If you’re looking for a true taste of Gatlinburg history (and a fantastic meal), look no further than Howard’s Restaurant. This iconic eatery has been serving up hearty food and Southern hospitality since 1946, making it the oldest restaurant in Gatlinburg. Over the past 75+ years, Howard’s has become a beloved fixture – a place where locals and visitors alike flock for juicy steaks, comfort food, and a friendly mountain-town vibe. In this guide, we’ll dive into Howard’s story, atmosphere, must-try menu items, what diners are saying, how it stacks up to other spots, and why its location is perfect for travelers exploring the Smokies.
Howard’s Restaurant in Gatlinburg: A Dining Landmark
Howard’s isn’t just another restaurant in town – it’s a Gatlinburg legend. Established in 1946 by the England family, Howard’s holds the title of Gatlinburg’s oldest eatery. In fact, it’s often called “Gatlinburg’s First Restaurant,” and has remained a family-run business ever since (the founding family has passed it down through generations while keeping its friendly, high-quality traditions alive). Being around so long, it’s no surprise Howard’s is considered a “Gatlinburg tradition”. It has even been voted “Best Steaks and Burgers in the Smokies,” a testament to its enduring reputation for great food.
Walking into Howard’s, you really feel that sense of history. The restaurant is housed in a renovated 100-year-old building with classic log-cabin charm. Old photographs and rustic decor hint at decades of stories within its walls. Yet despite its age, Howard’s continues to innovate and adapt – all while honoring its roots. As the owners like to say, they keep “one eye on the future while honoring [their] rich history”. The result is a place that feels like coming home, even if it’s your first visit. It’s the kind of spot where grandparents remember eating on their honeymoon and now bring the grandkids. Howard’s has truly been “a Gatlinburg staple” for generations.
Rustic Atmosphere & Creekside Charm
One of the biggest draws of Howard’s is its atmosphere. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a cozy, lodge-like ambiance with warm wood accents and a laid-back mountain vibe. Whether you drop in for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, the setting manages to be both inviting and enjoyable for any occasion. The layout is unique: the main floor features a traditional steakhouse dining room, while upstairs there’s a laid-back in-house saloon (pub) complete with a bar and lounge seating. So you can choose the experience you want – a sit-down meal or a more casual drink-and-snack situation.
From the street, you can’t miss Howard’s rustic log-cabin exterior and its classic sign proudly declaring “Established 1946.” The restaurant’s warm, wood-paneled facade and mountain lodge aesthetic immediately signal the cozy dining experience inside.
Perhaps the crown jewel of Howard’s atmosphere is the creekside seating. In the back of the restaurant, a patio overlooks a gorgeous mountain stream that flows through downtown Gatlinburg. On warm days, you can dine outside with the soothing sound of babbling water right beside you – a truly scenic dining experience. (They even added heaters and a covered pergola so the patio can be enjoyed rain or shine, and in cooler months.) The string lights and umbrellas out there create a charming outdoor space that feels like a little oasis off the Parkway. In fact, we’ve mentioned this spot before in our guide to Gatlinburg’s Most Dog-Friendly Dining Spots. It’s casual upscale dining in the best way: you get the fresh air and views without sacrificing comfort.
Travel Tip: Planning to dine with your furry friend? Check out our selection of pet-friendly cabins in Gatlinburg to make your stay comfortable for both you and your pet!
The newly renovated creekside outdoor patio at Howard’s Restaurant remains dog-friendly and provides a peaceful backdrop to your meal.
Inside, Howard’s has a nostalgic, intimate feel. The dining rooms aren’t huge or noisy; instead you’ll find cozy tables, a stone fireplace or two, and friendly staff who make you feel right at home. In the evening, the vibe is relaxed and often lively – you might hear clinking glasses and laughter from the upstairs saloon as folks unwind after a day of sightseeing. (If you’re in the mood for just drinks, Howard’s well-stocked bar has you covered, and regulars say it has a “really cool vibe”.) Yet it never loses that family-friendly warmth. Southern hospitality is a real thing here, and you’ll notice it in the attentive service and welcoming smiles. As one local guide put it, at Howard’s you can “enjoy Southern hospitality at its finest” while you dine. In short, the atmosphere manages to be the best of all worlds: cozy, charming, and comfortable for families, couples, or anyone just looking to relax with good food.
Howard’s creekside patio offers a special dining experience – you can enjoy your meal with the sights and sounds of a mountain stream right next to you. It’s a tranquil spot to savor a steak or burger, especially on a warm evening under the string lights. Image via Howard’s website.
Menu Highlights: From Steaks to Trout
image: Grilled steak and baked potato via Howard’s website
Of course, a restaurant doesn’t stick around for 75+ years on atmosphere alone – the food is the real star at Howard’s. As a classic steakhouse, steaks are the main attraction, and they do them right. Howard’s prides itself on serving hand-cut, top-quality steaks, all prepared on-site. Whether you’re craving a tender filet mignon or have the appetite for a 28 oz. Porterhouse (yes, they have a massive porterhouse perfect for hearty eaters!), you’ll find it on the menu. In fact, many folks say Howard’s cooks up some of the best steaks in the Smokies. The cuts range from 14 oz. ribeye to a 22 oz. T-bone to that giant porterhouse, so steak lovers have plenty of options. Each comes with classic sides (think baked potato, veggies, etc.), and you can taste the care that goes into each one. One reviewer noted that all the steaks were “cut and prepared on site” and the quality is “top notch” – exactly what you want from a steakhouse.
But Howard’s isn’t only about steaks. The menu is surprisingly diverse, making it easy to please a crowd or family with mixed tastes. They’re also known for their gourmet burgers – in fact, Howard’s has been voted the best place for burgers in town too. The “Olde Mountain Burger” is a favorite, and the steakburger is popular as well (juicy and flavorful, often topped with the works). If you love Southern-style comfort food, try the Slow-Cooked Roast Beef Sandwich. It’s an open-faced sandwich with tender roast beef on toast points, smothered in rich brown mushroom gravy with mashed potatoes on the side – pure down-home deliciousness. Guests rave about it; one blogger described it as “fantastic… tender and perfectly cooked,” with plenty of gravy to cover the beef and potatoes. For a taste of local Appalachian flavor, you can’t go wrong with the Fresh Smoky Mountain Trout. Sourced from local waters, the trout is served grilled or skillet-fried and gives you that regional specialty on your plate. Not a lot of vacation towns can offer fresh mountain trout, so it’s a cool way to literally eat local.
If you’re coming with a family or a group, the appetizers at Howard’s are worth a look – they’re perfect for sharing. The Fried Mushrooms are famous; these hand-breaded mushrooms are deep fried till golden and come with honey mustard or ranch for dipping. There are also homemade mozzarella sticks (made with hand-cut cheese from their sister restaurant, Best Italian), jumbo chicken wings, loaded nachos, and more. Can’t decide? Do what some savvy guests do and order the “Extreme Appetizer Platter,” which bundles a little of everything – nachos, mozzarella sticks, onion rings, potato skins and wings – on one giant platter. It’s perfect if you’ve got hungry teens or a big group; one reviewer noted it “will feed 3–4 people” and is a fantastic sampler of top munchies.
image: Fresh Smoky Mountain Trout. Sourced from local waters served grilled or skillet-fried via Website
Seafood lovers will find options too (besides the trout, they offer shrimp and sometimes seasonal catches), and there’s chicken dishes ranging from grilled chicken to a spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich for those craving a kick. Howard’s really aims to have “something for everyone,” as their menu spans from steaks and ribs to salads and pastas. They even have Southern-style entrees like country fried steak and barbecue pork. So whether you’re a foodie hunting for the best steak in town or a parent with a picky eater who just wants chicken tenders, you’ll be covered. And don’t skip dessert if you have room – depending on the day they might have homemade cobbler or chocolate cake to satisfy your sweet tooth.
What People Are Saying
image: Howard’s Restaurant Upstairs Dining via website
Diners have glowing things to say about Howard’s Restaurant. With decades of service under its belt, Howard’s has amassed thousands of loyal fans. On TripAdvisor, it currently boasts a 4.7 out of 5 rating, and is ranked #5 out of 147 restaurants in Gatlinburg – a remarkably high score in such a tourist-heavy town. It’s even earned the “Travelers’ Choice – Best of the Best” distinction on TripAdvisor, meaning it’s in the top tier of dining experiences based on visitor feedback. Many reviewers highlight the combination of great food, atmosphere, and service.
On our recent visit to Howard’s, we enjoyed a fantastic Grilled Strip Steak with sautéed vegetables and mushrooms!
One recent guest called Howard’s “a gem of a find in downtown Gatlinburg,” saying their party of 12 was seated in under 5 minutes and that “the food was delicious” and “the service was great!”. For a popular spot in a busy town, quick seating for a large group is no small feat – it speaks to the efficient staff and ample seating space. Another diner went even further, proclaiming “Howard’s was the best in Gatlinburg” and raving about the entire meal. “Everything was amazing. Service was great – we went 2 days in a row for dinner,” this reviewer gushed. (If a restaurant brings you back twice on one trip, you know it’s good!) They particularly recommended the mozzarella sticks, the “steak for 2,” baked potato, and the Nashville hot chicken sandwich, showing the breadth of the menu’s appeal.
Families also give Howard’s high marks. One family that stopped in for a bite noted “the fried mushrooms are amazing,” and even remarked that the pulled pork sandwich one of the kids ordered was “big enough for 2!!”. Portions here are definitely generous – you won’t leave hungry. Several reviews mention enjoying the creekside patio in nice weather, and how it added to their experience. “Lovely atmosphere by the stream” and “we loved sitting outside by the water” are common sentiments. And of course, nearly everyone praises the food quality: juicy steaks cooked perfectly to order, flavorful burgers, and satisfying comfort dishes. Many also appreciate the friendly service – the servers and bartenders often get shout-outs for being welcoming and attentive, treating visitors like family.
Even longtime Smokies travelers keep Howard’s on their must-visit list. It’s the kind of place people come back to every time they’re in Gatlinburg. One reviewer summed it up well: “If you’re in town and looking for a fine meal or just a laid back place to hang out for a drink, Howard’s Restaurant is an excellent choice!”. That versatility is key – Howard’s can be your special steak dinner of the trip or just a casual stop for a burger and beer after hiking, and it excels at both. With so many positive reviews, it’s clear that Howard’s has earned its great reputation the old-fashioned way: by consistently delivering on quality and hospitality.
How Howard’s Stacks Up to Other Local Spots
Gatlinburg has no shortage of restaurants – from country cafes to pancake houses and new trendy spots – but Howard’s manages to stand out in the crowd. As a steakhouse, it holds its own among bigger-name competitors like the Peddler Steakhouse and Cherokee Grill. In fact, Howard’s is often mentioned alongside these when talking about the best steaks in Gatlinburg, and it frequently comes out on top in customer ratings. What gives Howard’s an edge is its combination of history, flavor, and atmosphere. The Peddler, for instance, is well-loved and has a river view too – but Howard’s is actually right on the main Parkway and on a creek, offering a super convenient location plus that scenic charm. Cherokee Grill has a polished, modern log-cabin feel, but it’s newer (opened in the 1990s) and doesn’t have the storied character that Howard’s built over decades. Howard’s has that “old Gatlinburg” feel that you just can’t fake.
image: Howard’s Restaurant Upstairs Bar via Website
Another thing that sets Howard’s apart is its two-level setup with the saloon bar. Other steakhouses in town are strictly dining-only, while Howard’s gives you options – you can pop upstairs for a drink or to watch a game in a more casual setting, then head downstairs for dinner, all under one roof. This flexibility makes it a hit with groups that have mixed desires (say, Dad wants to catch the score, while Mom wants a quiet meal by the creek – at Howard’s, both can happen). And compared to chain restaurants or some newer places, Howard’s menu is remarkably broad. You could come back multiple times and have a totally different meal – steak one day, ribs or trout the next, a big burger or sandwich for lunch another time, etc. Many local guides specifically list Howard’s among Gatlinburg’s top restaurants you “have to try”, citing its long legacy and consistent quality. The restaurant has essentially defined Gatlinburg dining for generations, and continues to be a benchmark for good eats in the area.
That said, some travelers do like to sample around. If you’re a steak connoisseur, you might also check out the Peddler (for its salad bar and unique tableside steak cutting) or Alamo Steakhouse (known for wood-grilled flavors). But be sure to make room in your itinerary for Howard’s – it’s a must-visit, especially for first-time Gatlinburg visitors who want to experience an authentic local institution. It’s the kind of place where you can taste the history in the recipes (in a good way!) and where the dining experience is just as memorable as the food.
Location and Nearby Attractions
Part of what makes Howard’s so convenient for travelers is its prime location in downtown Gatlinburg. The restaurant sits at 976 Parkway, right on the main strip through town. If you’re staying in a cabin or hotel nearby, you’ll likely pass it as you stroll the Parkway. It’s impossible to miss the rustic wooden building with the big “Howard’s Steakhouse” sign out front. Howard’s is actually located directly across from the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway station. This means if you’re planning to take the scenic tram up to the Ober Mountain amusement park/ski area, grabbing a meal at Howard’s before or after is a no-brainer – it’s literally steps away. Families often make a day of doing Ober Gatlinburg (or the SkyLift Park to check out the Gatlinburg Skybridge or Ripley’s attractions) and then dining at Howard’s because of how close it is.
Being on the Parkway means that many of Gatlinburg’s top attractions are within walking distance. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, for example, is just down the road (a short 10-minute walk), so you could spend the afternoon marveling at sharks and penguins and then walk over to Howard’s for dinner. The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park (with its famous SkyBridge suspension bridge) is also a quick walk away, as is the Space Needle observation tower and plenty of arcades, shops, and museums. In fact, one of the joys of Howard’s is that you can park once (or leave your car at your lodging) and explore downtown on foot – no need to drive all over for food. If you’re exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Howard’s makes a convenient stop when coming back into town; it’s towards the national park end of the strip, so you’ll see it soon after you re-enter Gatlinburg.
Because it’s centrally located, Howard’s can get busy during peak tourist season or weekends. If you plan to dine right at the typical dinner hour, you might encounter a short wait – but as mentioned, they handle crowds pretty efficiently. The restaurant’s proximity to so many attractions means it’s easy to time your visit: you could aim for an early dinner after a day at Ober or schedule a lunch to fuel up before hitting the next activity. There are also a couple of public parking lots and garages nearby on River Road and around the Parkway, so if you’re driving in just to eat, you can find a spot within a block or two (just remember Gatlinburg parking is mostly paid). Many people, however, just wander into Howard’s while exploring downtown, lured by the delicious smell of steaks on the grill or the inviting look of that creekside patio.
Another nearby draw: Howard’s is close to a cluster of popular moonshine distilleries and breweries. Ole Smoky Moonshine’s downtown holler is just up the street, as is Sugarlands Distilling. So it’s easy to make an evening of dinner at Howard’s followed by sampling some local moonshine or whiskey (or vice versa!). And if you happen to be staying with Hapey Cabin Rentals, you’ll love being so close to such a great restaurant without dealing with traffic. The convenience factor really can’t be overstated – when you’re wr
Final Thoughts
The outdoor patio at Howard’s Restaurant remains dog-friendly – our dining neighbors brought along this cutie during a recent visit!
In a town filled with eateries, Howard’s Restaurant manages to be the go-to guidepost for where to eat in Gatlinburg. It combines the best of all worlds: a rich history and nostalgic charm, a welcoming atmosphere for families and foodies alike, mouthwatering food that keeps people coming back, and a location at the heart of the action. Whether you’re savoring a perfectly cooked steak while seated by the creek, devouring a famous burger upstairs in the pub, or sharing a platter of fried appetizers with the kids, you’ll feel the unique spirit of Gatlinburg at Howard’s. It’s a place that tells a story – one you become a part of as soon as you sit down and unfold your napkin.
So, on your next Smoky Mountains getaway, be sure to stop by Howard’s. Chat with the friendly servers, soak in the rustic vibes, and taste a bit of Gatlinburg history on your plate. From the first bite to the last, you’ll understand why Howard’s has been around for nearly eight decades. As so many travelers have discovered, a trip to Gatlinburg just isn’t complete without a meal at Howard’s Restaurant – where great food meets mountain tradition. Bon appétit and happy travels!
Travel Tip: Looking to explore more local spots? Check out our comprehensive guide to Gatlinburg attractions for the best sights and activities in the area.
Sources:
- Howard’s official site – “Welcome to Howard’s – Gatlinburg’s oldest restaurant and steakhouse, established 1946”howardsrestaurantgatlinburg.com
- Gatlinburg Inn Blog – Review of Howard’s (history, ambiance, and menu highlights)gatlinburginn.comgatlinburginn.comgatlinburginn.com
- Auntie Belham’s Travel Blog – “Top Gatlinburg Restaurants: Howard’s – oldest eatery, local favorite, river views in saloon”auntiebelhams.com
- Smoky Mountain Starlight – “Famous Foods of Gatlinburg: Howard’s Steakhouse (landmark since 1946, creekside seating, nostalgic atmosphere)”smokymountainstarlight.com
- See More Smokies Guide – Howard’s listing (est. 1946, hand-cut steaks, mountain trout, dine by a mountain stream)seemoresmokies.comseemoresmokies.com
- Wanderlog Reviews – User experiences (high praise for food, service; recommended dishes like mozzarella sticks and Nashville hot sandwich)app.wanderlog.comapp.wanderlog.com
- TripAdvisor – Traveler ratings and accolades (4.7/5 rating, #5 of 147 restaurants, “Best of the Best” award)tripadvisor.com
- Yelp – Popular dishes and diner comments (fried mushrooms, pulled pork sandwich “big enough for two,” extreme appetizer platter)yelp.comtripadvisor.com
- Official Info – Location details (976 Parkway, across from Ober Gatlinburg Tram) and Howard’s own description of focus on history & qualityhowardsrestaurantgatlinburg.comhowardsrestaurantgatlinburg.com
- Facebook (Howard’s page) – Updates about patio renovation (heated creekside patio for year-round enjoyment)facebook.com