This barbecue joint on the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park may be small, but the menu here will satisfy even bear-sized appetites. With freshly smoked ribs and brisket and your choice of zesty sauces and hearty sides, Hungry Bear BBQ #1 is your go-to barbecue spot in Gatlinburg.
The first thing you need to know about Hungry Bear BBQ #1 is that it isn’t exactly in the middle of town. Instead, it’s right outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ll find it near the Greenbrier section of the park, right where Gatlinburg gives way to the gorgeous mountains beyond. Just follow the heavenly aroma of the smokers, and you’ll know you’re in the right place.
Thanks to its location off the beaten path near the national park, this barbecue joint is perfect for treating the family after hiking Porters Creek Trail or a fun-filled day traipsing around the Smokies. Of course, even if you’re just kicking back and taking it easy for the day, Hungry Bear BBQ #1 is always a great choice for barbecue lovers.
This family-friendly spot will win you over the moment you pull into the parking lot. The bright red shutters and yellow trim turn up the charm factor, and inside, the walls are filled with beautiful photos of the Smoky Mountains, Smokey Bear himself, hunting trophies, and family pictures. It’s impossible not to feel right at home here, whether you’re enjoying a down-home date night or taking the whole family out for a memorable meal.
It doesn’t matter if you’re as hungry as a bear or if you’re just feeling a little peckish. Either way, you’ll find just the right barbecue platter or sandwich to satisfy your appetite at Hungry Bear BBQ #1.
Take a look at a few of the menu favorites:
Pulled pork sandwich: Piled high with Hungry Bear BBQ’s signature pulled pork, this sandwich is sure to satisfy. If you can’t resist the mouthwatering sides, you can even add two for just a few bucks more.
Beef brisket platter: Dig into the beef brisket platter with rolls and your choice of two sides. Pick from hearty classics like macaroni and cheese and potato salad or keep it light with corn on the cob and applesauce.
Four-meat combo platter: If you’re hungry for a bear-sized meal, this platter comes with ribs, pork, chicken, and beef. Be sure to grab your choice of sauces, too. Whether you’re a sweet barbecue sauce lover or you prefer a hot sauce with kick, you’ll love the signature sauces here.
Don’t forget to check the specials, either. Hungry Bear BBQ #1 rotates specials regularly, so you might find a pork special with pulled pork, ribs, sausage, and sides. Or you might luck out with a sausage special, which features a foot-long sausage sandwich with your choice of sides.
Even those with baby bear appetites can get in on the barbecue fun here. Hungry Bear BBQ #1 has a great kids’ menu with barbecue classics like the rib sandwich or the pork sandwich as well as kid-approved favorites like hot dogs.
Want to take your barbecue back to your cabin or into the Smokies? Pick up a picnic pack at Hungry Bear BBQ #1, and you’ll get plenty of meat, sides, and rolls for the whole family to share.
Insider Tip:
If you’re visiting during the off-season, be sure to check the hours before you go. Hungry Bear BBQ #1 is typically open longer hours seven days a week during peak season, but the restaurant tends to close a bit earlier Sunday through Thursday during the off-season.