Best Southern American Restaurants in Oak Ridge

We went to Dancing Bear last evening to celebrate my husband's 81st trip around the sun! It is our go-to spot for all special occasions and when we just want to give ourselves a treat. Also, it is always the dining venue requested by family and friends who visit us in East TN. We had fried gulf oysters for our appetizer. They were excellent as was my entree of trout with grits and my husband's brined pork chop. Their staff is welcoming and personable - attentive without hovering. We had the added treat of being seated near the fireplace which was most welcome on a bitterly cold night. We love everything about the Dancing Bear - location, ambiance, service and especially the food. Not only do we love it but so does everyone we have ever treated to a meal there.

Food was very good and the waiter we had was very nice and friendly.

Lulu was a great server! It was New Year’s Day so we knew it’d be busy with lots of families and groups. She was attentive, visited the table several times, and we received all our food and drinks correctly in a nice amount of time. Families may have found service a little slow. The manager came by twice and we expressed our appreciation. Both the chicken dumpling and blue crab soups were fabulous! Highly recommend. Chicken sandwich was good and we loved the plentiful homemade kettle chips. Drinks were delivered correctly and quickly and we took some drinks to the lobby to relax and enjoy the ambiance. Awesome experiences and we look forward to visiting again.

Exceptional food, exceptional service. Had a part of 7 celebrating a birthday and our server Grace was fantastic. She had good suggestions and very attentive. RT Lodge is always wonderful.

Great service. Food could have been better for the price.