9 Restaurants at The Island Pigeon Forge You’ll Want to Eat Your Way Through
Hungry for more than just the views?
If you’re heading to The Island in Pigeon Forge, bring your appetite, because this entertainment hub isn’t just about the Margaritaville Island Hotel views and twinkling lights. It’s a full-blown culinary playground!
From Southern fried feasts that taste like grandma’s Sunday best to tropical tacos that scream vacation, the restaurants at The Island Pigeon Forge bring big flavor and even bigger vibes.
Whether you’re starting your day with a cinnamon-sugar pretzel, chasing kids hopped up on fudge, or sneaking away for a cocktail with a view, there’s something for every kind of travel appetite.
And don’t worry, we scoped out every delicious detail so you don’t have to waste precious time scrolling Yelp while hangry. It’s time to eat like you mean it, and maybe unbutton your jeans a little early.
This is your guide to the best restaurants at The Island in Pigeon Forge, where every bite is a mini vacation.
Southern Comfort, Family-Style: Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
Welcome to a dining experience where “portion control” simply doesn’t exist. At Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, it’s all-you-can-eat, and we’re not talking about a sad buffet.
This is Southern cooking straight from classic Deen family recipes, served up in shareable, family-style portions.
Think crispy Southern fried chicken, fall-apart beef pot roast, and buttery fried catfish, surrounded by decadent sides like candied yams and creamed corn.
Dessert (Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, Banana Pudding, and seasonal cobbler) is included with every lunch and dinner, so save room (or don’t—they’ll bring it anyway).
Sip, Sway, and Savor: Margaritaville Restaurant
Margaritaville Restaurant serves up island vibes with riverfront views of the Little Pigeon River, fire pits on the patio, and live music that keeps things feeling like a beach party in the Smokies.
Inside, it’s all warm woods, tropical colors, and Jimmy Buffett nods, including a boat in the ceiling and a stage ready for steel drum nights.
The menu leans all-in on comfort: Volcano Nachos, Cheeseburger in Paradise, seafood mac and cheese, buttermilk fried chicken, and a sky-high Chocolate Hurricane for dessert.
Wash it down with a 5 o’Clock Somewhere margarita and pretend you’ve got nowhere to be. It’s loud, laid-back, and exactly where you want to be after a day exploring The Island.
Rustic Flavors and Mountain Vibes: Timberwood Grill
Timberwood Grill is your lodge away from the lodge, with a mountain-themed interior and comfort food that sticks to your ribs.
The menu leans indulgent in all the right ways, think Dutch Oven Chicken Pot Pie, wood-fired steaks, loaded potato cracklins, and the All-Natural Bison Burger that locals and tourists both rave about.
There’s also a lineup of BBQ ribs, brisket, and bourbon-glazed salmon if you’re really leaning into that comfort-food coma.
Families love the relaxed vibe, while couples and friend groups post up with craft cocktails and s’mores cheesecake.
It’s satisfying, laid-back, and just rustic enough to make you forget you’re not actually in a mountain cabin.
Pizza With Personality: Mellow Mushroom
Mellow Mushroom at The Island isn’t just a pizza joint; it’s the first-ever quick-service version of the brand, and it’s the go-to late-night hangout in Pigeon Forge.
Expect hand-tossed, stone-baked pies with names as bold as the flavors, think Kosmic Karma, Holy Shiitake, and Mighty Meaty, plus vegan and gluten-free options that don’t feel like an afterthought.
The vibe is funky, the daiquiris flow from the patio bar (shoutout to Dude’s Daiquiri Bar), and yes, it’s pet-friendly.
Stick around after dark to catch a million-light LED show on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, best viewed from Mellow’s patio with a slice in hand.
Whether you’re here for the ‘za, the vibes, or both, this spot serves up flavor and fun in equal measure.
Fudge, Fun, and Show Tunes: The Fudgery
The Fudgery at The Island is a full-blown sugar-fueled performance, where staff belt out Broadway-style show tunes while crafting fudge by hand right in front of you.
With over a dozen flavors like chocolate peanut butter, maple nut, and rocky road, plus extras like candy apples and signature chocolate sauces, it’s basically dessert theater.
The fudge is made with zero shortcuts and maximum flair, using top-tier ingredients and time-honored techniques since 1980.
Whether you’re grabbing a pound to take home (good luck not eating it on the way) or just vibing with the live entertainment, it’s a win for kids, parents, and anyone with a sweet tooth.
Honestly, where else can you get a sugar rush and a show for free?
Scoop Dreams: Island Creamery
If your day demands a frozen treat (and let’s be real, it does), Island Creamery has you covered.
It’s a full-on dessert playground with custom shakes, over-the-top sundaes, and cookie-stuffed ice cream sandwiches you’ll be thinking about for days.
Build your own shake by picking your jar, your flavor, and your toppings, or dive straight into ice cream specialties like the hot fudge brownie sundae, s’mores sundae, or the ultra-decadent Reese’s version.
Little ones will love the rainbow sundae or “worms in dirt,” while grown-ups can justify the camo bowl sundae as a patriotic snack (sure, let’s go with that).
It’s all served near the Show Fountain, so you can enjoy your sugar rush with a side of synchronized water and lights every 30 minutes.
Whether you’re team classic banana split or team cookie sandwich, this place knows how to turn dessert into a main event.
Twist and Go: Auntie Anne’s
Auntie Anne’s at The Island is the kind of place that lures you in with that warm, buttery scent, and honestly, resistance is futile.
Fresh out of the oven, these soft pretzels come in craveable flavors like Original, Cinnamon Sugar, Sweet Almond, and Garlic, plus bite-sized nuggets and melty Pretzel Dogs if you’re feeling extra snacky.
Pair your twist with a frozen lemonade and one of their many dips (cheese, caramel, honey mustard, you get it), and suddenly you’re living your best salty-sweet life.
It’s the perfect grab-and-go treat between attractions or while strolling past the fountain, with mobile ordering available if you’re not about that line life.
Whether you’re team classic or team cinnamon sugar, Auntie Anne’s is the snack you didn’t know you needed, but absolutely deserve.
That Cinnamon Roll Smell: Cinnabon
There’s nothing subtle about Cinnabon, and that’s exactly the point. The gooey, buttery cinnamon rolls here are baked fresh and slathered in cream cheese frosting that melts into every swirl.
You can go big with a Classic Roll, keep it cute with BonBites, or split the difference with a Center of the Roll (yes, just the best part).
Add a Chillatta, cold brew, or hot coffee to your order, and you’ve got dessert and a drink all in one sticky-sweet package.
Craving variety? Grab a CinnaPack to take home or try a Caramel PecanBon if you’re in full treat-yourself mode.
Whether you’re strolling The Island or needing a frosting-fueled recharge, this is the stop that turns a craving into a core memory.
Cookie Monsters Welcome: Byrd’s Famous Cookies
Byrd’s Famous Cookies is more than just a bakery; it’s a sample-happy cookie playground!
You can try out different flavors before committing, which means yes, you should taste everything.
Favorites include the Scotch Oatmeal, Georgia Peach, and classic Chocolate Chip, all packaged perfectly for road trip snacking.
The shop itself is charming and easy to navigate, and the staff is happy to give suggestions. It’s gourmet cookie heaven with a Southern twist.
Come Hungry, Leave Happy (And Definitely More Than a Little Full)
Whether you’re craving comfort food, tropical vibes, or a sugar rush that rivals a theme park ride, a restaurant at the Island Pigeon Forge always has you covered.
Fuel up before tackling the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel or sleuthing your way through the Alcatraz East Crime Museum; you’re gonna need the energy (and maybe a pretzel for the road).
You won’t just be eating, you’ll be making memories (and probably Instagramming your dessert).
When you’re ready to trade hangry for happy, Tripster’s got your back with top picks, deals on attractions, dreamy hotels, and vacation packages that make your whole Pigeon Forge travel guide a breeze.
So yes, come for the food. But stay for the laughs, the views, and the second round of nachos.
Restaurants at the Island Pigeon Forge FAQs
What types of restaurants are at The Island?
You’ll find everything from Southern family-style (Paula Deen) to island-inspired American fare (Margaritaville), hearty mountain eats (Timberwood Grill), and craft pizza (Mellow Mushroom). Plus, there are tons of sweet spots for desserts and quick bites.
Are the restaurants family-friendly?
Extremely! The whole Island complex is geared toward families. Timberwood Grill and Paula Deen's are especially kid-friendly, offering laid-back environments and menus that even picky eaters will love.
Can I get a drink with my meal?
You bet. Despite being in a "dry" county, Pigeon Forge allows restaurants to serve alcohol. You’ll find cocktails, beer, and wine at most full-service spots like Margaritaville and Mellow Mushroom.
What’s the price range for dining?
Most full-service restaurants fall into the $20-$30 range. Quick snacks and sweets typically range from $5-$10, making it easy to mix a sit-down meal with budget-friendly treats.
Can I bring my own food to The Island?
Nope—outside food and drinks are generally not allowed in the restaurants. But with all the options, trust us, you won’t want to.
Is parking free?
Yes! Free parking is available at The Island, along with a tram that takes you from the lot right into the action.
Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Yes, several places offer options for dietary needs. Mellow Mushroom is great for vegetarians, and spots like Timberwood Grill and Margaritaville offer salads and customizable dishes.
Do restaurants offer takeout or online ordering?
Many do! Takeout is common, and some spots may offer online ordering through their own sites or apps—just check ahead before you go.
