Duration
45-75 minutes (longer during weekend breakfast rush)
Price
$10-20 per person
Best For
Families wanting hearty Southern breakfast • Budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic local food • Hikers heading to or from Greenbrier area trails
Pro Tip
Order the breakfast bowl with 5 items - it's been called the best value in town at under $6 and will easily fill you up for hours of hiking.
About Trish's Mountain Diner
Trish's Mountain Diner has earned a devoted following over the years - it's the kind of place where locals know the servers by name and the biscuits taste like grandmother made them. This small family diner sits away from the tourist chaos on East Parkway, serving up massive portions of Southern comfort food at prices that won't break the bank.
The breakfast here is legendary. Diners can expect platters piled high with eggs, potatoes, and those famous biscuits, all for around $10-15 per person.
Fair warning: the diner is only open for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights, and remains completely closed on Sundays. The place is small, so weekend mornings can get busy with a wait.
The short drive from downtown proves worthwhile. The catfish and country-fried steak keep regulars returning, plus the staff treats guests like family from the moment they walk in.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Famous Breakfast Platters
These aren't your typical diner breakfasts - we're talking about plates piled high with eggs cooked to order, crispy potatoes, fluffy biscuits, and your choice of meats. The Mountaineer Breakfast is a local favorite that'll fuel you for a full day of hiking.
Southern Comfort Specialties
The catfish here gets rave reviews, served crispy and hot with classic sides like fried okra and fresh greens. Their country-fried steak and ribeye dinners (Friday-Saturday only) keep locals coming back week after week.
Homemade Biscuits and Gravy
These aren't frozen biscuits - they're made fresh and served with creamy sausage gravy that tastes like it came from a Southern grandmother's kitchen. Many regulars say it's the best biscuits and gravy in the Smokies.
Local Atmosphere
Step inside and you'll immediately feel the warm, welcoming vibe that keeps this place packed with locals. The staff knows regular customers by name, and you'll often hear friendly conversations between tables - it's like eating at a friend's house.
Unbeatable Value
The breakfast bowl with 5 items has been called the best deal in town at under $6, and even the full dinner platters rarely top $20. You'll get restaurant-quality food at prices that beat most fast-food chains.
Off-the-Strip Location
Located on quiet East Parkway away from downtown traffic, you can actually relax and enjoy your meal without the tourist chaos. The peaceful setting with mountain views makes it feel like a true local discovery.
Know Before You Go
- Arrive early on weekends - the small dining room fills up quickly during peak breakfast hours
- Bring cash or card - they accept credit cards and sell gift cards
- Check the day and hours carefully - closed Sundays and dinner only Friday-Saturday
- Dress casually - hiking clothes and tourist attire are perfectly normal
- Consider sharing plates if you're not very hungry - portions are generous and can easily feed two lighter eaters
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsTrish's Mountain Diner receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Trish's Mountain Diner Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Trish's Mountain Diner
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Trish's Mountain Diner?
They're open Monday-Thursday and Saturday 7 AM to 2:30 PM, Friday-Saturday 7 AM to 8 PM. Breakfast runs until 11 AM, lunch until 3 PM, and dinner is only served Friday and Saturday from 3-8 PM. They're closed completely on Sundays.
How much does Trish's Mountain Diner cost?
Most meals run $10-20 per person. Their famous breakfast bowl with 5 items is around $6, while full breakfast platters with eggs, potatoes, and biscuits typically cost $12-15. It's one of the best values in the area for the portion sizes.
Do I need reservations for Trish's Mountain Diner?
No reservations needed - it's first come, first served. However, the diner is small so expect a wait during peak times like weekend mornings between 9-11 AM and Friday/Saturday dinner hours.
How long should I spend at Trish's Mountain Diner?
Plan for 45-75 minutes from arrival to paying your bill. If there's a wait for a table during busy times, add another 15-30 minutes depending on the crowd.
Is Trish's Mountain Diner good for kids?
Absolutely - it's a classic family diner with highchairs available and kid-friendly Southern comfort food. The large portions mean kids can easily share with adults, keeping costs down for families.
Is there parking at Trish's Mountain Diner?
Yes, they have their own parking lot on-site. Since it's off the main tourist strip, parking is free and usually available, though it can fill up during peak breakfast and dinner times.
Do they have vegetarian or gluten-free options?
They're not a dedicated vegetarian or gluten-free restaurant, but they do have some options that work for those diets. Ask your server about specific sides, salads, and vegetable-based dishes that can accommodate dietary restrictions.
Is Trish's Mountain Diner close to downtown Gatlinburg?
It's about 10-12 minutes east of downtown on East Parkway, heading toward Cosby. The location makes it convenient for visiting the Arts & Crafts Community or hiking in the Greenbrier area of the Smokies.
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More great places in Gatlinburg
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.
Trish's Mountain Diner receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
3614 East Pkwy Gatlinburg TN 37738
3614 East Pkwy Gatlinburg TN 37738
Gatlinburg
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