Duration
1-1.5 hours (longer if enjoying KJ's Saloon or breakfast buffet)
Price
$14-30 per person for lunch/dinner platters, $15 for breakfast buffet
Best For
BBQ lovers seeking authentic hickory-smoked meats • Families wanting hearty portions and kid-friendly atmosphere • Groups looking to sample multiple meats with combo platters
Pro Tip
Order the burnt ends upgrade ($3 extra) on any platter - they're not always advertised but regulars know to ask for them.
About Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que
Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que has earned a loyal following among locals and visitors seeking authentic hickory-smoked BBQ in Gatlinburg. The restaurant smokes their meats for up to 14 hours, delivering the deep, rich flavors that barbecue enthusiasts expect from genuine pit cooking.
The breakfast buffet stands out as an exceptional value - over 50 items at prices well below typical tourist area rates. The massive Texan meal deal features five different meats and provides enough food for multiple people to share, though ambitious diners might attempt the challenge solo.
KJ's Saloon, attached to the restaurant, adds extra appeal with no cover charge and a pleasant patio perfect for post-dinner drinks. The rare offering of free parking in downtown Gatlinburg makes this location particularly attractive to visitors.
The extensive all-you-can-eat salad bar ensures vegetarian diners have plenty of options while carnivores focus on the expertly prepared ribs and other smoked specialties. Despite busy periods, the staff maintains impressively quick service.
The River Road location provides convenient walking access to popular attractions like the SkyLift and Ripley's Aquarium. Many guests use the restaurant as a strategic starting point for exploring downtown Gatlinburg on foot after their meal.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
14-Hour Hickory-Smoked Meats
Their pork, brisket, and ribs get the full hickory treatment for up to 14 hours. The pulled pork practically falls apart, and the ribs are legitimately fall-off-the-bone tender.
Texan Meal Deal
Five different meats for $30 - it's basically a BBQ sampler platter on steroids. We always order this for the table to try everything, and there's usually leftovers.
All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast Buffet
Fifty-plus items including smoked pork, biscuits and gravy, French toast, and fresh fruit. It's one of the better breakfast deals in Gatlinburg that actually fills you up.
KJ's Saloon
Connected bar with Golden Tee, pool tables, darts, and an outdoor patio. No cover charge and they serve appetizers all day. Great spot to hang out after dinner.
Burnt Ends Upgrade
For three bucks extra, you can add burnt ends to any platter. They're crispy, smoky, and honestly some of the best we've had outside Kansas City.
All-You-Can-Eat Salad Bar
Two soups plus a full salad bar with smoked chicken salad for $15. It's a lighter option that still lets you taste their smoking skills.
Know Before You Go
- Free parking on-site - rare for downtown Gatlinburg
- Casual dress code, but maybe skip white shirts if you're messy with BBQ sauce
- Cash and cards accepted, no reservations needed
- Mountain evenings get cool if you plan to use KJ's outdoor patio
- Wheelchair accessible with available parking
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsBennett's Pit Bar-B-Que receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que?
Bennett's is open daily 11 AM to 9 PM Sunday through Thursday, and until 10 PM Friday and Saturday. The breakfast buffet runs from 8-11 AM.
How much does Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que cost?
Lunch platters run $14-18 and include a biscuit plus two sides. The popular BBQ combo with three meats is $28, and the Texan meal deal with five meats is $30.
Do I need reservations for Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que?
No reservations needed - it's first come, first served. Most guests get seated quickly, though Saturday evenings can have 20-30 minute waits during peak season.
How long should I spend at Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que?
Plan about an hour for lunch or dinner, maybe 90 minutes if you're doing the breakfast buffet or hanging out in KJ's Saloon afterward.
Is Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que good for kids?
Absolutely - they have a kids menu, highchairs, and the casual atmosphere works great for families. Kids love the breakfast buffet and BBQ platters are big enough to share.
Is there parking at Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que?
Yes, they have free on-site parking, which is a huge advantage in downtown Gatlinburg where most places charge for parking or you're stuck with street meters.
Does Bennett's have vegetarian options?
The all-you-can-eat salad bar ($15) works well for vegetarians, plus they have vegetarian-friendly sides like green beans, baked beans, and sweet potatoes.
What's the difference between Bennett's restaurant and KJ's Saloon?
They're connected - Bennett's is the main restaurant while KJ's Saloon has the full bar, games like Golden Tee and pool, plus an outdoor patio. No cover charge for the saloon.
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We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
714 River Rd Gatlinburg TN 37738
714 River Rd Gatlinburg TN 37738
Gatlinburg
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