Local Goat

The hot-ticket, cutting-edge restaurant in Pigeon Forge, Local Goat bubbles over with high spirits. Literally, there’s a lot to drink here: a long roster of local beers and imports, a full bar with craft cocktails, even flights of different-flavored Jell-O shots. But the good cheer isn’t only alcoholic. Customers are happy to be in this place because it’s stylish, modern, and adult.

Not that it takes itself too seriously. No, indeed. In fact, the menu is a playful one, featuring such fun items as an Elvis burger (with peanut butter cream, bacon, and fried bananas), “Bhaahhby back ribs,” and, at dessert, a bourbon-maple-praline-pecan sundae presented in a Mason jar.

The burgers themselves are very good — quality beef, accompanied by crisp, thinly cut French fries. I especially like the Tennessee Whiskey Glazed Burger, which includes smoked bacon, crisp onions, and garlic aioli.

Local Goat’s please-all repertoire includes jumbo wings and other such pub fare as well as well-rounded meals featuring steaks, pork chops, shrimp & grits, and a few grilled fish.

Decor is pubby, with a homespun twist in the form of local artists’ work on the walls. The bar area features big TVs for watching sports events.