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SUNDAY BRUNCH
Brunch is BACK at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro!
Honored to share that OpenTable has once again named Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro among its Top 100 Brunch Restaurants in America for the third consecutive year. We are also proud to be the only East Tennessee restaurant recognized on this year’s list.
We are grateful to our guests, our team, and the thoughtful hospitality that makes every Sunday brunch feel special. From Bluegrass Brunch in the warmer months to Fireside Brunch in winter, this recognition celebrates so much more than a meal. It celebrates a sense of place.
Join us from 10:30am-1:30pm for Sunday Brunch!
Click HERE for a sample menu!
Award-Winning Status
Q: Is Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro ranked among the best brunch spots in the USA?
A: Yes! For the third consecutive year, Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro has been named to OpenTable’s Top 100 Brunch Restaurants in America (2024, 2025, 2026). This prestigious honor is based on over 10 million verified diner reviews, placing our Townsend, TN, bistro in the top tier of brunch destinations nationwide.
Q: What awards has Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro won recently?
A: Beyond our three-year streak on OpenTable’s Top 100 Brunches, we are proud to be a TripAdvisor "Best of the Best" winner (Top 1% of restaurants worldwide) and have been recognized as one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in America. In 2025, our own Executive Chef Jeff Carter achieved a historic "Grand Slam" at the Cityview Top Chef awards, taking first place in every category.
🍳 The Brunch Experience
Q: What makes the brunch at Dancing Bear unique compared to other Smoky Mountain restaurants?
A: Our brunch is a celebration of "Refined Appalachian Cuisine." We pair traditional mountain flavors with upscale techniques, using ingredients sourced directly from our on-site gardens and local farm partners. Whether you’re enjoying our famous cornbread (which The Atlantic called the best bread in America) or a craft cocktail by the fire pit, the experience is designed to be as soulful as the mountains themselves.
Q: Does Dancing Bear offer outdoor seating or views during brunch?
A: Absolutely. Guests can enjoy their meal in our rustic, refined dining room or outdoors on our patio, surrounded by the calming wooded vistas of Townsend and listening to Live Bluegrass Music. It’s the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing Sunday morning or a special celebration.
🍴 Menu & Dietary Highlights
Q: Are there gluten-free or vegetarian options available at brunch?
A: Yes. As a farm-to-table bistro, we prioritize fresh vegetables and high-quality proteins. Many of our award-winning dishes are naturally gluten-free (GF) or vegetarian (V), and our culinary team is always happy to accommodate dietary preferences to ensure a world-class experience for every guest.
📅 Planning Your Visit
Q: Do I need a reservation for brunch at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro?
A: Due to our inclusion in the OpenTable Top 100, reservations are highly recommended, especially for holiday weekends and peak seasons in the Smokies. You can easily book your table through the OpenTable app or directly on our website.
Q: Where is Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro located?
A: We are located in Townsend, Tennessee, known as the "Peaceful Side of the Smokies." We are just a short drive from Knoxville and Maryville, and serve as the perfect gateway for those visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.