Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro

Wish I could rate a place higher than 5 stars because this would be it! What an absolute treat while we were on vacation in the Smokies. Food was out of this world. Southern-style with a twist, that Appalachian style is something to be enjoyed and not easy to find. Truly every bite of every course was delicious. Our waiter, Jon, was wonderful- very attentive and made amazing recommendations. My husband and I travel quite a bit and always try to find the best of the best places to eat, and we definitely accomplished that with Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro! We will be returning next time we are in the area.

It has been more than a week since we've delectably dined here, yet etched into my memory is the fabulous dining experience for this foodie. Local and seasonal are two treasures that always capture my attention. Combine that with Aileen, our sincerely warm and impeccable waitress, whose passion and pride in each menu offering made decisions difficult as she enticingly answered our questions. Additionally combine that with unusually complex dietary issues to garlic and onions for one in our party and Aileen's genuine, unflinching response. She did not know the answer, instantly letting us know she'd return as soon as she queried the chef. Sure enough, moments later she shared the details and posed many offerings the chef could make to accommodate our beloved guest in our party. The cornbread was the included "bread of the day". Just feast your eyes on the delectable presentation! That's not honey but a delightful sassafras syrup. My feast to the eyes and palate, perfectly prepared, tender yet rare filet mignon was the most heavenly I've ever had in my life with each component decadently contributing to every bite. It exceeded every other high end steak restaurant's offerings by light years at half the cost! Others in our party had the porkchop and my wife gave me a bite. It was moist, perfectly flavorful and medium rare beef steak like in chew though cooked all the way through. Wow! We just could not stop talking about the WONDERFUL service and delightful food!!! This San Diego native and foodie has dined at some truly wonderful high end restaurants and I HAVE to say, The Dancing Bear Lodge has exceeded them ALL! Thank you, Aileen and staff for making this evening incredibly memorable!!!

A must go if you’re in the area and have the time. Get a reservation. My family and I go here once a year when we’re visiting the Smoky Mountains. We’ve had many great meals—nothing has been disappointing. Over the years we’ve had trout, steak, pork chops, rabbit, chicken, scallops, pasta, dips, burgers, veggie dishes, soups, etc. Everything has been good. The desserts are amazing too. They also have great cocktails. If you like rich and smokey, The Man in Black is the way to go. The ambiance is dark and relatively quiet. The outside is cute and rustic with string lights. They do things outside around the campfire as well, but I have never participated.

What a magical place. They did such a great job making our UT grad and all of us feel special. The food was fabulous and the service impeccable. Justin made the night more fun, made great food and wine recommendations, and showed great attention to detail by bring na champagne to one of our guests for our toast. The restaurant and grounds were beautiful. We enjoyed the smore bar and the fire pit after dinner. What a wonderful experience.

One of the most delicious and romantic meals I have had in years. My wife and I frequently eat at some of the best restaurants in the area. We really like The Appalachian, Foothills Milling, and RT Lodge - but for some reason we just never made it up to The Dancing Bear Restaurant and Lodge. Man do I regret that. We made reservations for Valentine's Day and was very impressed that they called beforehand to ensure we had reviewed the menu and had no concerns. My wife eats only veggies and fish and they went out of their way to provide a special pescatarian meal that she loved. My food was amazing as well and we enjoyed each of the 5 courses. The services was top notch as well - both professional and kind. The environment was very romantic and 'comforting'. With candlelight and a very nice fireplace, it was truly a special environment. I cannot say enough good things about The Dancing Bear and will simply leave it with this: If you have not been yet, don't make the same mistake I did by putting it off. Its worth the trip no matter where you are traveling from. PS - Someone will ask about price - which I did not cover as it was a very special night and price was not a major factor. With that said, it was very expensive, even by our standards. However, we did get our money's worth and would happily do it again.

Outstanding restaurant. Everything about this place is 5 stars. I absolutely loved the chicken & ricotta Gnocchi. My wife loved the trout and fired oysters. Cooked to perfection. The old fashioned from the bar is one the best I have ever had. Not only is the food excellent, the entire staff are 5 stars. The outdoor fire at night is a perfect way to end the evening with friends and family. We have already made reservations for our Christmas Eve dinner!

This was a wonderful place to dine. It was recommended by a friend. It is a bit hard to find, but the food was great. The service was so wonderful. It was our anniversary and the staff made sure to celebrate us and make us feel welcome. The drinks were amazing.

Always an amazing experience eating at the Appalachian Bistro. Our waitress, Zoe, is the best - attentive and kind! We’ve enjoyed the bear-fay several times - so many delicious appalachian breakfast options! Dinner is an incredible experience as well - from the beautiful ambience to the delicious options. I recommend the trout and grits! It’s a MUST eat when in Townsend!

Tonight was our 8th NYE at the Bear. The culinary team really outdid themselves this year. The Pre fixe menu was a culinary experience that was worth every penny. Everything from the app to dessert was a perfection. My favorite was a toss up between the risotto and the halibut. The service was impeccable as always. Sissy was our server and she took really great care of us. I cannot recommend NYE at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro enough. It rivals any high end restaurant in Nashville, Chicago or New York. It's by no means a cheap meal. That said, in my opinion, the value you receive is far greater than the cost of a meal. If you're looking for a memorable dinner that is in equal measure adventurous and comforting in a place rife with authentic southern culture, then this is your spot.

The best meal I've had this year. I really don't know what to expect from the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro in Townsend, TN. Six of us visited for dinner on a Thursday in November. We had a reservation and the friendly staff seated us quickly at a really nice table in a corner nook. It was away from the bar and it was quiet, so we could easily talk. Everyone loved their pre-meal beverages. I had the "Man in Black" cocktail. It was a smooth bourbon forward cocktail with one large ice cube that arrived smoked under a glass dome. It was delicious. I started with the "Creole Mussels" as my appetizer. It was a large portion of mussels in a delicious creamy sauce with onions, peppers, and homemade Tasso ham chunks. It also included a large piece of grilled homemade focaccia bread that managed to soak up the delicious sauce without getting soggy or limp. The entire dish was wonderful and it completely exceeded my expectations. I had the "Sweet Tea Brined Pork Chop" for dinner. I can honestly say it was the tastiest pork chop I have ever eaten. It was juicy and perfectly cooked. It was served with perfectly charred baby carrots and green beans. But, what really made this dish, and the entire restaurant so special, were the amazing sauces. The pork chop arrived on top of two fantastic sauces; a "Red-Eye Gravy Reduction" and a "Fermented Red Pepper Emulsion". Both were delicious. The chop was topped with a "Green Tomato & Jalapeño Jam" which perfectly complimented the meat. The care and thought put into these amazing homemade sauces really made the meal special. Others in my dinner party raved about the "Butternut Squash and Apple Soup" and they loved the "Black & Blue Beef Tips." We shared three delicious desserts. The seasonal cobbler with apples and cranberries was voted the favorite with the bread pudding a close second. I ordered a decaf coffee to go with dessert, and a French press quickly arrived at the table. I drank half with dessert and then I took the final cup outside to enjoy around the fire pit while we made delicious complementary s'mores. Such a nice touch. The meal was perfect. This is a restaurant you should not miss. I highly recommend the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro.

Took my adult son to this Bistro for his Birthday dinner. He said it was one of his most favorite meals EVER, I agree. We began our evening in the bar, he celebrated large with a Pappy Van Winkle, we commenced to our table and were treated to an exquisite, friendly, professionally attended dining experience we thoroughly enjoyed. We are new transplants to Tennessee, and will make the Dancing Bear a bistro we will frequent. And, as a matter-of-fact my daughter is flying in this week and this is the first must visit that came to mind. Hope you enjoy as much as we do. Bon appetite!

My sister and I took our mom here for dinner for her birthday and it exceeded our expectations. When we arrived we were seated right away and the staff offered to take our picture for us. There was a post card on the table that had a happy birthday note For my mom. Our server was Monahan and he was awesome. Very friendly and attentive. We got the lobster and parsnip soup, green goddess salad, filet mignon, pork chop, pork belly and chicken and ricotta gnocchi. All sooo good! At the end of the night we went outside by the fire pit and made s'mores. The only thing I'd change would be the temperature in the restaurant, it was pretty warm inside.

Amazing food and outstanding service. Had the filet which was cooked and seasoned perfectly. The charred Caesar salad was flavorful. Will definitely be back!

Best Restaurant in East TN! Fantastic food and service! Warm, comfortable environment and we can't wait to go back!

My husband and I celebrated his 64th birthday at this fine establishment. Our dining experience was amazing! We arrived on time for our reservation; however, there was a 20 minute wait - - no big deal, we explored the beautiful grounds while waiting for our table. Once called, we were escorted and seated by a lovely lady from the hostess stand. Shortly afterwards, our sever "Jack" welcomed us and acknowledged my husband's birthday . Jack asked if we had dined at their establishment before, which we had not. He then proceeded to explain the farm-to-table concept, and assured us we would enjoy an award wining 5 star Michelin dining experience and meal prepared by their acclaimed chef. Jack took our drink order and recommended an awesome Cabernet Sauvignon wine, which I gladly accepted, my husband chose a bourbon on the rocks. We began with salads for starters -- green goddess salad and charred Cesar salad. Both prepared with fresh ingredients grown on the property. Next, we ordered our entrees - I ordered the rainbow trout and hubby ordered the filet mignon, both outstanding meals!!! We finished the evening by sharing the sinfully delicious duck fat carmel drizzle cheesecake. Trust me, you want to save room for this dessert. The food was exceptionally tasty, the service was outstanding and the ambiance was pleasing to the soul. I highly recommend this place and hope you get to share the wonderful experience we had during a special occasion. ~Bon Appetite~

This place is great Great food Great atmosphere Not very good beer options ( no bud light, ) but house drinks were very good Will def repeat next time we are in the area

Exceptional Dining Experience with Cissy - Professional, Knowledgeable, and Enthusiastic Our recent dining experience was made truly exceptional, thanks to Cissy. Her professionalism, extensive knowledge about food and wine, and dedication to enhancing customer experience turned our visit into a memorable occasion. From the moment we were seated, it was evident that Cissy is a consummate professional. She greeted us warmly and ensured that we felt comfortable and well-attended to throughout our entire visit. Her attention to detail and commitment to outstanding service were apparent in every interaction. Cissy's expertise in food and wine is truly impressive. She guided us through the menu with ease, offering insightful recommendations that perfectly complemented our tastes. Her extensive knowledge added an educational and enjoyable element to our dining experience, making us appreciate the food and wine even more. The food itself was excellent, a true testament to the quality of the establishment. Each dish was meticulously prepared and bursting with flavor. Complemented by the carefully selected wines, our meal was nothing short of perfection. The ambiance of the restaurant was warm and elegant, creating a perfect setting for our meal. Cissy's efforts contributed significantly to this atmosphere, as her cheerful and professional demeanor enhanced the overall experience. I highly recommend Cissy for her outstanding service. Her combination of professionalism, extensive knowledge, and dedication to customer satisfaction makes her an invaluable asset. We are incredibly grateful for the wonderful experience and will certainly be returning!

This is currently my favorite restaurant. It is a very high-quality farm to table restaurant located in the woods in Townsend TN. The service - the people want to be there and it shows with the knowledge and enthusiasm that shine through. The servers and hostesses know the menu and the sources of the food. The ambience is perfect whether inside, outside, or in the breezeway. Dinner on a spring nights in the breezeway is about 2 hours of heaven. Quiet Appalachian takes on popular and traditional music enhance the overall feel. Then we have the food. Holy moly. Our first trip was on Sunday and the option was brunch. Everything from the fresh field greens salad with firm raspberries and sweet blueberries along with toasted coconut and a delicate honey mustard vinaigrette to the grits that tasted like cornbread (how???!), it was sublime. At a little under $40, the quality was worth every penny. The second trip was dinner. I cannot recommend the charcuterie board enough. Get that and wine and call it day, if you like. It's that good. However, we did have the pork chop and the filet. Both were perfectly prepared. Dessert was chocolate sorbet for my husband and lemon lavender crème brûlée. The truest example of the attention to detail was when I ordered a cup of decaf. It came in a French press! With cream! And they had turbinado sugar (requested it). It was the best coffees I have had in ages. You cannot go wrong at this near-perfect restaurant. And I did not even talk about the extensive bourbon, scotch, and wine menus.

Enjoyed sitting at the small bar before dinner. Had a version of an old fashioned that was presented smoked, don't recall the name, but it was tasty. Shared the crispy fried gulf oysters. Pile of crunchy goodness in a bowl with a good dipping sauce. Something we'd most likely order on every visit. We also shared a charred caesar salad. Separated on two plates, it was a pretty small salad. I personally didn't care for the charred romaine, but the other flavors on the plate certainly compensated. I'd been looking forward to trying the trout and grits, and was a little disappointed. The trout was more dry cornmeal crusted than fried or sauteed. The shrimp tails were left on, and though that's common for presentation, the shrimp were small and it made enjoying them more difficult. The star of the plate was actually the preserved tomatoes; they were a blast of flavor and redeemed the dish. The wife got the sweet tea brined pork chop, and it was excellent, would have been a better choice than the trout. The marinade really shined through, and the chop itself was big and nicely cooked. Though it has some weaknesses, the bistro is clearly the best restaurant in Townsend, and a must stop if you're staying in or near the lodge.

Where to begin? My wife and I found this location in a whim when seeking places in the area. Through research we knew this place must be something special, and boy were we right. Reservations are strongly recommended when dining at this gem. Upon arrival, there is beautiful uphill arrival and we could help but to imagine how beautiful a wedding would be here (there is a small wedding area). After arriving, we went inside and were greeted with a smile and sat at a table that was dimly lit but exactly wanted. This design is absolutely beautiful and extremely "Smokey mountain" style. Deep woods surround the building and it almost feels as if this building was raised inside raised forest from the inside. We both got drinks to our liking which were both phenomenal. As a bonus. They brought homemade cornbread with butter which was an absolute treat to the "Man in black" cocktail I got which was essentially an old fashioned. While I didn't try much of my wife's course, my filet was cooked absolutely perfect with paired mushrooms and potato's. I can't rave about it enough. Meals similar to this have cost us far more than what this fine establishment has to offer. We will surely return in our future and we're more than happy to have the opportunity to dine here.

This is my place to go for coffee when in the Townsend area. They have fantastic cold brew and hot coffee. Love the chocolate waffle when they have them so go early and enjoy!

We came here twice for dinner so got to try a lot of their menu. Overall, food is very good, though some much better than others, especially the vegetables!! Service is good, but can be a bit slow. Love the outdoor dining option - great ambiance. For starters, highly recommend the Crispy Glazed Pork Belly and the Smoked Trout Cakes! I didn't know I wanted trout in my diet till now! The Poached Pear Salad was also very good; Their veggies just taste different somehow - SO much tastier. The Appalachian Lunchables and Cheese Board were also good, but not really my kind of food. For entree, highly recommend the Crispy Duck Confit. It was incredibly tender and comparable to that of NYC's high-end French restaurants. The Truffled Filet Mignon didn't do much for me. I thought it was overcooked and void of any taste of truffle. My companions who got the Appalachian Bouillabaisse said it was really good and had an unexpected but nice kick to it.

OMG we just happened to be in Townsend and was starving and this place popped up. We travel to the area about once a month and how I never knew this place existed is beyond my wildest dreams! The atmosphere, our waiter, the place, I could just go on and on eveything was just amazing. The hubs got the sweet tea pork chops which was recommended and it was to die for. I had the trout and it was good too. We had a dessert and the pork belly appetizer!! Eveything was just so good. If I recall correctly they do a seasonal menu so they may switch it out a bit but they grow alot of their own and use local vendors. You can explore the grounds they're just beautiful and they have an outdoor smores bar by the fire. what else could you want!! You must go!!

We visited this restaurant for dinner while in town and it was so good that we returned on Sunday for brunch. It is a farm to table restaurant and the meals were so fresh and tasty. The Sunday brunch had a good variety including salmon, potatoes, biscuits, made to order omelets and quiche. There were gluten free bakery items also. We also took a charcuterie board to go for snacking on at our Air BNB. The servers were very helpful in choosing menu items. The restaurant is a lodge with large logs and a stone fireplace which provided cozy warmth.

This is an amazing bistro and highly recommend it - sits up in the hills in Townsend. The vibe in the evening with the lights around the patio and fire going with a s'mores bar at the fire pit was a special touch after having an amazing dinner! Reservations are needed. The ambiance is cozy with a huge fire going in the huge fireplace that is the focal point when you walk in. Excellent service and our dinner was exceptional. You will not be disappointed and well worth treating yourself too!

First time going here about a week ago and LOVED everything about this place! The atmosphere and staff were exceptional. We ordered sangrias at the bar which I wasn't too keen on because it was fizzy tasting? The food was delicious though! There was lamb ribs and meatballs! I have never tried lamb before so I appreciated the waitress saying if I don't like it, she would get me something I would. But I loved it! The meat was moist and chewy but too much. The meatballs though should definitely had spicy on them!! (So my reasoning for the 4 star is the sangria and this). Otherwise it was beautiful and loved the unlimited s'mores bar outside for dessert

Our experience at the Bistro was perfect. Our server was very knowledgeable and helpful with our selections. We enjoyed a green goddess salad, mushroom dusted filet, short ribs, and the chocolate cake. The Man in Black cocktail was served smoked which added a nice flavor and flair. The farm to table concept is well executed and very delicious. This was an anniversary dinner so we were focused on each other, so no photos, but perfect memories

Outstanding in every way! The staff was terrific. Our server was enthusiastic, knowlegeabe and super nice. The atmosphere is like dining in a wooded log retreat. It's a wonderful rustic elegance. An extensive list of spirits. I really enjoyed the Jefferson Ocean-Aged with a large cube. I started off with, and savored the charred Caesar salad. The dressing was very tasty. My filet mignon was one of the best ever! It was a perfect medium. The chimichurri sauce was a bit unique, as was the potato cake with a foamed goat cheese sauce. My wife and I spilt the cheese cake with duck fat Carmel drizzle, at our servers suggestion. It was excellent. A more light and fluffy cake, as opposed to the usual heavy, thick texture. It being my birthday, I was acknowledged by the host, the server, and the food runner. I received a personalized card and two complimentary truffles. It was truly a memorable birthday dinner.

Mussels with grilled Foccocia...Bitter orange margarita,Man in Black,Old Red, Ckrn bread with Sorghgum bitter, Trout with Grits, Garden Vegetable pasta (w/ shrimp), Lavender lemon creme Brulee & French pressed coffee. Amazing evening, excellent dood & great service. Highlights:mussels,trout and Brulee!

After a recent anniversary visit with my wife, I feel like Dancing Bear is a massive hidden gem in Eastern TN. We thoroughly enjoyed it, from start to finish. Dancing Bear is a farm-to-table restaurant with a bit of a Gulf Coast feel due to the influences of the head chef. Menu changes are frequent, in fact, the menu today is already different than it was in our visit on 10/26. Ambiance was super intimate & classy, & service was what you'd expect at a high-end downtown restaurant. For cocktails, we enjoyed their gold rush & raspberry blossom mixed drinks. Fantastically prepared & pleasing to the eye. For food, we ordered their crispy, glazed pork belly burnt ends as a starter which were fantastic in both flavor profile & presentation. Seriously, very good. I had their sweet tea brined pork chop platter with green tomato & jalapeño jam, & my wife had the sorghum glazed Joyce Farms chicken. I'd recommend everything we ordered, honestly. Anyway, if you're in Eastern TN & in need of good drinks and/or food, get a reservation at Dancing Bear & then send me a thank you card.

What can I say about the perfect place that has not already been said. While spending a few days in towns, and we stumbled upon this place, found it on yelp mainly because it was dog-friendly. It was super cold and their insulated, heated patio was the perfect venue for us to have several meals. We absolutely fell in love with the food and the staff the first time we went that we instantly booked a return trip for the next night. Everything on the menu was fresh, seasonal, local, and expertly done. We were blown away by every bite we took out of every single dish we tried. The staff were knowledgeable, attentive, and had absolutely brilliant recommendations that I otherwise would have not selected. If you are anywhere near this place, you owe it to yourself to check it out. It is absolutely perfect; Conner and Jack will take care of you!

Celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro. Food, service & ambiance were all amazing. My pork chop was delicious as was my husband's filet mignon & he said the chocolate sorbet was the best thing he's ever tasted. We highly recommend Dancing Bear for any special occasion!

The food was delicious & our server Brad had great recommendations throughout. The autumn spice espresso martini was one of the best I've ever had! Great ambiance & we loved the fire pit outside for after dinner.

From the amazing atmosphere to the welcoming service, this place is a gem. We drove from Gatling (45 min drive) and it was so worth it. Food absolutely amazing drinks unique and delicious. You would expect it to be more expensive, very humble prices. Cannot recommend enough!

We were invited here by a local family member as It's not a place you would just stumble across as someone visiting. Let me first just say, this place was SO COZY and inviting. The menu is unique and we were told it changes often. Everything was GREAT, although I really don't think this place could serve a bad meal. Our waiter, Jack, was awesome and very attentive. He helped us out with the menu and any questions we had. We will definitely go back when we visit again. I wish we lived closer just to have date nights here!

Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays, and this year I looked forward to having it at Dancing Bear. It was our first meal here, and it was done both in the style of buffet and where the first, second, and dessert course were brought to the table. First course was a wonderful roasted pumpkin soup with candied pepitas and pickled pear relish. The second course was a roasted root vegetable salad with baby kale, goat cheese, toasted pistachios, cranberries, and pistachio vinaigrette. My husband who normally doesn't care for salads, ate every last bit of this one. The buffet or the "Bear-Fay" as they call it at Dancing Bear consisted of: turkey breast, glazed Virginia ham, beef tenderloin, pomegranate glazed salmon, Yukon mashed potatoes, homemade buttermilk herb rolls, and stuffing. I loved every bit of the buffet, except for the duck sausage cornbread stuffing, which had a bit of an acquired taste. And lastly, the sweet ending was a slice of chocolate torte with autumn spiced creme fraiche and candied pecans. But if chocolate torte isn't your thing, don't worry, they also had a mini dessert station set up outside by the fire along with make your own s'mores, coffee, cider, and tea. After dinner, we sat outside by the crackling fire and made a few s'mores and enjoyed the elevated rustic ambiance of the Dancing Bear Lodge. It has got to be one of my favorite places now. A special thank you to our server, Jack. He made the night just that more special with checking in on us and making us feel right at home.

Good spot. It's difficult to find nice ingredients in this part of the country. I was impressed with the dishes I tried and the drinks. I hope to go back someday and try more menu items.

We visited back around New Year's and let me just say this may have been the best restaurant experience we've ever had. We have absolutely nothing negative to say about it! Our server was the best we've ever had (and I wish I could remember his name). Extremely professional, helpful, informative, quick. He made the experience feel very high end and special. We got the pork belly to share as an app and it was amazing (and large enough) to be an entree on its own - it honestly made me a huge fan of brussels sprouts. Tons of flavor and I didn't want to stop eating it. My husband got the filet and thought it was the best steak he'd ever had (and he's picky). The chicken breast was delicious, tender, juicy, and the puree they had on there was to die for. We only really ever order dessert if a restaurant has already wowed us so obviously we got the sticky toffee pudding. Probably the best dessert we've ever had out in a restaurant. The atmosphere here is also very romantic and rustic, whether you're outside or inside. It's a gorgeous property and very cozy. We look forward to coming back here while on our next trip!

There are not enough superlatives available to praise the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro! We were visiting the Smoky Mountains on our roadtrip and stayed locally for two nights. We wanted a nice dinner, and stumbled across the Dancing Bear on OpenTable. I made a reservation, and we got on our way. Unfortunately, there was an accident on one of the local roads so we had to detour. I called the restaurant and thankfully they were very accommodating with our 15 minute delay. Upon arrival, we were pleasantly surprised to see that the bistro was part of beautiful lodge facilities in a serene woodland setting. The inside of the bistro was very cozy, with dimmed lighting and a fireplace. After being seated, we received complimentary corn bread with home-made butter. We skipped starters and went straight for the main course. I had the Filet Mignon and my mom had the Bouillabaisse. Both were absolutely wonderful. I did mention that I would have loved a bit more veggies with the filet mignong, because the 2 small potatoes cut in half an the one piece of broccoli didn't stretch very far. For dessert, we had the seasonal cobbler and the dark chocolate coffee pot de creme. Both made for wonderful endings to a great dinner. Of our entire two week roadtrip, this was probably the best dinner we had! Would love to come back here one day. PS: Get yourself the Man In Black cocktail, you won't be sorry.

This was mine and my husband's second visit to Dancing Bear. It is a must if you're in the area. The food and service are impeccable- the filet, the pork chop, and all the desserts are top notch. Typically they have a fire pit with a s'mores station, which is such a nice little extra experience, but it was raining heavily tonight so we missed that, understandably. We did however see bear pass by on the grounds, which was so neat (at a safe distance of course). Overall, highly recommended for a special meal with people you love.

5 stars .very high quality trout and everything else . Brought a friend from China. She was impressed. And I was impressed as well.

This place is absolutely wonderful! My friend made brunch reservations on a Sunday as an early birthday present for me and we had the best time. The restaurant itself is so cozy and has the perfect atmosphere. The staff was very friendly and attentive. Most of all, the food was delicious! They offer a brunch buffet and it is fantastic. The have a huge spread of amazing brunch items such as biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, bread pudding, and so much more! There was so much food I couldn't even fit it all on my plate. We enjoyed our meals in front of a live band that played a wonderful selection of Appalachian style music. I can't rave about this place enough! I would highly recommend this place to anyone that is looking for a special meal around the Townsend area.

Omg you have to eat here! Family brought me here and it didn't disappoint. We sat on the patio in the evening with a beautiful view. The food is sourced locally and the menu is based off this. We started with the burnt pork belly which was tender and delicious that had some veggies that had some spice to them. Family members had the filet which was cooked to perfection and very tender. I went with the duck gumbo. The duck was delicious and the sausage was divine, and the sauce was good. Other family had the starter of gnocchi and asparagus. Very nice sauce and the gnocchi was light and pillowy. We finished the meal off with the flourless chocolate cake and crème brûlée. Hands down the crème brûlée was out favorite, the right vanilla flavor and the sugar torch was just right. The chocolate cake was a mix for the family as it had a gritty texture that I didn't like but others didn't mind. We then went and sat at the fire pit pulling up chairs. They have a smores bar but we were to full. It was peaceful and relaxing. A few things to consider, the pathway to the restaurant from parking is dirt and bark fairly smooth with no lights, leaving we used our phones for light. Sitting on the patio I would suggest bringing a coat or shawl for the evenings.

One of the most spectacular dining experiences that matched the best culinary experiences we've had across the country. Chef Jeff apparently hails from Mobile Alabama but he might as well have been trained at Le Cordon Bleu. Every single dish (we indulged in the exquisite trout cakes, tantalizing okra & kale salad, and decadent duck and chicken entrees) were flawlessly prepared with every bite highlighting different flavors and textures. The atmosphere--with the open wood fire smells against the fresh mountain air highlighted against the hanging lights of the patio--made for a magical experience. We will be making the long trek from Nashville to visit this hidden gem on at least an annual basis, if not sooner!

We stayed at the Dancing Bear Lodge while visiting the Smoky National Park area and ate here two nights in a row. We really enjoyed our meal the first night and decided that we weren't going to get much better in the area. Plus there were still items in the menu we wanted to try. The food was fresh as expected for a farm to table and wonderfully prepared. The bread and butter service was really tasty with added sorghum syrup over the butter. The first night we weren't very hungry so we shared the beef tips for an appetizer, a gem salad and then the Appalachian Cioppino. It was plenty of food and the Cioppino was very unique, with a bit of creole taste reminiscent of a gumbo. This night, they also had a fire going with all the ingredients for s'mores. The second night, we had the clams and mussels, potato soup, striped bass and filet. All of the food was nicely prepared. If you are in the area, this is a great place to stop for a meal. Though many venture specifically here to dine.

Still 5 stars for me. Also might have just had one of the best steaks of my life this weekend. Hoping that the Truffled Filet Minion stays on the menu or I'm going to be one unhappy camper next time. The topping and sauce is to die for - not to mention the steak is cooked perfectly. The charred Cesear is also a staple. Tried the bacon/crab soup and I loved it - it was too heavy and smoky for the others I was with but I thought it was a great combo. The bread with the salted butter dipped in it was perfection. They had blue cheese olives on hand so I had the perfect dirty martini. Empress martini was like a dessert for me - loved the raspberry garnish for this. Special shoutout to our favorite server Jake. We were debating what to do afterwards and discussed with him. He wasn't sure what to recommend and, unprompted, went in the back and polled his coworkers and came up with an awesome suggestion for us. Appreciated him going above and beyond. Also need to note the interesting "bark" wall in the bathrooms. I just love the upscale "lodgey" feel of this place. It was raining so couldn't toast the marshmallows outside but they still had the marshmallow bar available. I saw one person roasting their s'more over the tiny candle centerpiece at their table ;) Can't wait to come back!

I recently took a trip up to Tennessee for a wedding. I had heard around the WWW that this place was one of the best/most romantic restaurants in the entire South. So I had to check it out. The entirety of the area is winding roads with beautiful views as you snake your way towards the Smoky Mountains. The town of Townsend is the last real town before you enter the National Park. I drove into the resort and walked into this absolutely beautiful building. It's dimly lit inside; seemingly lit only by candlelight and windows. I was really stunned. It's gorgeous. So we get our super friendly server and get to ordering. Before we got anything we ordered, out came the complimentary corn bead, served with a delicate, creamy butter, and drizzled with some honey. Super good. Best, softest corn bread I've had in a long time. Apps. We got two boards, because we're extra. The Appalachian Lunchable (Benne Seed Bacon, Deviled Eggs, House Pimento Cheese, Sea Salt Crackers, Smoked Salmon Rillette, Biscuits & Jam, Benton's Country Ham, Pickled Vegetables). And the Artisan Cheese Board (Ashe County Marble Blue, Green Hill Brie, Red Dragon, Thomasville Tomme, Sea Salt Crackers, Spiced Nuts, Fig & Almond Cake, Grapes, Seasonal Jam). There were SO many things to eat here. Variety on boards like these are always appreciate. So many combinations to try. I was a fan. I can't go over everything, but I can say that the best items were the smoked salmon and the brie; target those. And the things that could use replacing were the deviled eggs, yawn, and that it, actually. Everything else had its place in the little meal. For my main, I had the North Carolina Rainbow Trout and Grits (Cornmeal Dusted Trout, Creamy Grits, Conecuh Sausage, Gulf Shrimp & Crawfish, Preserved Tomatoes). WOW. I was a fan. That cornmeal dusting was so, so good. The tender fish was sitting on top of a sloppy mess of all those meats and the grits all jumbled together. I really loved this dish. This should be your top priority. I also got my hands on a scallop dish that I don't remember what it was exactly and they don't have it on their menu anymore. Probably for the best. It was not five stars. It wasn't three stars, either, but it just needed some help. Poor searing, lackluster sauce, and a textureless pairing with some roasted parsnips. I don't like dissing restaurants. All the dishes just can't be winners, it's ok. Now, dessert. I can't find the menu item exactly, but it was a parsnip themed carrot cake with a cream in the middle and a crunchy twist of something on top that made this delectable. So soft, so slightly sweet, and their honey made a return to make this a dynamite dessert. Overall, if you're in the area of the Great Smoky Mountains with your significant other. I think you'll be doing yourself a huge favor by bringing them here.

We ate here 2 nights in a row while we stayed at the lodge and got to sample many menu items. The truffle filet was outstanding! The second night we sampled several appetizers. By far our favorite was the Appalachian lunchable. It's a must. Wait staff both nights were attentive and informative of the menu selections. The seating itself was very cozy and the fireplace was roaring which made for a very memorable experience. Very nice upscale restaurant that won't disappoint! And they have an outdoor s'more station next to the fire. 5 star place all around!

Amazing all the way around. Hidden gem. We will be back next time we are in the area. Fine dining in a clearing in the woods!

I've been lucky to enjoy restaurants all over the United States. I can say with confidence that the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro is among the very best experiences I've ever had. First, it isn't easy to find, as it is snuggled into the woods just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But, when you arrive, you are welcomed as one of the lucky friends who they have invited into the rarefied ambiance of this special bistro. The locally sourced food that makes up the majority of their menu allows one to make that ambiance part of you. There isn't anything on the menu that is like anything else you've ever experienced! The chef and his team are artists of the highest order.

Good. Nothing like it used to be. The noise is horrible. Not romantic as it used to be. Have been a patron for many years and now I'm not returning. It used to be 5 stars now I rate it in comparison to restaurants in Sevierville/pigeon forge. The noise is unbearable and service is mediocre. Will not be returning after 13years Of dining there. It's just a typical LOUD RESTAURANT in the area. Romantic =0 Ambiance =0. So sad to see an another fabulous restaurant just go downhill to accommodate the tourists. Won't be going back.

Perfect place to celebrate a special occasion with an exceptional meal, flawless service, and relaxed atmosphere. My husband and I dined here with another couple and had a great experience. The knowledgeable serving staff helped us select entrees and wine that would pair well, and they gave great advice. Our party had the cheese board appetizer, burgers, filets, trout, and salmon for our entrees, and crème brûlée with coffee for desert. We left stuffed and happy. This restaurant is located in beautiful Townsend and has a rustic lodge vibe that adds to the relaxed experience.

Incredible experience. Top 3 Caesar salads I've had but the filet mignon was stellar. We were with a large group and I was expecting that it would be over cooked but certainly not the case. A perfect medium rare with fresh vegetables farm to table style. Charcuterie tray was stellar as well. Not to be outdone, the flourless chocolate cake was succulent and rich. Incredible service from the staff and a wine selection that makes Napa Valley look small time. I'm now making reservations for the Sunday brunch that is legendary.

This was honestly one of the best meals we have ever had. My wife and I came here for dinner last weekend while staying in Gatlinburg and we were blown away by the food, cocktails, service, and atmosphere. It's about an hour drive from Gatlinburg but 100% worth it, plus it's a beautiful drive. I had the Man in Black cocktail which was fantastic. We shared the mussels and pork belly burnt ends which we both loved. My wife had the burger and I got the trout with grits which was incredible and I can't stop thinking about. Our server took the time to explain where all the ingredients were from and how the chef prepared every dish. If we had more time we would have come back here for another dinner in a heartbeat. I cannot recommend this amazing place enough.

We were lucky enough to host a post-elopement dinner for a group of 18 at Dancing Bear. The planning process was stress-free and the staff went out of their way to give us everything we wanted, they even drove to Knoxville to pick up our flowers! All of the food was incredibly tasty and the drinks were delicious- all of our guests complimented the food from the charcuterie, to the salads, sides, and mains. We even went back for dinner a couple of days later! We were all equally impressed by the service. Our waitress did an incredible job tending to everyone's needs extremely quickly. I cannot recommend this restaurant enough- especially if planning a small event.

Absolutely one of our favorite restaurants! Excellent service and phenomenal food. By far the best place to eat in all of East Tennessee.

Anniversary dinner. Started with a Raspberry Cosmo. Very nice. Had a glass of wine with meal. Their wine list is impressive. Husband had the Truffled Filet Mignon. I had the Crispy Glazed Pork belly. We are "simple folk" so the Filet description was a little intimidating to hubs. (8oz Angus Filet of Beef, Roasted Yukon Potatoes, Charred Romanesco, Peppers, Mushroom Duxelles, Truffled Hollandaise, Braised Cipollini Onion, Port-Rosemary Reduction) Ignore all that and get it. Wonderful dish. Took a star away because it was overly fatty for a Filet. The description of the Pork belly was also a lot but by far the best I've had. The star was the Brussel sprouts. I found the Pork belly fatty as well. Normally don't mind but because the pieces were big it took away from taste. The Brussel sprouts more than made up. I could have eaten my weight in these. If we get to go back I'll definately get these and explore more of this creative menu.