TSM Verdict
The Verdict
Puckett's Restaurant in Pigeon Forge is a casual Southern eatery known for its barbecue platters, smoked meats, and signature comfort food dishes. The restaurant draws diners with hearty mains like Piggy Mac and smoked meatloaf, plus a house-made fruit tea and Southern desserts.
Worth it?
Yes, especially if you are near Pigeon Forge.
Best order
Piggy Mac, Puckett’s BBQ Platter, Smoked Meatloaf, Chicken Fried Chicken
Best time
Lunch or early dinner
Verify
Check current hours before driving.
Go For
- Piggy Mac
- Puckett’s BBQ Platter
- Smoked Meatloaf
- Cherrywood-Smoked Wings
- Elvis Parfait
Skip If
- You want a fine-dining or upscale experience
- You need extensive vegetarian or vegan options
- You are seeking ultra-budget pricing (entrees are mid-range)
Before You Go
Serves lunch and dinner only; no breakfast offered.
Decision Guide
Decision Guide
Is it worth visiting?
Puckett's is a solid choice for travelers seeking classic Southern barbecue, smoked meats, and comfort food in a relaxed, music-themed setting. It's especially fitting for families or groups wanting a taste of Tennessee-style mains and desserts.
Best first order?
Piggy Mac, Puckett’s BBQ Platter, Smoked Meatloaf, Cherrywood-Smoked Wings, Elvis Parfait
Worth driving from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
If you're already in the Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville area, Puckett's is a worthwhile stop for Southern barbecue and comfort food, but it's not a unique-only-to-Pigeon Forge destination for those coming from farther away.
Planner Snapshot
At a Glance
Location
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Cuisine
Southern restaurant (US)
Price
$$
Best meal
Lunch or early dinner
Families
Confirm fit before going
Planning fit
Best as part of a Pigeon Forge stop
Website
puckettsrestaurant.comMenu
View menuAbout Puckett's Restaurant
Puckett's Restaurant is a popular Southern eatery known for its delicious barbecue and live music, making it a great spot for families and friends to enjoy hearty meals together. The brisket is consistently good — they smoke it low and slow, and you can taste the difference. The fried green tomatoes can be hit or miss though, sometimes way too salty.
Amenities & Features
- Smoked meatloaf described as 'the best ever' with exceptional flavor
- Outstanding service, particularly from servers like Gary who provide 'supremely elite level' attention
- Shrimp and grits receive consistent praise for quality
- Active management presence checking on diners throughout their meals
Insider Tips for Puckett's Restaurant
Insider tips
Happy hour from 3-6pm Monday through Friday is the best deal on the Parkway. Parking lot fills up fast after 5pm, especially on weekends.
Check the live music schedule on their website to catch performances during your visit.
Before you go
Current price guidance on this page is $$. A website is linked here for direct confirmation of current details.
Menu Guide
What to Order at Puckett's Restaurant
Main
Piggy Mac
A skillet or plate of mac ’n cheese topped with pulled pork barbecue and BBQ sauce, this dish is one of the most popular and frequently mentioned mains at Puckett’s Pigeon Forge.
Main
Puckett’s BBQ Platter
A barbecue plate featuring smoked meats such as pulled pork, served with classic Southern sides; this is a signature entrée highlighting the restaurant’s barbecue focus.
Main
Smoked Meatloaf
House-made meatloaf that is smoked for extra flavor, typically served with Southern sides as a Tennessee 'meat & three'-style favorite.
Main
Chicken Fried Chicken
Southern-style fried chicken breast, breaded and fried, served with country sides; a staple among the Tennessee favorites on the menu.
Starter
Cherrywood-Smoked Wings
Chicken wings smoked with cherrywood and available with a variety of sauces, served as a starter or bar bite; a popular choice for those wanting a flavorful appetizer.
Main
Puckett’s BBQ Sandwich (Brisket / Pulled Pork)
A hearty barbecue sandwich featuring either brisket or pulled pork on a bun, typically served with fries; praised for generous portions and classic BBQ flavor.
Dessert
Elvis Parfait
A dessert glass layered with banana pudding, peanut butter ganache, crushed graham crackers, and whipped cream, inspired by Elvis’s favorite flavors.
Drink
Puckett’s Signature Fruit Tea
A house recipe blackberry-citrus Southern sweet iced tea, unique to Puckett’s and featured on their official menu.
Know Before You Go
- Happy hour from 3-6pm Monday through Friday is the best deal on the Parkway.
- Parking lot fills up fast after 5pm, especially on weekends.
- Check the live music schedule on their website to catch performances during your visit.
- Consider arriving early to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Puckett's Restaurant
Check the restaurant's current seating policy before weekend evenings; popular spots can have waits.
Tags
Traveler Questions
How long does a visit take?
Plan about 60-90 minutes for a sit-down meal. Add extra time if you come during dinner or when live music is running on Friday and Saturday evenings.
What are the best times to visit?
Go on a weekday before dinner for the shortest wait. Lunch and early afternoon are usually easier than peak evening hours, and Friday-Saturday nights can be busier because of live music.
Is parking available?
Yes. The restaurant has parking available, and it’s at 2480 Parkway in Pigeon Forge, which is easy to reach by car.
What should I expect from the experience?
Expect a casual Southern comfort-food meal with a full-service restaurant feel. The menu includes classic Southern dishes, and the location also offers a bar and live music on select evenings.
Who is Puckett's Restaurant best for?
It works well for families, road-trippers, and groups looking for a relaxed Southern meal in a busy Pigeon Forge location. It’s also a good fit if you want dinner with live music on the weekend.
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