Dick's Last Resort - Gatlinburg
restaurantTaste - Breakfast & Brunch

Dick's Last Resort: Gatlinburg's Playful Dining Experience

starstarstarstar 4.1 (4,667 reviews)
location_onGatlinburg schedule11 AM - 11 PM timer1-1.5 hours
Family Fun

About

Dick's Last Resort is a restaurant in Gatlinburg known for its intentionally irreverent and playful approach to dining. Guests can expect American-style comfort food served with a side of sarcasm and humor from the staff. The experience is as much about the entertainment as the food, making it a memorable stop for visitors seeking something different. The atmosphere encourages lively interaction and laughter, perfect for groups and families alike.

The concept behind Dick's Last Resort originated in Dallas in the 1980s, with the Gatlinburg location bringing this unusual dining style to the Smoky Mountains. The restaurant embraces a culture of fun and lighthearted insult, flipping the traditional idea of polite service on its head. This approach ties into a broader trend of experiential dining where guests are as much part of the show as the food on their plates. It adds a unique cultural twist to the Gatlinburg restaurant scene, which is otherwise full of classic mountain fare and family-friendly eateries.

Visitors to Dick's Last Resort can expect to be greeted with a mix of sarcasm and playful jabs from the waitstaff, who wear oversized hats and intentionally bad attitudes. The menu features familiar American dishes like burgers, ribs, and seafood, all served with generous portions. Many first-timers find themselves laughing along as the staff craft humorous insults tailored to the table. Reservations are recommended during busy seasons, but drop-ins are often welcomed with a smile and a teasing remark.

Did You Know

  • Dick's Last Resort was founded in 1985 in Dallas, Texas (Dick's Last Resort official website).
  • The Gatlinburg location opened in the early 2000s, becoming a staple of the local dining scene (Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce).
  • Waitstaff wear hand-decorated bucket hats as part of the restaurant's signature look (Travel + Leisure).
  • The restaurant's purposely rude service is designed to entertain, not offend (USA Today).
  • Dick's Last Resort has locations across the U.S., but the Gatlinburg spot is the only one in the Smokies (Restaurant Insider).
National Chain Dinner Family-Friendly $-$$
location_on
Address
903 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
phone
Phone
(865) 325-8191
schedule
Hours
11 AM - 11 PM
timer
Typical Visit
1-1.5 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dick's Last Resort family-friendly despite the rude service?

Yes, the insults are all in good fun and designed to entertain. Families with older children often enjoy the experience, but it may not be suitable for very young kids.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations are recommended during peak tourist seasons and weekends, but walk-ins are often accommodated depending on availability.

What type of food does Dick's Last Resort serve?

The menu features American comfort food including burgers, ribs, seafood, and salads, generally served in generous portions.

Is there outdoor seating available?

The Gatlinburg location primarily offers indoor seating. Outdoor seating options are limited or unavailable.

Can the staff accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, the kitchen can accommodate common dietary needs if notified in advance. It’s best to mention any restrictions upon arrival.

Take Home a Piece of Dick's Last Resort

Branded Locale sticker set arriving soon. Use the heritage benchmark and the editorial portrait on your water bottle, laptop, or Instagram story.