As you experience all that Dollywood has to offer, you’re sure to work up a big appetite. But unless you’re planning on coming back daily for weeks, there’s little to no chance you’ll get to visit the 30-plus restaurants, stalls, and concessions stands in the park. So, you’re likely going to have to make a tough decision and choose between all the amazing meals, desserts, and more during your visit. Thankfully, you don’t have to go it alone because we’re here to help with this guide on the best food at Dollywood.
Front Porch Café
As you walk through the park gates, keep your eyes peeled for the legendary Front Porch Café. This eatery is styled like a beloved farmhouse passed down through the generations, giving it a truly homey feel. All the Southern dishes are just as heartwarming and promise to bring equal amounts of nostalgia and finger-licking good flavor.
Although this eatery gave family-style options a try, they’re back to serving all their fan favorites ala carte. Save a visit for when you’re feeling ravenous, so you can enjoy the full three-course dining experience. Upon doing that, begin with a starter like Fried Green Tomatoes before treating yourself to a decadent entrée, like their ever-popular The Southerner Burger.
Then, finish it all up with Strawberry Shortcake, Peach Cobbler, or Chocolate Molten Lava Cake. Just don’t forget to treat yourself to an ultra-refreshing Sweet Peach Iced Tea to enjoy the ultimate Southern dining experience.
The Grist Mill
If there’s one thing people cannot stop talking about at Dollywood, it’s definitely their world-famous Cinnamon Bread. To get a taste of this talk of the town, all you have to do is head on over to The Grist Mill. Originally constructed in the early 80s, this mill gives a nod to a simpler time when people used the water wheel to grind all their wheat and corn.
Today, it’s used for one thing and one thing only: Making their iconic Cinnamon Bread and other sweet treats. And if you arrive at just the right time, you can actually watch the magic happen right before your very eyes. The bread always comes out of the oven perfectly fluffy, caramelized, and ready for you to savor.
To take its rich flavors to the next level, dip each bite into their buttercream icing or a bit of apple butter. Either way, you’re sure to love how the lovely cinnamon notes pair beautifully with the sweetness.
Jukebox Junction Food Truck
When nothing else will do but comfort food on the double, you cannot go wrong with a trip over to the Jukebox Junction Food Truck. Although this truck has a vivid blue paint job, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself following your nose to the order window before you even catch sight of it. The decadent scent of gourmet mac and cheese wafts through the air, beckoning people from far and wide to give it a try.
As you hurry over to the order window, the menu will likely give pause as you gaze in wonder at all the options. Pulled Pork and Bacon Mac, Veggie Mac, and Philly Mac all look absolutely phenomenal, leaving you wondering just which one to try. You’ll be happy to hear then that every option is as good as the last, so just choose what suits your fancy and get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite.
Crossroads Funnel Cakes
Crossroads Funnel Cakes never fails to delight with their build-your-own sweet treats made to order every time. At this quaint dessert joint, their crew goes all out in handcrafting this fair staple by expertly drizzling their handmade batter into the deep fryer. Once the funnel cakes come out of the fryer, you’re welcome to enjoy yours plain or topped with a generous dusting of powdered sugar.
If you want a truly special funnel cake experience, take the time to select from their additional toppings, like Oreo crumbles, strawberries, or whipped topping. Watch for limited-time flavors, too, like their incredible Berry Funnel Cake. This sweet treat rolls out once a year for the Flower & Food Festival and features blackberries and blueberries topped with lavender honey.
Remember to have your souvenir mug refilled while you’re waiting for your funnel cake to come out of the fryer. They also have Coca-Cola fountain beverages and Dasani bottled water if you prefer.
Aunt Granny’s Restaurant
Since 1986, Aunt Granny’s Restaurant has served as a must-try food at Dollywood, and for good reason. This all-you-can-eat buffet allows you to customize your meal by combining your favorite main dishes and sides with reckless abandon.
Each table gets to order up to three main dishes, like Hand-Breaded Southern Fried Chicken, Italian Sausage & Peppers, and Pot Roast with Root Vegetables. After that, it’s time to select between all their sides to get the top four delivered to your table with quickness. Their most popular sides include Corn Pudding, Mashed Potatoes, Creamy Mac & Cheese, Granny Ogle’s Pinto Beans, and Honey-Glazed Carrots.
Try not to fill up too much on all those delicious entrees and sides, though. Otherwise, you might miss out on the chance to savor their tasty desserts, like Banana Pudding, Chocolate Chip Cookies, or Dirt Cake Parfait. Each person gets to choose their own dessert, ensuring they can end their meal on the perfect sweet note.
The great thing about Dollywood is that you can come back again and again. So, if you truly want to try every last dish in the park, you’re definitely free to make that your life’s mission. You can start with all the eateries on this list and then continue on through the rest, trying all the items offered at each location. As you do that, take note of your favorites, so you can get another taste whenever your travels bring you back through the gates.
