They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and that adage is especially true in Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains! The cities of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg seem to have more pancake houses and breakfast restaurants than anywhere else in the nation. No vacation in the Smokies is complete without starting your day at one of these legendary eateries. To help you prepare for your next getaway, Acorn Cabin Rentals has put together a guide to the top five places for breakfast in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.

1. Pancake Pantry

When it comes to flapjacks, the Pancake Pantry is the gold standard. This beloved restaurant has been serving irresistible hotcakes in Gatlinburg since 1960. The secret to the Pantry’s longevity is its superior ingredients: fresh whipped cream, real butter, and the very best toppings. Guests at the Pancake Pantry can enjoy a varied selection of flapjacks, including Banana Pineapple Pancakes, Swiss Chocolate Chip Pancakes, and even Sweet Potato Pancakes. The Pancake Pantry only accepts cash, so you may want to visit an ATM before your visit.

2. The Old Mill Restaurant

The Old Mill Restaurant is named after (and located right next door to) Pigeon Forge’s most iconic landmark. The Old Mill is a gristmill that was constructed in 1830 along the Little Pigeon River and still grinds grain into flour today. When you dine at The Old Mill Restaurant, you will enjoy mouthwatering dishes that make spectacular use of that freshly ground flour. Every breakfast entree at The Old Mill Restaurant comes with complimentary orange juice and homemade banana nut muffins. If you’re looking for an authentic country breakfast in Pigeon Forge, it’s hard to beat The Old Mill!

3. Crockett’s Breakfast Camp

Located in a mountain lodge in downtown Gatlinburg, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp offers traditional Southern breakfast fare with a twist. The chefs at Crockett’s have devised some truly unique creations, including extra thick griddle cakes, fried cinnamon rolls, and cathead biscuit stackers. If you dine at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, be sure to come hungry, because the portions are extremely generous!

4. Sawyer’s Farmhouse Restaurant

Sawyer’s Farmhouse Restaurant opened in 2014 and has quickly established itself as a can’t miss breakfast destination in Pigeon Forge. Guests can order all of their breakfast favorites, including pancakes, waffles, crepes, french toast, and omelets. Everything at Sawyer’s is made in house, even their syrup! The peanut butter syrup, in particular, has been getting rave reviews.

5. The Donut Friar

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious breakfast in Gatlinburg, follow your nose to The Donut Friar in downtown Gatlinburg. Tucked away in The Village, this popular shop is famous for its donuts, pastries, cinnamon bread, and espresso. Like the Pancake Pantry, The Donut Friar is a cash-only business.

When you stay with Acorn Cabin Rentals, you will be near all of these wonderful places for breakfast in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. With everything from 1 bedroom cabins to 8 bedroom cabins, we are sure to have the perfect accommodations for your next vacation. To start planning your escape, browse our selection of cabins in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg!