Calhoun's
Lumberjack Square, Pigeon Forge · Hickory-smoked baby back ribs
Calhoun's Pigeon Forge serves award-winning hickory-smoked ribs, Tennessee barbecue and Southern comfort food in an upscale mountain lodge dining room on the Parkway. It's in Lumberjack Square, in the middle of the Pigeon Forge shopping area, and it's open for lunch and dinner.
Calhoun's has been an East Tennessee favorite since 1983, when the original restaurant opened in Knoxville. Not long after, the team took its smokers and signature sauce to The National Rib Cook-Off in Ohio and won, earning the right to call its ribs the "Best Ribs in America." The recipes and techniques haven't changed much since, and the restaurant is still family owned.
The ribs
Ribs are the reason most people come. Calhoun's award-winning baby back ribs are hickory-smoked and finished with the house barbecue sauce, and the long smoke leaves the pink "smoke ring" that barbecue fans look for. If it's your first visit, start here.
Tennessee barbecue and more
Barbecue platters
Beyond ribs, the barbecue menu covers smoked pork, smoked chicken and brisket, with combo platters if you want to try a little of everything. Classic sides like baked beans, slaw and mac 'n cheese round out the plate.
Steaks and seafood
Not in a barbecue mood? Calhoun's also serves steaks and chops, plus catfish, shrimp, salmon and other seafood.
Burgers, sandwiches and salads
For a lighter lunch, choose from fresh-ground burgers, barbecue sandwiches and garden salads topped with grilled, smoked or fried chicken.
Starters and dessert
Start the table with wings or a shareable appetizer, and save room for a Southern dessert.
Drinks
Calhoun's has a full drink menu with beer, wine and cocktails, plus milkshakes, lemonade and iced tea for the rest of the table.
Good for families and groups
With barbecue, steaks, seafood and burgers on one menu, Calhoun's is an easy pick when you're feeding a crew with different tastes. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the restaurant has a semi-private banquet room for groups, birthdays and family reunions.
Gluten-free options
Many dishes can be prepared with no added gluten, and burgers and sandwiches can be served on a gluten-free bun. Let your server know when you order.
Tips for your visit
Beat the rush
Calhoun's is busy on summer evenings, fall weekends and holidays. Arriving a little before the dinner rush helps, and groups should call ahead. Check the restaurant's website for current reservation options.
Take it to the cabin
Calhoun's offers online ordering, plus family-style meal packs. Bring a barbecue spread back to the cabin and eat on the deck with a mountain view.
Shop before or after
Calhoun's is in the middle of Lumberjack Square, so it's easy to walk the shops before or after your meal.
Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg?
There are two Calhoun's in the Smokies. The Pigeon Forge restaurant is at 2532 Parkway in Lumberjack Square, between traffic lights 2B and 3, convenient to Dollywood, The Island and most Pigeon Forge cabins. Calhoun's Gatlinburg is in Calhoun's Village on the Gatlinburg Parkway. Both serve the same hickory-smoked ribs, so choose the one closest to where you're spending the day.
Make a day of it
Calhoun's sits right on the Parkway, so it's easy to pair lunch or dinner with the rest of a Pigeon Forge day. Smoky Mountain Brewery is also in Lumberjack Square, The Island is a short drive away, and Dollywood is just off the Parkway. Browse more Pigeon Forge attractions to plan your trip.
More barbecue and steaks
Comparing barbecue? Try Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que, or see our guide to the best steakhouses in Pigeon Forge. Browse our full list of Pigeon Forge restaurants for more.
Plan your visit
Frequently asked questions
Where is Calhoun's in Pigeon Forge?
At 2532 Parkway in Lumberjack Square, between traffic lights 2B and 3.
What is Calhoun's known for?
Hickory-smoked baby back ribs. Calhoun's won The National Rib Cook-Off soon after opening in 1983.
Can I order Calhoun's to go?
Yes. Calhoun's offers online ordering.
Does Calhoun's have gluten-free options?
Yes. Many items can be made with no added gluten, and gluten-free buns are available.
Is there a Calhoun's in Gatlinburg?
Yes. Calhoun's Gatlinburg is in Calhoun's Village on the Gatlinburg Parkway.
Calhoun's is just minutes from our Pigeon Forge cabins. Bring the whole crew to one of our large cabins or family cabins, and book direct to get our Stay & Play Pass with free attraction tickets for every paid night.