Returning to Tennessee – part eight

When visiting the Smokies the food is a major part of the appeal. There are endless choices – I’m highlighting a few that I love.

My longtime favorite bbq spot, Smokin Joe’s in Townsend never disappoints. While I’ve had their brisket and ribs this time I ordered the pulled pork with fried okra and corn nuggets (fried cream corn). OMG.

A new find was Trailhead Steak and Trout House also in Townsend. I started with fried green tomatoes, a Caesar salad followed by their grilled trout that was perfectly prepared. While I neglected to photograph those meals (too hungry?) I did manage to capture the following:

Fried Oyster Basket, Hushpuppies and Fries at Paw Paw’s Catfish Kitchen
Piggy Mac is Cherry wood-smoked pulled pork in an iron skillet topped with white cheddar Mac and cheese and biscuit breadcrumbs at Pucketts in Pigeon Forge, I couldn’t resist this entree, comfort food on steroids!
I discovered an amazing bakery, Cakes by Bakin’ Bishop that had these ginormous cinnamon rolls – what an indulgence. They were my breakfast each morning as I sat on my deck, enjoying the sunrises over Wears Valley. I got to chat with the owner who was so friendly and also got two of her big cupcakes, custom frosted just before she boxed them up. They were a delightful treat and worth every calorie. This bakery will be a part of my future trips.
Inspired by southern cuisine and using my cast iron skillet I fixed this delicious plate of pea meal bacon, cheddar jalapeño cornbread, oven roasted potatoes and pickled okra.