When nothing else will do but authentic Thai food in a beautiful riverside setting, The Bhat on Spruce Lane should fit the bill. With its fresh, handcrafted dishes, this hidden gem in Gatlinburg offers a dining experience that’s hard to beat. And you might even spot a bear meandering by, adding a little drama to your meal while you’re soaking up the serenity.
The interior space is far from what you might expect from a Thai restaurant. It’s modern and industrial yet cozy at the same time. Throughout the space, warm wood accents contrast cool stone and sleek metal features, like exposed ductwork and unique lighting. Plush carpeting adds an unexpected layer of comfort to the industrial vibe.
The service at The Bhat is just as special as its interior design. Immediately upon arrival, the friendly staff will make you feel welcome and even like a part of the family. They’ll greet you at the door and show you to your table with a smile, no matter how busy they get. Then, during your meal, the team will gladly check in to bring you anything you might need, like fresh napkins, drink refills, or extra sauce.
When browsing the main menu, you’ll find this eatery has both familiar and unique dishes. You can start off with some favorites, like Crispy Spring Rolls served with sweet chili sauce or Pork Dumplings with a soy vinaigrette dip. Alternatively, go with regional dishes like Khao Soi, a Northern Thai curry noodle soup. If you want something lighter, their spicy salads always satisfy.
You can even come to this restaurant for a unique breakfast experience. Simply arrive well before noon to start your day with dishes like Dumpling Noodles, Crab Omelet, or Thai Donuts (Pa Tang Ko). If you feel like it, you can even order a few brekky items to go and take them on your adventures.
Crispy Mushroom
The Crispy Mushroom appetizer is an excellent starter to tempt your tastebuds. The chef makes this dish by lightly battering oyster mushrooms and then frying them to a golden crisp. After they’re ready, it’s all served with both sweet chili and nutty peanut sauces for dipping. Yum!
Khao Soi
The Khao Soi is a must-try for anyone who loves noodles. This dish features soft egg noodles in a decadent coconut curry broth, with your choice of protein, like beef or chicken, or tofu if you prefer. Then, it gets topped with crispy fried noodles to give a satisfying crunch with each and every bite.
Duck Basil
The Duck Basil never fails to delight when you’re hankering for something with a kick. To create this dish, tender, crispy duck gets stir-fried with fresh bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and string beans. At the end, everything is tossed in a spicy sauce that’s good enough to write home about.
Thai Chicken Waffles
Southern comfort meets genuine Thai flavors in the Thai Chicken Waffles. This dish features crispy fried chicken served on top of fluffy waffles, creating a perfect mix of sweet and savory. But the highlight is the Thai syrup drizzled over it all, taking every last bite to the next level.
While The Bhat’s menu is all about savory dishes, they also offer a couple of indulgent desserts to top off your meal. If you love chocolate, the Molten Lava Cake is a sure bet. But if you’re in the mood for vanilla and caramel flavors, the Toffee Cake is calling your name, for sure.
Insider Tips:
-The restaurant can get busy during peak times, so it’s a good idea to visit earlier or order online to avoid long waits.
-If you spot a bear, stay calm and enjoy the view from a safe distance. They’re usually more interested in the river than your food, but it’s smart to keep your distance and listen to any safety advice from the staff.
-Thai food has bold flavors, but some dishes can be spicier than others. If you’re not sure how spicy something is, feel free to ask your server for help.