If you’ve been strolling through downtown Gatlinburg lately, you may have noticed a new kid on the block—Taco Trail, one of the town’s freshest dining additions. Just a short walk down Parkway from the Historic Gatlinburg Inn, this bright and modern taco joint is already earning high marks for its bold flavors, relaxed vibe, and super friendly service.

I visited yesterday, and even though I wasn’t exactly in taco-eating shape—thanks to some recent dental surgery—I still walked away thoroughly impressed.

The space itself has a clean, contemporary look, with a fast-casual layout that’s as inviting as it is efficient. I grabbed a seat at the bar, where I was greeted by a warm and welcoming bartender who made the whole experience even more enjoyable. You could tell the staff here takes pride in the place—and it shows. There is also a really cool outdoor seating area if you want to enjoy your meal while people watching.

Due to my temporary soft food diet, I had limited options, but the Zero Day Burrito Bowl ended up being an absolute gem. Picture this: mexi rice, black beans, mixed cheeses, pico de gallo, guacamole, crema, salsa roja, and jalapeño ranch—all layered together in a bowl of delicious, fresh flavor. If this one dish is any indication of how good their tacos are, then this spot is definitely doing something right.

And here’s another bonus: draft beers and cocktails are just $6. I had a couple of Blue Moons with my burrito bowl, and it all hit the spot without hitting the wallet too hard.

Whether you’re craving a quick bite after a Smokies hike or looking for a fun place to grab drinks and dinner, Taco Trail is a solid pick. And if you’re staying at the Historic Gatlinburg Inn, remember—it’s just a short, easy walk down Parkway to one of Gatlinburg’s tastiest new spots.

Taco Trail is located at:

959 Parkway
Gatlinburg, TN 37738