Must-Try Meals: Our Most Popular Dishes of All Time

After 50 years of flavor, we’ve learned a thing or two about guest favorites. When locals talk about food in East Tennessee, chances are one of our restaurants or dishes comes up.

Maybe it’s the baby back ribs at Calhoun’s. Maybe it’s the Thunder Road wings from Smoky Mountain Brewery. Or maybe it’s that Ale Pork Chop you swore you’d never stop thinking about.

At the Copper Cellar Family of Restaurants, every menu tells a story. And over the years, some dishes have earned permanent places in the hearts (and orders) of our guests and team members alike. Here’s a look at the must-try meals that consistently rise to the top… with a few staff favorites and fun facts along the way.

Our Top East Tennessee Restaurant Dishes

Ale Pork Chop

Why it stands out: This dish is more than a meal, it’s a legacy item. Marinated in Cherokee Red Ale and flame-grilled, this pork chop is thick, flavorful, and one of the most talked-about entrées at Calhoun’s.

“The Ale marinade is absolutely fantastic! Along with the grill char taste. 7 oz, thick, and full of flavor!” — Jason, Manager at Calhoun’s

“Ale Pork Chop marinated in olive oil, mustard, garlic and Cherokee Red Ale. Topped with Worcestershire butter. Now who WOULDN’T order that? It was cooked perfectly as well.” — Guest Review

Thunder Road Wings

Why it stands out: Whether you order them baked or fried, naked or wet, these chicken wings pack big flavor with a Tennessee kick. A go-to for wing lovers who want something a little different.

“I’ve been working for the Copper Cellar Family for 20 years and I STILL love our food. It’s really hard to choose just one dish that I love, but if I had to — I do love our Ale Pork Chop, marinated in our very own Cherokee Red Ale. And I have to say that hands down our wet Thunder Road wings are the best wings in town.” — Brittney, Calhoun’s

“I never knew how good the naked wings could be when baked and tossed in Thunder Road Sauce. I got them to go one day and took them home. My wife ate most of them…” — Jonathan, Smoky Mountain Brewery

Pro tip! Try our wings with our housemade ranch, or add a little extra Thunder Road sauce on the side to turn up the heat.

Spinach Maria

Why it stands out: Rich, creamy, and loaded with goodness. Over the years, this side dish has acquired its own fan following in Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and other East Tennessee areas — and after one bite, it’s not hard to understand why.

Eat it as a dip with chips, or grab a fork and just dive in. Either way, it’s a must-try next time you visit one of our restaurants or shop for signature take-home items at the Marketplace in West Knoxville.

“I don’t know who their Maria is, but she knows how to cook spinach.” — Guest Review

Ale Chicken

Why it stands out: The poultry cousin of our famed pork chop, this chicken is also marinated in our Cherokee Red Ale and seasoned just right. It’s a standout for those who want something hearty but just a smidge lighter.

“By far my favorite because of the marinade and seasonings.” — Micaela, Corner16

Calhoun’s BBQ Ribs

Why it stands out: Voted Best Ribs in America, these slow-cooked ribs are slathered in signature sauce and finished on the grill for that just-right char. A true taste of Tennessee, whether you’re in Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, Maryville, Gatlinburg, Oak Ridge, or Lenoir City. We’ve been perfecting these barbecue ribs since day one, and they remain one of the most ordered items across all our Calhoun’s locations.

Neva’s Potatoes

Why it stands out: An absolute staple side dish available at Chesapeake’s, Copper Cellar, and Cherokee Grill — these creamy, cheesy potatoes are baked to perfection and always a hit with guests. Think: comfort food, but elevated.

“The Neva’s potatoes were like delicious twice baked mashed potato heaven.” – Ashley, Gue s t Review

More Good Eats & Honorable Mentions

Too good to not mention, these guest and staff go-tos from across our restaurant family round out our list of popular dishes in East Tennessee:

Smoky Mountain Brewery pizzas – Hand-tossed and stone-baked, ideal for game night or patio hangs.
Cherokee Grill steaks – Classic cuts, cooked to perfection in the heart of Gatlinburg.
Corner16 sides – From fried okra to loaded mac, guests often say the sides alone are worth the trip.
Cappuccino’s pasta – Cozy Italian comfort food from one of our most nostalgic concepts.

Hungry yet? We don’t blame you. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, our team is here to help you find your next favorite dish. Stop in, stay a while, and enjoy what generations of East Tennesseans already know to be true: Life tastes better here.