Nestled in the outskirts of Gatlinburg, Tennessee (but still right on Parkway), Delauder’s BBQ is a hidden gem that truly lives up to its reputation. Located at 1875 East Parkway, this family-run dive has earned accolades as one of the best small-town BBQ restaurants in East Tennessee and has been recognized as TOP 10 in the entire United States, according to Yelp.

First Impressions

Upon arriving at Delauder’s BBQ, it’s clear that this place has character. The restaurant has a dive-y, hole-in-the-wall charm, complete with a slightly junky appearance that hints at its past life as a gas station or something of that nature. Red and white checkered tablecloths cover the tables, adding a classic touch to the rustic, country vibe. Country music plays softly over the speakers, setting a relaxed, down-home atmosphere that invites you to sit back and stay a while. If you’re the fancy type, this place may not be for you. But if you love really great food in places with great character, then you will love it here.

Ordering and Service

At Delauder’s, you order at the counter and should be prepared to pay with cash—though they do have an ATM on-site for convenience. While the wait for food can be a bit longer than you’d expect, the experience is undoubtedly worth it. This isn’t fast food; it’s slow-cooked, lovingly prepared BBQ that will make you glad you took the time. The place may also be a little understaffed (isn’t everywhere these days?), but again, it is worth the wait.

The Feast

I decided to go all in and ordered the two-meat platter with ribs and pulled pork, accompanied by baked beans and potato salad. The ribs were the star of the show—super tender with meat that practically falls off the bone. Both the ribs and the pulled pork were incredibly flavorful, showcasing the kind of mastery that has earned Delauder’s its top-10 rating.

The baked beans and potato salad were the perfect sides, complementing the smoky, savory meats. Delauder’s offers two types of BBQ sauces: one with a more vinegary kick and another that’s tangy and rich. Both sauces added just the right touch, enhancing the natural flavors of the meat without overpowering them. The two meat platter is also a lot of food, so I have a generous portion to take with me for later.

If you’re looking for a unique item to take with you, Delauder’s has a selection of t-shirts for sale that have a vintage look and clever (if not somewhat risque) slogans on the back. I overheard the owner saying he hand-distresses some of the shirts to give them their unique, vintage appearance.

Final Thoughts

Delauder’s BBQ may be a bit off the beaten path from downtown Gatlinburg and rough around the edges, but that’s part of its undeniable charm. If you’re a fan of authentic, melt-in-your-mouth BBQ, this spot is a must-visit. The combination of its unpretentious atmosphere, excellent food, and the pride the family takes in their craft makes it a standout in the crowded BBQ scene of East Tennessee.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through Gatlinburg, make sure to stop by Delauder’s BBQ for a meal that will leave you talking about it long after the last bite.

Delauder’s BBQ is located at:

1875 East Pkwy
Gatlinburg, TN 37738

At the time of this writing, the restaurant is open Thursday through Sunday.