Cherokee Grill - Gatlinburg, TN (Still Our Favorite Gatlinburg Steakhouse??)

[@KathyWalters-ol8mh]

Always appreciate your reviews. This one gives us "pause" about going to Cherokee Grill for sure. Oh dear! Thanks for sharing this.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

It's our job to outline everything, both the positive and the negative. I can pretty much guarantee you that you will get a good meal if you go there.

[@timdupre969]

I don't usually comment very often, but after seeing this video, I guess I just have to add my opinion. Please do not allow negative comments ever stop posting your content. My wife and I go to the Smokies almost every year. We spent our honeymoon there 41 years ago, and it is my wife's favorite place on earth next to our home in south Louisiana . Although we have never eaten at Cherokee grill, we always go to Calhouns steakhouse right next door and I believe they are owned by same people. My wife always orders the Ale steak, her favorite and never has she been disappointed. Anyhow, we really appreciate honest reviews given by you and some other youtubers that we subscribe to. Since it takes about 11 hours to go to our favorite destination, I enjoy knowing honestly where the best places to eat with fare prices, good food, and safe and enjoyable atmosphere for us to relax on our special occasion. Also, the new parking policy really has me also confused . Two years ago I parked over the 3 or 4 hours by mistake and had to pay the parking. It was my mistake and my wife and I just laughed it off. But it was not always as confusing as it is seems to be now. I rewound the video a couple of times and still don't really understand the policy. Also, i was subscribed to one channel where everywhere they ate was great. I unsubscribed because they gave me no real value in their content. I feel very confident that your content is honest and has great value when my wife and I travel to Gatlinburg. It aids us tremendously in our planning and budgeting. PLEASE continue posting these honest review to aid people like us both enjoy and use. Thanks again and looking forward to next post.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

And comments like yours, are why we do this. We know that most people want the facts, and are appreciative of honest reviews. That's what we will always give. And no, we're not going to let this one guy who called us complainers, hinder us from doing that. People who visit, deserve to know the truth. We are going to give the truth, whether it is good, bad, or a mixture of both. In this case, the food was excellent, but the parking situation is very confusing, and people need to be aware of it. The best way I can explain it, and we're still a bit confused ourselves, is that when you get there, you scan the bar code and enter your credit card information to pay the parking. Then, you tell the restaurant when you are leaving, and they will give you a code that supposedly either refunds it, or keeps you from being charged. It's absolutely ridiculous. As is their policy change, to take away one side, and then increase the price. We believe that if we are not going to give fair, balanced, and honest reviews, then there's no point in doing it all. Like you said, if a channel always just gets up and says everything is great, you absolutely get no information of value. We fully agree with your comment, and that's why we try to be honest. As we've said before, our goal is not to help, or hurt any business. We owe no business anything, and we are not in anyone's pocket. We are going to tell exactly what our experience was like.

[@tonylinkous7940]

Great Review, We agree with the parking issues, It has become so over priced and crowded, it's keeping us away from the area. You end up having to add the cost of parking to your meal cost which is already too high.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Agreed. Fortunately, restaurants like Calhoun's and the Cherokee Grill, will give you a code so that you aren't charged for parking. But I don't like the fact that you have to enter your credit card information and pay for it first. Fortunately, we didn't have to worry about it, since we didn't come back to find a ticket on our windshield.

[@homesteadingpastor]

Thanks for Sharing yet another awesome video & honest review. Food looked great. I agree with the parking situation and wouldn’t like that new policy either. We ate at a local pancake house when we were up there two weeks ago and it cost us $25 to park, not gonna do that again. Appreciate you guys. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@NCMemoryMakers]

We appreciate your watching, and your comment. Yeah, when you have to pay to park, on top of paying for your meal, it just isn't worth it.

[@mullins809]

God is good blessing you with this delicious meal ❤

[@NCMemoryMakers]

God is definitely good, and He certainly has blessed us.

[@pattivanderhart2221]

In my case, I can never finish a steakhouse meal and usually either bring alot home or waste it so I wonder if they took away a side because some people want the option of just having to pay for one side with the option of having two since two may be too much food. If you buy a meal with two sides kniwing you can't eat it all, it is expensive and can be a waste. Tourists don't always have the option to take their food back to their rooms or wherever. Just my perspective. And by the way, those bleu cheese grits sound AMAZING! I love bleu cheese especially with burgers and steak. Have a blessed week! I love your videos. I watch them while I work so it eases the stress and monotony. ❤ Thank you! Can't wait for the Christmas light ones!

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Well, all I know, is there still other comparable places in town that offer 2 sides. It's the thing of them offering 2 for years, going up on the price, and then taking 1 away. Yes, those blue cheese grits are really good. In fact, everything I've ever had there has been top-notch. My issue with them, is not their food or the quality. I think they are the best in town in that regard.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

It won't be much longer on the Christmas lights videos. We did do a little sneak peek video of Christmas lights at Dollywood, but it's not going to be a very long one. But I should have it up in a day or two. Thank you so much for watching, and for commenting.

[@williambolton4766]

I love y'alls reviews & videos. I got a cure for that parking problem. When I go to Gatlinburg, I stay at LeConte View Motel. Free parking staying there. I go wherever I want to eat, shop, whatever. Yes, the motel is nice, & reasonably priced too. plus you can sit out on the balcony of your room & take in the sights.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Sounds like a great plan you've got there. You are far better off if you can stay in town, if you plan on walking to the restaurants. I'm glad you get a good rate for staying there. We appreciate you watching, and your comment.

[@wildcatcountry-bigbluenation]

I 100% agree with the parking. We ate at Smoky Mountain Brewery two weeks ago, and it's beyond frustrating, and even a little confusing, what you have to go through to park there now. We ended up not getting a ticket, so we never entered our info either. I just so happened to be driving my mothers vehicle that night, and they want you to enter the license plate number. Heck most folks don't even know their own vehicle's number, and I wasn't about to go back outside after sitting down at my table, to get that info. Just as you said ... if it ain't broke, than don't fix it. They need to go back to doing it, the way they were before.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

We 100% agree! Thank you so much for your comment. I'm glad we're not the only ones that feel that way.

[@terrykallmann4146]

We were there 3 years ago from Ligonier Pa. We said as well they have the best Ribeye we have ever ate. Thanks for the video. We will probably be there in December. Can’t wait!!!

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Hope you have a good visit and a good experience there. Yes, their steak is top notch.

[@diamondbackking4141]

Thank you for the food reviews ! I'm retired and will not stand in line or wait for food, I will not pay these hideous prices, I do not do traffic either ! Once Obama got his 3rd term & shut down the pipeline & ran the gas prices up, I refused to pay for the gas too ! I have been homebound since. I watch you & others out there by KZbin only till sanity is restored ! Thank you for your time, traveling expenses and entertainment. God bless.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

We appreciate you watching. Thank you for commenting.

[@tinahamby7360]

They are making everything so dang complicated. Thanks for the honest review. 😊❤

[@NCMemoryMakers]

You are very welcome!

[@dalesmith8863]

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg have become frustrating with traffic and prices!

[@NCMemoryMakers]

That is true.

[@amberbryant8141]

Wow 😯 steak meal little high price. It’s very nice big Cherokee Grill restaurant and like views of window over downtown Gatlinburg. ❤

[@GaryLetford]

So many restaurants are cutting back and charging you more. One of our places first removed soup or salad choice, now you have to pay extra for bread. That was the last time we will eat there. The prime rib looked very good.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

@@GaryLetfordWe were disappointed with the way they had taken a side away and then charged you extra for it. But as far as the quality of the prime rib anywhere in Gatlinburg, we haven't had anything that comes close to this.

[@dorichaandvencevlogs1048]

I appreciate your review. Me and my wife was going to try that Restaurant last week, but unfortunately I had mouth surgery and couldn’t eat a Steak. We are from SC, but we will try it next time. Thanks

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Thank you for letting us know you appreciate the review. If you do go, please let us know how you like it.

[@terrybane6206]

BOYCOTT Cherokee Grill until they change back. For that price there is no excuse to remove a side item. Shame on them. Remember folks....it is your wallet and your choice. There are many other quality places to eat in the area.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Our job is to simply give the facts when we review. We will make sure that they see a copy of this video. I hope they will reconsider their policy. Their steak and prime rib are good enough to keep us from boycotting them alogether.

[@cathybriggs5846]

Very nice looking meal. I have never tried blue cheese grits. But i aim to. 👍

[@NCMemoryMakers]

I really like them!

[@pinkyswearzadventures]

We haven't had a chance to get into Cherokee Grill. We did the Alamo. Not a big fan of oak butter on my steak. Left a wierd aftertaste. Is Cherokee oakfire too?

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Not sure about the oakfire, but there was no butter on the steak there.

[@philliproupe8967]

But maybe they didn't want to increase the price of the meal 6.50 might be the difference with some people who couldn't afford it. The Way the food looks everyone should be able to try it. Not complaining about the way u feel. Just might be different circumstances. LOVE ALL OF YOUR VIDEOS KEEP UP.THE GOOD WORK. ❤

[@philliproupe8967]

Love you show ❤️

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Thank you. The extra side was $3.50, so they would not have needed to increase it by $6.50. It is the principle of paying more and getting less. Without the customer, they don't have a business.

[@koalabear6722]

Thats the name of the game now, pay more get less! For those prices I would go to Peddlers, with that wonderful salad bar included plus sides 😊

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Peddler does have a great salad bar, but to be honest, the steak I got at The Peddler, was nowhere near the same quality as this one. We do like the prime rib at The Peddler, second to this one. But the ribeye isn't even close.

[@ritalockett9788]

There are several things about Gatlinburg that are a negative for me and I guess the parking at a restaurant or the lack of is the biggest one for me.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Yes, it is becoming harder and harder.

[@Phillip-yy4fr]

I hope both of you are having a great weekend. I understand when you talk about paying more for less. Every time I go to the store or out to eat the prices are higher and the amount of product you get in return is smaller and cheaper quality it seems. I know you're not picking on Cherokee Grill because things like this are happening at a lot of places. God Bless both of you and the doggies and safe travels. I, like you, still think they have the best steaks in Gatlinburg but don't care for some of the changes, sometimes they are for the better but in this case they are not. Thanks for another great review.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

We really appreciate this comment. I'm glad you understand, that we are merely giving the facts, and not trying to pick on a restaurant. We are simply letting people know about the change. One person on here has already said we are complaining, and he doesn't have a clue what he's talking about. It would be wrong for us not to give these facts about these changes. Thank you for understanding and being appreciative of the fact that we are merely giving the facts about the changes.

[@sharonspivey781]

I find the review very informative and appreciate how you are truthful and tactful with these reviews. Now I feel I would like to express my feeling on the charges of the side orders. As a rule for a nice dinner it has meat and 2 sides or sometimes 3 sides included in the price. The xtra charge for the blue cheese grits should be included. The cost to make a pot of grits with a blue cheese flavor cost less than $ 10.00 a pot to make can serve at least 15 people . To have a charge of 3.50 for a side order dish is absurd. Especially after seeing the total on your receipt. Somehow I feel we are paying the deficit, that towns and restaurants suffered through the Covid Crisis onset. Trying to make up for their losses of revenue. Nothing wrong with that but don't price gouge the public that supports you, and went through the same sacrifices at that critical time , for millions global.😊 P.S. Did you get free refills on your drinks?

[@NCMemoryMakers]

I believe you hit the nail on the head, in your assessment. I believe places are trying to recuperate their losses. Yes, I did receive free refills on the drink here. The only place we have been to as of late that charges for refills, was the pizza place we just did a review on. She got water, but I did get iced tea and was given free refills. I don't remember exactly, without going back and looking at the receipt, how much the drink was. But I probably drank about four glasses. Thank you for your comment, and your appreciation of us giving the facts. Yes, we do try to be tactful, but we feel an obligation to be honest. We've already had one person comment on this post, saying that we were complaining. That guy is completely clueless about what the review process is even all about. We do try to be tactful and give the good and the bad, but it is simply not right for us to leave out facts that visitors may need to know

[@Woody.D828]

Love the Foodie Reviews...As a Side-Note -- You recently reviewed -- Pasqualino's in B.C. (WNC) and they offer Prime Rib...and on Friday and Sat Nights ONLY This is not on the Menu - but on the Daily Specials Board. Even if it were not the only Prime Rib in Bryson City (it is)...it would be the best Prime Rib in the Heart of the NC Smokys. Thirty-Nine. Ninty-Nine. -

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Thank you for the tip. My wife will love to know that.

[@indianamedic4215]

We (my wife and I) have started watching your videos and enjoy seeing your experiences in the Smoky Mountains, and Gatlinburg. We really enjoyed your hike to see the flaming azalea. We are definitely going to eat at Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend and get some Boom-Boom Shrimp. We have eaten at the Cherokee Grill and had a not so good experience; but we always give places a second chance.... and we will. We love the Steaks at another restaurant , , on the river as you said. Your Comment made me very curious, and I looked forward to eating there again when you said that Cherokee had the best steaks in town. Then you said something,, you said you were waiting on A-1,,,, what??? The next scene showed your steak covered with A-1. How could you taste the steak? Why would you cover the taste of the meat with any steak sauce if it "was the best steak" anywhere? When a waitress asks me if I want steak sauce, my response is always I hope not. If I put steak sauce on a steak it is to give it flavor or cover it up. I don't understand saying they have the best Steak in town if it's flavored with sauce. Maybe say it's very tender and they have the best steak sauce in town.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Thank you for watching, and we are glad you enjoyed your channel. We appreciate the fact that you enjoy it. A lot of people like to question me on the steak sauce thing, and I'm not really sure why. To me, it should not concern anyone how another adult likes his steak. But since you asked, I will try to simply address your question in the hopes you are not offended. Still, this is one that really leaves me scratching my head. One guy got really offended with me last week, for using steak sauce. As far as I'm concerned, there are a lot bigger issues in the world than what someone likes on their food. To answer the question that you asked... When I use steak sauce, I am not trying to mask the flavor of anything. To me, it's no different than if a person puts barbecue sauce on their ribs, mayonnaise on their hamburger, or ketchup on their French fries. It's a matter of personal taste, and I don't believe someone has to eat their food the same way I do, or vice versa. And yes, I can certainly taste the steak...even with sauce. That is apparent, because when I say "this is the best steak in town", that means I have had others, and I obviously can taste each and every one, or I wouldn't be able to say which I like best. And I actually ALWAYS request A-1, no matter where I'm eating a steak. I can still make a determination of which one tastes the best to me. And I must be pretty accurate, because numerous other people whom I know personally, also agree that the ribeye at Cherokee Grill is the best they have had in Gatlinburg. I believe if a person is paying for a meal, they should be able to eat it any way they choose to. I do not demand that anyone put steak sauce on their steak, and I never say anything to anyone if they don't. My wife doesn't. I do not tell her she should. It is her steak, and she's an adult. But that's the way I like it, and I always have. When I use steak sauce, it has nothing to do with the steak not being good, or me trying to hide the flavor. I happen to like the way the flavor of the meat and the sauce compliment each other. That's why steak sauce exists. Because it goes well with steak. That's what it is for. I also put it on my hamburgers...At least the ones I grill at home. I don't usually order it on my hamburgers when I'm out, unless I'm at Five Guys, and then I do, because they have unlimited toppings and A-1 is one of those toppings available. I simply like the flavor of A-1 steak sauce on a good steak, and it's as simple as that. And honestly, your last comment was worded in a way that I respectfully, take exception to. "If I put steak sauce on a steak it is to give it flavor or cover it up." Fine. But that isn't why I do it. I do it because I like it that way. I am a grown man. I've eaten steak my entire life, and I have had it with and without sauce, and I prefer it with. You said..."I don't understand saying they have the best Steak in town if it's flavored with sauce. Maybe say it's very tender and they have the best steak sauce in town." No, I said exactly what I meant to say. There is no "best steak sauce in town", as I always request the same kind. When I say I feel this is the best steak, I am saying that will full awareness of what it tastes like. Thanks for watching. I hope I was able to answer your question.

[@johnpinckney4979]

Only one trip to the Smokies for me so far. Hoping to go back later this year. Stayed in Pigeon Forge which seems much more customer friendly than Gatlinburg. Between the crowds, the parking, the traffic, and some of the creepy videos of the place, I think I'll stay in Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. I don't think my money is good enough for Gatlinburg. Having said that, I liked the Ale Steak I had Calhoun's in Pigeon Forge. I went there because it was close to where I was staying. I'd started my day in West Memphis, Ark. And, I was beat from driving. As for the parking? That should be gratis to a paying customer. But, up to a reasonable limit. Obviously, no all day parking if all you're buying is a pack of gum, for example. As for the terminal at the table to enter your credit card? Old hat in Canada. But, the server doesn't hover over you as you enter the tip. You and vafunseekers are my "go to" for credible reviews. God Bless!

[@NCMemoryMakers]

@johnpinckney4979 Both channels appreciate you watching, and your support and kind words. I hope you do get to have another trip there soon, and that you have a wonderful time.

[@Lifeinthecountryfamilyislife]

Dang Forrest Gump and the lovely Jenny made it to tn.... For real tho you look like Tom Hanks

[@NCMemoryMakers]

I used to get that a lot, even from total strangers in public. I don't get it as much in recent years, now that Tom Hanks has grown older and uglier, and I have just stayed the same.....lol.

[@dpmart3275]

Way to much money for my wallet good reveiw as always thanks

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Thanks for watching!

[@philliproupe8967]

Been wanting to try them❤

[@NCMemoryMakers]

If you do, let us know what you think of it.

[@philliproupe8967]

I've been to the Alimo at least over a half dozen times just ain't what it used to be for me. Thanks for all you do. Thanks Phillip

[@vafunseekers]

We have noticed that the prices of sides have really increased and often the serving is smaller. You have to be honest with the reviews. We reviewed a place today on the way back from Carly's band competition and we made sure to say it was our opinion. You have to be honest about your experience. Definitely don't like putting in your credit card information. They do have a good steak there!

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Agreed! No point in doing it, if we're not going to outline the good and the bad. It absolutely is the best steak I have had in Gatlinburg, and it is consistently on that level. But just do not like the new policy of taking away a side. I believe the first time I heard of them doing that, was when you all did a review there. I think you said they had just started doing that?

[@vafunseekers]

@@NCMemoryMakers Yes. In fact they had the extra side on the outside menu because it had not been updated. David definitely thinks that is the best steak in Gatlinburg.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

@vafunseekers I have to agree with David on that one. I think that one, and the one at The Chop House, are right up there next to each other, and head and shoulders above the others. Still, for what they charge, they should at least give you a salad, or the option of a second side instead. And the parking situation in Calhoun's Village has become very confusing. Not saying that part is the restaurant's fault. I'm just glad we didn't get a ticket.

[@jjames2925]

So maybe I missed it, but did you pay $3.50 for the additional side or $5? I kept waiting to hear, but never did? I wouldn't pay for parking to eat at a restaurant either. What if you don't want to use a credit card. Where do people park in Gatlinburg? Its crazy!

[@NCMemoryMakers]

It was $3.50. I think I did clarify that in the close out. It is $5, if you just order it by itself. But with a meal, it is $3.50. Not sure who would go in there and just order that side, but either way, it is cheaper to get it with a meal.

[@GPgundude]

The Peddler Steakhouse beats this place…Hands Down!!!

[@NCMemoryMakers]

We've had steak at both places, and we respectfully disagree. The ribeye steak I got at The Peddler, was tough and not of good quality, and nowhere near worth the money I paid for it. We alluded to The Peddler, when I said they did have a good prime rib and good marinated chicken, but the steak at Cherokee Grill is about 5 levels over that of The Peddler. Have you tried the ribeye steak at both places?

[@BrownEyedGirl1979]

Shawnasi, I love your outfit. Where did you get your blue jean jacket?

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Believe it or not, I just asked her. She said she got it at Walmart.

[@AugustKuster]

Love prime rib

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Yes, we do too!

[@bonitaburroughs8673]

I would really not want to use credit card to pay for parking with all the skimmers these days.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Agreed!

[@bonitaburroughs8673]

@@NCMemoryMakers I think if my husband and I ever get to Gatlinburg again that we might park and ride the tram. Forget driving/parking in Gburg.

[@michellejackson7331]

we ate at the grill back in the spring and we were sorely disappointed. My husband ordered his ribeye medium rare and it was well done. The manager was very insulting when this was brought to her attention! We will not eat there again.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Very sorry that you had a bad experience there. We have always had a good one, but we may hit it on a bad day, ourselves, at some point.

[@dennissellards9249]

I am a butcher by trade for 30 years and what makes a great steak 🥩 is to have a beautiful woman across from you 😅

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Can't argue with that!

[@judyclark3086]

Beside the loud music,seating seemed to be taken by small quantities of customers at large tables…wasted seating…did a salad come with the meal…looked as if the food was just thrown at you with lack of necessities….steak knife,silverware,butter on the bread board…there are too many other steak places for great steak and service…

[@NCMemoryMakers]

She did forget the silverware at first. No, a salad was not included. And my wife did notice the butter on the board, which was strange. A few things like that left us scratching our heads. But the steak and prime rib are still the best we have had in town.

[@ssing2490]

Love your videos. I agree with you but you didn’t need to repeat the same issue so many times. IMO There are way too many other places to get a good steak in Gatlinburg, Cherokee grill unfortunately doesn’t think they need to compete $$.

[@NCMemoryMakers]

What issue was repetitive?

[@dalesmith8863]

I cannot justify paying that much for a meal on a fixed income. Congratulations to those that can!

[@NCMemoryMakers]

We don't go here every trip, but maybe for a special occasion.

[@janet356js]

If these being y’all’s top 1-3 ,rate The Peddler, Calhoun’s, and Cherokee grill. In Gatlinburg. Also would you give me your top 3 restaurants in Pigeon Forge . ❤❤

[@NCMemoryMakers]

Certainly. We actually have done video reviews on all 3 of those. Cherokee Grill Calhoun's The Peddler In that order. Now, I need to say a few things... Those are the 3 you asked about. I would put the Alamo's steaks over The Peddler. The Peddler does have an excellent salad bar, and a great marinated chicken. They also have a prime rib, that I would put over The Alamo, but still under Calhoun's and Cherokee Grill. What The Peddler mainly has going for it, is the nice inside of the restaurant with a view of the river, and an awesome salad bar. And as far as Pigeon Forge, it really depends on what kind of food you are wanting. If you're talking strictly steak, then Chop House is the best we've had there, followed by The Alamo. I don't know if I've had a steak anywhere else in Pigeon Forge. But we also love The Pottery House Cafe, and Applewood Farmhouse Grill. Those are our top 3 there.

[@johnpinckney4979]

@@NCMemoryMakers Have you tried the Ale Steak at Calhoun's in Pigeon Forge? Mine was excellent!

[@NCMemoryMakers]

@johnpinckney4979 We have not. Last time we ate at Calhoun's, we had lunch there with the VAFunseekers. I think I got the prime rib that day. And that was the Calhoun's in Gatlinburg. I've never eaten at the one in Pigeon Forge.

[@quietstormtcb8543]

If it’s a good steak you definitely don’t need A1 steak sauce

[@NCMemoryMakers]

How original. Not to mention, your statement is utter nonsense. I just laugh, at all the people that think they should tell a grown man how to eat his steak. When did I say it needed it? Point me to that spot in the video. I'll wait...