How long should I spend at Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill?

Plan on 1-2 hours for a typical meal and drinks. If there's live music on Friday or Saturday nights, you might want to stick around longer to enjoy the show.

Is Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill good for kids?

Absolutely - it's very family-friendly with generous portions kids love. They have chicken tenders and other kid favorites, plus the casual atmosphere means you don't have to worry about noise levels.

Is there parking at Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill?

You'll use the general Parkway area parking since it's in the main tourist strip. There's street parking and nearby public lots, but expect to walk a few blocks during busy times.

Can I bring my dog to Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill?

Yes! The outdoor patio is dog-friendly and they even provide water bowls for your pets. Just keep dogs on leashes and be mindful of other diners.

When does Tom & Earl's have live music?

Live music happens on Friday and Saturday nights. The music adds a great atmosphere to the already laid-back vibe, but get there early if you want patio seating during music nights.

Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill

Duration

1-2 hours (longer if staying for live music on weekends)

Best For

Dog owners looking for pet-friendly dining • Families wanting generous portions and kid-friendly atmosphere • Couples seeking live music and craft beer off the beaten path

Pro Tip

Skip the table wait by sitting at the bar - you'll get served faster and can watch the kitchen action. The bartenders are usually the most knowledgeable about beer pairings too.

About Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill

Looking for a break from Gatlinburg's tourist-packed Parkway? Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill delivers authentic local flavor in a laid-back setting just steps from the main strip. Follow the creek-side alley to discover this casual bar & grill where Southern comfort food meets mountain hospitality.

The kitchen specializes in generous portions that won't leave you hungry - their BBQ brisket and signature Hillbilly Philly cheesesteaks have earned a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. Don't skip the creamed corn fritters, a house specialty that perfectly balances crispy exterior with creamy center. Vegetarian and gluten-free options ensure everyone in your group can find something satisfying.

The dog-friendly patio stands out as one of Gatlinburg's best spots for outdoor dining, complete with water bowls for four-legged guests. Inside, catch the game on multiple TVs while enjoying local craft beers and classic cocktails. Live music fills the space on Friday and Saturday nights, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels worlds away from the tourist bustle.

While the restaurant occasionally operates with a smaller staff (meaning your server might also be mixing drinks), the food quality remains consistently good. The relaxed vibe makes it an ideal spot to unwind after exploring the Smokies or shopping downtown. Portions are shareable, making this a smart choice for families or groups looking to sample multiple dishes.

Pro tip: If you're visiting during peak season, consider arriving before 6 PM to avoid the dinner rush. The creek-side location offers a peaceful backdrop for both lunch and dinner, especially if you can snag a patio table.

Last updated: February 21, 2026 • Based on 2,916 reviews

Amenities & Features

Burgers cooked to proper temperature (medium rare/medium) with excellent executionStandout menu items including pulled pork street tacos, brisket, Hillbilly Philly, and homemade potato saladDog-friendly outdoor seating perfect for dining with petsOff-the-strip location with authentic local pub atmosphere and live entertainment

Don't Miss

Hillbilly Philly Cheesesteak

This massive sandwich is their signature dish for good reason. The portions are generous enough to share, and the flavors hit that perfect comfort food spot. We always order this when bringing first-time visitors.

Dog-Friendly Patio

One of the few spots in Gatlinburg where your furry family members are truly welcome. They provide water bowls and the staff genuinely loves meeting the dogs. Our golden retriever has his own favorite spot here.

Creamed Corn Fritters

These crispy, golden fritters are addictive in the best way. They're a Southern comfort food twist that we haven't found anywhere else in town. Fair warning: order extra because everyone at the table will want some.

Live Music Weekends

Friday and Saturday nights bring local musicians who create the perfect laid-back atmosphere. The music isn't overwhelming, so you can still have conversations while enjoying the vibe.

Oversized Wings

These aren't your typical bar wings - they're actually massive and come with creative sauce options. The portions are so generous that an appetizer order can easily feed two people.

Hidden Location

The creek-side alley entrance makes this feel like a local secret, even though it's right in the tourist area. It's a nice break from the crowded Parkway atmosphere while still being convenient to everything.

Know Before You Go

Enter through the creek-side alley behind the main Parkway - look for the signs near Ole Smoky Whiskey
Bring a leash if you're planning to dine on the patio with your dog
They accept cards and cash, no reservations needed
The patio is great in mild weather, but indoor seating has AC for hot summer days
Restaurant is wheelchair accessible with ground-level entry

Opening Hours

Monday11 AM to 10 PM

Tuesday11 AM to 10 PM

Wednesday11 AM to 10 PM

Thursday11 AM to 10 PM

Friday11 AM to 10 PM

Saturday11 AM to 10 PM

Sunday11 AM to 10 PM

Best Times to Visit Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill

Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend afternoons

☀️Relaxed

Weekday mornings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill?

They're open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, seven days a week. We've found they're pretty consistent with these hours, even during busy tourist seasons.

How much does Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill cost?

It's mid-range pricing - expect to spend around $15-25 per person for entrees. All sandwiches and wraps come with two regular sides, which makes it a solid value for the portion sizes.

Do I need reservations for Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill?

No reservations needed, but there can be waits during peak dinner hours. We recommend sitting at the bar if you want to skip the wait entirely.