There’s nothing more magical than Christmas in the Smoky Mountains. The lights twinkle, the air is crisp, and the mountains are wrapped in a peaceful, festive blanket. But as the big day approaches, one very important question comes to mind: “What are we doing for Christmas dinner?”

Here in Sevierville, you have wonderful options. Whether you dream of a grand, festive meal at a restaurant (with no dishes to wash!) or a cozy, private dinner in your cabin, we’re here to help you plan the perfect holiday dining in the Smoky Mountains.

Here’s your guide to planning a delicious Christmas dinner, whether you’re dining out or celebrating in.

Dining Out: Restaurants Open on Christmas in Sevierville

If your idea of a perfect holiday meal involves letting someone else do the cooking and cleanup, you’re in luck! Several Sevierville restaurants are known for rolling out the festive carpet on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

A Friendly Tip: This is the most important advice we can give! If you plan to dine out, make your reservations as early as possible. Many restaurants require them for holiday dining, and they book up months in advance. For places that don’t take reservations, be prepared for a wait. It’s always worth it for a festive meal with loved ones.

While hours and openings can change yearly, here are some local favorites known for welcoming guests during the holidays.

• Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant: A Sevierville icon! Known for its Southern hospitality and delicious apple fritters, Applewood often serves a special holiday meal. Reservations are almost always required, so call well in advance.
• Five Oaks Farm Kitchen: Serving up hearty, Southern-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this is a fantastic spot for a celebratory family meal. Check their holiday hours as they have been known to be open on Christmas.
• The Appalachian: For an upscale, contemporary taste of Southern Appalachian cuisine, check The Appalachian in nearby Sevierville. It’s an excellent choice for a special, memorable holiday dinner. Booking ahead is essential.

Always call ahead to confirm holiday hours and reservation policies as soon as you know your travel dates.

Dining In: A Cozy Cabin Christmas Dinner

There’s something truly special about gathering around the table in your own cozy cabin, with the fireplace crackling and snow falling softly outside. If this is your holiday dream, you have two fantastic choices: order a delicious catered meal or cook your own festive feast.

Order a Catered Christmas Dinner

This is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience! Get a restaurant-quality meal without any of the prep. Sevierville has wonderful options for catering for cabins.

• Holiday Meals To-Go: Several local restaurants offer complete, pre-cooked holiday feasts that you just “heat and eat.” Places like Applewood Farmhouse have offered “Holiday To-Go” meals in the past, complete with turkey or ham and all the trimmings. Key Tip: You must order these far in advance (often weeks ahead), and they sell out quickly!
• Local Caterers: For a more customized experience, consider a local catering company. Services like Fruitful Vintage Personal Chef Service can create a gourmet meal delivered right to your cabin. BBQ lovers can even get a crowd-pleasing feast from places like Buddy’s bar-b-q.

Cook Your Own Holiday Feast

Your cabin’s fully equipped kitchen is the perfect setting for making your family’s favorite holiday recipes. It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories.

Pro-Tip for Cabin Chefs: While your cabin kitchen has the essentials (oven, stove, refrigerator, microwave), it may not have the specific tools you need for a complex holiday meal.

• Pack Smart: If you know you can’t live without your favorite roasting pan, sharp carving knife, hand mixer (for those mashed potatoes!), or specialty spices, it’s a good idea to pack them from home.
• Shop Early: The grocery stores in Sevierville will be very busy in the days leading up to Christmas. Plan your menu in advance, make a list, and try to shop during an off-peak time to avoid the crowds.

Your Smoky Mountain Holiday Meal Planner: Top Tips

No matter what you choose, a little planning goes a long way to ensure a stress-free and magical Christmas dinner.

• Book EVERYTHING Early. We can’t say it enough. Whether it’s a restaurant reservation, a “to-go” meal order, or even your cabin (especially if you want a great kitchen!), the holidays are one of the busiest times of year.
• Confirm, Then Confirm Again. A week before your trip, call the restaurant or caterer to confirm your reservation or pickup time.
• Be Patient and Kind. Holiday staff are working hard to make your celebration special. A little holiday spirit and a friendly “Merry Christmas!” go a long way.
• Embrace the Magic. The most important thing is spending time together. Whether you’re dining out or in, your Christmas dinner in Sevierville will be one to remember.

We are so happy you’re choosing to spend your holiday with us in Sevierville. We wish you a warm, wonderful, and delicious Christmas!