Local ranks favorite coffee shops in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and surrounding areas

When on vacation, sometimes you need a good cup of coffee. As a regular coffee drinker, I've sampled several shops around the Great Smoky Mountains. So who has the best coffee in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville? Here are my top picks.

1. Honeybee Coffee Company (Sevierville, TN)

This is my number one choice for the best coffee in the Smoky Mountains. The menu at the Honeybee Coffee Company is simple with drip coffee and several iced coffee choices. The drip coffee is rich and dark, but not bitter. The iced coffee was smooth and rich and nicely sweetened. The coffee shop itself is comfortable, with a couch and tables and wifi available. It's a nice respite from the crowds. Honeybee Coffee Company is located at 101 East Main Street in Sevierville.

2. Krispy Kreme (Sevierville and Pigeon Forge, TN)

As much as I don't love putting chain restaurants on my ranked lists, Krispy Kreme simply has good coffee. The coffee is rich and dark, yet not bitter at all. It's robust Java perfection. The coffee was piping hot and served quickly. Krispy Kreme has locations in both Pigeon Forge and Sevierville for convenience. I believe there's no shame in stopping by a chain restaurant on a trip. Just make sure you check out some local gems, too.

3. Gatlinburg Grind (Gatlinburg, TN)

The Gatlinburg Grind is a cute little coffee shop complete with a comfy nook located within the Arts and Crafts Community of Gatlinburg. The drip coffee I purchased was ground right in front of me while I waited, which was a definite plus. However, the coffee wasn't quite as strong as I usually prefer. Still, the Gatlinburg Grind gets bonus points for grinding the coffee fresh. Plus, the owner's mom is known for making the best pimento cheese in town, and after trying that too, I dare anyone to prove otherwise. So if all else fails, try their pimento cheese on a croissant and thank me later. Gatlinburg Grind is located at 680 Glades Road, Suite 3 in Gatlinburg.

4. The Donut Friar (Gatlinburg, TN)

The Donut Friar might be known for its donuts, but they have a good selection of specialty drinks as well. They offer mochas, cappuccinos, lattes and macchiatos. They tend to be on the sweet side, but it's a delicious pairing with their sweet treats and famous cinnamon bread. The Donut Friar is located at 634 Parkway, Ste. 15.

5. Smoky Mountain Espresso (Sevierville, TN)

Smoky Mountain Espresso is a comfortable coffee cafe that offers a nice place to relax with indoor and outdoor seating, complete with a fireplace. They offer a wide selection of iced and frozen coffee, tea and hot chocolate. If you're in the mood for a snack, they also have tasty pastries. The coffee here is a solid option, vibrant and full of flavor. The only thing that kept it in its No. 5 position was the mild bitter aftertaste. Still, it's a local gem that is worth trying if you need to scratch your coffee itch. Smoky Mountain Espresso is located at 1259 Middle Creek Road in Sevierville.

Where is your favorite place to get a coffee in the Smoky Mountains? Let us know in the comments.