Let me start by saying this is longer than most of my reviews and we loved everything about the Dancing Bear. We were celebrating my wife's birthday and it was our first time dining there. The restaurant is tucked into a nice wooded area near the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. There is outdoor seating available, a firepit area with make your own smores, and indoor seating which is where we dined. We were greeted as soon as we entered and waited at the bar where Ian served us (he was great) until our reservation time (doubt we could have got in without the reservation). The bar had a huge selection of bourbon including many allocated bottles. My wife had a spicy margarita which she loved. We were promptly seated at our reservation time. Our server, David, brought us some of their famous cornbread it reminded me of couple of pieces of cake except it was cornbread with a delicious sorghum syrup and whipped butter. It was unique and delicious. We started with trio of dips - sharp cheddar pimento cheese, butter bean hummus, and my favorite smoked salmon rillette. These were served with sea salt crackers and pickled vegetables. It was all tasty and the smoke salmon had so much flavor. I had delicious thick cut pork chop topped with peach and jalapeno jam. It was cooked perfectly, tender and juicy and the topping added a fantastic spicy tang. The sides were charred baby carrots, green beans, a spoonbread with red-eye gravy and red pepper emulsion. My wife had a filet with bearnaise sauce and Yukon potatoes with cauliflower, sweet peppers, mushrooms and braised onions. It was cooked exactly as ordered with such a great taste and so tender. David brought my with a complementary piece of pie made with Cruze Farm buttermilk topped with berries and a lemon drizzle. It was a fantastic experience and we were so happy with everything. Everything was pricey for the area, but well worth it for what we received. read more

See all

From out of town and I got a lot of recommendations to try the bistro at Dancing Bear. The bistro was a bit further drive up the long driveway where the map takes you, and that's where all the bnbs are as well. You're tucked away in the forest with the most peaceful ambiance in the evening! The waiter introduced the menu to us and mentioned that the ingredients were all mostly locally sourced and or grown in their garden when you first turn onto the driveway. So great to know exactly where your food is coming from! For the starter, I shared the crab corn chowder - and the waiter was kind enough to split the soup into two bowls with my partner. This was a perfect starter! Creamy, a little smokey, and not too heavy like your typical chowder. Lacking in the crab department, but it's as you would suspect with anything advertising 'containing crab' at a restaurant. We were also given complimentary corn bread and it was delicious. Such a nice surprise and I definitely preferred having the cornbread over regular bread! The service was a little slow, especially to bring the appetizer and bread out, but I wasn't too bothered since it didn't seem like we were rushed to finish our meal. I ordered the filet mignon (med rare) as my main. The flavors were spot on! My filet was a bit tougher than other filets I've had in the past... it was difficult to cut into. I also wished there was more of the red wine sauce to balance the richness of all the accompanying flavors and textures. All in all, this spot was a special treat tucked away in Townsend and I'm glad I didn't have to drive too far for a well-crafted menu and food scene! read more

See all

Food was amazing. Service top notch. Ambiance just beautiful. Second time visiting this year. Love the seasonal menu changes. Can't get enough of the fire place outside with the snores on the cool evening. read more

See all

This was my first time at the bistro, although I've been meaning to come here when I'm in the area from out of town for quite some time. It did not disappoint! The bistro is up the hill a bit in the wooded area and it's beautifully secluded. I sat at the bar and enjoyed a full meal and drinks. The bartender, Seth, totally made the experience. He had fantastic recommendations that were all spot on based on what I told him I liked and he was fun and pleasant. There is a great cocktail, wine, and brandy list, and I cannot recommend the trout cakes enough! Wow! I'm looking forward to my next trip to TN so I can come back again! read more

Absolutely great experience! We ate outside on their covered veranda and were surrounded by Tennessee beauty and nice cooling fans. The service was fantastic and the variety of food was really very nice. We weren't rushed and were able to enjoy a truly lovely dinner with an excellent Peach Whiskey and sweet tea cocktail! read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - Beautiful charcuterie board with Peach whiskey and sweet tea cocktail - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee

The food here is actually local and fresh not just fake local and fresh. You can taste the difference, and that's what I like. This was my third visit, and once again, the food was good . Service, on the other hand, was on mountain time. It wasn't super busy, but our entrées took ages to arrive, and our server seemed to vanish into the forest now and then. When she was around, though, she was really friendly. Now, let's talk prices. This place is not cheap. We're talking $15 salads and soups, $23 charcuterie, $27 burgers, and a $55 steak and that's before you even consider drinks . Is it worth it? Maybe. I'm leaning toward yes, but I wouldn't call it a place I would want to be a regular at . Still, everything tastes fantastic, and the atmosphere is "rustic glam retreat." In short: great food, slow service, and prices that make you double-check you're not actually in NYC because last I checked, I was literally in the middle of the woods. read more

See all

A Townsend gem! Awesome food, service, and environment. Great for a date night! The dip trio appetizer, the trout, and the steak we're all so good. I also loved the complementary s'mores to seal the meal at the end of the night. Such a sweet idea! read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - Dip trio + crab & corn chowder - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee

See all

Wow! Dancing Bear is a must stop for anyone visiting the Smoky Mountains! From the amazing service to the incredible ambiance to the delicious, well crafted menu, everything was spectacular. The cocktails are out of this world with The Black Maple Manhattan being the best mixed drink I have ever had. The Caesar dressing on the charred salad was fantastic while the filet is a must get! At the end of dinner, there is an open fire and smores bar for you to enjoy and wind down, so I do recommend indulging. Please please be sure to get a reservation a couple of weeks in advance though because they are busy! You will not be disappointed. read more

See all

We ate here the very first night of our stay at the Dancing Bear resort. I thought everything was delicious. We had the salmon and shared the dip. We also had the cornbread pea salad, which was also very good. The meals come with cornbread. The drinks were great. They had specialty cocktails and would make anything we wanted. The service was good too. We sat inside, but I think it would be fun to be outside. We came with friends who are vegetarian and they didn't feel like they were very many options for them, although they did have the vegetarian pasta. Many of the sauces and dressings have bacon in them, so our friends couldn't order that. read more

Amazing place to eat. The food is excellent . As is the service. The meal was one of the best we have ever had. Wonderful ambiance.. We were celebrating my birthday. It was a great meal!!! read more

Top notch experience from start to finish. Didn't love one of our apps (peppers), but overall a 5 star adventure. Service was beyond an atmosphere is 5+ stars. read more

See all

The food was soo delicious! Bananas foster espresso martini was the best I've had! Staff was incredibly kind and helpful we drove a long way to eat outside and they made space for us even though they were full outside. The vibe inside and out was cozy yet elevated. A must go!!! read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee

See all

Where do I even begin....this bistro exceeded expectations in all areas. We had a reservation but arrived a little early and started at the bar. Their seasonal cocktail list was very enticing and left me wanting to try several. I started with the ginger bear and it was delicious. We really enjoyed talking to the bartender, who crafted the best margarita I may have had to date. His service and expertise was much appreciated. After being seated, we started with the potato crab soup and Caesar salad....yum!! I wish I could have that soup right now. They served cornbread with shipped butter, this was nice to have. The entrees we ordered were the pork chop, chicken and meatballs, and kids pasta. They were so flavorful and delicious. Following dinner we were invited to enjoy the fire and s'more station. This was such a wonderful way to end the evening and so much fun for our daughter. The ambiance of this whole property was extremely well thought out from the drive up to the lights and cozy vibe. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves. If we ever return to the area this will be a must. read more

See all

The restaurant is tucked away from the main road and well shaded on a sunny day. We sat outside which I was initially unsure about because of the heat but it was plenty comfortable and beautiful. My Wife and I celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary and server Scott hooked us up with a complimentary champagne toast. He had command of the menu and his tables. My wife has food allergy's and he made sure everything was good to enjoy. He made us feel comfortable and every bite we had was an incredible experience! Highly recommend this place. Don't be scared off by the menu and descriptions of foods you've never tried, (trust the bite) this chef is legit! read more

Dancing Bear lodge was amazing. The Bistro was very nice. Very friendly staff and delicious farm to table food. The lodge and stores are all fantastic. Would recommend to anyone. Super friendly staff. Stayed at the lodge for Bronco off Rodeo! Can't wait to go back! read more

Found this place after enjoying a 6 mile hike... I was hungry. There was a wedding party when I arrived, the host tried to squeeze in a reservation for us but they were booked solid. Luckily, their bar also offered full service dining and an great assortment of alcohol. The pork chop was really good, in taste and size. Cooked to a perfect medium with a nice crust and moist center. The persimmon cheesecake seemed good in theory but the flavors just didn't do it for me. I like persimmons and cheesecake but the combination tastes like neither. It actually tastes like a pumpkin cheesecake. read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - Persimmon cheesecake - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee

See all

My sister and I took our mom here for dinner for her birthday and it exceeded our expectations. When we arrived we were seated right away and the staff offered to take our picture for us. There was a post card on the table that had a happy birthday note For my mom. Our server was Monahan and he was awesome. Very friendly and attentive. We got the lobster and parsnip soup, green goddess salad, filet mignon, pork chop, pork belly and chicken and ricotta gnocchi. All sooo good! At the end of the night we went outside by the fire pit and made s'mores. The only thing I'd change would be the temperature in the restaurant, it was pretty warm inside. read more

See all

Best meal of the whole trip. A little on the high end pricing side but totally worth every penny. From the drinks, dinner and dessert. Not pictured but consumed (almost licking the plate) was the doughnut bread pudding. A friend ordered the sweet tea pork rib and he said it was the best he has ever had. Even the kids in the party enjoyed their food. Bacon and crab soup was rated great. We managed to snag a reservation but I recommend making it early. They have lodging on site but we did not stay there. It was a fluke find but the best experience. It is a casual dress code even though it's a fancy environment which is great for travelers who hadn't expected to find this gem! Come comfy and leave full. Staff was super kind and attentive as well. read more

See all

Beautiful spot for an evening out with friends. Interior is spectacular, service is great and it's one of the best places in all of Townsend for quality food choices and an overall great dining experience. read more

Unfortunately had a disappointing experience at this restaurant while on vacation in the Smokies. The lodge is charming, but the service was both lackluster and presumptuous. The foccacia with butter starter was unremarkable, and my main course of mushroom pasta featured an udon type noodle that seemed out of sync with the rest of the dish, which was underseasoned. BF enjoyed his pork chop, at least, but when I tried the compote underneath it the flavor was bitter (a nice mashed potato would have been way better). As a dessert fan, I was totally underwhelmed by the dessert choices and unpleasantly surprised to see that there was not even one pie option. Thus, I didn't even order dessert, which is as rare for me as Tennessee snow in June. Overall, it seemed to me that this restaurant is not representative of down home Appalachian cookery, contrary to what its name implies. For such a locally hyped and high price point spot, I expected way more in terms of quality, flavor and service but unfortunately the Dancing Bear just didn't deliver. read more

The best meal I've had this year. I really don't know what to expect from the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro in Townsend, TN. Six of us visited for dinner on a Thursday in November. We had a reservation and the friendly staff seated us quickly at a really nice table in a corner nook. It was away from the bar and it was quiet, so we could easily talk. Everyone loved their pre-meal beverages. I had the "Man in Black" cocktail. It was a smooth bourbon forward cocktail with one large ice cube that arrived smoked under a glass dome. It was delicious. I started with the "Creole Mussels" as my appetizer. It was a large portion of mussels in a delicious creamy sauce with onions, peppers, and homemade Tasso ham chunks. It also included a large piece of grilled homemade focaccia bread that managed to soak up the delicious sauce without getting soggy or limp. The entire dish was wonderful and it completely exceeded my expectations. I had the "Sweet Tea Brined Pork Chop" for dinner. I can honestly say it was the tastiest pork chop I have ever eaten. It was juicy and perfectly cooked. It was served with perfectly charred baby carrots and green beans. But, what really made this dish, and the entire restaurant so special, were the amazing sauces. The pork chop arrived on top of two fantastic sauces; a "Red-Eye Gravy Reduction" and a "Fermented Red Pepper Emulsion". Both were delicious. The chop was topped with a "Green Tomato & Jalapeño Jam" which perfectly complimented the meat. The care and thought put into these amazing homemade sauces really made the meal special. Others in my dinner party raved about the "Butternut Squash and Apple Soup" and they loved the "Black & Blue Beef Tips." We shared three delicious desserts. The seasonal cobbler with apples and cranberries was voted the favorite with the bread pudding a close second. I ordered a decaf coffee to go with dessert, and a French press quickly arrived at the table. I drank half with dessert and then I took the final cup outside to enjoy around the fire pit while we made delicious complementary s'mores. Such a nice touch. The meal was perfect. This is a restaurant you should not miss. I highly recommend the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro. read more

See all

As Townsend residents (year round), and retired from 50 years in the food industry, we love this place. Been there 6 times and it never disappoints. It's our go to special event restaurant. The food is very good, the service is top notch, and the ambiance is amazing. This place is a hidden jewel in the Smokies. We love it! read more

The Appalachian board was INCREDIBLE. I would recommend to any first timer. It's honestly something I would come back for again and again. The house sausage made to perfection, the benne seed bacon was like something I've NEVER had before, and the pickled shrimp with the comeback sauce was INSANE. Coming from someone that doesn't like cold shrimp, it was out of the water. Literally. The waygu burger was delicious and cooked perfect, although sweet due to the jam, something to keep in mind! Fries were yummy and cooked to perfection as well. Lastly, the filet mignon. Words can't describe how much I enjoyed this meal. It's been a long time since I've walked out absolutely pleased. The port-reduction was sweet and a perfect dipper, the steak was so tender and the béarnaise sauce on top takes it to the next level! Pickled veggies, braised onion, and yummy tender Yukon potatoes. You really can't get any better than this plate right here in my opinion! Aside from the food, our sever was so kind, helpful, and very welcoming. We wish we would have got his name, he sure did elevate the experience overall and I hope to see him again! Our food came quick and we were even offered a tour of our charcuterie board!! we WILL be back!!!! read more

See all

Such a neat, cozy place. We had Sunday brunch on a cold and dreary day. The lit fireplace added charm and ambiance to the restaurant. The self-serve brunch (set up in an adjoining room) featured fresh fruit/yogurt/granola, salad, smoked salmon, roast beef, shrimp/grits, egg frittata, bacon, roasted vegetables, roasted potatoes, and yummy vanilla bread pudding. Everything was flavorful and hot. Our server was delightful and took care of our drink refills and promptly removed our used plates. Reservations recommended. read more

See all

The ambience as you arrive is pure Tennessee hospitality! Warm and beautiful! Our amazing server MICHELLE was helpful, knowledgeable and super efficient. Our other experience with KELLY HARRIS' at the venue was unmatched by any culinary and guest services that one could imagine. We are grateful for the entire evening. Oh- the food! Off the charts pork chop - super scallops & squash as well as the 3 dips! The craft cocktails were perfect and the wine selections as well. We were honored to be there and can't wait to return! A very SPECIAL place indeed. read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - Six crazy good friends reunite for the Trentham - Whitlock wedding weekend! - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee

See all

This place is great Great food Great atmosphere Not very good beer options ( no bud light, ) but house drinks were very good Will def repeat next time we are in the area read more

See all

If you love Farm to Table Appalachian cuisine in a gorgeous rustic environment, you MUST go to Dancing Bear! I've enjoyed DB twice before (both quality experiences) but the last was two years ago and you never know what might have changed in that amount of time. Well, it's as good as ever and I wont wait as long to return. The outdoor setting is idyllic - nestled back in the woods - warm, wood, gorgeous rustic environment. When you step inside, it continues to impress: soft warm lighting and inviting ambiance. From the first engagement with the check in to the server to our exit, service was top notch - just the right amount of engagement without gushing over us. They had a nice variety of specialty cocktails and extensive wine list. The fried green tomato appetizer was good but the superstar was the hoppin john with crispy pork belly. Our forks dueled for the remaining pieces of pork and all the juice was slurped up. So Tasty! Our entrees were halibut, trout with shrimp and grits, and chicken gnocchi and meatball. We all tried each others plates and were happy 100% across the board. I added a bowl of the crab bisque - more of a broth than a chowder with excellent nuanced flavors. I could go on here...but just urge you to dine at the Dancing Bear. For the quality of the meal and experience I found it to a value - not inexpensive but we def got a great meal for what we paid. read more

This is currently my favorite restaurant. It is a very high-quality farm to table restaurant located in the woods in Townsend TN. The service - the people want to be there and it shows with the knowledge and enthusiasm that shine through. The servers and hostesses know the menu and the sources of the food. The ambience is perfect whether inside, outside, or in the breezeway. Dinner on a spring nights in the breezeway is about 2 hours of heaven. Quiet Appalachian takes on popular and traditional music enhance the overall feel. Then we have the food. Holy moly. Our first trip was on Sunday and the option was brunch. Everything from the fresh field greens salad with firm raspberries and sweet blueberries along with toasted coconut and a delicate honey mustard vinaigrette to the grits that tasted like cornbread (how???!), it was sublime. At a little under $40, the quality was worth every penny. The second trip was dinner. I cannot recommend the charcuterie board enough. Get that and wine and call it day, if you like. It's that good. However, we did have the pork chop and the filet. Both were perfectly prepared. Dessert was chocolate sorbet for my husband and lemon lavender crème brûlée. The truest example of the attention to detail was when I ordered a cup of decaf. It came in a French press! With cream! And they had turbinado sugar (requested it). It was the best coffees I have had in ages. You cannot go wrong at this near-perfect restaurant. And I did not even talk about the extensive bourbon, scotch, and wine menus. read more

See all

Enjoyed sitting at the small bar before dinner. Had a version of an old fashioned that was presented smoked, don't recall the name, but it was tasty. Shared the crispy fried gulf oysters. Pile of crunchy goodness in a bowl with a good dipping sauce. Something we'd most likely order on every visit. We also shared a charred caesar salad. Separated on two plates, it was a pretty small salad. I personally didn't care for the charred romaine, but the other flavors on the plate certainly compensated. I'd been looking forward to trying the trout and grits, and was a little disappointed. The trout was more dry cornmeal crusted than fried or sauteed. The shrimp tails were left on, and though that's common for presentation, the shrimp were small and it made enjoying them more difficult. The star of the plate was actually the preserved tomatoes; they were a blast of flavor and redeemed the dish. The wife got the sweet tea brined pork chop, and it was excellent, would have been a better choice than the trout. The marinade really shined through, and the chop itself was big and nicely cooked. Though it has some weaknesses, the bistro is clearly the best restaurant in Townsend, and a must stop if you're staying in or near the lodge. read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee

See all

This restaurant is a good as the finest farm-to-table restaurants in Los Angeles. Unbelievable to find such a sophisticated menu in a small town in the middle of a forest. The crab and corn chowder was amazing. The beef was some of the best I've ever had. read more

One of the greatest meals I've ever had in my life. Highly recommend the whiskey, charcuterie board, filet mignon and pork chop...delicious! Service was top notch, hospitable and genuine. Ambiance was soothing and inviting for all. read more

Always an amazing experience eating at the Appalachian Bistro. Our waitress, Zoe, is the best - attentive and kind! We've enjoyed the bear-fay several times - so many delicious appalachian breakfast options! Dinner is an incredible experience as well - from the beautiful ambience to the delicious options. I recommend the trout and grits! It's a MUST eat when in Townsend! read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee

Ohhh wow this place was AMAZING. Came here for Thanksgiving 2025 and they had the most amazing Buffet for dinner. Outside there was a fire pit with S'mores and Coffee/Hot Chocolate. 100% would recommend read more

We came here twice for dinner so got to try a lot of their menu. Overall, food is very good, though some much better than others, especially the vegetables!! Service is good, but can be a bit slow. Love the outdoor dining option - great ambiance. For starters, highly recommend the Crispy Glazed Pork Belly and the Smoked Trout Cakes! I didn't know I wanted trout in my diet till now! The Poached Pear Salad was also very good; Their veggies just taste different somehow - SO much tastier. The Appalachian Lunchables and Cheese Board were also good, but not really my kind of food. For entree, highly recommend the Crispy Duck Confit. It was incredibly tender and comparable to that of NYC's high-end French restaurants. The Truffled Filet Mignon didn't do much for me. I thought it was overcooked and void of any taste of truffle. My companions who got the Appalachian Bouillabaisse said it was really good and had an unexpected but nice kick to it. read more

See all

I knew this place would be good because it was highly reviewed on yelp and our air b n b host recommended it. But I did not expect to be blown away by our server Justin who made this an unforgettable experience. He straight up elevated the level of service one can get at a place like this. You should have heard him describe menu items with such passion and enthusiasm-it made all of us at the table captivated by all the options. I ended up getting the goddess salad and filet. Probably the best steak I have had in last two years. I mean lights out. At the end of our meal another friendly server came by (Sissy?) and said hi to some of our group that she recognized from last year. She recommended we go out back for the s'mores by the fire. The outside is beautiful, there even was a wedding here before our dinner began. The friends we were with had dinner here three nights in a row and you can see why! read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - The picture does not capture the flavor symphony in my mouth - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee

See all

VERY DISAPPOINTED. My wife had made special arrangements a month in advance to guarantee a romantic evening here as we travel and visit Tennesse. Dancing Bear reviews led us to that we would not be disappointe. WRONG. We prepared our selves for days leading up to this special dining experience to not only celebrate a birthday, but possible retirement locations. We dressed up business casual as not to go over the top knowing it was situated in a camping community. The drive in was spectaculat. Once there our anticipation grew more so for a wonderful evening which quickly dissolved when led into a hallway like room with a large family in shorts and teeshirts playing board games. We immediately asked if we could be seated outside and was told they were short staffed. We tried to push pass our surroundings but couldn't. We then asked if we could be moved inside as they had plenty of open seating. Again, we were told no. Those were reserved for other parties. We then made the decision that if we were spending $200 on a romantic evening, we shouldn't compromise on how we were feeling. Clearly, the staff wasn't picking up that we were t happy so we came right out as said it as clear as day. All we go was WE ARE SORRY, as we saw other parties dress similarly to us be lead to much more suitable tables. I would NOT recommend this place unless you were looking for very expensive farm to table food in a place that feels more like a back yard bbq with families playing games. read more

We ate here twice during our visit to Townsend. It was that good. Each dish was unique and so well prepared. The service is impeccable but low keyed. They have a variety of dining spaces, inside and out, all lovely. Highly recommend the pork belly and shrimp and grits. Also the veal piccata and pasta was out of this world. read more

Took my adult son to this Bistro for his Birthday dinner. He said it was one of his most favorite meals EVER, I agree. We began our evening in the bar, he celebrated large with a Pappy Van Winkle, we commenced to our table and were treated to an exquisite, friendly, professionally attended dining experience we thoroughly enjoyed. We are new transplants to Tennessee, and will make the Dancing Bear a bistro we will frequent. And, as a matter-of-fact my daughter is flying in this week and this is the first must visit that came to mind. Hope you enjoy as much as we do. Bon appetite! read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - An awesome garnished cocktail - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee

Beautiful spot up in the woods with Amazing food and drinks! Fire pits in the evening and the fall leaves make it gorgeous!

The service was amazing! Our server was very attentive and readily explained the menu to us as first-time diners. I ordered the Appalachian bouillabaisse and it was fantastic!! It came with fresh baked focaccia bread, and they served it in a mini Dutch oven, which added a great rustic feeling to the meal. read more

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro - Appalachian Bouillabaisse - New American Near Me - Townsend, Tennessee