Cherokee Grill
About
Cherokee Grill offers a welcoming refuge for families exploring the Smoky Mountains, serving up hearty steaks, fresh seafood, and American classics in a spacious, relaxed atmosphere. Parents appreciate the extensive kids menu with familiar favorites, while the attentive staff accommodates high chairs, booster seats, and the inevitable spills that come with dining out with little ones.
Highlights
- βDedicated kids menu with chicken tenders, burgers, mac and cheese, and other child favorites
- βSpacious booth seating perfect for families with multiple children
- βFriendly, patient staff experienced with families and young diners
- βQuality steaks and seafood options that satisfy adult palates
- βQuick service that keeps restless kids from waiting too long
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 6pm to avoid the dinner rush and shorter wait times, especially during peak tourist season in summer and fall.
- 2.Ask for a booth or corner table when checking in, they're more spacious and give kids a bit more wiggle room.
- 3.The kids menu includes crayons and activity sheets to keep little hands busy while waiting for food.
- 4.Portions are generous, so consider sharing sides among the family to save money and reduce waste.
- 5.If you have adventurous eaters, the restaurant is happy to provide smaller portions of adult entrees for kids.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday lunches (11am-2pm) or early dinners (4:30-5:30pm) offer the quietest dining experience. Fall is particularly pleasant as the restaurant is busy but not overwhelmed, and you can combine your meal with nearby leaf-peeping adventures.
What to Know
Expect to spend $15-25 per adult entree and $6-10 for kids meals. The restaurant accepts reservations which are highly recommended during summer and October. Parking is available in the adjacent lot, and the entrance is stroller-accessible.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round. Busiest during summer vacation months (June-August) and fall foliage season (October). Holiday periods may require advance reservations. Winter months offer a cozier, less crowded dining experience.
More Activities Near Cherokee
Boots Steakhouse
Boots Steakhouse is a welcoming family diner in the heart of the Smoky Mountains where parents can enjoy quality steaks and sandwiches while kids have their own menu to choose from. The classic booth seating and relaxed atmosphere make it easy to settle in with even the wiggliest little ones, and the friendly staff are known for being patient and accommodating with families.
Bradley's Pharmacy Soda Fountain
Step back in time at Bradley's Pharmacy Soda Fountain, a delightful historic gem in Cherokee where kids can experience the magic of an old-fashioned soda fountain. This charming retro spot serves up classic ice cream treats, thick milkshakes, and nostalgic candy that will thrill children while giving parents a sweet taste of yesteryear. The authentic vintage atmosphere makes it feel like you've walked onto a movie set from the 1950s.
New Kituwah Academy
New Kituwah Academy offers families a meaningful opportunity to explore authentic Cherokee heritage at a sacred ancient mound site. Kids can walk interpretive trails while learning about the indigenous people who lived here for thousands of years, making history come alive through outdoor exploration and educational signage that tells the story of Cherokee settlement and culture.
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts offers families a wonderful opportunity to explore beautiful contemporary craft exhibitions in an inspiring gallery setting. Located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, this highly-rated cultural destination sparks creativity and conversation while exposing children to diverse art forms from pottery and fiber arts to woodworking and metalwork.