TSM Verdict
The Verdict
The Peddler Steakhouse in Gatlinburg is a classic dinner-only steakhouse known for custom-cut steaks, a full salad bar, and a riverside setting. Its signature draw is premium steak entrées like prime rib and filet mignon, along with a traditional steakhouse menu. Expect a full-service, sit-down experience ideal for those seeking a destination meal.
Worth it?
Yes, especially if you are near Gatlinburg.
Best order
Prime Rib, New York Strip, Filet Mignon, Rainbow Trout
Best time
Lunch or early dinner
Verify
Check current hours before driving.
Go For
- Prime Rib
- New York Strip
- Filet Mignon
- Rainbow Trout
- French Onion Soup
Skip If
- You want a casual or quick meal
- You prefer lower-priced dining
- You need extensive vegetarian or vegan options
Before You Go
Dinner service only; check posted hours before visiting.
Decision Guide
Decision Guide
Is it worth visiting?
It's a strong choice for steak lovers and those seeking a classic steakhouse experience in Gatlinburg, especially if you want custom-cut steaks and a full salad bar. Best for diners looking for a sit-down dinner with traditional steakhouse fare.
Best first order?
Prime Rib, New York Strip, Filet Mignon, Rainbow Trout, French Onion Soup
Best time?
Dinner service only; posted hours are typically 5:00 PM–9:00 PM on weekdays and 4:30 PM–10:00 PM on Saturdays.
Worth driving from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
If you're in Gatlinburg, it's a convenient and worthwhile dinner destination; from Pigeon Forge, it's close enough for a dedicated steakhouse outing thanks to its full-service menu and reputation.
Planner Snapshot
At a Glance
Location
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Cuisine
Restaurant
Price
$$$
Best meal
Lunch or early dinner
Families
Confirm fit before going
Planning fit
Best as part of a Gatlinburg stop
Duration
2-3 hours for a full dining experience.
Price
$40-60 for steak entrées, with additional costs for drinks and desserts.
Best For
Steak lovers • Families with children • Couples looking for a romantic dinner
Website
peddlergatlinburg.comPro tip: Call ahead for reservations and arrive 30 minutes early if possible to secure a table quickly.
About The Peddler Steakhouse
The Peddler Steakhouse is renowned for its custom-cut steaks, carved right at your table, and a full salad bar that many consider the highlight of the meal. Located on the Little Pigeon River, it offers a unique dining experience away from the hustle of downtown Gatlinburg.
Amenities & Features
- Outstanding salad bar that many reviewers say is the best part of the meal
- Riverside window seating with potential wildlife sightings (including bears walking by)
- Exceptional servers who provide attentive, genuine service that elevates the experience
- Prime rib and rainbow trout as standout menu items over traditional steaks
Insider Tips for The Peddler Steakhouse
Insider tips
Visitors most often point to Riverside Dining, Salad Bar, and Certified Angus Beef. Request a riverside table when making reservations for the best views.
Expect aggressive upselling on drinks and desserts from servers. Arrive right when they open to avoid long wait times.
Before you go
Plan around 2-3 hours for a full dining experience unless you are only stopping in briefly. Current price guidance on this page is $40-60 for steak entrées, with additional costs for drinks and desserts.
A website is linked here for direct confirmation of current details.
From the reviews
Visitors frequently mention the generous portion sizes of the steaks.
The riverside views are highlighted in nearly every review.
Wait times on weekends are a common complaint, but most say it's worth it.
Menu Guide
What to Order at The Peddler Steakhouse
Main
Prime Rib
A signature steakhouse cut served as a main entrée, highlighted on both the menu and in popular dish lists for its classic preparation and quality.
Main
New York Strip
A customizable steak option featured as a core entrée, known for its robust flavor and presence on both the menu and review sites.
Main
Filet Mignon
A premium steak entrée, consistently listed among the restaurant’s most popular dishes for its tenderness and classic steakhouse appeal.
Main
Rainbow Trout
Fresh rainbow trout offered grilled or fried, making it a standout seafood option on the menu and noted in the restaurant’s own blog.
Main
Marinated Chicken
Hickory-charcoal grilled chicken entrée, featured on the menu and in popular dish lists for those seeking a non-steak main.
Main
Stuffed Shrimp
A seafood main dish that appears in popular dish lists, offering a non-steak alternative for dinner.
Starter
French Onion Soup
A classic starter, listed on the delivery menu and among the most popular items for its rich, savory flavor.
Side
Sweet Potato Casserole
A side dish featured in popular dish lists, known for its sweet and savory profile as a complement to steak entrées.
Best For
- Steak lovers
- Families with children
- Couples looking for a romantic dinner
- Visitors wanting a riverside dining experience
- Those celebrating special occasions
Know Before You Go
- Request a riverside table when making reservations for the best views.
- Expect aggressive upselling on drinks and desserts from servers.
- Arrive right when they open to avoid long wait times.
- Consider sharing a steak if you're not very hungry.
- Check for seasonal specials that may not be on the regular menu.
What Visitors Say
Featured from 6,407 reviewsVisitors frequently mention the generous portion sizes of the steaks.
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit The Peddler Steakhouse
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 1.5 to 2 hours for a relaxed dinner. The salad bar, custom-cut steaks, and full-table service usually make it a slower meal than a quick stop.
When is the best time to visit?
Go early in the evening or right when they open if you want the shortest wait. Dinner hours are the main draw, and peak Gatlinburg vacation times can get busy.
Is there parking and easy access?
Yes. The restaurant is on River Road in Gatlinburg and has its own parking area, which is easier than relying on downtown street parking. If that fills up, expect a short walk from nearby public parking.
What should I expect at the table?
This is a classic steakhouse with a custom-cut steak approach, where staff can bring cuts to your table so you can choose your steak. Expect a full-service dinner, a salad bar, and a slower-paced meal.
Who is The Peddler Steakhouse best for?
It works well for couples, families, and anyone who wants a sit-down Smoky Mountain dinner with a strong steak focus. It is also a good pick for guests who like choosing their cut before it is cooked.
Does the menu offer anything besides steak?
Yes. In addition to steaks, the menu includes items like fresh mountain trout and marinated chicken, along with the salad bar.
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