Founded by two Georgia Tech college students in Atlanta in 1974, the Mellow Mushroom isn’t your ordinary pizza place. It was originally based on the founders’ unique tastes in food and decor and turned into a franchise that allows owners to put their own spin on the business. So while the food remains the same, the atmosphere in each location is entirely distinct. Whether you’re stopping at the Gatlinburg location or one of the two Pigeon Forge locations, you’re in for something different each time.
Pizza is the name of the game at Mellow Mushroom, with flavors and styles to fit all tastes and appetites. Each pie comes with your choice of classic or thin crust in a 10-inch, 14-inch, or 16-inch size. You can choose either Mellow red sauce or olive oil, garlic, and pesto as the base.
Once you’ve decided on your crust, size, and sauce, the next step is choosing your toppings. Fortunately, the Mellow Mushroom has more than three dozen toppings, whether you want a traditional ingredient such as pepperoni or something a bit different such as tempeh or tofu. If you’re with an indecisive group or you can’t agree on toppings, try one of the specialty pies such as the Pacific Rim with mozzarella, ham, bacon, onions, pineapple, and jalapenos.
When you aren’t in the mood for a pizza, Mellow Mushroom can still scratch you where it itches. Burgers, calzones, and hoagies are plentiful, and depending on your tastes, you’ll find something to suit your preferences. On the lighter side, try a salad with fresh greens and tasty meats.
There might be no better culinary union than pizza and beer, and Mellow Mushroom provides an exceptional array of beers. Mellow Mushroom always provides a unique and diverse selection of beers from national, international, regional, and local breweries. If you aren’t into the “nectar of the gods,” the restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list, as well as premium cocktails. From local craft beer to pinot grigio to a margarita, you’ll find something to wet your whistle.
One of the best aspects of all the locations in the Smoky Mountains is that patrons almost always cite amazing service as one of Mellow Mushroom’s best perks. Waiters are always attentive to your needs, whether it’s bringing out food quickly, changing the television to the channel you want, or turning the music down. Regardless of your idea of great service, Mellow Mushroom delivers.
Between the hand-tossed pizza, craft beer selection, and the routinely excellent service, Mellow Mushroom is one of the leaders in the culinary scene of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day exploring the Smoky Mountains.
Insider Tips:
-Even if you aren’t one to head to a chain on vacation, remember that each location is individually owned and operated, essentially making it a local restaurant.
-If you’re looking for a place to watch a sporting event, Mellow Mushroom offers a surprising number of televisions that the staff will tune to your channel of choice. When sports bars are crowded during a Tennessee football game or a NASCAR event, it’s a solid option.
-Gluten-free toppings and base sauces are listed on the menu, but crusts can also be made gluten-free if you request it for dietary or allergy reasons.