Crystelle Creek Restaurant & Grill

Crystelle Creek Restaurant & Grill sits beside a creek on East Parkway in Gatlinburg, just outside the bustle of downtown. Water cascades from the roof past the big front windows, a koi pond and landscaped grounds surround the building, and at night a 150-foot lighted tree glows over the property. Inside, you'll find oak-fired steaks, trout, Italian dishes, and live music most nights.

The setting

Crystelle Creek is known as much for its grounds as for its food. A creek runs beside the restaurant, water spills from the roof over the dining room windows, and a koi pond and gardens make it a pleasant place to wander before or after your meal. After dark, the 150-foot lighted tree turns the whole property into a scene that's especially pretty for date nights.

The menu

From the oak-fired grill

Steaks cooked over an oak fire, plus char-grilled skewers and burgers cooked to order.

Mountain favorites

Rainbow trout, fried catfish, and slow-smoked baby back ribs with a dry rub.

Italian dishes

A selection of signature Italian plates for a change of pace.

Sandwiches and more

Sandwiches, salads, appetizers, and a kids menu, plus a full bar with daily food and drink specials.

See the current menu on Crystelle Creek's website.

Live music and dining areas

Crystelle Creek offers live entertainment most nights. If you'd rather have a quiet dinner, ask for the separate dining area away from the music. There's also a full bar and an enclosed sports porch, a relaxed spot to catch a game.

Groups and catering

With call-ahead seating, Crystelle Creek can usually seat large groups, which makes it a good choice for family reunions and group trips. The restaurant also offers catering. Call ahead to plan for a big party.

Getting there

Crystelle Creek is at 1654 East Parkway (Highway 321), a short drive east of downtown Gatlinburg on the way toward the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community. There's free parking on two levels, with covered access to the restaurant.

Crystelle Creek opened under its current owners in 2012, after many years as the Bear Creek Grill.

Tips for your visit

Arrive before dark, stay after — see the grounds and the waterfall in daylight, then the lighted tree at night.

Pick your seat — ask for the music area for a lively night, or the quieter room for conversation.

Call ahead for groups — call-ahead seating makes big parties easier.

Try the trout — it's a mountain classic on the menu.

More dining near Gatlinburg

For more restaurants with a view or a creekside setting, see our guides to restaurants on the water in Gatlinburg and all Gatlinburg restaurants. Out on the Arts and Crafts loop, try Split Rail Eats, or head downtown to Chesapeake's and The Peddler Steakhouse.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Crystelle Creek Restaurant?

At 1654 East Parkway (Highway 321) in Gatlinburg, a short drive east of downtown.

Does Crystelle Creek have live music?

Yes, most nights, with a separate dining area for guests who prefer a quiet meal.

What's on the menu?

Oak-fired steaks, trout, catfish, ribs, Italian dishes, burgers, sandwiches, and a kids menu.

Is there parking?

Yes. Free parking on two levels, with covered access to the restaurant.

Can Crystelle Creek handle large groups?

Usually, yes. Call ahead for group seating.

What is the lighted tree?

A 150-foot tree on the grounds that lights up at night, one of the restaurant's best-known features.