Why are there so many pancake restaurants in Gatlinburg?
Christopher Harper
Updated on April 05, 2026
Speaking with Smoky Mountain Living Magazine, Amy Morton said: “We feel that the popularity of pancake houses in this area stems from the simple fact that Southerners have a tradition of enjoying a delicious hearty breakfast.”
How many pancake houses are there in Gatlinburg?
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have a combined population of 6,624, which gives them one pancake house for every 245 citizens. Following that formula Jackson, would have 802 pancake houses.
Who owns the Pancake Pantry Gatlinburg?
David Baldwin
Instead of opening up his own place, he chose to keep an old standby going for what he hopes to be another 50 years. Keltner, a longtime manager at Red Pony in Franklin, bought the business and the name from David Baldwin, the current owner.
Is Gatlinburg known for pancakes?
Mornings in Gatlinburg are made for pancake breakfasts. Gather the family around the table and order up a stack of our world-famous flapjacks! Gatlinburg is known for its famous breakfast and pancake houses, so stop by and have breakfast where the locals eat.
Can you ride the trolley from Pigeon Forge to Gatlinburg?
The North Parkway trolley travels north on the Parkway, through Pigeon Forge, continuing to the Governor’s Crossing/Walmart area of Sevierville. This trolley travels nonstop to and from the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, located on the spur just outside of the city limits.
What was the first pancake house in Tennessee?
the Pancake Pantry
In 1960, the Pancake Pantry became Tennessee’s first pancake house!
Why are there so many pancake houses?
Today many hotels offer breakfast but they didn’t used to. Most local hotels were considered “limited service” because they didn’t have on-site restaurants. Then, hotels recommended nearby pancake houses to guests looking to fuel up before a busy day sightseeing. Necessity, it seems, brought about the abundance.
When did Pancake Pantry open?
1961
Founded by Robert Baldwin in 1961, the Pancake Pantry has been a Nashville tradition for generations of families.
What is Pancake Pantry known for?
Experience Nashville’s most famous menu filled with pancakes, of course, but oh so much more. Waffles, eggs, french toast, hash browns, sandwiches, and more await you at The Pancake Pantry. Click below to see our full menu of delicious homemade selections.
How much does it cost to ride the Gatlinburg trolley?
There are no fares or fees to ride the Gatlinburg Trolleys. The Gatlinburg Trolley System is currently operating with two routes that serve the majority of the City, the Purple and Blue Routes, along with the Yellow Route which serves the Arts and Crafts Community on the eight-mile Glades and Buckhorn Road loop.
How much does it cost to ride the trolley from Pigeon Forge to Gatlinburg?
Pigeon Forge Trolley Stops You can find a trolley running frequently on Main Street, in Wears Valley, to Dollywood & Dollywood’s Splash Country, and to the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. Fares range from $1.00 – $3.00, and children under 3 ride for free.
Who owns the Original House of pancakes?
Who are Les Highet and Erma Hueneke? Les Highet and Erma Hueneke, founders of the Original Pancake House in Portland, Oregon, collected recipes around the world, The pancakes served by this fine restaurant are famous all over the world.
Where can I find the best pancakes in Gatlinburg?
Limit search to Gatlinburg. 1. Crocketts Breakfast Camp “Pleasantly surprised!” 2. Little House of Pancakes “Genuinely the BEST pancakes !” “Yummy pancakes and delicious homemade s…” 3. Pancake Pantry 4. Log Cabin Pancake House
What is the pancake pantry of Tennessee?
Welcome to Tennessee’s first pancake specialty restaurant. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a loyal patron, the Pancake Pantry welcomes you to share in our 60 year tradition. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Breakfast menu served all day.
What are the pancake pantry’s hours?
Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a loyal patron, the Pancake Pantry welcomes you to share in our 60 year tradition. We’re open from 7am-3pm Monday-Friday 7am-4pm Saturday-Sunday Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
What kind of pancakes do they have at the pancake pantry?
Kids had the M&M pancakes and the Zippidy DooDa Pancakes (strawberry-banana). They both really liked them. They were generous with the M&Ms and the strawberry compote. Overall, we had another great visit with the Pancake Pantry. Food is excellent. Portion sizes are decent. Prices are average.