There's something special about discovering a little roadside diner where breakfast is served all day, the portions are hearty, and the menu includes everything from country-fried steak to homemade pie.
If you're traveling through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Snoring Bear Diner in Walland, Tennessee, is exactly the kind of place you'll want to know about.
Located along East Lamar Alexander Parkway, this cozy, family-owned restaurant has earned a following among locals and visitors for its creative comfort food, friendly atmosphere, and generous menu.
Whether you're heading toward Townsend for a day in the mountains, exploring the scenic countryside of Blount County, or simply searching for a memorable place to eat in East Tennessee, Snoring Bear Diner is worth a stop.
A Cozy Country Diner in the Smoky Mountain Foothills
Snoring Bear Diner isn't a fancy restaurant, and that's part of its appeal.
The restaurant offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with a rustic interior and the familiar comforts of a neighborhood diner.
It's the kind of place where you can settle in for a country breakfast, order a creative burger for lunch, or enjoy a filling dinner after a day of exploring.
The dining room is relatively small, which adds to its cozy character.
Outdoor seating provides another option when the weather is pleasant.
Visitors frequently praise the restaurant's friendly service and the variety of its menu.
For travelers who prefer discovering independently owned restaurants rather than stopping at another chain, Snoring Bear Diner offers a taste of local East Tennessee hospitality.
Breakfast Is Served All Day
One of the biggest reasons people love Snoring Bear Diner is its all-day breakfast menu.
You don't have to wake up early or rush to arrive before a breakfast cutoff to enjoy many of the restaurant's morning favorites.
Whether you're craving eggs and bacon in the morning or biscuits and gravy later in the afternoon, breakfast is a major part of the diner's appeal.
The menu features traditional Southern favorites alongside more unusual creations.
From hearty platters and omelets to pancakes and biscuit French toast, there's plenty to explore.
Some individual items may have serving-time restrictions, so ask your server if you're ordering later in the day.
Try the Hungry Bear Platter
If you're arriving hungry, the Hungry Bear Platter is one of the restaurant's signature breakfast choices.
This filling meal has been listed with three eggs, hash browns known as Bear Taters, bacon, sausage, bologna, and toast.
It's a classic country-style breakfast designed for someone with a big appetite.
The combination of eggs, breakfast meats, and potatoes makes it an appealing option before a full day of hiking, sightseeing, or exploring the Smoky Mountains.
The Snoring Bear Omelet
Another distinctive breakfast item is the Snoring Bear Omelet.
This hearty omelet has been prepared with sausage, onions, mushrooms, shredded potatoes, and American cheese.
What makes it especially memorable is the sausage gravy served over the top.
It's a rich, Southern-inspired take on a traditional omelet and one of the restaurant's more unusual breakfast creations.
For visitors who enjoy trying something different from a standard bacon-and-egg breakfast, this is worth considering.
The Foothills Omelet
The Foothills Omelet is another popular option.
Its listed ingredients include ham, green peppers, onions, potatoes, and American cheese.
It's a satisfying choice for diners who enjoy a traditional loaded omelet with plenty of savory ingredients.
The restaurant has also featured other omelets, including vegetable and steak-inspired combinations.
Biscuit French Toast: A Unique Breakfast Favorite
One of the most interesting items associated with Snoring Bear Diner is its Biscuit French Toast.
Instead of using ordinary sliced bread, this dish starts with biscuits.
The biscuits are sliced, dipped in an egg custard mixture, and grilled.
They have been served with brown-sugared bacon, syrup, and powdered sugar.
It's a creative combination of two Southern breakfast favorites.
If you're someone who loves both biscuits and French toast, this is one of the most distinctive dishes to look for on the menu.
Biscuits, Gravy, Pancakes, and More
The breakfast selection doesn't stop with the signature dishes.
Snoring Bear Diner has also offered familiar favorites such as:
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Biscuits and Gravy
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Pancakes
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Traditional French Toast
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Breakfast Bowls
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Breakfast Burritos
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Eggs and Breakfast Meats
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Bear Taters
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Country-Fried Steak and Eggs
The breakfast bowls are especially interesting for diners who enjoy potatoes, vegetables, cheese, eggs, and gravy combined into one filling meal.
With so many options, the restaurant works well for families or groups who have different breakfast preferences.
Creative Burgers at Snoring Bear Diner
Although breakfast is a major attraction, Snoring Bear Diner is also known for its burgers.
The restaurant has developed a reputation for offering combinations that go beyond a traditional cheeseburger.
One of its best-known creations is the Snoring Bear Burger.
Earlier descriptions of this specialty burger featured candied bacon, goat cheese, and blackberry Dijon sauce.
That unusual combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors helped distinguish it from ordinary diner burgers.
More recent menus also feature smashed burgers and other specialty combinations.
Because recipes and menu offerings can change, ask about the current version of the Snoring Bear Burger when ordering.
Sandwiches and Gourmet Hot Dogs
Snoring Bear Diner also offers a variety of sandwiches and specialty hot dogs.
These are another reason the restaurant appeals to travelers who want something beyond traditional breakfast food.
The diner has featured Philly-style sandwiches, grilled chicken sandwiches, and other hearty lunch choices.
Its gourmet hot dogs have included creative toppings such as pulled pork, coleslaw, chili, cheese, bacon, and macaroni and cheese.
Some of these hot dogs are piled so high that they're easier to eat with a fork.
The variety makes the restaurant a fun choice for diners who enjoy trying unusual combinations.
Southern Comfort Food for Lunch and Dinner
If you're visiting later in the day, Snoring Bear Diner offers more than sandwiches and burgers.
The restaurant has also featured a selection of traditional comfort-food entrées.
Depending on the current menu, you may find dishes such as:
Country-Fried Steak
A Southern favorite served with gravy and traditional sides.
Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
A hearty comfort-food entrée that has appeared on the diner's menu.
Fish and Chips
A familiar choice for diners who prefer seafood.
Chicken Tenders
A classic family-friendly option.
Fish Tacos
A lighter alternative to some of the restaurant's heavier comfort-food dishes.
Bourbon Salmon
A seafood selection that has appeared on previous menus.
Homestyle Side Dishes
The diner has offered sides such as macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, corn casserole, baked beans, and deviled eggs.
Menu selections and preparations may change, so confirm availability when ordering.
Save Room for Homemade Desserts
One of the best ways to finish a meal at Snoring Bear Diner is with dessert.
The restaurant has been associated with several sweet treats, including homemade-style pies and cheesecake.
Two particularly appealing choices are Peanut Butter Pie and Oreo Pie.
Peanut Butter Pie
A rich dessert option for anyone who loves peanut butter.
Oreo Pie
A sweet treat inspired by the familiar chocolate sandwich cookie.
Cheesecake
The restaurant has also featured rotating cheesecake flavors and other baked desserts.
Snoring Bear Diner's restaurant listing mentions Hayden's Sweet Shop, associated with homemade cheesecake, baked goods, and ice cream.
Dessert availability can change throughout the day, so ask about the current selection before making your choice.
A Family-Friendly Restaurant
Snoring Bear Diner is a comfortable place for families traveling through East Tennessee.
The casual atmosphere makes it easy to stop for a meal without needing a special occasion.
The menu includes familiar choices such as pancakes, grilled cheese, hot dogs, and cheeseburgers.
A children's menu has also been listed.
Because the restaurant is relatively small, seating may be limited during busy periods.
If you're traveling with a large group, calling ahead can help you determine whether the restaurant can accommodate everyone.
Outdoor Seating in Nice Weather
In addition to its indoor dining room, Snoring Bear Diner has outdoor seating.
This can be especially appealing during spring and fall, when East Tennessee's weather is often comfortable for dining outside.
Outdoor seating is weather-dependent and may not always be available.
Visitors traveling with dogs may also want to ask about the restaurant's current patio pet policy.
A pet-friendly restaurant directory has listed dogs as welcome on the outdoor patio, but policies can change.
A Great Food Stop on the Way to Townsend
One of the biggest advantages of Snoring Bear Diner is its location.
Walland sits along a scenic route connecting Maryville with Townsend and the Great Smoky Mountains.
Travelers heading toward Townsend often pass through this part of Blount County.
That makes the diner a convenient stop before or after exploring the mountains.
You can enjoy a filling breakfast before beginning your day, stop for lunch while traveling through the area, or return for dinner after sightseeing.
It's a particularly appealing alternative to waiting until you reach busier tourist areas to find a restaurant.
Pair Your Visit With a Smoky Mountain Adventure
If you're planning a day trip, Snoring Bear Diner can easily become part of a larger East Tennessee outing.
Start with breakfast at the diner before continuing toward Townsend.
Townsend is often called the Peaceful Side of the Smokies because of its quieter atmosphere compared with some of the region's busier tourist destinations.
From there, visitors can explore nearby areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Depending on road conditions and seasonal access, popular experiences in the region include scenic drives, hiking, wildlife watching, and visiting historic mountain communities.
After your outdoor adventure, stop at Snoring Bear Diner for a comforting meal before heading home.
The Best Time to Visit Snoring Bear Diner
The diner serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner on its regular operating days.
Morning
A great time to enjoy a traditional country breakfast, omelet, or Biscuit French Toast before exploring the Smokies.
Lunchtime
An appealing option for burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, and other hearty favorites.
Afternoon
A convenient stop for travelers returning from sightseeing or looking for a late breakfast.
Evening
A good time to enjoy Southern comfort food, seafood, or a filling dinner after a day outdoors.
Weekends and peak travel seasons may be busier, especially when visitors are traveling to and from the Smoky Mountains.
Plan Your Visit to Snoring Bear Diner
Restaurant: Snoring Bear Diner
Location: Walland, Tennessee
Address: 4543 East Lamar Alexander Parkway, Walland, TN 37886
Phone: (865) 724-1010
Cuisine: American Diner Food, Southern Comfort Food, Breakfast, Burgers, and Sandwiches
Published Restaurant Hours:
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Monday: Closed
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Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
These hours are supported by recent restaurant listings. Some older directories show different schedules, so call ahead for holiday hours or unexpected changes.
Breakfast: Served throughout the day, although individual menu items may have time restrictions.
Popular Menu Choices:
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Snoring Bear Burger
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Snoring Bear Omelet
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Foothills Omelet
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Hungry Bear Platter
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Biscuit French Toast
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Biscuits and Gravy
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Country-Fried Steak
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Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
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Fish and Chips
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Gourmet Hot Dogs
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Specialty Sandwiches
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Peanut Butter Pie
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Oreo Pie
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Cheesecake
Dining Options: Dine-In and Takeout
Outdoor Seating: Available, weather permitting.
Payment: Credit cards are reported as accepted.
Parking: On-site parking is reported.
Accessibility: Accessibility information varies among restaurant directories. Contact the diner about specific needs before visiting.
Reservations: Contact the restaurant directly about large groups or seating arrangements.
Nearby Destinations:
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Townsend
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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Maryville
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Scenic Blount County Countryside
Recommended Visit Length: Allow approximately 45–90 minutes for a relaxed meal, depending on how busy the diner is.
Helpful Visiting Tips:
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Remember that the restaurant is closed on Mondays
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Visit early if you're planning a full day in the Smoky Mountains
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Ask about the Snoring Bear Burger's current toppings
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Consider trying the Biscuit French Toast
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Check the current dessert selection before ordering
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Call ahead if you're visiting with a large group
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Allow extra time during busy meal periods
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Ask about outdoor seating when the weather is pleasant
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Confirm the patio pet policy if traveling with a dog
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Check holiday hours before making a special trip
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Pair your visit with a scenic drive toward Townsend
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Save the restaurant's phone number in case you need to verify menu items or hours
Why Snoring Bear Diner Belongs on Your Tennessee Bucket List
Some of Tennessee's most memorable restaurants are the small, independently owned places that offer creative food and genuine hospitality.
Snoring Bear Diner is a wonderful example.
With its all-day breakfast, unusual burger combinations, hearty Southern favorites, and homemade-style desserts, it offers plenty of reasons to stop.
The cozy atmosphere and location near the Smoky Mountains make it an appealing choice for locals and travelers alike.
Whether you're craving biscuits and gravy, a generous breakfast platter, a specialty burger, or a slice of pie, Snoring Bear Diner is a place worth keeping in mind on your next East Tennessee adventure.
Discover More Incredible Places to Eat in Tennessee!
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"The Ultimate Tennessee Bucket List" helps you discover memorable places to eat, shop, stay, and explore throughout the Volunteer State.
From hometown restaurants and mountain cafés to beautiful waterfalls, scenic drives, historic landmarks, and unforgettable weekend getaways, it's filled with inspiration for your next Tennessee adventure.