Duration
45-90 minutes (longer during busy periods when understaffed)
Price
$9-18 per person for generous portions
Best For
Families wanting hearty Southern meals • Cades Cove visitors needing fuel • Anyone craving authentic country cooking
Pro Tip
Hit them up for breakfast before 9 AM on weekdays if you're doing Cades Cove - you'll beat the crowds and fuel up with their massive pancakes before the loop gets busy.
About The Riverstone Restaurant
We've been hitting up Riverstone Family Restaurant for years whenever we're heading to Cades Cove. This mom-and-pop spot serves up massive portions of Southern comfort food that'll leave you rolling out the door.
Their fried catfish and country-fried steak are honestly some of the best we've had in the Smokies. The farmhouse atmosphere feels like eating at your grandma's house, with wide-spaced tables so you're not crammed in.
Breakfast here is legendary - their pancakes are the size of dinner plates and the biscuits are fluffy perfection. We always grab breakfast here before hitting Cades Cove since it's right on the way.
Fair warning: service can be painfully slow when they're understaffed, especially during peak tourist season. We've waited over an hour during busy weekends.
The prices are totally reasonable for the amount of food you get. Most mains run $11-18 and breakfast plates are $9-15, but you'll definitely have leftovers.
Honestly, it's one of our go-to spots for authentic East Tennessee cooking. Just don't expect fancy - this is pure country comfort food done right.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Legendary Breakfast Platters
Their pancakes are seriously the size of dinner plates and fluffy as clouds. The breakfast combos with sausage and eggs will fuel you for an entire day of hiking. We always get breakfast here before Cades Cove.
Fried Catfish Dinner
Crispy, perfectly seasoned catfish that's become legendary around here. Comes with your choice of sides and those famous biscuits. Multiple reviewers call it the best catfish in the area.
Country-Fried Steak
Massive portion of tender steak smothered in creamy gravy, served with mashed potatoes and vegetables. It's pure comfort food that tastes like Sunday dinner at grandma's house.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy, tangy, and absolutely addictive - these are a must-order appetizer. They're expert friers here and it shows in every golden bite. Perfect for sharing while you wait for mains.
Farmhouse Atmosphere
The country décor and wide-spaced tables create a cozy, authentic feel without being cramped. It really feels like eating at a family farmhouse, which adds to the whole experience.
Massive Portions
Seriously, come hungry or plan to share. Every plate is loaded with food that'll leave you with leftovers. The value for money is incredible compared to touristy spots.
Know Before You Go
- Park in their free lot right in front - no need to hunt for street parking
- Dress super casual - hiking clothes and jeans are totally normal here
- Bring patience during peak times - they can get seriously understaffed
- Cash or card both work fine, but always good to have backup payment in rural areas
- Restrooms can be hit or miss on cleanliness according to recent visitors
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsThe Riverstone Restaurant impresses visitors with quality cuisine and attentive service. The atmosphere creates a memorable dining experience in Townsend.
The Riverstone Restaurant Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit The Riverstone Restaurant
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Riverstone Restaurant?
They're open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner but hours vary seasonally. We always call ahead or check their Google listing since hours can change, especially during off-season.
How much does Riverstone Restaurant cost?
Most breakfast plates run $9-15 and dinner mains like catfish or country-fried steak are $11-18. The portions are huge though - we usually split an entree or take home leftovers.
Do I need reservations for Riverstone Restaurant?
Nope, they don't take reservations. It's first-come, first-served. During busy times you might wait, but they'll put you on a list.
How long should I spend at Riverstone Restaurant?
Plan on 45-75 minutes for a normal meal. When they're slammed or understaffed, it can stretch to 90 minutes or more, so don't go if you're in a rush.
Is Riverstone Restaurant good for kids?
Absolutely - it's super family-friendly with a casual atmosphere. Kids love the huge pancakes and chicken tenders. High chairs are available and nobody minds if kids get a little loud.
Is there parking at Riverstone Restaurant?
Yes, they have a free parking lot right in front of the restaurant. We've never had trouble finding a spot, even during busy times.
Does Riverstone Restaurant have gluten-free options?
Honestly, no. Recent visitors with celiac disease strongly warn against eating here - there are very few if any safe gluten-free options available.
Is Riverstone Restaurant close to Cades Cove?
It's perfectly located - just 10-15 minutes from the Cades Cove entrance. We always stop here for breakfast before doing the loop or dinner after.
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We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
The Riverstone Restaurant impresses visitors with quality cuisine and attentive service. The atmosphere creates a memorable dining experience in Townsend.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
8503 TN-73 Townsend TN 37882
8503 TN-73 Townsend TN 37882
Townsend
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