TSM Verdict
The Verdict
Cookie Dough Monster – Burgers & Shakes is a casual, counter-service spot in Pigeon Forge known for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, hand-crafted burgers, and decadent shakes and cookie dough desserts. The restaurant's signature draw is its creative comfort food menu, especially the Dirty Brownie Shake and build-your-own grilled cheeses. Expect a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on indulgent American classics.
Worth it?
Yes, especially if you are near Pigeon Forge.
Best order
Dirty Brownie Shake, Gourmet Grilled Cheese, Signature Burgers, Hand-Breaded Chicken Sandwiches
Best time
Lunch or early dinner
Verify
Check current hours before driving.
Go For
- Dirty Brownie Shake
- Gourmet Grilled Cheese
- Signature Burgers
- Hand-Breaded Chicken Sandwiches
- Cookie Dough Bites
Skip If
- You prefer lighter or health-focused fare
- You're looking for a quiet, formal dining experience
- You want a full table-service restaurant
- You have dietary restrictions that limit indulgent desserts or fried foods
Before You Go
Closed Sundays at 6pm; open 11am–9pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm–6pm Sunday.
Decision Guide
Decision Guide
Is it worth visiting?
It's a great pick for anyone craving creative burgers, grilled cheese, and over-the-top shakes in a casual setting. The strong local and tourist ratings make it a standout for comfort food lovers.
Best first order?
Dirty Brownie Shake, Gourmet Grilled Cheese, Signature Burgers, Cookie Dough Bites
Best time?
Late lunch on weekdays (around 2–4 pm) is typically less busy than peak meal hours.
Worth driving from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
Yes, its high ratings and reputation for top-tier burgers, grilled cheeses, and shakes make it a worthwhile destination for visitors from both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
Planner Snapshot
At a Glance
Location
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Cuisine
Hamburger restaurant
Price
$$
Best meal
Lunch or early dinner
Families
Confirm fit before going
Planning fit
Best as part of a Pigeon Forge stop
Duration
1-2 hours for a meal
Price
$$
Best For
Adults looking for a unique dining experience • Burger enthusiasts • Foodies seeking homemade ingredients
Website
cookiedm.comMenu
View menuPro tip: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid the heat and loud music.
About Cookie Dough Monster - Burgers & Shakes
Cookie Dough Monster is located on Teaster Lane, and the name might mislead you — you're expecting a kid-friendly sugar fest, but this place is strictly 21+ and the menu humor will make you blush. We visited last summer thinking it was just another themed restaurant and ended up having one of our best meals in Pigeon Forge.
The Bacon Bomber is their most popular burger for good reason, but don't overlook the "Everyday I'm Truffling" — that black truffle patty with burgundy mushrooms is genuinely fancy food disguised as a burger joint meal. The loaded fries are what converted me though. I'm usually all about the burger, but these things are perfectly crispy with toppings that actually make sense together.
Fair warning: it gets HOT in there during summer. The AC can't keep up when they're busy, and the music is loud enough that you'll be shouting across the table. We learned to go during off-peak hours or grab a table near the front where it's slightly cooler.
Those signature cookie dough bites come in flavors like Heath Bar and s'mores, but they're rich enough to put you in a food coma. Share them. Trust me on this one — even Shandi couldn't finish a full order and she has the biggest sweet tooth I know.
They make everything in-house, which you can actually taste. No hormones, no MSG, none of that processed stuff you get at chain places. It's why TripAdvisor called them the #1 restaurant in the country back in 2023. Parking is easy since they have their own lot right out front, which is rare for Pigeon Forge.
Amenities & Features
- Exceptional burgers described as 'best ever had' - massive, stacked high, and loaded with flavor (standouts include CI 6, Bacon Bomber, Nashville's Hottie, and Mac Daddy Double)
- Outstanding milkshakes that pair perfectly with the burgers
- Sweet potato fries with fresh honey are a must-try side
- Creative menu with fun, themed burger names and plenty of variety
Insider Tips for Cookie Dough Monster - Burgers & Shakes
Insider tips
Visitors most often point to Bacon Bomber Burger, Homemade Cookie Dough Bites, and Loaded Fries. It can get hot inside during busy summer hours, so plan accordingly.
The music can be loud, making conversation difficult at peak times. The restaurant is 21+ only, so it's not suitable for families with children.
Before you go
Plan around 1-2 hours for a meal unless you are only stopping in briefly. Current price guidance on this page is $$.
A website is linked here for direct confirmation of current details.
From the reviews
Visitors frequently mention the generous portion sizes.
The Bacon Bomber burger is highlighted in nearly every review as a must-try.
Many reviewers praise the homemade ingredients and the quality of the food.
Menu Guide
What to Order at Cookie Dough Monster - Burgers & Shakes
Drink
Dirty Brownie Shake
A thick milkshake built around brownie pieces and chocolate mix-ins, promoted as the restaurant's top-selling shake and a must-try for dessert lovers.
Main
Gourmet Grilled Cheese
Hearty grilled cheese sandwiches with options for add-ons like bacon or extra cheeses, highlighted as a signature menu item alongside burgers.
Main
Signature Burgers
Hand-crafted burgers available in several variations, frequently mentioned as the primary draw and praised as some of the best in Pigeon Forge.
Main
Hand-Breaded Chicken Sandwiches
Fried chicken sandwiches made with hand-breaded chicken, offered as a popular alternative to burgers.
Dessert
Cookie Dough Bites
Edible cookie dough served as bite-sized pieces in assorted flavors, available in sets of 4 or 6 and featured as a key dessert treat.
Dessert
Cookie & Ice Cream
A plated dessert pairing a cookie with ice cream, listed among the restaurant's cookie-based desserts.
Drink
Milkshakes
Thick, dessert-style shakes available in multiple flavors, known for their large portions and popularity among guests.
Best For
- Adults looking for a unique dining experience
- Burger enthusiasts
- Foodies seeking homemade ingredients
- Groups celebrating special occasions
- Visitors to Pigeon Forge
Know Before You Go(7 tips)
- It can get hot inside during busy summer hours, so plan accordingly.
- The music can be loud, making conversation difficult at peak times.
- The restaurant is 21+ only, so it's not suitable for families with children.
- The loaded fries are a popular choice and highly recommended.
- Consider trying the 'Everyday I'm Truffling' burger for a gourmet twist.
What Visitors Say
Featured from 3,386 reviewsVisitors frequently mention the generous portion sizes.
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Cookie Dough Monster - Burgers & Shakes
Check the restaurant's current seating policy before weekend evenings; popular spots can have waits.
Tags
Traveler Questions
What are the hours of operation for Cookie Dough Monster?
Monday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there is ample parking available directly in front of the restaurant.
What is the most popular item on the menu?
The most popular burger is the Bacon Bomber.
Does the restaurant cater events?
Yes, Cookie Dough Monster offers catering and event hosting services.
What makes Cookie Dough Monster unique?
The restaurant emphasizes homemade ingredients made in-house and avoids hormones, GMOs, MSG, and high fructose corn syrup.
What type of cuisine does Cookie Dough Monster serve?
The restaurant serves burgers and shakes, with a focus on gourmet flavors.
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