Get Hooked on Flavor with These 5 Reel-y Good Restaurants for Seafood in Gatlinburg Tennessee
Vacationing near the mountains doesn’t mean settling for meat-and-three every night, especially with so many spots serving up fresh seafood in Gatlinburg Tennessee.
After a few days of BBQ and burgers, cravings for shrimp, oysters, or blackened trout hit hard and fast.
Whether the mood calls for a romantic riverside dinner or a lively, family-style feast with fried catfish, seafood in Gatlinburg has it covered.
Some menus even bring Cajun flair, Southern sides, or creative mountain twists that surprise in the best way.
Finding great seafood without driving far or compromising quality is surprisingly easy in this town. Get ready to dig in as this list is packed with fresh catches worth every bite!
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Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar
Read more Read lessLean into an elevated night out where coastal flavors meet mountain charm at Chesapeake’s Seafood and Raw Bar, one of the standout seafood restaurants in Gatlinburg TN.
The raw bar is a major draw, featuring freshly shucked oysters, chilled shrimp cocktail, and a rotating selection of shellfish that feels straight off the coast.
Dinner highlights include broiled seafood platters, jumbo scallops, and live Maine lobster prepared with classic butter-forward techniques.
Pair the meal with a glass from their extensive wine list or a handcrafted cocktail that balances citrus and herbs without overpowering the seafood.
Families are welcome, and kids usually gravitate toward simply prepared fish, shrimp, or grilled options that skip heavy seasoning.
The riverside setting and polished service make this a smart pick when the trip calls for seafood that feels special but still approachable.
Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar
4.6 (2786)Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar, Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN, USAOpening hours:- Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 2:00 – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM
Open in:
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Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse
Read more Read lessKnown for its hearty menu, Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse quietly earns its place for seafood in Gatlinburg Tennessee thanks to well-executed coastal dishes.
Char-grilled Atlantic salmon, shrimp and grits, and fried calamari share the spotlight with steaks, making it easy for mixed appetites to agree.
The open-hearth grill adds depth to seafood dishes, especially the salmon served with seasonal sides and a clean, smoky finish.
Local craft beers from the Smoky Mountain Brewery and classic cocktails round out the experience without distracting from the food.
A dedicated kids menu keeps things simple with familiar favorites, which helps parents enjoy their plates without negotiation.
This is a reliable stop when seafood cravings meet a need for comfort and flexibility at the same table.
Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse
Traditional American menu of steaks, burgers & seafood entrees in a woodsy mountain lodge setting.4.4 (4966)Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse, Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN, USAOpening hours:- Monday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM
- Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM
- Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM
- Thursday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM
- Friday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM
Open in:
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Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Read more Read lessStep into a playful atmosphere where movie nostalgia meets bold flavors at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., a popular choice for seafood in Gatlinburg.
The menu leans hard into shrimp with options like coconut shrimp, shrimp scampi, shrimp and grits, and the crowd-favorite Shrimper’s Heaven platter.
Signature drinks such as frozen margaritas and tropical cocktails arrive with just enough flair to keep things fun without slowing down the meal.
Seafood boils, fish and chips, and Cajun-spiced shrimp dishes give plenty of variety beyond the shrimp headline.
A full kids menu includes popcorn shrimp, fish sticks, and mac and cheese, making this an easy win for families.
The lively dining room keeps energy high, which is helpful when dinner doubles as entertainment.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Family-friendly restaurant offering shrimp & classic southern fare in a casual setting.4.2 (9928)Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN, USAOpening hours:- Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Open in:
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Smoky Mountain Trout House
Read more Read lessSmoky Mountain Trout House delivers exactly what its name promises and stands tall among seafood restaurants in Gatlinburg.
Rainbow trout is the star here, served grilled, blackened, almond-crusted, or Parmesan-style using locally sourced fish.
House favorites like trout fritters, hushpuppies, and fried shrimp round out the menu with comforting, no-frills sides.
Sweet tea and simple non-alcoholic drinks keep the focus squarely on the food rather than flash.
Kids can opt for chicken fingers or fried shrimp, which keeps picky eaters satisfied without straying from the kitchen’s strengths.
This spot feels dependable and relaxed, especially for travelers craving local flavor over spectacle.
Smoky Mountain Trout House
No-frills eatery serving local trout prepared in a variety of ways, including trout fritters.4.3 (1495)Smoky Mountain Trout House, Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN, USAOpening hours:- Monday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM
Open in:
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Huck Finn's Catfish
Read more Read lessIf Southern-style seafood sounds like the plan, Huck Finn’s Catfish earns its reputation as a go-to seafood restaurant.
The menu centers on cornmeal-breaded catfish, popcorn shrimp, fried clam strips, and classic hushpuppies served family-style.
Unlimited sides like beans, slaw, and pickles keep the table full, while sweet or unsweet tea completes the down-home experience.
Grilled fish and shrimp options are also available for those wanting something lighter but still satisfying.
A clearly defined kids menu offers catfish strips, shrimp, and chicken options that mirror the main menu in smaller portions.
This is the kind of place where everyone leaves full, happy, and ready for a nap or a stroll down the Parkway.
Huck Finn's Catfish
All-you-can-eat Southern catfish & fried chicken dinners, plus à la carte down-home dishes.4.5 (10118)Huck Finn's Catfish, Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN, USAOpening hours:- Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Open in:
Ready to Eat Your Way Through Gatlinburg, or Still Guessing Where to Start?
Great seafood meals don’t just happen by accident, especially when choosing between classic favorites and hidden gems for seafood in Gatlinburg Tennessee. A little planning makes it easier to balance must-try spots with spontaneous cravings, so every meal actually feels worth the stop.
That’s where lining up dining plans helps, especially when bundling experiences by locking in vacation packages through Tripster. Booking Gatlinburg attractions, shows, and hotels together takes pressure off your schedule and leaves more time to enjoy great food instead of logistics.
Whether the goal is casual plates or sit-down dinners, having a plan keeps seafood in Gatlinburg from becoming a last-minute scramble. Get ready to eat well, explore more, and enjoy every bite of the trip!
Seafood in Gatlinburg Tennessee FAQs
What are the best seafood restaurants in Gatlinburg for families with kids?
Many restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Huck Finn’s Catfish offer dedicated kids’ menus or kid-friendly dishes like popcorn shrimp, mac & cheese, and chicken tenders. These spots also have casual, welcoming atmospheres that make them ideal for family dining.
Do I need reservations at popular seafood restaurants in Gatlinburg?
Reservations are highly recommended for upscale places like Chesapeake’s Seafood and Raw Bar, especially during peak travel seasons. For more casual eateries, walk-ins are usually welcome, but you may still encounter a short wait.
Are there gluten-free seafood options available in Gatlinburg?
Yes—restaurants like Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse and Chesapeake’s Seafood and Raw Bar offer naturally gluten-free choices such as grilled salmon, charbroiled shrimp, and fresh fish paired with vegetables or rice. Smoky Mountain Trout House also serves grilled trout that can be ordered without breading, but it’s important to tell your server so the kitchen can avoid cross-contact during preparation.
Can I find locally sourced fish or trout in Gatlinburg?
Absolutely! Smoky Mountain Trout House is known for serving fresh, locally farmed rainbow trout in a variety of styles. Other restaurants may offer seasonal or locally inspired dishes as well.
Is seafood in Gatlinburg Tennessee typically fresh?
Despite being a mountain town, many seafood restaurants in Gatlinburg fly in fresh catches daily, especially upscale venues like Chesapeake’s. Trout, catfish, and shrimp are commonly available and well-prepared.
Do seafood restaurants in Gatlinburg accommodate dietary restrictions?
Most restaurants are happy to work with dietary needs like dairy-free, vegetarian, or low-carb options. It’s best to call ahead or speak with your server when ordering to ensure your meal meets your needs.
What’s the dress code for seafood restaurants in Gatlinburg?
Casual attire is fine for most places, though you might want to dress a little nicer for spots like Cherokee Grill and Chesapeake’s. Otherwise, shorts and jeans are perfectly acceptable in family-style restaurants.
Are there seafood spots with mountain or river views?
Yes, Chesapeake’s offers a scenic riverside dining experience, and other locations throughout town provide mountain views from patios or windows. Dining with a view is easy to find in Gatlinburg!
Do any restaurants serve seafood boils or platters?
Yes—Crawdaddy’s and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. both feature seafood boils, crab legs, and hearty platters with shrimp, fish, and hush puppies. These are perfect for sharing or a big appetite.
Can I order seafood to-go or for delivery in Gatlinburg?
Yes! Restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Smoky Mountain Trout House offer takeout options that let you order full seafood meals for pickup.
Archie is a Destination Research Writer at Tripster, bringing seasoned travel expertise to every guide he creates. With a deep understanding of destinations,...
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