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BJ's Diner – Classic Burgers & Scenic Outdoor Dining in Cherokee, NC

BJ’s Diner in Cherokee, NC, is a charming riverside spot perfect for hearty, satisfying meals after outdoor adventures. Known for its standout burgers—especially the Buddy Burger, Double Bacon Cheeseburger, and Big Al’s Swiss Mushroom—each bite bursts with bold, comforting flavors. The menu’s mix of classics like chili cheese, onion rings, and Mexican cornbread complements the main dishes effortlessly. Though modest and open-air, the diner’s rustic charm paired with its scenic river views creates an inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re hiking nearby or exploring the Smoky Mountains, BJ’s serves up quick, flavorful fare that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.

BJ's Diner at a glance

  • Address 840 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States
  • Phone +1 828-497-4303
  • Restaurant type Diner , Fast food restaurant , Restaurant .
  • Popular for Breakfast , Lunch , Dinner , Solo dining .

Photos & Gallery

BJ's Diner: Reviews & Ratings

John-Luc Harbour
5

Spent all day hiking and playing disc golf. The troops were hungry and dropping like flies. And then, the heavens split open and BJ’s appeared. Never have I ever received a better tasting double bacon cheeseburger at such rapid pace. 10/10 would crush this burger again. (Two thumbs up, as shown in picture)

Brian Wilkey
5

What a great little dinner for such a beautiful day. May 31. The burgers are great and fairly priced . My table .a picnic table overlooking a great spot on the river. Finished eating 20 minutes ago. Still setting here. Hard to leave such a great spot. Totally love Cherokee NC. .what a great little town to visit.

Joyce Gundacker
5

The burger was delicious! $10.99 for this monster with all the fixings. Husband had a cheeseburger which was also very good, and it was only $7.99. Not a fancy looking place, but so good. Right on the way into the Smokey Mountain National Park.

Issy's Foodie
5

Its really a food truck. The lady taking the order was a lil moody but the lady giving you the order was really nice. It is in a great spot by the river. As for the food i found my burger a lil salty but all my friends love them.

Christopher Parker
5

Super cute little restaurant. All dining is outside. But as you can see the view is making. Set in Cherokee NC it's a great place to stop. My wife and son got a burger and they looked great and they said tasted even better. I unfortunately have Celiac disease so had to get a salad. But in all it was wonderful and highly recommend. If you are on the was to Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg it's just under an hour and right on the path to get there.

Bob 812
5

So glad we stopped by here!! Food was exactly how we hoped: Fast, Filling, and Scrumptious!! Staff was on point! Ordered the Bubba Burger with Fries. Now that is a diner burger, let me tell you! If one doesn't fill you up, you are part Grizzly! Fries were alright. Didn't get to try breakfast, but the burgers are worthy of a visit for sure!

Christa
5

My husband really wanted the Mexican cornbread, but they didn’t have it. Instead, he went for a corn dog, cheeseburger, and hush puppies. He said everything was good, but he especially loved the corn dog . I ended up eating most of the hush puppies —though they were shaped more like corn dogs ."

David Waldrop
5

This place is your perfect spot after crossing through the national park from the gatlinburg side! It came recommended by a park ranger and it didnt disappoint! Go let them serve you!!

Location

  • BJ's Diner
    BJ's Diner
    840 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States Hotline: +1 828-497-4303

BJ’s Diner is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Cherokee, North Carolina, perfectly placed on Tsali Boulevard near the scenic river. This unpretentious diner offers a satisfying refuge for travelers exploring the nearby Smoky Mountains or locals craving hearty, classic American fare. Despite its modest food truck appearance, BJ’s serves up a menu bursting with flavor and generous portions that keep customers coming back.

The star of the menu is unquestionably their burgers. The Buddy Burger, Big Al’s Swiss Mushroom Burger, and the legendary Double Bacon Cheeseburger each deliver layers of savory goodness encased in fresh buns. These are not mere fast-food patties but crafted comfort food, brimming with quality ingredients and bold taste. One cannot overlook the creative Loaded Fries paired with the Grilled Cheese Burger or the feel-good Poutine, which bring delightful twists to classic diner sides. The array extends to comforting options like Vegetable Soup and crispy Fried Shrimp, ensuring there’s something for every palate.

Eating at BJ's feels like a communal experience. The outdoor picnic table seating invites you to soak in the natural beauty around the river, enhancing the relaxed, comforting ambiance. Customer reviews echo this sentiment—whether it’s a rewarding stop after a day of hiking and disc golf or a tranquil meal overlooking the water, BJ’s combines great food with great views.

While the diner keeps things casual, the food speaks volumes. From the perfectly seasoned burgers to the indulgent chili cheese fries, everything is crafted with care and attention. A small note on seasoning: a few guests found the salt levels a bit high, but that seems to be a matter of personal taste contrasted by many who rave about the full-bodied flavors.

In essence, BJ’s Diner is the kind of spot that feels authentically local, yet inviting to visitors. It’s a place where you can enjoy a robust meal, friendly service, and a peaceful setting all in one. Whether you’re passing through on your way to Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg or simply seeking a laid-back meal with stellar burgers and sides, BJ’s offers a dependable and delicious stop worth making.

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Outdoor seating
    • Kerbside pickup
    • Takeaway
    • Dine-in
    • Delivery
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
    • Debit cards
    • NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards