Howard's Restaurant Gatlinburg's Oldest Restaurant

Since 1946, Howard's Restaurant stands as Gatlinburg's oldest restaurant, offering a genuine taste of local history alongside premium steaks and classic American fare. The England family's decades of ownership shines through in both the warm service and consistently well-executed dishes, particularly their standout ribeye steaks and surprisingly excellent burgers.

The restaurant's bi-level layout features an upscale steakhouse atmosphere on the main floor, while the upstairs pub provides a more casual setting. What truly sets Howard's apart is its creekside location in downtown Gatlinburg, where the pet-friendly outdoor patio draws both locals and visitors. A covered pergola ensures comfortable outdoor dining regardless of mountain weather conditions.

Sunday brunch has become a local tradition, featuring mimosa specials and substantial breakfast bowls that provide perfect fuel for a day of mountain activities. The bar program impresses with an extensive whiskey selection, including hard-to-find bourbon options that appeal to serious enthusiasts.

Recent interior renovations have thoughtfully modernized the space while maintaining the authentic character that makes Howard's a true Gatlinburg institution. The restaurant successfully balances its historic status with contemporary comfort, setting it apart from the area's more tourist-focused establishments.

Whether you're stopping in for a premium steak dinner, enjoying Sunday brunch on the patio, or relaxing with a craft cocktail at the upstairs pub, Howard's Restaurant delivers the kind of authentic mountain town dining experience that's increasingly rare in downtown Gatlinburg. The combination of prime location, long-standing local ownership, and consistent quality has earned Howard's its reputation as a reliable favorite among both residents and returning visitors.