Duration
2-2.5 hours (longer if you enjoy cocktails at the bar before dinner)
Price
$60-100+ per person for dinner with drinks
Best For
Date nights and anniversaries • Special occasion dinners • Steak lovers seeking premium cuts
Pro Tip
Arrive 30 minutes early for cocktails on the outdoor patio with the firepit - it's the perfect way to start your evening and the bartenders often share ghost stories about the lodge.
About The Greenbrier
We've been dining at The Greenbrier for years, and it's still our go-to spot for special occasions in Gatlinburg. This historic 1930s log lodge sits on a wooded ridge above town, serving dry-aged steaks and craft cocktails in an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
The spoonbread alone is worth the drive - honestly, we order it every single visit. Their in-house dry-aging process creates some of the best steaks we've had outside of Nashville, and the smoked Old Fashioned presentation at the bar is pure theater.
Fair warning: this isn't your typical Gatlinburg tourist spot. We're talking premium steakhouse prices ($40-70+ for mains), and the pace is leisurely rather than rushed.
The ghost stories add character too - Lydia's beam still hangs above the bar where she supposedly ended her life in heartbreak. Whether you believe in spirits or not, the history makes dinner conversations interesting.
Reservations are basically required, especially on weekends. We learned that lesson the hard way after waiting an hour as walk-ins.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Signature Spoonbread
This warm, cornbread-like side dish is legendary among regulars and consistently mentioned in reviews. It's served at the start of every meal and has a texture somewhere between cornbread and soufflé.
In-House Dry-Aged Steaks
The restaurant dry-ages their own beef, creating incredibly tender and flavorful steaks that rival any big-city steakhouse. The process takes weeks and really shows in the final product.
Craft Cocktail Bar
The extensive bar program includes theatrical presentations like the smoked Old Fashioned and Lydia-themed drinks. The bartenders are skilled mixologists who take pride in their craft.
Historic Log Lodge Setting
Built in 1939 as Greenbrier Lodge, the building retains its original log construction and cozy atmosphere. Forest views through the windows make you feel miles from tourist crowds.
Outdoor Firepit Patio
The patio behind the bar area features a large firepit surrounded by seating. It's perfect for pre-dinner cocktails or nightcaps, especially on cool mountain evenings.
Lydia's Beam and Ghost Stories
The original beam where Lydia allegedly hanged herself in heartbreak still hangs above the bar area. Staff and locals share stories of supernatural encounters throughout the lodge's history.
Know Before You Go
- The restaurant is several miles outside downtown Gatlinburg on a ridge - allow extra driving time during peak traffic
- Bring a light jacket for the outdoor firepit patio, especially in cooler months
- Reservations are strongly recommended; have confirmation ready on your phone
- Dress smart casual to dressy casual - it's a special occasion atmosphere
- They accept credit cards and have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsThe Greenbrier impresses visitors with quality cuisine and attentive service. The atmosphere creates a memorable dining experience in Gatlinburg.
The Greenbrier Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit The Greenbrier
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for The Greenbrier?
The Greenbrier serves dinner only, typically Sunday-Thursday 4:30-9:00 PM and Friday-Saturday 4:30-10:00 PM. Hours can shift seasonally, so we always call ahead to confirm before making the drive up the ridge.
How much does The Greenbrier cost?
Expect premium steakhouse pricing with starters around $12-20, steaks $40-70+, and craft cocktails $15-20 each. It's definitely a splurge, but honestly worth it for special occasions.
Do I need reservations for The Greenbrier?
Yes, absolutely make reservations, especially for weekends and peak tourist seasons. We've seen walk-ins get lucky occasionally, but you don't want to risk driving up there without a guaranteed table.
How long should I spend at The Greenbrier?
Plan on 2-2.5 hours for the full experience with cocktails and a multi-course dinner. The pace is deliberately leisurely - this isn't a quick bite before hitting the Parkway.
Is The Greenbrier good for kids?
They welcome families and have highchairs available, but the atmosphere skews toward adults and special occasions. Kids who can handle a slow-paced, upscale dinner will do fine.
Is there parking at The Greenbrier?
Yes, they have on-site parking at the restaurant. Since it's up on a ridge outside downtown, you'll drive directly to the lodge rather than dealing with Parkway parking hassles.
What should I wear to The Greenbrier?
Smart casual to dressy casual works best - think collared shirts, nice tops, dress pants or dark jeans. Many guests treat it as date night, so you won't be overdressed if you step it up a notch.
Is The Greenbrier really haunted?
The lodge has documented ghost stories dating back decades, particularly about 'Lydia' whose suicide beam is still visible above the bar. Whether you believe or not, the history adds atmosphere to your dinner.
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The Greenbrier impresses visitors with quality cuisine and attentive service. The atmosphere creates a memorable dining experience in Gatlinburg.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
370 Newman Rd Gatlinburg TN 37738
370 Newman Rd Gatlinburg TN 37738
Gatlinburg
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