Introduction
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, is a magnet for tourists seeking breathtaking scenery, thrilling attractions, and unforgettable experiences. Beyond the mountain views and adventure parks, Gatlinburg boasts a surprisingly diverse culinary scene. While pancakes and barbeque often steal the spotlight, those craving something different will be pleased to know that there are options for delicious Chinese food in Gatlinburg. This guide aims to navigate the local dining landscape, helping you discover the best Chinese restaurants Gatlinburg has to offer, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful experience even in this mountain town. We’ll share reviews, insider tips, and everything you need to know to find your perfect Chinese meal. Prepare to explore the delicious possibilities!
Why Look for Chinese Food in Gatlinburg?
Craving Comfort Food
After a day of hiking through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or exploring the many attractions along the Parkway, sometimes all you crave is a plate of familiar, comforting Chinese food. The aroma of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic can be incredibly appealing after hours spent outdoors or amidst the hustle and bustle of tourist attractions. Chinese cuisine offers that sense of warmth and familiarity, providing a satisfying and revitalizing meal that can be just what you need to recharge. Perhaps you’re missing your go-to Chinese restaurant back home – Gatlinburg may surprise you with some hidden gems.
Variety from the Traditional
Gatlinburg, while known for its Southern comfort food and family-style restaurants, might leave you yearning for variety. Chinese food provides a welcome departure from the traditional fare often associated with the area. It’s a chance to explore different flavors, textures, and spices. From savory stir-fries to crispy egg rolls, Chinese cuisine offers a broad range of options to tantalize your taste buds and provide a culinary adventure different from the typical Gatlinburg experience. Opting for Chinese is a great way to add something different to your Gatlinburg vacation.
Budget-Friendly Options
Depending on the restaurant you choose, indulging in Chinese food may offer a more budget-friendly option. While many restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to tourists with prices to match, some Chinese establishments provide generous portions at reasonable prices. This can be a great way to enjoy a delicious and filling meal without breaking the bank, especially for families or larger groups. Takeout options can further enhance the value, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your cabin or hotel room, saving on dining-out expenses. However, keep in mind that this isn’t *always* the case, especially during peak season.
Top Chinese Restaurants in Gatlinburg (With Reviews)
Let’s dive into some of the top picks for Chinese restaurants in Gatlinburg. These restaurants have received positive feedback from locals and tourists alike, offering a range of dishes to satisfy every craving.
China Garden Restaurant
Located on the main Parkway, China Garden Restaurant is a longstanding favorite in Gatlinburg, praised for its consistent quality and generous portions. The ambiance is casual and family-friendly, making it a great choice for a relaxed meal after a day of sightseeing.
The food at China Garden is classic Chinese-American cuisine, featuring all the familiar favorites. The General Tso’s Chicken is a popular choice, with crispy, perfectly sauced chicken in a sweet and tangy sauce. Other highly rated dishes include the Kung Pao Chicken, featuring tender chicken with peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy kick, and the Mongolian Beef, known for its savory flavor and tender beef strips. The egg rolls are consistently crispy and flavorful, a perfect appetizer to start your meal. Service is generally prompt and friendly, adding to the pleasant dining experience.
The price range at China Garden is moderate, making it an affordable option for families. They also offer lunch specials, providing even better value. China Garden is particularly known for its extensive buffet during certain times, which includes a wide selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. This is a great option for those who want to sample a variety of dishes.
A review from a satisfied customer on Google states, “Great Chinese food, generous portions, and friendly service! The buffet is a great value. Definitely recommend!” This sentiment is echoed by many other reviewers, highlighting China Garden’s consistent quality and customer satisfaction.
Taste of China
Also located conveniently on the Parkway, Taste of China offers a slightly more upscale dining experience compared to China Garden, while still remaining accessible and welcoming. The decor is more modern and refined, creating a pleasant atmosphere for enjoying a meal.
Taste of China distinguishes itself with a wider variety of dishes, including some more authentic Chinese options alongside the classic Americanized fare. Their menu features a broad array of seafood dishes, such as the Shrimp with Lobster Sauce, praised for its delicate flavors and fresh ingredients. The Szechuan Beef is another popular choice, known for its bold, spicy flavors. They also offer a selection of noodle dishes, including Lo Mein and Chow Mein, prepared with fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces. Vegetarian options are plentiful, with dishes like the Vegetable Delight and Tofu with Black Bean Sauce receiving positive reviews.
The service at Taste of China is typically attentive and professional, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The price range is slightly higher than China Garden, reflecting the more upscale ambiance and wider variety of dishes.
“We’ve eaten here many times over the years, and it’s always good! The service is great, and the food is fresh and flavorful,” says a TripAdvisor reviewer, emphasizing the restaurant’s consistent quality and positive dining experience. Taste of China’s commitment to quality ingredients and attentive service makes it a solid option for Chinese food.
Canton Garden
For those willing to venture slightly off the beaten path, Canton Garden, located just a short drive from the main Parkway, offers a more local and authentic Chinese dining experience. This family-owned restaurant is a hidden gem, known for its generous portions, affordable prices, and friendly service.
Canton Garden specializes in classic Cantonese cuisine, with a focus on fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces. The Sweet and Sour Chicken is a popular choice, with perfectly fried chicken in a tangy sauce. Other highly recommended dishes include the Pork Fried Rice, loaded with vegetables and flavorful pork, and the Beef with Broccoli, featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. The wonton soup is also a standout, praised for its flavorful broth and tender wontons.
The ambiance at Canton Garden is casual and welcoming, creating a comfortable dining experience. The prices are very reasonable, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. While the decor may be simple, the focus is clearly on the food, which is consistently praised for its quality and flavor.
A Yelp reviewer raves, “Best Chinese food in Gatlinburg! The portions are huge, the prices are great, and the service is always friendly. Highly recommend!” This positive feedback highlights Canton Garden’s commitment to providing excellent value and delicious food.
Beyond the Restaurants: Other Options
Takeout and Delivery
Sometimes, sitting down for a full restaurant meal isn’t feasible, especially when you’re exploring all that Gatlinburg has to offer. Fortunately, many of these Chinese restaurants also offer convenient takeout and delivery options. This is a fantastic choice for families who want to enjoy a meal in the comfort of their cabin or hotel room, or for those who simply prefer a quick and easy dining experience. Check the restaurants’ websites or call ahead to confirm their takeout and delivery policies.
Nearby Grocery Stores
While Gatlinburg itself may not have dedicated Chinese grocery stores, a short drive to neighboring towns might reveal some options. If you’re staying in a cabin with cooking facilities, sourcing your own ingredients and preparing a Chinese meal can be a fun and cost-effective alternative. Look for staples like soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and various dried spices to create authentic flavors. Asian markets, even small ones, often carry frozen dumplings, noodles, and other convenient ingredients.
Chinese Restaurants outside of Gatlinburg
Expanding your search slightly beyond Gatlinburg could lead you to even more Chinese dining options. The neighboring towns of Pigeon Forge and Sevierville often have a wider selection of restaurants, including Chinese establishments that may offer a different style of cuisine or a more authentic dining experience. If you’re willing to drive a short distance, you might discover some hidden culinary gems.
Tips for Choosing a Chinese Restaurant in Gatlinburg
Read Online Reviews
Navigating the Gatlinburg dining scene can be overwhelming, but with a little research, you can easily find a Chinese restaurant that suits your needs and preferences. Before making a decision, take the time to read online reviews on sites like Yelp, Google, and TripAdvisor. Pay attention to comments about the food quality, service, ambiance, and overall value. Look for consistent patterns in the reviews, both positive and negative, to get a better sense of what to expect. Be aware that some reviews may be biased, so consider a variety of sources before making your choice.
Check Menus Online
Many restaurants post their menus online, allowing you to browse the dishes and prices before you even arrive. This is a great way to ensure that the restaurant offers options that appeal to your taste and dietary preferences. Check for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options if needed. You can also get an idea of the restaurant’s price range by reviewing the menu prices.
Ask Locals for Recommendations
Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. Hotel staff, shopkeepers, and other residents often have insider knowledge of the best restaurants in the area. They can provide valuable insights based on their personal experiences and help you discover hidden gems that you might not find otherwise.
Consider Location
Consider the restaurant’s location relative to where you are staying or spending your time. If you’re planning to visit a specific attraction, look for Chinese restaurants that are conveniently located nearby. This will save you time and effort and make your dining experience more enjoyable.
Look for Specials or Deals
Keep an eye out for specials or deals, such as lunch specials, early bird discounts, or coupons. Many Chinese restaurants offer promotions to attract customers, especially during off-peak hours. Taking advantage of these deals can help you save money on your meal.
Conclusion
Finding good Chinese food in Gatlinburg is definitely possible, even though the area is more widely known for other types of cuisine. With a little research and planning, you can discover a variety of Chinese restaurants that offer delicious food, friendly service, and reasonable prices. Whether you’re craving classic Chinese-American dishes or seeking a more authentic culinary experience, Gatlinburg has something to offer. Don’t be afraid to explore the options, try new things, and ask for recommendations. Your perfect Chinese meal awaits!
Now it’s your turn! Share your favorite Chinese restaurant in Gatlinburg in the comments below and let others know your must-try dishes. Happy eating!
