Peaceful Side Brewing
local_barTaste - Wineries & Breweries

Peaceful Side Brewing: Craft Beer on the Quiet Side of the Smokies

starstarstarstar½ 4.6 (890 reviews)
location_onTownsend schedule11:00 AM - 8:00 PM timer1-2 hours
Craft Beer Mountain Chill

About

Peaceful Side Brewing (officially Peaceful Side Social) is a craft brewery and restaurant in Townsend, Tennessee, that captures the relaxed spirit of the "Quiet Side of the Smokies." Located on the main highway through town, this modern taproom and beer garden offers house-brewed craft beers alongside a chef-driven menu that goes well beyond typical pub fare. The open, airy space with mountain views makes it a natural gathering spot for both locals and visitors.

The brewery produces a rotating selection of craft beers on site, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts and seasonal specialties. The kitchen serves a menu of elevated comfort food including smash burgers, crispy chicken tenders, loaded fries, and fresh salads, all prepared with quality ingredients. The beer garden out back is the real draw on warm evenings, with string lights, picnic tables, and live music on Friday nights creating a scene that feels distinctly Townsend.

Peaceful Side Social is part of a growing family of businesses that includes Peaceful Side Brewery in nearby Maryville and Peaceful Side Creamery next door. The Townsend location has become a go-to stop for visitors heading to or from Cades Cove, offering a comfortable place to unwind after a day of hiking or sightseeing. The family-friendly atmosphere welcomes all ages, though the craft beer selection is obviously for the adults in the group.

Did You Know

  • Townsend is known as the "Peaceful Side of the Smokies" because it offers a quieter alternative to the busier tourist towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge (Townsend Visitors Bureau).
  • Peaceful Side Social brews all of its beer on site at the Townsend location, with recipes developed at their original Maryville brewery (Peaceful Side Brewing).
  • The restaurant hosts live music every Friday evening in the beer garden during warm weather months (Peaceful Side Social).
  • Peaceful Side Creamery, located next door, serves house-made ice cream that pairs perfectly with a post-dinner stroll through Townsend (Peaceful Side Social).
  • The brewery name was inspired by Townsend's official tourism slogan, embracing the town's identity as a calmer gateway to the national park (Townsend Visitors Bureau).
Craft Beer Restaurant Family-Friendly Live Music Beer Garden
location_on
Address
7967 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
schedule
Hours
11:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Mon-Thu), 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Fri-Sat), 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Sun)
timer
Typical Visit
1-2 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Peaceful Side Brewing family-friendly?

Yes, the restaurant welcomes families with children. The menu includes options for younger diners, and the beer garden has plenty of space for kids to move around.

Do they serve food or just beer?

Peaceful Side Social has a full craft kitchen serving burgers, chicken tenders, salads, and other elevated comfort food alongside their beer selection.

Is there outdoor seating?

Yes, the beer garden offers outdoor seating with string lights and mountain views. It is the most popular seating area during warm weather.

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are not typically required, but the restaurant can get busy on weekend evenings, especially during peak tourist season.

Is there live music?

Yes, live music is featured every Friday evening in the beer garden during the warmer months.

Take Home a Piece of Peaceful Side Brewing

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