Lisa J.
Yelp
Ah, The Greenbriar in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Nestled amidst the smoky majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains, it's a haven of Southern charm and culinary delights--what better time to experience it than at Christmas?
Walking into The Greenbriar is like stepping into a cozy Christmas fairytale. The warm glow of fairy lights twinkles overhead, casting a soft hue on the exposed brick walls and rustic wooden beams. The air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of roasting meats and spices, a symphony that promises a feast for the senses.
Our waiter, Tyler, greeted us with a smile as warm as the crackling fireplace in the restaurant's center. He exuded Southern hospitality, and his recommendations were spot-on, guiding us through the menu with the expertise of a seasoned Christmas elf.
I opted for the Carolina trout stuffed with mushroom duxelles served over red pepper beurre blanc and roasted asparagus for my dinner. If you will, imagine delicate mountain trout, its flesh flaky and sweet, each bite a delightful dance on the tongue.
But the pièce de résistance, the show's undisputed star, was Chef Jason's Beef Wellington. Picture this: a tenderloin of filet mignon, cooked to a perfect medium-rare, swaddled in a crispy puff pastry crust that glistened like burnished gold. The buttery and flaky pastry revealed the juicy pink meat within culinary artistry. Andy said each forkful was an explosion of savory flavors, the richness of the beef perfectly balanced by the earthy mushrooms and the hint of Dijon mustard. It was, without a doubt, a miracle on a plate.
No meal is complete without a toast, and what better way to raise a glass than with The Greenbriar's signature Cocktail, The Dylan! This festive concoction began with raw pecans lit on fire on an oak wine barrel stave, the fire extinguished, and a snifter glass is washed with pecan smoke, black cherry ice spheres are dropped into a smoke-washed snifter, and finally, Heaven's Door TN bourbon, house-made Madagascar vanilla bean syrup, & bitters with black cherries. The balance is beautiful with the smoky sweetness of the bourbon and pecans.
As we stepped out into the crisp mountain air, our bellies full and heart's content, we knew we had experienced something exceptional. The Greenbriar had woven its magic, transporting us to a world of cheer and culinary excellence. It was a Christmas to remember, a testament to the power of good food, good company, and the timeless spirit of the season.
So, if you're ever in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, do yourself a favor and make a reservation at The Greenbriar. Ask for Tyler, savor Chef Jason's culinary mastery, and raise a glass of the Dylan to a Christmas well spent. Just be sure to make your reservations early - this gem will be booked solid all season long!