Duration
1-2 hours (longer for leisurely patio dining or Sunday brunch)
Price
$25-50 per person for dinner with drinks
Best For
Steak lovers seeking authentic local dining • Pet owners wanting creekside patio dining • Couples looking for romantic creek-side atmosphere
Pro Tip
Ask for creekside patio seating when you call - it's the best part of the restaurant and fills up fast, especially during peak dinner hours.
About Howard's Restaurant Gatlinburg's Oldest Restaurant
Howard's Restaurant has been serving Gatlinburg since 1946, earning its distinction as the city's oldest restaurant. This family-owned steakhouse occupies a prime creekside location downtown, where the outdoor patio remains the star attraction for many visitors.
The England family has operated this establishment for decades, building a reputation for expertly prepared steaks. While the ribeye stands out as a signature dish, the burgers have quietly earned recognition as among the best in town for those seeking alternatives to steak.
The pet-friendly outdoor patio welcomes four-legged guests during pleasant weather. A covered pergola provides shelter during rain or shine, proving invaluable during the unpredictable mountain weather that characterizes the region.
Sunday brunch offers a different experience entirely, featuring mimosa specials and hearty breakfast bowls perfect for fueling Smoky Mountain adventures. The whiskey selection deserves particular attention, with the bar menu showcasing hard-to-find bourbons that surprise even seasoned enthusiasts.
Recent renovations have significantly upgraded the interior while preserving the local charm that distinguishes it from typical tourist establishments. The restaurant successfully balances modern improvements with authentic character, maintaining its appeal as a genuine local institution in a town often dominated by visitor-focused venues.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Creekside Patio Dining
The covered pergola patio sits right along the creek and works in any weather. It's honestly the most romantic spot in downtown Gatlinburg, and watching the water flow while you eat never gets old.
Premium Steaks
They've been perfecting their steaks since 1946, and it shows. The ribeye is our go-to, but honestly every cut we've tried has been top quality - just ask for your preferred doneness clearly.
Sunday Brunch Experience
Sunday brunch brings a completely different menu with breakfast bowls, French toast, and discounted mimosas. It's a more relaxed vibe than dinner service and perfect before hitting the national park.
Pet-Friendly Atmosphere
Dogs are welcome on the patio, and we see regulars bringing their pups all the time. The staff always brings water bowls, and the creek setting keeps pets entertained too.
Extensive Bourbon Selection
The bar menu includes hard-to-find whiskeys and bourbons that you won't see at most tourist spots. Ask your server for the full whiskey list - it's impressive for a mountain town restaurant.
Award-Winning Burgers
Locals consistently rank their burgers in the top 3 in Gatlinburg. The meat quality matches their steaks, and honestly sometimes we come just for a burger and beer on the patio.
Know Before You Go
- Park in city lots along the Parkway and walk a few minutes - no dedicated restaurant parking
- Bring a light jacket for evening patio dining as creekside gets cooler
- Call ahead for patio seating, especially if bringing pets
- The pergola covers the patio but it's not fully enclosed - dress for weather
- Full bar available with extensive whiskey and bourbon selection
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsHoward's Restaurant Gatlinburg's Oldest Restaurant receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Howard's Restaurant Gatlinburg's Oldest Restaurant Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Howard's Restaurant Gatlinburg's Oldest Restaurant
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Howard's Restaurant?
Howard's is open daily for lunch and dinner, with Sunday brunch service. Weekdays typically run late morning through evening, while weekends extend later for dinner service. Check their website for current seasonal hours as they can vary.
How much does Howard's Restaurant cost?
Steaks run $28-45 for most cuts, burgers and sandwiches are around $15-20, and appetizers typically cost $9-16. Sunday brunch items range $12-18. It's pricier than casual spots but reasonable for a quality steakhouse.
Do I need reservations for Howard's Restaurant?
Reservations aren't always required, but we highly recommend calling ahead for peak dinner times (6-8 PM) and weekends. If you want creekside patio seating, definitely call first since those tables fill up quickly.
How long should I spend at Howard's Restaurant?
Plan for 60-90 minutes for a typical dinner. If you're doing Sunday brunch or drinks on the patio, you might stretch it to 2 hours - the creekside setting is perfect for lingering.
Is Howard's Restaurant good for kids?
Yes, it's family-friendly with a kids menu and casual atmosphere. The creekside patio is especially fun for kids to watch the water. Best for kids who can sit through a longer meal since it's full-service dining.
Is there parking at Howard's Restaurant?
There's no large private lot. You'll need to use nearby city parking lots or garages along the Parkway and walk a few minutes. Expect to pay for parking, especially during busy seasons.
Is the patio really pet-friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the outdoor creekside patio. Bring a leash and be prepared for other pets. The patio has a pergola covering and sits right along the creek - it's honestly the best spot in the restaurant.
What makes Howard's different from other Gatlinburg steakhouses?
It's been family-owned since 1946, making it Gatlinburg's oldest restaurant. The creekside patio setting is unique, and locals consistently rate their burgers among the top 3 in town alongside the quality steaks.
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Howard's Restaurant Gatlinburg's Oldest Restaurant receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
976 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
976 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
Gatlinburg
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