Randa

Paul, actually I've never eaten at the Park Grill. Since we travel with two teens it's too costly to eat at the high-end places. Don't know about Applebees, since we haven't been there in two years. We're planning a trip, though, at the end of May next year.
Can't wait!

PCHsmiles

Just for closure sake, we were sad to learn that the Ritz at Clingman's was recently closed due to lack of business, and has now been sold to the Marriott chain as a new residence inn for weary backpackers who need to take a few days off the AT and relax. Apparently Ritz Carlton very quickly removed this hotel from their website. The coffee shop remains but under new management, and bear burger day has been switched to Mondays and Thursdays as an adjunct to happy hour. Regretably the free mountain shrimp feature was replaced by pulled pork on bun with a slaw option.

iceeu2

Where is The Best Italian Restaurant hidden?
We have eaten a few times at Santos Italian Restaurant in Pigeon Forge and it is pretty good.

Paul

"Best Italian" is in a shopping strip right on the main drag of Gatlinburg. The best way I can think of to give you directions would be... If you were at Calhoun's Restaurant, head away from the main park entrance. On the same side of the street, just a few doors down, you will see Best Italian back in the corner of this small strip mall. It really is very good. I like their pasta dishes better than I do their pizza. Be warned - they serve large portions.