Janice's Diner

Tucked away in the quiet mountain community of Cosby, Janice's Diner captures the authentic spirit of Smoky Mountain cooking without the tourist-town markup. This cash-only establishment has earned a devoted following for its generous portions of Southern comfort food at remarkably reasonable prices.

Breakfast draws the biggest crowds, and for good reason. The kitchen turns out perfectly fluffy omelets, crispy hash browns, and scratch-made biscuits that locals swear by. Just remember that breakfast service ends promptly at 10:30 AM – arrive early to avoid disappointment.

The lunch menu features daily specials like homestyle meatloaf and chicken & dumplings, typically priced between $7-8 including sides. Families appreciate being able to enjoy a complete meal with dessert for under $30, making it one of the area's best values compared to tourist-district restaurants.

Save room for dessert – the homemade cakes and pies are a highlight, though they tend to sell out quickly, especially on weekends. The selection changes daily based on what's fresh from the kitchen.

While it's located about 25 minutes from Gatlinburg's main tourist area, the scenic drive through Cosby adds to the experience. You'll find straightforward, satisfying mountain cooking served with genuine small-town hospitality. The dining room is simple but clean, and the service maintains that personal touch that's increasingly hard to find.

For visitors seeking authentic local flavor without inflated tourist prices, Janice's Diner delivers exactly what you want from a small-town Southern diner – good food, generous portions, and honest value.