- Attraction: Painted Bear Coffee Co
- Location: 522 Buckhorn Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Industry: Coffee Shop
- Website: https://thepaintedbear.com/
A charming log cabin structure sits along a scenic stretch of Gatlinburg’s Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, where the aroma of freshly brewed organic coffee mingles with the scent of locally baked pastries.
This family-built refuge from the tourist-packed downtown strip offers something truly special—a coffee experience blended seamlessly with original artwork, wildcrafted herbal teas from the owners’ homestead, and the kind of genuine warmth that makes people drive two hours just to visit.
What sets this spot apart is its fascinating backstory.
The wood used to build this cozy shop was repurposed from the historic Gatlinburg Hotel, giving the space an authentic connection to Tennessee’s mountain heritage. You’re not just grabbing coffee here—you’re stepping into a thoughtfully crafted space where every detail tells a story.
Signature Coffee & Tea Creations
The Painted Bear Latte: This house specialty comes bursting with warmth, featuring a delightful blend of honey and toffee nut flavors that create a comforting sweetness without being overpowering. It’s become such a favorite that it appears in countless recommendations.
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Keep Exploring →Tiramisu Latte: Perfectly balanced with cold foam and a dusting of cocoa powder, this drink captures the essence of the classic Italian dessert. The iced version offers a refreshing twist, and you’ll find the cinnamon isn’t overwhelming—just beautifully blended into the coffee.
Seasonal Specialties: Throughout the year, you can enjoy rotating flavors like the eggnog latte during winter months, peppermint mocha when the weather turns crisp, and lavender blueberry latte with honey cold foam. The seasonal menu keeps locals and visitors coming back to discover what’s new.
Yerba Mate: This South American tea from the Brazilian jungles has become a surprising hit. It delivers an elevated energy boost without the jitters or crashes that sometimes come with coffee, and many first-time triers end up making it their regular order.
Red Eye: Need serious caffeine? This powerhouse drink combines drip coffee with espresso shots for maximum energy—perfect fuel before tackling the mountain trails.
Classic Options: Beyond the specialties, you’ll find expertly crafted cappuccinos, lattes in various flavors, caramel macchiatos, flat whites, mochas in dark or white chocolate, iced matcha lattes, and chai lattes. Every drink showcases the barista’s skill and the quality of their locally roasted beans.
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Pistachio Muffins: These have earned a reputation as showstoppers. The flavor profile surprises in the best way possible, with a moist texture and nutty richness that makes them unforgettable.
Bear Cake Pops: Adorably themed for the Smoky Mountains, these treats literally melt in your mouth. They’re perfectly sweet and beautifully crafted—ideal for kids or anyone with a sweet tooth.
Butter Croissants: Featuring those coveted flaky, buttery layers that shatter delicately with each bite, these croissants deliver that authentic French pastry experience.
Morning Pastries: The rotating selection includes cinnamon rolls, danish pastries, muffins in various flavors, French croissants, and bagels—all baked fresh and locally sourced to ensure top quality.
Bonus Offerings: Beyond coffee and pastries, you’ll discover sandwiches, ice cream, and even fresh lemonade that pairs wonderfully with the Tennessee sunshine.
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Keep Exploring →The Log Cabin Atmosphere
Rustic Mountain Charm: Housed in an authentic log cabin structure, the space perfectly captures that Tennessee mountain aesthetic. Modern touches blend seamlessly with yesteryear charm, creating an inviting environment that feels both nostalgic and contemporary.
Art Gallery Integration: The lobby doubles as an art showroom featuring original paintings created by one of the owners, Daniel. His bear-themed artwork and spiritual pieces add visual interest throughout the space, and everything is available for purchase as a unique Smoky Mountain souvenir.
Covered Porch Seating: Step outside with your drink and settle into the covered porch area. You can watch the Arts & Crafts Community come to life while sipping your coffee in the fresh mountain air—a peaceful escape from the bustling downtown scene.
Shop Cat Charm: A resident feline adds an extra dose of coziness to the experience. This adorable shop cat has won over countless visitors with its sweet personality.
Intimate Setting: The space maintains a cozy, quiet atmosphere—noticeably calmer than downtown Gatlinburg’s packed cafes. It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think and enjoy meaningful conversation.
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Discover MorePractical Details & Hidden Perks
Fair Pricing: You’ll find the menu offers exceptional value for the quality you receive. Prices sit comfortably in the moderate range ($$), making it accessible without sacrificing the premium coffee experience or locally sourced ingredients.
Artisan Gift Shop: Browse handcrafted items including homemade soaps, pine needle baskets, locally made pottery mugs (holding a perfect 16 oz), jewelry, and immune support products crafted from wildcrafted herbs from the owners’ homestead.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Location: Situated in the Arts & Crafts Community along Glades Road and Buckhorn Road, this spot offers easy parking and a more relaxed vibe away from downtown Gatlinburg’s congestion.
The location makes it perfect for pairing with exploration of other local artisan shops in the eight-mile loop.
Hours & Best Times: Open Monday through Friday from 8am-3pm and Sunday from 9am-4pm (closed Saturdays). Mornings provide the freshest pastry selection, though the afternoon offers a quieter, more contemplative experience.
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Keep Exploring →Local Favorite Status: This shop has earned recognition as Gatlinburg’s top-rated coffee destination, beloved equally by tourists and locals. Some regulars make it a tradition to stop by whenever they’re heading to the Smokies, Pigeon Forge, or Dollywood.
Wildcrafted Herbal Teas: The unique tea selection features honey and herbs harvested directly from the owners’ homestead, offering a truly local and organic experience you won’t find at chain coffee shops.
Painted Bear Coffee Co
📍 522 Buckhorn Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
