Duration
45-75 minutes (15 minutes for takeout orders)
Best For
Families with kids looking for casual dining • Pizza lovers wanting authentic wood-fired pies • Groups needing quick meals between attractions
Pro Tip
Take the red route trolley instead of driving - it stops right at the restaurant and saves you from the River Road parking chaos during busy times.
About Big Daddy's Pizzeria
When you're craving authentic wood-fired pizza in Gatlinburg, Big Daddy's Pizzeria delivers a consistently excellent experience that stands out from typical tourist spots. The centerpiece of this family-friendly restaurant is their 550°F brick oven, which creates that perfect combination of crispy crust and subtle char that pizza enthusiasts seek.
What sets Big Daddy's apart is their commitment to freshness - they make all dough in-house and maintain a strict no-freezer policy. The Porkie Pie has earned a devoted following among regulars, while the wood-fired wings (sold by the pound) offer a flavorful alternative to traditional pizza fare.
The casual atmosphere makes it ideal for families, with special meal deals for kids that include drinks and dessert. Prices remain reasonable for the area, with appetizers ranging from $8-13 and most pizzas falling between $15-22. Don't skip dessert - their three-cannoli deal for $13 provides a satisfying sweet finish.
Located on Gatlinburg's trolley red route, Big Daddy's offers convenient access without the downtown parking headaches. However, plan accordingly during peak tourist seasons and weekends, as wait times can stretch significantly. The restaurant's popularity with both locals and visitors speaks to its consistent quality and value.
Pro tip: If you're visiting during high season, consider arriving during off-peak hours (between 2-5 PM) for shorter wait times. The wood-fired oven maintains its 550°F temperature throughout the day, ensuring you'll get the same high-quality pizza regardless of when you visit.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
550°F Wood-Fired Brick Oven
This isn't your typical pizza oven - the extreme heat creates that perfect crispy crust with light charring that makes their pizzas stand out. You can actually watch them work the brick oven from the dining area.
Handmade Fresh Dough
They don't use freezers at all, so every pizza starts with dough made fresh that day. You can definitely taste the difference compared to chain restaurants.
Wood Fire Roasted Wings
These aren't your typical fried wings - they roast them in the same 550°F brick oven as the pizzas. One pound runs $13 and they're honestly some of the best wings we've had in Gatlinburg.
Porkie Pie Specialty Pizza
This seems to be their signature pizza based on reviews, and multiple people specifically recommend it. The wood-fired preparation gives it a unique flavor you won't find elsewhere.
Cannoli Deal
Three cannolis for $13 is honestly a steal, especially since they're made fresh. Many families grab these on the way out as a sweet ending to the meal.
Kids Pizza Package
Kids meals come with the pizza plus a drink and cinnamon dessert, which is great value. The casual atmosphere means parents can actually relax while kids enjoy their food.
Know Before You Go
- Free off-street parking available, but consider the red route trolley during busy times
- Completely casual dress - tourist clothes and walking shoes are perfect
- They accept all major credit cards and offer free Wi-Fi
- Can get warm inside during summer due to the wood-fired oven
- Wheelchair accessible with highchairs available for families
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Big Daddy's Pizzeria
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Big Daddy's Pizzeria?
They're open Sunday through Thursday 11 AM to 9 PM, and Friday-Saturday 11 AM to 10 PM. They close Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and hours might change during holidays.
How much does Big Daddy's Pizzeria cost?
Appetizers range from $8-13 (like their famous wood-fired wings for $13). Pizzas typically run mid-teens to low twenties depending on size and toppings. Kids meals include drink and dessert.
Do I need reservations for Big Daddy's Pizzeria?
No reservations needed - they're walk-in only like most casual Gatlinburg spots. Just show up, though you might wait during peak times on weekends.
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