How long should I spend at J Arthur's Restaurant?

Plan on 1.5-2 hours for a full dinner experience including appetizers, entrées, and desserts. The service is attentive but they don't rush you through your meal.

Is J Arthur's Restaurant good for kids?

Absolutely - they have a dedicated kid's corner with toys and coloring books to keep little ones entertained. The casual atmosphere and generous portions make it great for families with children of all ages.

Is there parking at J Arthur's Restaurant?

Yes, they have on-site parking available. You shouldn't have trouble finding a spot even during busy dinner hours.

When is prime rib available at J Arthur's?

Their famous slow-roasted prime rib is only available Friday and Saturday nights. It's what they're known for, so definitely try to visit on a weekend if that's what you're craving.

What desserts should I try at J Arthur's?

The homemade cheesecakes are incredible, especially the Bailey's Cheesecake. The Mud Pie and Turtle Pie are also huge hits - honestly, one dessert easily feeds two people.

J Arthur's Restaurant

Duration

1.5-2 hours (longer if you're savoring multiple courses and dessert)

Best For

Families with kids looking for generous portions • Couples celebrating special occasions • Prime rib enthusiasts visiting on weekends

Pro Tip

Order the Gorgonzola dressing upgrade for $1.75 - it's their signature and transforms any salad into something special.

About J Arthur's Restaurant

J Arthur's Restaurant stands as a cornerstone of Maggie Valley dining, serving exceptional steaks and prime rib since 1986. This fourth-generation family establishment combines mountain charm with serious culinary expertise, particularly evident in their signature slow-roasted prime rib served Friday and Saturday nights.

The restaurant's lofted dining area creates distinct spaces for both intimate dinners and larger family gatherings. Parents especially appreciate the thoughtful kids' corner, complete with toys and coloring books that keep little ones entertained during the wait. The warm, wood-paneled interior reflects the casual mountain atmosphere while maintaining an elevated dining experience.

Portions here are notably generous - the prime rib often extends beyond the plate's edges, and their legendary Gorgonzola cheese salad could easily serve as a meal itself. House-made cheesecakes deserve their reputation as some of the valley's finest desserts. Smart diners plan for leftovers, which many consider even better the next day.

The hospitality at J Arthur's Restaurant genuinely sets it apart. The staff treats first-time visitors like returning friends, offering informed suggestions and accommodating special requests with grace. This approach to service, combined with consistently excellent food, explains why travel experts frequently recommend it to Maggie Valley visitors.

Make reservations well in advance, particularly for weekend dinner service. Peak hours can see extended wait times, even with a reservation. While prices reflect the quality of the prime rib and steaks served, the generous portions and exceptional service provide solid value for a special dinner out in Maggie Valley.

Last updated: February 20, 2026 • Based on 1,577 reviews

Amenities & Features

Standout steaks when properly prepared—the filet and prime rib receive particular acclaimFrench onion soup and pecan bourbon chicken earn enthusiastic recommendationsGenerous portions on select items, including notably large mozzarella sticksBeautiful, homey atmosphere with festive decorations that enhance the dining experience

Don't Miss

Weekend Prime Rib

Their slow-roasted prime rib on Friday and Saturday nights is what people drive hours for. It's been their signature since 1986 and honestly lives up to all the hype.

Gorgonzola Cheese Salad

This signature salad with their special Gorgonzola dressing is worth the $1.75 upgrade. We've never had anything quite like it anywhere else in the Smokies.

Homemade Cheesecakes

The Bailey's Cheesecake is legendary, but honestly all their homemade desserts are huge and delicious. One slice easily feeds two people.

Kid's Corner

They've set up a dedicated area with toys and coloring books to keep kids entertained while you wait. It's these little touches that make this place special for families.

Family Hospitality

Four generations of the same family have been running this place since 1986. You can feel the difference in how they treat every guest like family.

NC Rainbow Trout

Their fresh rainbow trout is perfectly cooked and showcases local North Carolina flavors. It's a lighter option that's just as impressive as their steaks.

Know Before You Go

Arrive right at 4 PM opening to avoid weekend dinner rush
Bring your appetite - portions are massive and you'll likely need takeout containers
They accept all major credit cards including AmEx, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa
Casual dress code - no need to dress up for this family steakhouse
Call ahead for reservations, especially if you want weekend prime rib

Opening Hours

MondayClosed

TuesdayClosed

Wednesday4 to 8 PM

Thursday4 to 8 PM

Friday4 to 9 PM

Saturday4 to 9 PM

Sunday4 to 8 PM

Best Times to Visit J Arthur's Restaurant

For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.

🔥Buzzing

Fridays & Saturdays 6PM - 9PM

☀️Relaxed

Weekday lunches 11AM - 2PM

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for J Arthur's Restaurant?

They're open Tuesday-Thursday 4:00-8:00 PM, Friday-Saturday 4:00-9:00 PM, and Sunday 4:00-8:00 PM. They're closed Mondays except they do open Thanksgiving Day from 12-5 PM.

How much does J Arthur's Restaurant cost?

Appetizers run $9.50-$11.99, entrées are $15.99-$20.99+, and you can expect to spend around $78 for two people including salads, wine, entrées, and desserts. The portions are huge so you're getting great value.

Do I need reservations for J Arthur's Restaurant?

Yes, definitely call ahead especially for Friday and Saturday nights when they serve their famous prime rib. Weekend dinner hours get packed and you don't want to wait around hungry.