best pizza in Pigeon Forge?
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria is a local favorite for its wood-fired pies and creative toppings like prosciutto, roasted pork, and even dill pickles. J. Del’s Pizza is another go-to for authentic New York-style pizza with a perfect crust-to-sauce ratio.
What’s the price range for Italian food in Pigeon Forge?
Casual spots like J. Del’s and Big Daddy’s range from $10–$20 per entrée, while finer dining like Ristorante DellaSantina and The Greenbrier averages $25–$40. Most places offer great value, with large portions and shareable plates.
Can I include Italian meals in my Tripster vacation package?
While food isn’t bundled directly, you can use vacation packages through Tripster to save big on Pigeon Forge attractions, shows, and hotels—leaving more room in your budget for extra garlic knots and dessert. Book everything in one place and treat yourself to an itinerary that’s both efficient and flavor-packed.
