Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que

Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que in Gatlinburg has smoked its meat over hickory for up to fourteen hours since 1991. The locally owned barbecue spot sits on River Road near the end of the Parkway strip, with ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and smoked chicken, plus free parking on site and takeout for eating back at the cabin.

The barbecue

The pit turns out the classics: baby back ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, and smoked chicken, each smoked over hickory for up to fourteen hours. House sauces run from sweet to tangy, so you can make every plate your own.

The ribs are what most first-timers order. Can't decide? Order a combo platter and share it around the table.

Sides and starters

Sides are Southern and hearty: baked beans, mac and cheese, slaw, and cornbread. Start with smoked wings or barbecue nachos for the table. There's a kids menu too, which makes Bennett's an easy family dinner.

The room

The dining room is casual and wood-paneled, and it smells like the smoker, just right for barbecue. It's comfortable for kids, good for big groups, and nobody minds if the table gets a little loud.

Takeout for the cabin

Barbecue travels well. Call ahead, pick up your order, and eat on your cabin deck with a mountain view. It's an easy dinner after a long day in the park.

Visiting

Bennett's is at 714 River Road, near the end of the Parkway strip and close to the national park entrance. Free parking is on site, so you don't have to hunt for a space downtown. It's open daily for lunch and dinner. Call ahead for big groups on busy weekends, and check current hours before you go.

Bennett's in Pigeon Forge

Bennett's also has a location on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge. See our Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que Pigeon Forge page.

Tips for your visit

Start with the ribs — they're the first-timer favorite.

Share a combo platter — it's the best way to try a little of everything.

Use the free parking — it's a big plus near downtown.

Order takeout — barbecue on the deck is hard to beat.

More barbecue and Southern food in Gatlinburg

For more ribs, try Calhoun's on the Parkway. For Southern fried chicken, head to Mama's Chicken Kitchen. See our guide to Gatlinburg restaurants.

Nearby

Bennett's sits on River Road, close to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Mysterious Mansion, and the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. See all things to do in Gatlinburg.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Bennett's BBQ in Gatlinburg?

At 714 River Road, near the end of the Parkway strip in Gatlinburg.

How is the meat cooked?

Smoked over hickory for up to fourteen hours.

How long has Bennett's been open?

Bennett's has been smoking barbecue since 1991.

Is there parking?

Yes. Free parking is on site at the Gatlinburg location.

Is there takeout?

Yes. Call ahead and pick up your order.

Is there a Bennett's in Pigeon Forge?

Yes. See our Pigeon Forge page.