Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro

Braquel Whetsell

2024-05

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Brennan Schram

2024-01

To say this was a rare treat would be an understatement.Our original dinner plans fell through, and we arrived here without a reservation, on a table of 8. Even though they were busy, they still went out of their way to make accommodations for us. This was just the start of everything you would anticipate or expect from the greatest southern hospitality Tennessee has to offer.From the hostess station, to our waiter and the kitchen staff, everything exceeded our expectations. Jack (our waiter) was perfect. He was attentive, accommodating, friendly and very personable. This is a dining experience, not just dinner.All of the food we had here was top-notch. We tried several of the dishes on the menu, from land and sea, everything came out wonderfully.Personally, I think their trout is by far their best offering. The trout cakes and Trout with Grits presented the most distinguished flavor profile and even appeased the pickiest eater. Keep in mind, this does not undermine the scallops, pasta or filet; These were also amazing, and exactly what you would expect from here.Highest complements to the chef and his/her staff. I would highly recommend to make reservations and at least experience this venue for any occasion, not just the specials ones.Vegetarian options: They offer staple vegetarian options, however, the kitchen and staff will accommodate for special dietary needs or wants.Dietary restrictions: They ask first thing about dietary or special provisions and go out of their way to accommodate and make sure everyone is happy and fulfilled.Kid-friendliness: We brought in 3 children, they all left very happy and full.

Lisa Vaccaro

2024-04

We were told by locals that this was a “can’t miss” dinner spot. We had a group of 6, seated promptly at our reservation time (would highly recommend making reservations), had cocktails and they have a sommelier onsite for wine recommendations. All of the food was incredible and our friends raved about the duck stating it was the best they’ve had in their life. Even those who don’t typically care for duck loved it. All of the food was delicious and a great night with friends

MCD

2024-04

It’s not perfect and no dishes changed my life (as suggested by the waiter LOL) but it’s by far the best restaurant in the Knoxville area that I’ve eaten at. Unfortunately, it’s hard to „blow my mind” ;) And it’s really cute decor and they have very good service. The drinks and appetizers were super nice, but they don’t season their beef dishes enough. More salt would have elevated all the flavors that they’re playing around. Their filet mignon was underseaoned for me but I guess this is because Tennessee doesn’t know how to season beef. Also, in a fine dining place like this they should have an espresso machine and they should serve cognac in a cognac glass; honestly, I’d gladly buy those for a place like this that clearly has far-reaching aspirations. But overall it was a great experience, the desert was fresh and really well balanced flavor-wise, and I want to come back to try out some more dishes! They know how to balance sweet and sour and they’re not overly expensive for the quality of the experience.

Alex Webb

2024-01

My family is from Townsend, but we had never tried dancing bear. We had heard great things so we finally went and were blown away. Everything from our drinks to our food was outstanding. We had the filet, pork chops and chicken and we were impressed by each of them. We also loved the scallops and cheese board. The atmosphere is really nice and unpretentious. The fire outside with a s’mores station is a also a great touch. We will be coming back!Vegetarian options: Vegetable pasta

Marissa Trego

2023-11

My husband and I eloped in Tennessee with our family and decided to use The Dancing Bear Bistro for our intimate dinner following the ceremony. We were giving recommendations through our elopement package and we were so glad we chose the dancing bear! We worked with Nicole for months in advance and we were blown away with every aspect of this place! She did an absolutely beautiful job of setting everything up and making our ideas come to life. The atmosphere of this restaurant is warm and inviting and was just what we wanted for our special day! The food was incredible and everyone in our party raved about it! The service was top notch as well! We had the sweetest server, she did an amazing job for our party! There is nothing bad to say about this place and I would definitely come back when visiting Tennessee again!!

Julie D

2024-01

My husband and mother asked me where I wanted to go for my birthday dinner which is on Christmas Eve and for the 2nd year in a row I said “Dancing Bear” I thought last year was amazing the service was top notch and the food was excellent and I loved the low lighting romantic cabin ambiance. This year topped last year and might be really tough to top next year; the food in my opinion could be Michelin star, and the servers and bartenders truly made it an whole experience and we appreciated that. Our server was Jack and my mom absolutely loved talking to him, he was a pleasure to talk to and we all enjoyed his jokes! This has made my list of favorite restaurants, keep it up! I’ll probably see you next year :)

Megan Burge

2024-04

Took a trip to TN from FL for my birthday and found this place tucked into the woods. I can honestly say it was one of the best dining experiences I've had between the service, atmosphere, and food. We sat outside on their covered patio that was beautiful and rustic, and we were able to bring our two dogs. Our server, Courtney, was great with them and made the whole experience memorable. We ordered the oysters appetizer, steak filet, halibut, and flourless dark chocolate polenta cake. We're still talking about it! We would absolutely return here.

Stefanie Johnson

2023-11

We are in town for a family vacation from Florida and came for dinner. Our waiter William was absolutely AMAZING!! He was extremely knowledgeable on the food and wine and was just a pleasure to talk to and made our experience that much better. The food was outstanding and we all agreed it was definitely one of the best meals we’ve ever had!! The filet and duck (in the pictures) were to die for and the bread pudding for dessert was also amazing. We already made reservations for tomorrow which is our last night in town, it was that good!

Chandler Griffith

2024-04

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Jennifer Morrow

2024-01

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Claire Crawford

2024-02

Came here for birthday dinner while visiting from Houston and had such a lovely time. The ambiance on a cold winter evening was incredibly welcoming and cozy. We had phenomenal service from the moment we walked in the door (shout-out to Jack, who provided excellent recommendations and made the evening special) and enjoyed each course immensely. Can't wait to return next time we're in the area.

blue bugs

2023-12

As soon as we walked in, they acted like they were pleased we were there. Everyone was polite and friendly. Not one time did we feel like they were just going through the motions.The ambiance was lodg like with lots of wood and exposed beams. The seating area is small and cozy. So you have to make a reservation in advance, because there is limited seating.The menu was limited, but there was enough variety to satisfy most people.You will either pick a sharable starter or a personal appetizer. Or maybe you will do both. They will then bring you out bread and butter. This isn't a loaf. It's personal sized cubes. Just enough to wet the appetite.I had the sorghum glazed chicken. It was tender, juicy, and delicious. It was what would be called medium rare. If it was any less, I would have been worried. So that shows the chief knows what he is doing.My wife had the red fish. The outside was blacked, yet the inside was tender and juicy. So again, you see the skill of the chief shine through.Dessert was a bread pudding and butterscotch creme brulee. Both were excellent.My only complaint would be street access. There is no lighting in the area to see the entrance clearly. We thought our GPS was trying to turn us into a ditch.Parking: The parking area is limited and shared with cabins in the area. So some are reserved for staying guests. The area isn't well lit and you have to walk to the restaurant. Also, anyone with a wheelchair or walker may find it slightly difficult. There may be other entry points I am unaware of, but I suggest calling ahead.Kid-friendliness: It's quite fine dining with limited options. So the price and lack of simple dishes make this a place smaller children would not enjoy.

Em Ayers

2024-03

Absolutely wonderful atmosphere. Some of the best food both me and my date have ever had. Wonderful service and waitstaff. Coming from rural northeastern Tennessee, it's so cool and exciting to see things like red-eye gravy, grits, and venison on a fine dining menu - we were geeked the whole time. We will definitely be back.Dietary restrictions: Great at accommodating for walnut/pecan/nut allergies

Gary Nale

2024-01

Great place for that special dinner. There is no bad choice here. Everything is delicious. Fireplace inside and a firepit outside with rocking chairs and ingredients to make smores. Mens restroom is all about Peyton and UT, definitely worth a trip...Dietary restrictions: Gluten-free options are available.

Cyndi Splann Smith

2023-11

On a whim we decided to go up to Townsend to look at the leaves. Friends and I were in a conversation. Somebody had mentioned dancing Bear Cafe. So I just used to open table to book a reservation.To our surprise it was an amazing evening. It's a restaurant that's just like eating in the woods. Very beautifully decorated, the handcrafted drinks were amazing. You have to have the sangria! The smoked old fashioned was my husband's choice and he enjoyed it thoroughly. Our server Ian was amazing. He was super knowledgeable and when We had questions about the menu, he answered them with expertise. Our food was so tasty. I had the wagyu smash burger and my husband had the redfish. We were too full for dessert, which we were very sad about. It is worth your time, your money and the drive to try the Dancing Bear Bistro!Oh. The. Fries!!!! I forgot to mention they're amazing fries. I'm pretty sure they're the best french fries I've ever had!

Rebecca Gentry

2023-12

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Candy Johnson

2023-12

Just discovered this gem! I travel the SE US entertaining clients at 5 star restaurants and this place by far is the BEST I've experienced. From location, outdoor experience, service, ambience, food presentation to taste this place tops them all! I've enjoyed Ruth Chris, Marcel, Hells Kitchen and everything in between from NJ to FL and Dancing Bear Bistro beats them ALL!

Nicole Springs

2024-04

My husband and I absolutely ❤️ this place! This was top three of my favorite restaurant experiences... ever. The location is lovely, especially during warmer weather.The fried oysters were as good as you'd find at the beach, except I hadn't eaten them more perfectly cooked. 👌The shrimp and grits with trout, sausage, and crayfish was outstanding! Tastebud explosion. The duck was delicious. The pork belly and the soup were also satisfying.I'd recommend this spot over any restaurant within 100 miles, especially for a special occasion. We can't wait to return!

Meagan Carpenter

2024-02

Beautiful atmosphere, delicious and beautiful food, friendly and knowledgeable staff. Worth the wait, worth the money. But definitely make reservations to make your experience that much better.Dietary restrictions: Our server asked us about any dietary restrictions before our meal, the menu was labeled with notes of all the dietary restrictions.

H. LPN

2023-05

Drove from Cleveland OHIO to stay in the Smokies and this was our second stop after our cabin. I read great things about this place online and it did not disappoint. The ambience, the absolute beauty of the grounds around it even in February was stunning. Our waitress was wonderful and asked about food allergies, and was extremely professional. I only wish I could remember her name but she had short blond hair. We got the cheeseboard with fig jam, which was playful and delicious. The coffee in a French press delivered to your table was outstanding. My husband had a venison and asparagus dinner, and I had the trout with shrimp over grits. Both meals were amazing so much that we were talking about them the next morning at breakfast! the fact that you could go outside and sit by the fire in February and they had the materials there to make actual s’more’s was endearing and charming. We will come back to this place when we are back here. In the meantime, we recommend this place to anybody who is heading this way. Six stars out of five.!

Megan Chasin

2024-04

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Rachel Miller

2023-12

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Karen Simonson

2023-07

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Bob Sledzik

2024-04

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Karen Shepherd

2023-10

I didn't know that it was reservations only for dining. I was able to sit at the bar. The bartender took very good care of me. The Fillet came with truffle sauce and roasted vegetables. It was the most divine food that I have ever eaten. Delicious. Cooked perfection! I wanted to hug myself it was so good! You will not be disappointed here. Reservations are required to dine at a table.

Ellie Wallace

2023-06

I went here for a 50th anniversary celebration and It was such a cool feel and decorated beautifully. It took a bit for the food to come out, but I would have waited 2 hours for that food because it was delicious. The filet melted in my mouth, and the burger was so good with a bit of jam to balance out the salt. I love this place and would definitely come for an anniversary or birthday again.Parking: There was handicap parking, and when it is packed, they get a tram to take people from the lower lot to the entrance.

bit of everything

2024-05

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Ms. M B

2023-08

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Christy Townsend

2023-07

We ended up here on a fluke due to another place being booked up and boy am I glad we did. It was our last night in Townsend and this dinner experience was the cherry on top of our trip. We came with our 2 kids (5.5 and 2.5) and wasn't sure how "kid" friendly it was, but our waitress was awesome with them and they LOVED the mac n cheese.My husband and I had the rainbow trout and it was insane. There were summer veggies and I didn't even know what I was eating, but it didn't even matter. We also started with the shrimp and grits and I highly recommend trying it. It does have a kick, but the flavor is so wonderful, even our son ate it.We got to talk to their wine sommelier that recommended an awesome Oregon Pinot Noir for us since we said how much we loved that region. She nailed it giving us one we haven't had before.To top it off, they put out s'mores makings for their fire outside. Yes, it was hot, but so worth it and having them run around their beautiful property. We brought our wine down by their stage area and pretty much planned the next time we will come visit again.