Duration
45-90 minutes (longer during busy weekend dinner rush)
Price
$12-25 per person for entrées, excellent value for portion sizes
Best For
Families with big appetites looking for great value • Groups wanting to share massive Mexican platters • Couples seeking a casual dinner spot with strong margaritas
Pro Tip
Order the molcajete if you're sharing - it's their signature mixed meat dish with chipotle sauce that'll leave you speechless, and the sizzling presentation is half the fun.
About Cielito Lindo
Cielito Lindo has established itself as a reliable Mexican food destination along the Parkway, drawing repeat visitors year after year with its consistently satisfying offerings.
The restaurant is renowned for its generous portions - burritos arrive at table-size proportions while molcajete dishes easily satisfy multiple diners. Families particularly appreciate the substantial servings, as children often leave with enough leftovers for another meal back at their accommodations.
The standout features include expertly crafted mango margaritas (the jalapeño addition comes highly recommended) and the restaurant's signature Cielito Lindo dip that keeps guests returning visit after visit. The atmosphere maintains a relaxed, family-friendly environment that provides welcome respite after busy days at nearby attractions like Dollywood.
Diners should note that the standard salsa tends toward the watery side, making the specialty dips the better choice. The interior lighting creates a dim, cozy ambiance that many find appealing and intimate.
The prime Parkway location offers exceptional convenience for attraction-hopping visitors. The restaurant's proximity to entertainment venues like the neighboring Stampede makes it an ideal dinner stop before evening shows, contributing to its popularity among tourists navigating the busy strip.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Famous Molcajete
Their signature sizzling stone bowl filled with mixed meats, onions, peppers, and chipotle sauce. The presentation alone is worth it, but the flavors will absolutely blow you away. It's easily shareable between two people.
Mango Margaritas with Jalapeños
This drink has developed a cult following among regulars. The sweet mango perfectly balances the jalapeño heat, creating this addictive combination that keeps people coming back. Ask for extra jalapeños if you like it spicy.
Cielito Lindo Signature Dip
Their house-made dip that's way better than the regular salsa (which can be pretty watery). It's got this perfect creamy texture with just the right amount of spice that pairs amazingly with their warm tortilla chips.
Massive Burrito Selection
These aren't your average burritos - we're talking about seriously oversized creations that could easily feed two people. The fillings are generous and the flavors are on point, making them some of the best value on the menu.
Fresh-Made Guacamole
Made fresh daily with perfectly ripe avocados and just the right amount of lime and seasoning. It's creamy, flavorful, and honestly worth ordering even if you're not usually a guac person.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
The laid-back vibe and accommodating staff make this place perfect for families with kids of all ages. High chairs are available, and the casual atmosphere means nobody stresses about noise levels.
Know Before You Go
- Parking is available on-site, but the Parkway can get congested during peak dinner hours
- Bring your ID if you plan to order margaritas from their full bar
- The restaurant accepts credit cards and is wheelchair accessible
- Interior lighting is pretty dim, so keep that in mind if you prefer brighter dining spaces
- Portions are massive - consider sharing entrées or skipping appetizers unless you're really hungry
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsCielito Lindo receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Pigeon Forge, it's a solid choice for the area.
Cielito Lindo Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Cielito Lindo
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Cielito Lindo?
They're open Sunday through Thursday from 11 AM to 9 PM, and Friday-Saturday from 12 PM to 10 PM. Hours can change during peak seasons, so we always double-check before heading over.
How much does Cielito Lindo cost?
Entrées typically run $12-25 per person, making it a solid mid-range option. The portions are huge though, so you're definitely getting your money's worth - many families split dishes.
Do I need reservations for Cielito Lindo?
No reservations needed - they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Being on the busy Parkway, there might be a short wait during peak dinner hours on weekends.
How long should I spend at Cielito Lindo?
Plan on about 45-90 minutes for your meal, depending on how busy they are and whether you're ordering drinks. The massive portions mean you'll want to pace yourself.
Is Cielito Lindo good for kids?
Absolutely! They have high chairs available and a very family-friendly atmosphere. Our kids love the huge portions, and there are plenty of mild options for picky eaters.
Is there parking at Cielito Lindo?
Yes, they have their own parking lot right at the restaurant. Being on the Parkway, it can get busy during peak times, but we've never had major issues finding a spot.
Do they have vegetarian and gluten-free options?
Yes! They clearly mark vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options on their menu. The variety is pretty good for a traditional Mexican restaurant.
What's the best thing to order at Cielito Lindo?
The molcajete is their signature dish - it's a sizzling mix of meats with chipotle sauce that's absolutely incredible. Pair it with a mango margarita with jalapeños for the full experience.
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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.
Cielito Lindo receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Pigeon Forge, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
3965 Parkway Pigeon Forge TN 37863
3965 Parkway Pigeon Forge TN 37863
Pigeon Forge
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