Looking for a fresh, fun taco joint in Pigeon Forge, TN that’s not part of a huge faceless chain? Meet Gorilla Taco in Pigeon Forge, TN a bold, locally owned restaurant that’s quickly become one of our new favorite lunch spots. With creative tacos, colorful decor, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s got just the right mix of flavor and personality to stand out in a town filled with dining options.
Whether you’re planning your stay in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, or right here in Pigeon Forge, Gorilla Taco makes a great stop to fuel up between adventures.
Atmosphere That’s Just as Fun as the Food
As soon as you pull into the parking lot, Gorilla Taco catches your eye. From the giant mural of masked luchador gorillas to the tower-style entryway, the exterior sets the tone: quirky, bold, and unapologetically fun.
Step inside, and you’re greeted with bright papel picado banners hanging from the ceiling, Day of the Dead masks, string lights, and a mix of booth seating and bar stools. The bar area has TVs playing sports, a massive drink selection, and a vibe that says, “stay a while.” There’s even a little merch corner where you can grab t-shirts, hot sauce, and Gorilla Taco swag.
What We Ordered: Taco Platters & More
We went all in on their 3-taco platters, which come with a generous serving of Mexican rice and a side of flavorful beans. Between the two of us, we tried:
For him:
- 🌮 Al Pastor – Sweet and savory pork with pineapple and spices
- 🌮 Baja Mahi Mahi – Light, crispy, and topped with slaw and crema
- 🌮 Carne Asada – A classic done right with tender beef and bold seasoning
For me:
- 🌮 Chipotle BBQ – Smoky, saucy, and a little sweet
- 🌮 Roasted Chicken – Moist and packed with flavor, not your average chicken taco
- 🌮 Birria – Rich, slow-cooked beef with that satisfying stewy depth
We also couldn’t resist trying the birria taco with consommé on the side, It was a crispy, golden shell stuffed with shredded beef and served with a dunkable cup of broth. Totally worth it.
Food Highlights: Big Flavors, Great Variety
Each taco had its own personality, and there wasn’t a dud in the bunch. The Birria and Al Pastor stood out as top-tier picks with tender meats, balanced seasoning, and perfect textures. The rice was fluffy and well-seasoned, and the beans had that just-right home-cooked flavor with a bit of smoky a smoky depth.
We also started with a basket of warm tortilla chips which were thick, salty, and just the right level of crisp. The salsa, while fresh, leaned a little mild and store-bought in flavor. We were hoping for something with a bit more heat and homemade character, something more like “abuela’s kitchen,” not “grocery aisle.”
Service & Experience: Friendly, Fast, and Welcoming
From the moment we walked in, the service was on point. We were greeted with a smile, seated quickly, and had chips and drinks on the table within minutes. Our server was upbeat, knowledgeable about the menu, and happy to answer questions, especially when it came to choosing between taco fillings (because honestly, it’s a tough call).
Even with the place steadily filling up during lunch, food came out hot, fresh, and fast. The whole experience felt smooth and well-run without ever feeling rushed.
Room for Improvement: Just One Small Miss
If we had to nitpick, it would be the salsa. The chips themselves were excellent, but the salsa lacked that punch of heat and complexity you’d expect from a spot with so much character. It leaned more mainstream than homemade, and we’d love to see something bolder, maybe even a salsa bar or multiple options ranging from mild to fiery.
That said, it didn’t take away from the overall experience, but might be something to note for fellow spice lovers.
Why We’d Go Back: Great Tacos, Great Time
With a colorful setting, delicious taco options, and a team that clearly cares, Gorilla Taco is a solid addition to the Pigeon Forge food scene. It’s a locally owned, (Patio only) pet-friendly Pigeon Forge dining option, and makes a great lunch or casual dinner spot whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or just your appetite.
It’s got personality, flavor, and plenty of parking plus it’s just a quick drive from all the action on the Parkway.
Visitor Tips: Know Before You Go
- 🕒 Best time to visit: Lunch hours (11:30–1:30) weren’t overly crowded on our visit, but it’s smart to come early during peak season weekends.
- 🐶 Pet-friendly: There’s a patio where well-behaved pups are welcome.
- 🚗 Parking: Plenty of parking right outside the entrance.
- 🧢 Souvenirs: Don’t skip the merch wall near the entrance—t-shirts, hot sauces, and fun Gorilla Taco gear are worth browsing.
- 📍 Location: Gorilla Taco is located just off the Parkway at 225 Pine Mountain Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN, a few minutes from The Island and Dollywood.
Whether you’re craving bold tacos, birria with consommé, or just a break from chain restaurants, Gorilla Taco delivers. We’ll definitely be back.