Lil Black Bear Cafe

Family-owned & operated

Free parking

Local Goat in Pigeon Forge TN is awesome. You can tell by the parking lot that is always packed…read moreout - every day. Food is Fresh and prepared exactly as you request it. Never been disappointed in any of the dishes ordered. Love the fresh, hand-cut french fries and fried green tomatoes. That's the only place my husband goes for the best burger in town.

We had a big group and the waitress was very patient and never rushed us . The food was great . It…read morewas not very expensive. we had a great time. I would definitely go back. Love this place. Definitely recommend it.(our waitresses's name was Kelsey She was the best.)

Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Salmon

Shrimp and Grits

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Teriyaki Chicken with rice and broccoli

Pigeon Forge Deli

4.7(286 reviews)

1.9 mi

Visited here in March on vacation. Twice…read more Delicious cut in house deli meat and house-made bread. Steamed sandwiches! Busy Family establishment tucked away in a corner of an outlet strip with everyone pitching in to work down to the kids. I wish I had a place like this back home.

The food was delicious, and our waiter was very friendly and accommodating. The atmosphere was…read morefantastic--I highly recommend sitting on the rooftop for great views of all the attractions nearby. The watermelon margarita was excellent, and the live music added to the experience. As a bonus, after your meal you can take your receipt to the distillery downstairs and enjoy a complimentary tasting of locally made moonshine and whiskey. Overall, an outstanding experience that I highly recommend.

Interior eating area

Pot Roast Sub

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Exterior of Pigeon Forge deli

Old Mill Pottery House Cafe

4.5(1.1k reviews)

0.2 mi

Amazing service, delicious food, large portions and charming setting…read more I got the fried chicken liver with coleslaw and jalapeño corn pudding. The chicken liver was beautifully battered and fried, so crispy and light. It was delicious dipped in the comeback sauce and with some Tabasco to mix things up. Sides were amazing also. This place is definitely a step up from the Old Mill restaurant across the way. We'll be back again!

I went here for dinner after traveling all day. I was looking for something a bit more slowed down…read morefrom the pace of the strip. Tucked back in a graden-esque setting this is a nice little eatery. The atmosphere was a little noisy, but not overly. Our server, Xavier, was polite and his attentiveness was appreciated. I had their house burger and steak fries. Everything came out hot and still steaming a bit. The burger was FANTASTIC! Juicy, beefy and delicious. It was hard to put down. This was a relaxing, enjoyable meal...and it wasn't really that expensive...given the area. It's right across from the forge. So, blacksmith a knife and the relax with some really good food.

Koi pond

The sweet finish: coconut cream pie

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Oatmeal porter ($5)

J.O.E. and Pop's Sub Shoppe

4.3(175 reviews)

5.9 mi

Food was fresh and had great flavor wings were hot and crispy and had good flavor club sandwich was…read morealso really good and they used real cooked in house bacon which made the sandwich that much better. My wife had the hot roast beef it was really good if your in gatlinburg and want to get off the tourist trap main area check this place out. Service will be quick and easy and the are on the walls is amazing

My wife and I had a chile and a slaw dog each both was good. The young man at the counter was nice…read moreand polite. We had take out, the building was well maintained and clean.

6in turkey and Swiss sandwich on white with side of Mac and cheese and coleslaw

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Hometown Hero’s Subs

5.0(28 reviews)

5.3 mi

Their food is always excellent. Their service they go above and beyond to take care of their…read morecustomers and I love that they take care of veterans.

Love this place! They support first responders and veterans and have pictures and patches up on the…read morewalls. I ordered the Fire Alarm Club and a drink. SO GOOD! It's not hot really at all! It is delicious. I got half sub to eat there and half to take home. It was so good, I ate the other half before I got home! I will be back and bring a police patch for the wall!

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Dining area inside

McAlister's Deli

3.2(129 reviews)

0.6 mi

I can always come here and get me a great club sandwich and spud. Customer service is always…read moretop-tier and I never have a problem with my food. Definitely recommend.

We were greeted immediately by the wait staff. Chips and salsa are wonderful - chips were sooo…read moregood. Our meals were great and flavor was right on for authentic Mexican food. Looks to be the locals choice!

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Big Daddy's Pizzeria

3.9(614 reviews)

0.9 mi

We stayed out in the mountains, and wanted a stay in dinner option. Had to drive 30 minutes in,…read morejust to grab it. This place is located in the busy strip in Pigeon Forge. Called ahead, order was ready upon arrival. It was hot when we picked it up, but we were so far out that we needed a reheat once we got home.nkt their fault. Still went well. We did two Large pizzas. Half Pepperoni and half pepperoni and sausage. This was the less flavorful of the two. Solid pizza, a little small to be called a large IMO. Half Chicken Parmesan, Half Great White. The chicken Parm was good, had red sauce. A little dryer. The Great White was my favorite. Great mix of Alfredo, cheese and the added Parmesan and red pepper flakes. Had the most flavor. Would get again. Overall good experience. A little smaller in size, crust is good. Would try the pickle pizza next time.

We visited Big Daddy's Pizza in Pigeon Forge. We had pizza and wings. Both were good. We are…read moreItalian so we appreciate good pizza. The wings were good too. We had the sweet and spicy wings. Very good! Service was attentive and friendly. The restaurant was large, bright and clean. Give it a try.

Front area

Pickle Pizza

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Let's go!

Jersey Mike's Subs

3.2(26 reviews)

1.7 mi

Its a Jersey Mikes. A good place to grab a sandwich to take on a picnic to the National Park.read more

Let me start by saying that I have filed numerous complaints at the corporate level but Jersey…read moreMike's Subs is a franchise so they pass on the complaints to the owner. Radio silence each and every time. If you can't be bothered to address the concerns of your customers then I can't be bothered to line your pockets with my money. If you look into my Shore Points History you will see that I had been a regular customer through 2022 and less frequently in 2023/24 (and now 2025). Specifically because of the consistently poor experiences at this location. I have lost track of the number of times that I have walked out of that location because of unprofessionalism, poor quality vegetables, long waits, etc..... I know JMS is convenient but give your money to an establishment that is going to appreciate you.

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The Fat Bear Family Tavern

4.4(214 reviews)

0.7 mi

Amanda was amazing good food and fast service and Good prices would always recommend this placeread more

My family and I came in for dinner after picking The Fat Bear based on yelp reviews. We were seated…read moreimmediately, and Kylie came and got our drink orders. I ordered cheese curds as a starter. They taste greatz kinda like small mozzarella stick nuggets. We ordered four plate: grilled cheese, plain cheeseburger, buffalo chicken sandwich, and B.E.L.T. (bacon egg, lettuce, tomato). Fries all the way around. They were well-cooked crinkle fries, and well seasoned too. I had the B.E.L.T. which was great. In fact, all of the food was ideal and fresh. Between the flawless, quick food, and cleanliness, and the service I am missing nothing. Kylie was super nice and always there when we needed her. Overall, this place is a winner. Simple menu, all-day breakfast, and convenient location. Definitely worth checking out.

Very retro

S'mores Pancakes

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Featuring a Full Bar

Moonshine Mountain

4.6(22 reviews)

2.1 mi

The ice cream was creamy and delicious! Staff was friendly. Over a must if yiu are down here! The…read morewhole place are was cute!

Wow!! Right off the parkway and right beside mellow mushroom is a fabulous ice cream shop that you…read moremust try when you're in Pigeon Forge. They have cookies and ice cream available. But if you're like me, I combined both the cookie and the ice cream for a delightful ice cream sandwich that was top notch. There was lots of variety for both cookies and ice cream. Definitely give them a try when you're in Pigeon Forge. FYI, there is lots of parking available either in the front or behind the restaurant. Service was very fast and friendly. Not to mention the restaurant was very clean. A+ all around.

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PINTS TO GO

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Ooey, gooey, deliciousness!

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45 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Scott M.

122

8 years ago

I'm rating 1 but i honestly can't comment on the food. However this is our story, we arrived around 11:05, found 2-3 families waiting to get into this tiny cafe, we had a table immediately available as it was just 2 of us. While walking in the waitress and cook were in a heated argument, he kept saying that's 30 minutes and she'd try to calm him down and say no no it won't be. However everyone who was sitting there waiting kept looking back and fourth at each other trying to endure the awkwardness of the situation at hand! No one had there food and it was apparent they had been waiting sometime as they began to discuss it. We got up and walked out realizing we're on vacation and there is a dozen other similar places where we can go that we won't have to endure this awkward situation read more

Wendi S.

135

1 year ago

The Little Black Bear Café in Pigeon Forge is a hidden gem with big heart. From the moment we walked in, we felt the warmth -- not just from the coffee, but from the spirit of the place. The owner and staff are genuinely upbeat and kind, and the soft Christian music playing in the background gave the whole café a peaceful, joyful vibe. We absolutely loved the Mile High Pancakes -- seriously unforgettable. It's a place that feeds your body and lifts your spirit. And yes, this is Bigfoot country -- but the real legends here are the pancakes and the hospitality. A must-visit in the Smokies. read more

Kim M.

9 years ago

We were looking for a place to eat breakfast and were tired of the commercialized chains on the strip. We remembered seeing the Lil Black Bear Cafe on the way to Dollywood and decided to try it. The staff were friendly and the atmosphere was cozy, just what we were looking for. Then the food arrived and we knew we picked the right place. I had the best pancakes I had ever eaten anywhere. The owner/cook was very pleasant and eager to please. The prices were good and the food excellent. Best place in town and on the trolley route. read more

Jenna V.

200

8 years ago

Wow!! Perfect, quaint and delicious!! My husband and I found Li'l Black Bear on our last day in Pigeon Forge and are SO sad to have just found it! We were here for a week and would have come back every morning if we had found it sooner!! They've definitely earned their 5 stars! Try their pancakes, you won't be disappointed! Just come HUNGRY, and you won't leave that way! Between Frizzle's Chicken Coop, Sawyers and Lil Black Bear, Lil Black Bear has the best pancakes in town, hands down! read more

Ashton T.

818

8 years ago

SUCH a great hidden gem! We went in for a late breakfast and were so impressed by this tiny little spot. We ordered breakfast and lunch and loved both. These were the BEST pancakes we've ever had. They're over an inch thick each and real, fluffy pancake consistency (not cornbread). They come with lots of filling options, but we opted for blueberry and loved it. The Reuben was delicious as well! Sweet servers and quaint atmosphere. For sure a 10/10 for cute, delicious local spots. read more

Anggafredy 1.

7 months ago

Last weekend, I visited Lil Black Bear Cafe in Ubud, and I had a wonderful dining experience. The cafe has a cozy and modern atmosphere, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal. I ordered a smoothie bowl and a cup of coffee. The smoothie bowl was beautifully presented with fresh fruits and crunchy granola on top. It tasted fresh, natural, and not too sweet. The coffee was aromatic and smooth, with a rich flavor that complemented the meal perfectly. read more

Michael B.

10 years ago

This is the nicest small cafe. Lynn is so warm & welcoming, and his food is delicious. Breakfast omelette was very flavorful & the BLT with egg was gobbled up in a flash!! Lunch sandwiches are all good and he rounds out his menu with some scrumptious sweet treats. Try the cinnamon roll!!! He's a one man operation, so be patient if he's busy. He will shine his beautiful smile at you & carefully prepare your food & you'll be so happy you stopped by! read more

Brooke M.

7 years ago

Absolutely Awesome! We were greeted by the owner/cook with a fantastic attitude and our waitress Shannon had a laughter and smile that was contagious. We had the pancakes that were out of this world and huge! The biscuits and gravy were flavorful but oh my, those pancakes! Take it from a fat man, try the pancakes!!! read more

Chad M.

9 years ago

I found this place on line, so we decided to give it a try and so glad we did. It's such a wonderful little place, Lynn the owner is such a great guy, you can tell he loves what he does absolutely great with the kids, and the food absolutely amazing especially the pancakes, most definitely will be back again read more

Robyn C.

10 years ago

Visited Aug 2016, This is the best resturant in the area for saving money and a delicious meal. Totally recommend to anyone. Its got a great atmosphere with lots of uplifting quotes and faith based theme. Wonderful food and friendly staff and owner. Will visit everytime i come to pigeon forge. read more

Alexa V.

9 years ago

This is a great local place, husband and I got Mushroom Swiss burger and Cheeseburger. Burgers were great! We got Bear Scat Chili which was awesome with the jalepeno peppers. Met the owner Len, huge smile and positive vibes, we will be returning next time we are in town!!:) read more

Mary B.

8 years ago

Ran across this little gem when the lines for Old Mill were ridiculous. No waiting and the food was delicious. I had the patty melt and my hisband had the Reuben. They were both cooked to perfection. This little place will definitely become a regular stop for us. read more

Perry P.

8 years ago

My wife and I are so glad we found this gem in Pigeon Forge, Tn. The owner and server were super friendly. We had the pancakes and they were incredible....biggest I have seen. The prices were super reasonable! We plan to go back tomorrow for lunch. read more

Courtney G.

317

8 years ago

This place was amazing! The service could not be better and the food is phenomenal. We felt like family when we walked in the door. The pancakes are out of this world are a must have!! We will come here every time we visit Pigeon Forge. read more

Amanda H.

8 years ago

I have had many a burger in my life and I can say without a doubt that Lil Black Bear Cafe has the best burgers. Very cheep prices for amazing food. It is now a must stop place every time we come to Pigeon Forge!! read more

Leslie J.

10 years ago

Great local place for breakfast and lunch! Food was fantastic...especially the pancakes! Service was friendly and over the top accommodating! Worth the stop over the "big" pancake houses all over pigeon forge. read more

Jordan H.

10 years ago

Great family friendly atmosphere, the service was amazing, especially for being a one man show. The pancakes and the biscuit and gravy where the best i've ever had, will be coming back in the future for sure! read more

Kim M.

8 years ago

Awesome place for breakfast! We found this treasure last year while in Pigeon Forge on vacation. Looked forward all year to coming back to eat there again. Great food and very friendly staff. read more

Myra N Jeff W.

10 years ago

This little spot is such an awesome place! The Chef even created a special request sandwich for us. We will be back here whenever we visit Pigeon Forge. Don't miss it, you will be blessed! read more

Kyle S.

308

7 years ago

We always love stopping in to Lil black bear cafe! Staff is always friendly, the specials are great, and the food is always amazing! We can't wait to stop back in for some more pancakes read more

Lil Black Bear Cafe - sandwiches - Updated September 2026

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A really lovely place! It was easy to get in with just a short wait (15 mins) and we filled the…read moretime taking pictires around the place (they also have a gift shop). We had an amazing, sweet and happy waitress named Heather, and she was so attentive! LOVED HER! Before moving on - they give coupons for free fudge and a free little bottle of gems at the neighboring gen mine! As in free - free! Ok, now for the food - absolutely delicious and plentiful. I had a mountain berry crepe along with pecan pancakes. FOUR BIG pancakes! The bacon was perfectly crispy too - the whole meal was just spot on. I know it's just bacon and pancakes...but the people, and place made them taste like the best ever. A fun place, and affordable too.

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