If it seems like there’s a pancake house on every block, you’re right.

Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin

Wow, is thatanotherpancake house?

The first time I visited the Tennessee side ofGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, I had a similar reaction.

Pancakes with fruit toppings at Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin

The Smoky Mountains are known for a plethora of pancake houses.Credit:Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin

So, how did this tasty obsession take foot in the Smokies?

I turned to some of the areas pancake experts to learn more.

Instead of feeding laborers, locals began serving the visitors!

Pancakes covered with sweet toppings at Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin in Tennessee

There are endless pancake options awaiting you in the Smokies.Credit:Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin

Pancakes continue to be a quick, affordable, and delicious option for starting the morning.

We host monthly pancake suppers that partner with local organizations for fundraising and community awareness, said Barnes.

So, what is it about a pancake breakfast in the Smokies that feels so treasured and unique?

A bear-shaped pancake at Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin in Tennessee

Pancake breakfasts in the Smokies are for making memories with your family.Credit:Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin

The answer might lie in their inordinate prevalence and the comfort that can provide.

Theyre a familiar dish in an unfamiliar place, and theyll likely stir up some fond memories!

Another theory is thatlets be honestpancakes are ultimately a socially acceptable way of having cake for breakfast.

A stack of buttermilk pancakes at Apple Valley Cafe in Tennessee

Apple Valley Cafe’s buttermilk pancakes are filled with flavor.Credit:Oldham Hospitality

Toppings from chocolate chips and strawberries to bananas and peanut butterpancakes are an expression of creativity.

you might do just about anything to them!

When visiting the cafe, order the generously portioned Papa Bear Pancakes.

Sticky Bun pancakes at Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin in Tennessee

Try the Sticky Bun pancakes at Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin in the Smokies.Credit:Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin

Flapjacks Pancake Cabin in Pigeon Forge

The firstFlapjacks Pancake Cabinopened in the Smokies in 2001.

The restaurant offers what it calls Blanches Thick Ring-Baked Griddle Cakes.

The restaurant can get busy during breakfast hours.

Griddle cakes at Five Oaks Farm Kitchen in Sevierville, Tennessee

The griddle cakes at Five Oaks Farm Kitchen are about three pancakes in one.Credit:Korrin Bishop

Try the restaurants famous old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes, which are light, tender, and magnificently buttery.

Other unique Southern favorites are the cornmeal pancakes and the Smoky Mountain buckwheat cakes.

Buckwheat pancakes at Pancake Pantry in Gatlinburg

For a unique Southern favorites, try Pancake Pantry’s Smoky Mountain buckwheat cakes.Credit:Stephanie Rockwood