TSM Verdict
The Verdict
The Greenbrier in Gatlinburg is a chef-driven fine-dining restaurant known for its premium steaks, inventive starters, and signature dishes like The Wellington and Tomahawk Ribeye. The menu highlights dry-aged meats, classic preparations, and upscale Southern influences. It's a destination for those seeking a refined dinner experience with standout entrées.
Before You Drive
Check current hours
Public hours currently show Monday closed. Verify before making a longer drive.
Last checked January 22, 2026
Worth it?
Yes, especially if you are near Gatlinburg.
Best order
The Wellington, Tomahawk Ribeye, Half Duckling, Lamb Shank
Best time
Lunch or early dinner
Verify
Verify hours before driving.
Go For
- The Wellington
- Tomahawk Ribeye
- Half Duckling
- Lamb Shank
- Baked Goat Cheese
Skip If
- You prefer casual or budget-friendly dining
- You want a kid-focused or highly informal atmosphere
- You need extensive vegetarian or vegan entrée options
Before You Go
Verify hours before driving.
Decision Guide
Decision Guide
Is it worth visiting?
It's ideal for diners seeking a special-occasion or destination dinner featuring chef-driven preparations and premium meats. Those interested in classic steakhouse fare with creative starters will find it a strong choice.
Best first order?
The Wellington, Tomahawk Ribeye, Half Duckling, Lamb Shank, Baked Goat Cheese
Worth driving from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
Yes; The Greenbrier positions itself as Gatlinburg’s premier dining destination with a chef-driven menu and specialty dry-aged steaks, making it worth a deliberate visit if you value upscale dining.
Current concern?
Entrée prices are notably higher than average, with many main courses in the $30–$60 range and specialty steaks like the Tomahawk Ribeye at $160.
Planner Snapshot
At a Glance
Location
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Cuisine
Restaurant
Price
Confirm current pricing
Best meal
Lunch or early dinner
Families
Confirm fit before going
Planning fit
Best as part of a Gatlinburg stop
Hours warning
Public hours currently show Monday closed. Verify before making a longer drive.
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
Website
greenbrierrestaurant.comMenu
View menuPro 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
The Greenbrier Restaurant stands as a testament to Gatlinburg's pre-tourism era, housed in an authentic 1930s log lodge perched above the bustling parkway. This historic steakhouse combines mountain charm with upscale dining, making it a favorite for both special occasions and intimate dinners.
The restaurant's specialty lies in its dry-aged steaks, carefully prepared in-house and served alongside their famous spoonbread - a local tradition that regulars consider mandatory ordering. The bar program features classic cocktails with theatrical touches, including their signature smoked Old Fashioned.
Inside, original timber beams and stone fireplaces create a rustic-elegant atmosphere that captures the essence of historic Smoky Mountain architecture. The dining room offers views of the wooded ridge, while the historic bar area preserves much of its original character, including Lydia's beam - the source of the restaurant's most famous ghost story.
Expect premium steakhouse prices ($40-70 for main courses) and a deliberately paced dining experience that encourages guests to linger over their meals. The Greenbrier isn't trying to turn tables quickly like many downtown Gatlinburg restaurants - this is a place for savoring both food and conversation.
Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Smart casual dress is appropriate, though you'll see everything from post-hike wear to anniversary attire. While the restaurant welcomes families, the quiet atmosphere and price point make it better suited for adult dining experiences.
Pro tip: Request a table by the windows during the winter months - the elevated location offers lovely views of the town lights below.
Amenities & Features
- Exceptional servers who provide knowledgeable, attentive service without rushing guests
- Romantic log cabin atmosphere with an authentic outpost vibe perfect for special occasions
- Strong craft cocktail and bar program, including standout smoked bourbon drinks like the Dylon
- Secluded location away from downtown Gatlinburg's tourist crowds
Insider Tips for The Greenbrier
Insider tips
Visitors most often point to Signature Spoonbread, In-House Dry-Aged Steaks, and Craft Cocktail Bar. 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.
Before you go
Plan around 2-2.5 hours (longer if you enjoy cocktails at the bar before dinner) unless you are only stopping in briefly. Current price guidance on this page is $60-100+ per person for dinner with drinks.
A website is linked here for direct confirmation of current details.
Menu Guide
What to Order at The Greenbrier
Main
The Wellington
An 8 oz Iowa Premium barrel-cut filet wrapped in prosciutto, mushroom duxelles, and pâté de foie gras, baked in puff pastry and served medium-rare with bordelaise sauce. It's a signature main course showcasing classic technique and premium ingredients.
Main
Tomahawk Ribeye
A 40 oz dry-aged USDA Prime ribeye simply seasoned with cracked pepper and kosher salt, highlighting the restaurant's focus on premium steaks and dry-aging.
Main
Half Duckling
Pan-seared duck breast with confit leg and thigh, served with smoked cheddar grits, rainbow chard, and cherry bourbon glaze for a Southern-inspired main dish.
Main
Lamb Shank
Braised Colorado lamb served with wild mushroom risotto, roasted asparagus, and red wine lamb jus, offering a hearty and refined entrée.
Main
Pork Chop
Pork chop accompanied by caraway rye spaetzle, shaved Brussels sprouts, house bacon, and cider reduction, blending classic and creative flavors.
Starter
Seared Scallops
Scallops served with corn maque choux, pickled chard, and braised lardon jus, making for a standout starter.
Starter
Baked Goat Cheese
Goat cheese with a pistachio and cranberry crust, local honey, and naan bread, a popular appetizer balancing savory and sweet.
Side
Wedge Salad
Butterhead lettuce with tomato, Maytag bleu cheese crumbles, bacon lardons, bleu cheese dressing, and fried onions, offering a classic steakhouse-style salad.
Best For
- Date nights and anniversaries
- Special occasion dinners
- Steak lovers seeking premium cuts
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
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit The Greenbrier
Check the restaurant's current seating policy before weekend evenings; popular spots can have waits.
Tags
Traveler Questions
What are the hours for The Greenbrier?
Public sources conflict on this listing's hours. Verify hours before driving.
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?
Verify hours before driving.
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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