Best Italian Gatlinburg: Top Pizzerias & Restaurants 2023
The Best Italian Gatlinburg Restaurants
Craving a taste of Italy while exploring the beautiful Smoky Mountains? Gatlinburg has you covered! In this article, we’ll look at the best pizza & best Italian in Gatlinburg.



Gatlinburg Overview
Living near Gatlinburg, the Smoky Mountain area is one of our favorite places to go with our kids out of all the places we’ve traveled.
Top Thing To Do: Anakeesta
Where To Stay: Margaritaville Gatlinburg is our favorite resort in the area. While it’s not the cheapest, it’s a new resort with a nice pool and a great location.
Where To Eat: Ole Red (not because the food is amazing, but because of the live nightly entertainment)
How To Get There: The closest airport is Knoxville (TYS), about an hour away. A rental car is almost a requirement due to the distance between attractions. Click here for deals on Discover rental cars. Gatlinburg is also within a day’s drive of 2/3rds of the country’s population!
New York Pizza & Pasta: A Slice of the Big Apple in Gatlinburg
Craving the authentic flavors of New York-style Italian cuisine? Look no further than New York Pizza & Pasta! This charming eatery offers a diverse menu, featuring classics like calamari fritti, lasagna pizza, and sun-dried tomatoes. Their thin crust and generous toppings will transport you straight to the streets of NYC!
Cozy and Delicious: Pizzeria of Gatlinburg
For a warm, inviting atmosphere and incredible food, visit the Pizzeria of Gatlinburg. This family-friendly spot is known for its delicious pizza and fantastic service. Don’t forget to try their meat sauce and ravioli pasta dishes. Your taste buds will thank you!
Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria in Elks Plaza: Family Favorite
The Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria is a local favorite among families. They’re famous for their garlic knots and various gourmet pizzas. The little ones will adore the cheese pizza, while parents can indulge in more adventurous options like the eggplant pizza.
The Ultimate Italian Cafe: Big Daddy’s Pizzeria
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria is popular among families, famous for its gourmet pizzas and new york-style slices. With delicious options like their Chicken Florentine and Meat Lovers, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to try their scrumptious garlic knots and mouth-watering chicken wings!
A Great Place for Pizza: Luigi’s Pizza
Looking for a cozy spot with a fantastic ambiance? Luigi’s Pizza is your go-to! Their homemade meatballs and eggplant parmesan will make you feel like you’re in Italy. The kiddos will love creating their own pizza with toppings like mozzarella cheese, green peppers, and black olives.
Off the Beaten Path: Johnny Carino’s
If your day takes you to Pigeon Forge, there’s a Johnny Carino’s just north of The Island. This chain offers classic Italian favorites like Lasagna, Eggplant Parmesan, and Maine Lobster Ravioli. Their delicious white sauce is perfect for dipping their crusty Italian bread crumbs!

Best Italian Food with a Twist: Mellow Mushroom
Last but not least, Mellow Mushroom serves up some of the best Italian food with a fun twist. From their Artichoke Hearts Pizza to their Chicken Marsala, this restaurant offers unique dishes that’ll keep you coming back for more. They also cater to picky eaters with options like cheese pizza and mozzarella sticks.
The Perfect Slice: Thin Crust vs. Thick Crust
When it comes to pizza, Gatlinburg offers a variety of crust options. Luigi’s Pizza and Nino’s Pizzeria are your go-to spots for those who love a good thin crust. But if you prefer a thicker crust, you’ll adore Big Daddy’s Pizzeria and Mellow Mushroom offerings.
A Little Bit of Everything: Elks Plaza
Elks Plaza is a little different from your average dining spot in the heart of Gatlinburg. Offering a range of kinds of food like hot dogs, hot sauce, and delicious pizza, it’s a great place to satisfy all your cravings while exploring the area with your family.

FAQs
Q: Can I find Italian restaurants serving seafood dishes like sauteed sea scallops?
A: Absolutely! Johnny Carino’s offers Sauteed Sea Scallops, a popular choice among seafood lovers.
Q: Are there any Italian eateries in Pigeon Forge as well?
A: Big Daddy’s Pizzeria is located in Pigeon Forge, offering delicious Italian cuisine for families.
Q: Are there any Italian restaurants in Gatlinburg with a view of the Smoky Mountains?
A: While the specific view might vary, many of the mentioned Italian restaurants offer picturesque views of the surrounding area, including glimpses of the Smoky Mountains.
Q: Do any of the mentioned restaurants offer gluten-free pizza options?
A: Mellow Mushroom is known for catering to various dietary needs and offers gluten-free pizza crust options.
Q: What other fun things to do in Gatlinburg with kids besides dining?
A: There are plenty of fun activities for families in Gatlinburg. Check out our articles on fishing trips, snow tubing, and fun things to do for more ideas!
Now that you’ve explored the best Italian eateries in Gatlinburg, why not check out some other fantastic family activities and destinations in the area? Here are some great articles to help you plan your next adventure:
- Fishing Trips in Gatlinburg, TN: Get ready for some quality family bonding time while fishing in the beautiful surroundings of Gatlinburg.
- Snow Tubing Near Gatlinburg: Experience the thrill of snow tubing with your family and create unforgettable memories.
- Top Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg: Discover various exciting activities to entertain the whole family.
- Snow in Tennessee: Learn more about the snowy season and the best spots to enjoy a winter wonderland in Tennessee.
- Cabins in Tennessee: Find the perfect cabin for your family vacation in the scenic mountains of Tennessee.
- Best Breakfast Restaurants in Gatlinburg: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of these top-rated spots.
- Top Things to Do in Townsend with Kids: Explore Townsend’s family-friendly attractions and create lasting memories.
- Fun Things to Do in Pigeon Forge with Kids: Enjoy a wide range of activities and attractions for a fantastic family getaway in Pigeon Forge.
Top Places to Stay in Gatlinburg: From Resorts to Cozy Cabins
After a day of exploring, nothing is better than retreating to a cozy cabin nestled in the mountains. Gatlinburg offers a variety of cabin rentals, ranging from rustic log cabins to luxurious mountain retreats. Many cabins feature fire pits, hot tubs, and stunning mountain views—perfect for a relaxing winter getaway.
Gatlinburg offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. Here are some of the top-rated places to stay in Gatlinburg, including luxurious resorts and charming vacation rentals:
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is a 4-star resort located on the main parkway (Hwy 441) in Gatlinburg. We have stayed at this resort several times, and while it’s not the cheapest resort in Gatlinburg, it’s by far our favorite.
This tropical-inspired retreat offers well-appointed rooms and suites, an indoor and outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site spa.
The resort’s convenient location across the street from Anakeesta makes it a perfect base for exploring the best of Gatlinburg.
Margaritaville Gatlinburg: A Tropical Escape in the Heart of the Smokies
After an action-packed day at Anakeesta, unwind and relax at Margaritaville Gatlinburg, a tropical oasis just a short walk from the mountaintop theme park. Inspired by the laid-back lifestyle of singer Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville Gatlinburg offers a unique dining and entertainment experience that transports you to a tropical paradise.


Dining at Margaritaville Gatlinburg
The Margaritaville Restaurant offers a delectable menu featuring a variety of island-inspired dishes, such as the signature Cheeseburger in Paradise, Volcano Nachos, and Coconut Shrimp. Kids will love the diverse options on the Little Parakeet’s menu, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters find something they enjoy.
Try one of Margaritaville’s famous frozen concoctions or specialty cocktails, like the classic Margarita or the refreshing Rum Runner. Non-alcoholic options are also available, making Margaritaville a great destination for the entire family.
Map of the best deals on top hotels and VRBOs in Gatlinburg:
Conclusion
Gatlinburg, TN has plenty of Italian restaurants to satisfy your cravings while traveling with your family. With these great options, you’ll enjoy a delightful culinary experience in the Smokies. So, on your next trip, visit these fantastic Italian eateries and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.