About
The Pines Downtown is part theater, arcade, bar, and restaurant. If that doesn’t pique your curiosity, nothing will! Before we unpack these elements, let’s go back to their roots.
Back in 1944, it opened as The Pines Theater in Sevierville, quickly becoming the go-to for entertainment in the Smoky Mountains. Even back then, it had a dual identity. By day, it showed Western movies, and at night, it hosted live performances of some of Country music’s legends. One rising star performed there when she was 10 years old in 1956. To this day, Dolly Parton praises The Pines for getting her music career off the ground.
You can see who performed here back in the day by admiring the mural on Court Avenue. Here, legendary performers like Roy Acuff, June Carter Cash, and Chet Atkins are honored for once gracing the stage.
Reopening in late 2022, The Pines Downtown now offers a mix of elevated pub fare, craft cocktails, and entertainment. While the silver screen and performance stage are gone, you’ll want to try a round of duckpin bowling, Jenga, soccer billiards, or darts.
Its proximity to other Smoky Mountain attractions makes planning an itinerary simple. For instance, after you take the kids to the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Exotic Petting Zoo, enjoy family game night with pizza at The Pines Downtown. Or if you’re traveling without children, combine a tour of Sugarlands Distilling Company with craft cocktails at The Pines. The possibilities are endless!
As you can tell, The Pines Downtown is a unique setting with historic charm. Visiting it on your Smoky Mountain getaway will be a highlight.
Vibe
As mentioned, the renovated facade sports a multicolored mural on one side of the building, connecting visitors with its legendary musical past.
The art-deco-inspired design is a nod to its days as a 1940s theater. The black-and-white marquee no longer promotes films or concerts but instead announces karaoke and trivia nights.
Step inside, and you’ll find a space that’s both cozy and stylish. Everywhere you look, there are reminders of its past, from photos of country music legends to quirky decor and furniture.
The dining areas are situated to accommodate the games. You’ll find 1960s green sofas, comfy chairs around small tables, and other sitting areas. The bar is another popular spot to unwind after wading the mountain streams with Fly Fishing the Smokies.
Best of all, the atmosphere is perfect for families and groups of friends looking for a place to chill or play games.
The Pines Downtown: Menu & Drinks
While the menu is limited, it features top-notch options.
The loaded tater tots combine crunchy tots with bacon, chives, cheese, and hot sauce. The Butterbean Hummus is a healthy alternative for those needing a snack. It features house tortilla chips and hummus topped with red peppers and a drizzle of olive oil.
When you need protein, Trotter’s Smoked Wings will do the job! With your choice of lemon pepper or honey sriracha, you can choose either eight or sixteen pieces.
The Pines Burger is another popular go-to featuring two smash patties, cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, pickles, and House Sauce. It comes with your choice of waffle fries, tots, or house salad.
Last but not least are the pizzas! Choices include pepperoni, supreme, cheese, margarita, country ham and prosciutto, and a dessert fruit pizza.
The drinks are just as impressive. The kids will enjoy the non-alcoholic Sweet Shoppe Fishbowl! This sugary concoction features Blue Hawaiian Punch, OJ, pineapple juice, lemon lime soda, and, of course, candy!
An adult beverage go-to on hot days is the Cades Cove Cooler. This creative cocktail features Wheatley Vodka, lemon juice, lavender, simple syrup, and strawberry and peach purée. Crowning this libation is draft cider, making it a refreshing drink after hiking at Cades Cove.
When you need a family-friendly place that has active games and solid pub fare, add The Pines Downtown to your Smoky Mountain getaway.
Local Tips
- Check out social media posts for special events and game nights.
- Book a group or private party at The Pines Downtown.
- Trotter’s Catering specializes in whole hog BBQ!
- Check the specials online for food and drink deals.
