Townsend & Great Smoky Mountains

Pints, Patios & River Views: Craft Kitchens, Pubs & Breweries

Unwind after a day on the trails or tubing the river. Townsend's vibrant craft food and beverage scene offers open-air beer gardens, waterfront patios, artisan pizzas, craft spirits, and locally brewed beers with front-row mountain views.

Top Craft Pubs & Taprooms

Relaxed gathering spots for great food, craft brews, and outdoor fun.

🍺
Beer Garden & Taproom

Peaceful Side Social Brewery & Craft Kitchen

A modern, family-friendly venue featuring a spacious outdoor beer garden, seasonal taco bar, artisan pizzas, and shareables crafted specifically to pair with regional beers on tap.

Signature Item: Goat Cheese Grit Fritters, Artisan Craft Pizzas
🌊
Waterfront Patio

The Townsend Abbey

Housed in a converted former chapel right along the Little River. Enjoy craft beers, artisan flatbreads, and smoked meats on a spacious, dog-friendly outdoor deck watching tubers float by.

Signature Item: Beer Cheese Pretzels, House-Smoked Ribs
🥪
Riverside Deli & Pub

Little River Pub & Deli

A laid-back riverside spot serving hot gourmet paninis, stacked deli sandwiches, moonshine pork barbecue, and a rotating draft list of local craft beers.

Signature Item: Moonshine BBQ Pulled Pork Plate, Hot Paninis
🥃
Distillery & Tasting Room

Company Distilling

A premier mountain tasting room set along the river. Features handcrafted Tennessee whiskeys, seasonal cocktails, tasting flights, and casual pub bites in a modern indoor/outdoor space.

Signature Item: Straight Bourbon Tastings, Craft Cocktail Flights

The Pub & Brewery Vibe

What makes grabbing a drink in Townsend so special.

⛰️

Scenic River & Mountain Views

Most spots feature expansive outdoor decks, fire pits, and covered patios overlooking the Little River and the surrounding Great Smoky Mountain ridges.

🐾

Dog & Family Friendly

Townsend's craft kitchens welcome kids and pets alike with open-air lawns, lawn games, outdoor seating, and dedicated kid-friendly menus.

🍻

Local Spirits & Regional Taps

Sample beers brewed right in East Tennessee alongside authentic local spirits, fruit moonshines, and regionally inspired craft cocktails.

Plan Your Visit

Helpful pointers for casual dining and drinks.

🌞 Catch Peak Afternoon Patio Sun

Popular spots like Peaceful Side Social and The Townsend Abbey draw crowds post-tubing (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM). Arrive early or grab a drink at the bar while waiting for outdoor seating.

🐕 Bring Your Four-Legged Friend

Leashed dogs are welcome on the outdoor decks and lawns at almost all craft breweries and riverside pubs in town!