TSM Verdict
The Verdict
The Woodshed Restaurant in Newport, TN is a casual steakhouse and barbecue spot known for hearty burgers, smoked meats, and classic American comfort food. Signature draws include their Woodshed Burger, smoked BBQ ribs, and house-made desserts. The relaxed, family-friendly setting and focus on smoked-on-site specialties make it a popular choice for both locals and travelers.
Before You Drive
Check current hours
Public hours currently show Monday, Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday closed. Verify before making a longer drive.
Last checked January 22, 2026
Worth it?
Yes, especially if you are near Newport.
Best order
Woodshed Burger, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Prime Rib (Thursday special), Smoked BBQ Ribs (Friday special)
Best time
Lunch or early dinner
Verify
Verify hours before driving.
Go For
- Woodshed Burger
- Pulled Pork Sandwich
- Prime Rib (Thursday special)
- Smoked BBQ Ribs (Friday special)
- Chocolate Lava Cake
Skip If
- You prefer strictly vegetarian or vegan options, as the menu is meat-focused
- You're seeking a fine-dining or formal experience
- You want up-to-date, clearly posted prices for all menu items
Before You Go
Verify hours before driving.
Decision Guide
Decision Guide
Is it worth visiting?
It's a great pick for anyone craving classic American steakhouse and barbecue fare, especially if you appreciate smoked meats and generous portions. Ideal for families, groups, or travelers exploring the Newport/Cosby area.
Best first order?
Verify hours before driving.
Worth driving from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
If you're already in the Cosby–Newport area or willing to drive 45–70 minutes for well-rated BBQ, steak, and house-made desserts, reviews suggest it's a destination-worthy stop.
Current concern?
Verify hours before driving.
Planner Snapshot
At a Glance
Location
Newport, Tennessee
Cuisine
American restaurant
Price
$$
Best meal
Lunch or early dinner
Families
Confirm fit before going
Planning fit
Best as part of a Newport stop
Hours warning
Public hours currently show Monday, Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday closed. Verify before making a longer drive.
Duration
1-1.5 hours (longer during Friday dinner rush)
Price
$15-25 per person for steak dinners with sides
Best For
Steak lovers seeking quality cuts • Families wanting generous portions • Date night without breaking the bank
Pro tip: Verify hours before driving.
About The Woodshed Restaurant
The Woodshed Restaurant stands as one of Newport's most reliable destinations for quality American dining, particularly famous for its hand-cut steaks and generous portions. Located on Cosby Highway, this local institution operates Thursday through Saturday, creating an air of exclusivity that adds to its special occasion appeal.
The menu's star attraction is their expertly prepared ribeye, which consistently arrives fork-tender and cooked to specification. Families appreciate the homemade chicken tenders, while the triple dip appetizer has become a local favorite. Most meals come with two sides, and portions are substantial enough to guarantee tomorrow's lunch.
Despite the high-quality ingredients and careful preparation, prices remain reasonable - a complete steak dinner with sides typically runs around $20 per person. The restaurant's interior features rustic country decor and antique pieces that create a warm, welcoming atmosphere without feeling stuffy.
Service here stands out, with an owner who regularly walks the dining room to ensure guest satisfaction. The staff demonstrates genuine attention to detail, though Friday evenings can get particularly busy - arriving early or being prepared for a wait is advisable.
First-time visitors should note the limited operating hours (Thursday-Saturday) to avoid disappointment. While service occasionally hits minor snags during peak times, the exceptional food quality and generous portions consistently make up for any small inconveniences. The Woodshed Restaurant has earned its reputation through years of delivering satisfying American classics in a comfortable setting that makes both locals and tourists feel at home.
Amenities & Features
- Generous portions of homemade recipes, with the massive Woodshed burger and perfectly cooked ribeye steaks earning top mentions
- Owner personally visits tables to check on guests, making diners feel valued and welcome
- Charming country atmosphere decorated with antiques creates a memorable dining experience
- Popular sides like onion strings, green beans, and fried mushrooms consistently impress
Insider Tips for The Woodshed Restaurant
Insider tips
Visitors most often point to Hand-Cut Ribeye Steaks, Triple Dip Appetizer, and Prime Rib Nights. Arrive early on weekends - parking fills up fast during dinner rush.
Bring your appetite and maybe a to-go container for leftovers. Cash and cards accepted, but call ahead to confirm payment options.
Before you go
Plan around 1-1.5 hours (longer during Friday dinner rush) unless you are only stopping in briefly. Current price guidance on this page is $15-25 per person for steak dinners with sides.
A Facebook page is linked here for current posts and contact details.
Menu Guide
What to Order at The Woodshed Restaurant
Main
Woodshed Burger
A large 1/2‑lb burger topped with pulled pork and crispy onion straws, plus standard burger fixings, served with a side. This is a signature item praised for its size and combination of flavors.
Main
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Hand‑pulled, smoked‑on‑site BBQ pork sandwich, typically served with a side. The smoked pork is a house specialty and a highlight in customer reviews.
Main
Prime Rib (Thursday special)
Prime rib served as a Thursday night special, noted for being a featured offering on that day. Portion size and sides may vary.
Main
Smoked BBQ Ribs (Friday special)
Smoked BBQ ribs featured on Fridays, prepared with in-house smoking methods. Sauce style and plate details are not specified in current sources.
Side
Bacon Mac (Bacon Mac & Cheese)
Macaroni and cheese with bacon, appearing as a creamy baked side. Frequently ordered alongside steaks and BBQ mains.
Main
NY Strip Steak
Grilled New York strip steak, often paired with shrimp, bacon mac, and a baked potato according to customer photos and reviews.
Dessert
Chocolate Lava Cake (with vanilla ice cream)
Warm chocolate lava cake served with vanilla ice cream, highlighted in reviews as a standout dessert option.
Dessert
Sticky Toffee / Toffee Caramel Cake
Rich toffee or caramel cake dessert, sometimes referred to as sticky toffee cake, and frequently mentioned as a must-try sweet finish.
Best For
- Steak lovers seeking quality cuts
- Families wanting generous portions
- Date night without breaking the bank
Know Before You Go
- Arrive early on weekends - parking fills up fast during dinner rush
- Bring your appetite and maybe a to-go container for leftovers
- Cash and cards accepted, but call ahead to confirm payment options
- Casual dress code - jeans and t-shirts are perfectly fine
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit The Woodshed Restaurant
Check the restaurant's current seating policy before weekend evenings; popular spots can have waits.
Tags
Traveler Questions
What are the hours for The Woodshed?
Public sources conflict on this listing's hours. Verify hours before driving.
How much does The Woodshed cost?
Most steaks run $15-25 with sides included. A 12 oz sirloin with two sides and roll is around $20, making it surprisingly affordable for the quality and portion size.
Do I need reservations for The Woodshed?
Verify hours before driving.
How long should I spend at The Woodshed?
Verify hours before driving.
Is The Woodshed good for kids?
Absolutely! They have highchairs available and a children's menu. Our kids love the handmade chicken tenders, and the casual atmosphere makes families feel welcome.
Is there parking at The Woodshed?
Verify hours before driving.
What's the best steak at The Woodshed?
The ribeye and sirloin are both outstanding, but locals rave about the prime rib on special nights. The regular cut is a better value than the large - only slightly smaller but $8 less.
Can I get takeout from The Woodshed?
Yes, they do takeout orders. Given the large portions, many people actually prefer taking half their meal home anyway, so ordering to-go works great.
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