Gatlinburg, Tennessee is known for its stunning mountain views, world-class outdoor activities, and, of course, its delicious food. One particular type of restaurant that has become synonymous with the area is the pancake house. These breakfast spots offer a wide variety of pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast items, making them a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. But what makes the pancake houses in Gatlinburg unique?

Many of these pancake houses have been around for decades, with some even tracing their roots back to the early 1960s. One such iconic restaurant is the Pancake Pantry, which opened in 1960 and is still going strong. This longstanding presence in the community has allowed these pancake houses to develop a loyal following and become a staple in the Gatlinburg dining scene.

We went to the Log Cabin Pancake House and tried the corn pancakes and really liked them. They were light and flavorful with a good cornmeal texture. When you try the pancake sampler, you get to choose four different flavors from the eleven different flavors. Service was friendly and attentive. No wait Monday morning at 8 but by 9 there was a line by the time we were done. They are busiest around 10 am.

The Smoky Mountain Pancake House offers Reece’s Peanut Butter & Chocolate Chip Pancakes, Pecan Pancakes, or Mountain Blueberry Pancakes.

The decor and atmosphere of these pancake houses also add to their charm. Many of these restaurants have a rustic, cabin-like feel, with wooden beams and stone fireplaces. The Pancake Pantry, for example, features a cozy dining room filled with antique chairs and tables, giving it a classic mountain lodge vibe.

Overall, the pancake houses in Gatlinburg offer a unique dining experience that is both delicious and charming. Whether you're in the mood for classic buttermilk pancakes or something more adventurous like sweet potato pancakes, you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. So next time you're in Gatlinburg, be sure to check out one of these iconic pancake houses and see for yourself what makes them so special.