Duration
1.5-2 hours (longer if enjoying multiple courses and river views)
Price
$31-50 per person for dinner, with entrees ranging $28-38 and specialty platters up to $60
Best For
Couples celebrating anniversaries • Seafood lovers missing the coast • Groups wanting upscale dining
Pro Tip
Ask for a riverside table when making your reservation - the heated patio stays comfortable year-round and the river views make the meal even more special.
About Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar
Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar has earned a stellar reputation for serving exceptional seafood in the heart of the mountains. The crab cakes stand out with generous portions of jumbo lump meat and minimal filler - a refreshing departure from typical preparations.
The heated riverside patio offers an ideal dining experience, allowing guests to watch the Little Pigeon River while enjoying fresh oysters from the raw bar. Daily deliveries ensure everything tastes as if it arrived straight from the coast that morning.
This establishment operates above typical Gatlinburg tourist pricing, with meals averaging $30-50 per person. The premium reflects the exceptional quality that keeps locals and visitors returning.
Knowledgeable servers provide excellent guidance, directing diners toward the day's finest catches. Reservations are strongly recommended, as walk-in guests often face 1-2 hour waits during busy periods.
Chesapeake's consistently impresses visiting guests and serves as a go-to destination for special occasions. The broiled seafood platter provides generous portions that easily satisfy two diners.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Fresh Daily Raw Bar
The oysters arrive fresh every morning from coastal waters. We love starting with a dozen on the half shell - they taste like you're sitting oceanside instead of in the mountains.
Heated Riverside Patio
The best seats in the house overlook the Little Pigeon River. The patio stays comfortable year-round thanks to heaters, and the sound of flowing water beats any restaurant playlist.
Maryland Crab Cakes
These are loaded with jumbo lump crab meat and barely any filler - exactly how crab cakes should be made. At $32.50, they're pricey but worth every bite.
Broiled Seafood Platter
Our most recommended dish feeds two people easily. You get a variety of the day's best catches prepared simply so the seafood flavors shine through.
Steamed Feast
The $60 feast includes a 1.5-pound lobster plus mussels, clams, and oysters with your choice of side. It's messy, fun, and surprisingly good value for the amount of seafood.
Knowledgeable Service
The servers really know their seafood and wine pairings. They'll guide you to the best catches of the day and handle any dietary restrictions with care.
Know Before You Go
- Park in the paid lot next door or city garage one block away - no free parking available
- Smart casual dress is fine - nice jeans and a polo or blouse work perfectly
- Make reservations online or by phone - walk-ins face very long waits
- The heated patio operates year-round but bring a light jacket in cooler months
- Restaurant is wheelchair accessible with elevator access to dining areas
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsChesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Chesapeake's?
January-February: Mon-Thu 4-9pm, Fri 4-10pm, Sat 2-10pm, Sun 2-9pm. March-December: Mon-Thu 4-10pm, Fri 4-11pm, Sat 2-11pm, Sun 2-10pm. They're closed on some major holidays.
How much does Chesapeake's cost?
Expect $31-50 per person for dinner. Maryland crab cakes run $32.50, seafood platters around $38.50, and the steamed feast with 1.5lb lobster is $60. Wine bottles start around $28.
Do I need reservations for Chesapeake's?
Absolutely yes. Walk-ins can wait 1-2 hours during peak times, especially weekends and dinner hours. Reservations also help you snag a coveted riverside table.
How long should I spend at Chesapeake's?
Plan for 1.5-2 hours for a full dinner experience. If you're doing multiple courses or enjoying drinks on the patio, it could stretch longer during busy times.
Is Chesapeake's good for kids?
Yes, they have highchairs and welcome families, though the upscale atmosphere and pricing make it better suited for older kids who appreciate good seafood rather than toddlers.
Is there parking at Chesapeake's?
No free dedicated parking. You'll use the paid lot next door or the city parking garage one block away. The pink and purple trolley lines also stop nearby.
Does Chesapeake's have gluten-free options?
Yes, they offer both gluten-free and vegan options. The staff is excellent at handling food allergies - just let them know your restrictions when ordering.
What's the best thing to order at Chesapeake's?
The broiled seafood platter is our top pick - it's generous enough to share. The crab cakes, oysters Rockefeller, and daily fresh catches are also consistently excellent.
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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.
Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
437 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
437 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
Gatlinburg
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