Local recommends the best food at the Dollywood theme park in TN

As someone who has lived within a few minutes of the Dollywood theme park for the past 20 years, I can confidently tell you that the theme park has a lot going on for itself. Great namesake. Excellent rides. Entertaining shows. But among the many Dollywood accolades, it's one that's rarely talked about that I think, continues to put this theme park on the map – the wide variety of quality food options. After all, this ain't no run-of-the-mill theme park. At Dollywood, they smoke, fry and saute many items on site. And no matter when you go to Dollywood, you’re going to find something good to eat. But sometimes, with so many options, and limited stomach capacity, it can be hard to decide where to dine while at the park, and what to order. This is why I've decided to make this ultimate Dollywood foodie guide, featuring my personal recommendations on where to go and what to eat while at the park.

Dollywood captures is a feeling deeply associated with my youth, specifically the excitement and euphoria that arises in a small Midwestern town during fall festival time. It’s a feeling of community – even among strangers – of common purpose, that should be really quite impossible in a giant theme park. Dollywood’s food is some of the best among theme parks. Here are some of the best places to eat." 

1. Market Square (big skillets)

Market Square Big Skillets is my happy place. Giant skillets frying steak and sausage sandwiches right next to a funnel cake stand? I practically skip as we approach Market Square. I am happy and joyous. The menu changes throughout the year, but I love everything about it. I love the food, smells, and the outdoor tables where you sit and people watch. It is the closest place on Earth to the fall festivals of my youth and it is my favorite thing about every trip to Dollywood. The menu changes with the season, but there is never a time I don’t love it.

2. Grist Mill (cinnamon bread)

If you don't go anywhere else, at least try the famous Dollywood cinnamon bread. It's one of the most popular treats in the whole theme park. Dollywood’s cinnamon bread can be found at the Grist Mill, and it is good in just about any season. But I think the warm, gooey dose of cinnamon and sugar is even better in the fall and winter.

3. Spotlight Bakery (apple pie)

For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to check out the Spotlight Bakery. Famously, this is where you'll find Dollywood's 25-pound apple pie. It's made from scratch in a cast-iron skillet. A single slice weighs three whole pounds. Editor's note: In case you missed it at The Grist Mill, you can also usually score cinnamon bread at the Spotlight Bakery on your way out of the park (and usually with less wait!)

4. Miss Lillian's Smokehouse (BBQ)

In 2004, park officials were looking for someone to portray Miss Lillian, the owner and proprietor of Miss Lillian’s Smoke House. They found Connie Freeman Prince working at Dollywood’s sister park Silver Dollar City in Branson, Mo., and brought her on board. Over the years, Miss Lillian has developed into a Dollywood icon, and the Smokehouse is one of the most popular and best, in my opinion, restaurants in the park. If you're lucky, you might find Miss Lillian greeting customers at the door. I recommend the the BBQ pork sandwich platter or a hickory-smoked turkey leg.

5. Aunt Granny’s Restaurant (fried chicken)

Aunt Granny’s is so good that it has been recognized among the best theme park restaurants in the country. When I lived up north, they called this kind of deal a smorgasbord. In addition to being delicious, Aunt Granny’s has the added benefit of having something for everyone. From fried chicken (my favorite) to stew to tacos, if you’ve got a crew with disparate palettes, this is the place to go. My one caveat for Aunt Granny’s is that so much food can be a tad heavy. It's all you can eat. So while your body might be begging for a nap, the kids will be calling for a long hike up the side of a mountain to ride a rollercoaster.

6. Till & Harvest Food Hall (chicken nachos)

The Till and Harvest started out as a Mexican eatery in Wildwood Grove. At first, I was dubious, but I sampled the food, and I was surprised that it was actually really good. Now, it can feature both American and Mexican dishes but the food options can sometimes vary. Overall, I like dining here because Wildwood Grove is such an interesting space within the park. With wider areas to roam, plenty of shade and spots to rest, it can, on a sweltering summer day, feel a bit like an oasis in the middle of a theme park. When available, go for the chicken nachos – they're not your typical theme park nacho meal. The quality holds up to any Mexican restaurant in town.

7. Granny Ogle’s Ham 'n' Beans (meatloaf or pot roast)

In general, I don’t like to be talked into the sit-down eating establishments during most of the year at Dollywood. I prefer the more mobile options, eat and move. But I make an exception for Granny Ogle's. I love their meatloaf, pot roast, beans and taters. Chances are if you’ve come to Dollywood, you’re seeking a certain type of Southern experience. From a culinary standpoint, this is it.

8. Front Porch Cafe (chicken sandwich)

If you want to sit and relax a bit, stop in the Front Porch Cafe. It features family-style meals and shareables with vegan and vegetarian options available. This is a place where I like to get a simple sandwich or burger and fries. But my favorite menu item would probably be the Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich.

9. Dogs N Taters (hot dog & curly fries)

Most of the time when I'm at a theme park, I want to maximize my time with attractions and shows. Theme park dining is part of the experience for some. For me, I usually just want to grab some quick fuel and then keep it moving. Dogs N Taters is a good spot to get foot-long corndogs, hot dogs and signature curly fries. You can find hot dogs at Dogs N Taters next to the Back Porch Theater.

10. Red's Drive-In (hamburger)

Red's Drive-In is a 50s-style diner that opened in the theme park in the mid-90s. The restaurant was inspired by Red's Cafe, where a young Dolly Parton ate her first hamburger in downtown Sevierville. It's a great place to get a delicious burger and crispy fries. Plus, it's inside so you have air conditioning. Red's is located at Jukebox Junction.

11. Hickory House (BBQ)

When it comes to pulled pork, I’m a bit of a snob. I will not endorse any old Jim Bob or Cooter with a smoker and I am especially leery of barbecue prepared in a theme park. But pride be darned, it’s good. It’s southern and it’s quick service. Also, they’ve got turkey legs, chicken tenders and fries if your kids are a little choosy like mine. As parents and veteran theme park goers, the first thing we do upon arrival is check the maps for bathroom locations and assess where chicken tenders and fries can be obtained in case of emergencies.

Where do you like to eat at Dollywood? Let me know in the comments below.