Posted on Aug 31, 2018
Five Oaks Farm Kitchen is one of the newest eating establishments in Pigeon Forge, TN. It has taken a while to get it built, but after being there today I can see why. The attention to detail in the construction and décor is top notch!
Ernie and I enjoyed a delicious lunch there today. The parking lot has been full each time we have driven by this week, so we decided to give it a try at an "off-time" around 2:00 pm.
We got right in and was immediately seated at one of the farmhouse style tables with bench seating. The host graciously pulled out our benches, removed the extra place settings and bid us a pleasant meal.
But let me back up just a bit - literally back up to the front door. When we walked inside, my eyes immediately turned toward the ceiling and the WOW factor took over. In fact, I think I even said, "WOW!".
Gigantic rustic chandeliers adorn the open ceiling of the center dining area. Large wooden beams support the two story structure and a massive wooden staircase leads to the second level dining area.
Our waitress was exceptional. She took the time to pleasantly explain the menu, answered our questions, made small talk and had suggestions for menu choices. Each meal begins with warm comfort food - a cup of tasty potato soup and a basket of big'ole (that's a word in the South) biscuits. These were served almost immediately upon taking our order.
Our meals arrived quickly. Ernie ordered the fried catfish, served with a mixed greens side salad, mashed potatoes/gravy and pinto beans. I ordered a loaded baked potato and the homemade macaroni and cheese. 1920's Dodge Truck
he two large catfish filets had a buttermilk and cracker meal breading and were deep fried to a golden brown. They were served on a plate atop a piece of brown butcher paper that helped to soak up any extra oil.
The sides were equally delicious and plentiful. My baked potato was perfectly done with abundant toppings of sour cream, cheese, bacon and chives. The macaroni and pinto beans were served in a cast iron bowl that kept the sides warm throughout the meal.
Each of our meals lacked an abundance of seasoning. Considering much of the Pigeon Forge tourist population are older adults who may be on sodium restricted diets, this is not a negative. Of course, there are salt and pepper shakers on the table, so diners can season to their own tastes.
The drinks were served in large Mason jar-type glasses. My tea was wonderfully brewed and perfectly sweetened, unlike many of the restaurant teas that are sickening sweet and brewed extremely weak.
Our waitress brought timely refills and extra glasses of ice (which we didn't use, but appreciated nonetheless). She also offered us a to-go box and dessert, but there wasn't room for that! Maybe next time.
Farm Kitchen's menu is chock full of old fashioned homemade favorites - such as, fried chicken, pot roast, chicken & dumplings, and sugar cured ham. If you ponder on it, you'll be brought back to the days of those Sunday dinners at Grandma's house where everyone gathered around the table and dishes were piled high with tasty homemade comfort food.
The prices are average for the Pigeon Forge area. Most entrees are around $20. With the abundance of food in each dish, you certainly won't leave hungry. You can even share an entrée and they'll bring you an extra plate at no additional charge.
Not only is the food and atmosphere a true southern charm, but there is a rich history to the restaurant. According to our waitress, Dr. John Ogle's great (or maybe great-great) grandson owns the place and a few other restaurants around the area.
Dr. Ogle's house and farm used to be across the road, where the Tanger Outlet Mall is currently located.
With a rustic farmhouse style, the designers nailed it when adding the modern conveniences. Exposed pipes and duct work have been carefully transformed into the décor.
Barn wood walls, rough cut lumber floors and repurposed corrugated tin blend into a cozy atmosphere made for reminiscing.
The restaurant has several family pictures and relics of times past. Be sure to notice several beautifully displayed glass jar canned goods. 
Just imagine the time, effort and skill it took back in the old days to plant, tend, harvest and preserve all their own food. My family still does some of that. Maybe you do, too. But I'll bet you still go to the grocery store for most of your grub.
I appreciate the hard work our ancestors put into living. They didn't have the luxury of going to a sit-down restaurant and ordering a big meal. Times were simpler then - no frills, no big box stores, no phones, no tv. Gosh, we are spoiled.
I felt honored to be seated amongst all the family heirlooms, in an historic spot in Pigeon Forge, and order from a menu of Mrs. Ogle's fine recipes that have been preserved by her family. I hope you'll feel the same way when you visit Five Oaks Farm Kitchen.
In Pigeon Forge, it's all about family - mine, yours and those who have called this place home for many moons.
Located only 2 miles from Asbury Cottages.Five Oaks Farm Kitchen is open 7 days a week.
Sun-Thurs 7:30am-9pm; Fri & Sat 7:30am-10pm
1638 Parkway, Sevierville, TN
