This Iconic Tennessee Breakfast Place Is Part Of Gatlinburg History And Still Slinging Stacks Of Pancakes
By Chris Dodge|Published August 13, 2023
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
The story of our state is nothing short of fascinating, from the rugged explorers who created a state that has now been lost to the continual push out West. The pioneering spirit is strong here in the Volunteer State; we are still always looking for new and exciting ways to innovate and create — and this certainly applies to our cuisine too! For proof of this, simply head to Pancake Pantry in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
There's no denying it: Pancake Pantry is a horse of a different color. It certainly doesn't look like other restaurants in the area... and there's a reason for that.
When you visit Gatlinburg today it is hard to imagine what the parkway might have looked like decades ago. Through the crowds of people that make their vacation plans in the mountains, you can see the echoes of years gone past. As the rest of the landscape changed, Pancake Pantry has stood strong for decades. In 1960, one couple took a massive entrepreneurial leap to create a breakfast place in Gatlinburg. Without any prior experience, the start was rocky but they held on to their dream and become the first pancake house in the state of Tennessee. This quickly become a popular trend, and today you can find all over the state places to get delicious breakfast items all day long.
The Pancake Pantry is on the edge of a section of Gatlinburg called The Village.
This historic place is a must-see in town and features a variety of unique restaurants and shops. The aesthetically pleasing look of an old-timey European village is not something you see every day in Tennessee, and this highly sought-after breakfast place stands as the gateway to this iconic area. Inside you will find just as much charm with massive windows and exposed beams.
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You may have heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and a visit to this restaurant surely is the best start to your day.
Sizzling bacon fills the whole place with its sweet aroma; that can be quite alluring enough, but add to that other Southern classics and breakfast staples and you have very happy customers.
Of course, what is a pancake specialty restaurant if they don't have great pancakes?
Well, my friends I am happy to tell you that you will be able to choose from 24 different flavors of these delicious hot cakes. Classic favorites like blueberry and standard buttermilk pancakes are available, but then you can also indulge your sweet tooth with the Swiss Chocolate Chip Pancakes. Want to try something unique? Then you can order the Caribbean Pancakes which come topped with bananas, nuts, and coconut.
There are plenty of non-pancake options for breakfast as well.
The French toast is sprinkled with powdered sugar and is always a crowd-pleaser. Or perhaps try a fresh omelet with some fun and delicious twists -- or opt for your old classic dishes like fried eggs and sausage.
If you are not a breakfast person, then come for lunch and pursue the menu to find items like burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads. I always love a good burger -- and the All American Beefburger is a hearty meal that does everything right when it comes to a great juicy burger.
When you are staying in Gatlinburg and looking for an amazing breakfast spot, The Pancake Pantry a great place to start. It’s an amazing way to start your day right here in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. For more information, please visit The Pancake Pantry website.
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