Paula Deen's Family Kitchen

Immerse yourself in the warmth of Southern hospitality and the comforting aromas of homestyle cooking at Paula Deen's Family Kitchen in Pigeon Forge. This iconic restaurant, founded by the renowned celebrity chef Paula Deen, invites diners to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the essence of family, tradition, and, of course, good food. From the moment you enter, Paula Deen's Family Kitchen promises a dining experience that captures the heart and soul of Southern comfort.

Where is Paula Deen's in Pigeon Forge?

The restaurant sits inside The Island in Pigeon Forge, right in the middle of the Parkway. The dining room is upstairs, with large windows overlooking the Island Show Fountains, and the Paula Deen retail store is downstairs.

How family-style dining works

Every meal is served family-style and all-you-can-eat. Your table chooses from Southern entrées and sides, everything arrives on shared platters, and your server brings refills as long as you're hungry. Think fried chicken, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and biscuits, finished with desserts like gooey butter cake and banana pudding.

It's built for groups, which makes it a natural fit for families, reunions, and anyone who likes trying a little bit of everything. A separate breakfast menu is served in the mornings.

Shop Paula Deen's favorites

Downstairs, the Paula Deen retail store carries cookbooks, kitchen essentials, and signature products, so you can take a little Southern cooking home with you. It's a good place to browse while you wait for your table.

Hours

Breakfast — 8 AM to 10:15 AM daily.

Lunch and dinner — 11 AM to 10 PM Sunday through Thursday, and 11 AM to 11 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Hours can change, so check pauladeensfamilykitchen.com before you go.

Reservations and wait times

Paula Deen's Family Kitchen in Pigeon Forge does not take reservations. Every table is first-come, first-served. Waits are usually shortest at breakfast and lunch on weekdays and longest at dinner on summer, fall, and holiday weekends.

The good news: you're waiting at The Island. Put your name in, then ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, watch the fountain show, or browse the shops until your table is ready. See our guide to things to do at The Island.

Parking

Park in The Island's parking areas and walk to the restaurant. Our guide to visiting The Island covers admission and parking.

Make a day of it

Pair your meal with a show at Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud, or spend the day at Dollywood and come back to The Island for dinner. Looking for more Southern cooking? See our guides to Pigeon Forge's best Southern restaurants, family-friendly restaurants, and all of our Pigeon Forge restaurants.

Frequently asked questions

Does Paula Deen's in Pigeon Forge take reservations?

No. The Pigeon Forge location seats guests on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially for dinner on weekends.

Is there a Paula Deen's restaurant in Gatlinburg?

No. The closest Paula Deen's Family Kitchen is at The Island in Pigeon Forge, a short drive from Gatlinburg.

Is it all-you-can-eat?

Yes. Lunch and dinner are served family-style, with shared platters refilled as long as your table is eating.

Does Paula Deen's serve breakfast?

Yes. Breakfast is served daily from 8 AM to 10:15 AM.

Is it good for large groups?

Yes. Family-style service makes it easy for big groups to share a meal. Expect a longer wait for large parties at busy times.