Long time family favorite from Gulf Shores, AL, the Sunliner Diner cruised into the Pigeon Forge dining scene towards the end of 2019 and has quickly become a popular destination for locals and travelers alike.
Occupying a former chain restaurant location, the Sunliner Diner brings a welcome breath of fresh air to Pigeon Forge, while also transporting you back in time. The bright red and shiny chrome decor will catch your eye before you even step inside, and once you make it through the door, you’ll be treated to bright natural light and shiny chrome ceilings, plus a cheerful checkered floor and red accents to complete the look.
In your visits to this retro diner, you’ll find plenty to look at when it comes to interior decorations, plus a rocking soundtrack to entertain yourself. From a faux 1950s newspaper-style menu to authentic “boomerang style” Formica counters, the Sunliner really does feel like a trip back in time. But don’t expect a totally old-school menu. The Sunliner Diner is priced competitively and includes some more contemporary items–like Trix cereal-infused waffles–alongside standard American staples.
Munch a little bit on the all-day breakfast menu, or options from the lunch and dinner menu, which starts at 11. The Sunliner also serves desserts and cocktails, making it a great stop for a morning outing with the family, or a late-night date with that someone special.
Some of our favorite menu items at Sunliner Diner include:
Avocado Benedict
This updated classic was delicious and perfect for vegetarians. We enjoyed the Creole hollandaise sauce and fresh tomato and paid a little extra to enjoy it with a vegetarian Beyond patty, which was an unexpected and welcome option.
The Big Daddy-O Breakfast
With plenty of classics for meat lovers to enjoy, this was a generous serving of eggs, three breakfast meats, plus a pancake and griddled hash browns. We were ready for a nap after this feast!
Chocolate “Big Tickle” Milkshake
A classic done right, with a huge pile of fluffy whipped cream and a cherry on top plus tons of fun extras, including a piece of a delicious Belgian waffle!
The Jukebox
A dazzling sandwich that comes with everything but the kitchen sink, we loved sharing this triple-decker burger, complete with bacon, fried green tomato, fried pickle, and more! Both the fried tomatoes and pickles are also available as an appetizer as well.
Candied Bacon
Slightly on the pricey side for an appetizer, but well worth every sweet and salty bite!
While the Sunliner does offer a couple of options on the lighter side, including salads and even an avocado toast dish for breakfast, why not give in to the nostalgia and eat like it’s the 1950s again? The Sunliner feels like just the place to kick back and forget about your modern troubles and just enjoy it. Have fun walking down memory lane, and be sure to bring a big appetite–you’ll need it!
Insider Tip:
Want a totally unique dining experience? Request seating at the table built into a 1954 shiny red convertible just inside the entrance!