Joey’s Pancake House Maggie Valley, NC

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Every year we make the trip up to Maggie Valley in the fall. It has become an annual tradition in our family. One of the main reasons we love going there is that the area is so low-key. Most of the businesses there are owned by locals. This includes most of all of the restaurants in town. One of our favorites is Joey’s Pancake House.

Every year we see new attendants in the old buildings. They come and go. There is one, though, that has stood the test of time, Joey’s Pancake House.

Joey’s Pancake house has been doing things right since 1966. They have a huge following and this can be seen on any morning you are in Maggie Valley by the wait of the line to get into the place.

It stands true, though, like I have said before, that if you are on vacation get there before 8:00 AM. You stand a good chance of walking in and sitting down to eat.

Joey’s has been around a while even in a town that has passed its heyday. Maggie Valley is still a great place to visit even though it does not have the attractions of nearby Pigeon Forge. What it does have are locals that treat you right. Joey’s is a fine example of that.

Next time you are in the area make sure you stop in to try some of the best breakfasts served up in Western North Carolina. Trip Advisor has them ranked at number 1 in Maggie Valley and I tend to agree with that ranking.

When you walk in the door you are greeted by the nicest lady you will ever meet and you will be offered coffee while you wait. You simply can not beat that!

Grists

I have mentioned this before but many years ago I was eating at Joey’s Pancake house and I asked the waitress “How do you get your grits so creamy?” I thought maybe they added cream to it but that was not the answer she offered. She simply said that they stir it a lot. Wow, I was blown away.

Once I got home, I tried it myself and sure enough it worked. If you check out my grits recipe and watch my YouTube video on it, I really make a point about stirring the grits. They make them so creamy simply by continuing to stir them.

Things to do in Maggie Valley, NC

Maggie Valley is home to many fun activities whether you want to play golf, fish, hike, or shop. I am going to share with you a few of our favorite things to do while we visit Maggie Valley, North Carolina besides just the obvious (Eating at Joey’s Pancake House).

Cataloochee Valley

We love to visit Cataloochee Valley. The trip up to Cataloochee Valley can be quite rough as part of it is a dirt road, but once you get inside the Great Smoky Mountain Park, it is so worth the ride.

Cataloochee is home to the Elk that was reintroduced in the early 2000s and this is the main reason why we go here. We sometimes stop in town and buy a sandwich to take up here and have a picnic.

There are many old buildings and houses located here. It will take you back in time to a place when things were simpler but a hard way of living. Go early morning or late evening to see the elk, bear, or turkeys.

Visit Nearby Waynesville, NC

When we visit Maggie Valley, we always have to visit nearby Waynesville, NC. Not only do they have awesome shops but also dining. I have compiled a list of my favorite 7 restaurants from that area. I also have to visit the Mast General Store every time I go.

Golfing

Maggie Valley is home to one of the prettiest golf courses I have ever seen. Although I have not played here yet, this is on my list of things to do one day. I have ridden around it and also stayed on it in the past and the course is so pretty.

Lake Junaluska

Lake Junaluska is actually located in Waynesville, North Carolina as well but it is very close to Maggie Valley, and Joey’s Pancake House. I love to visit here.

If you ride around the loop, about halfway through, there is a parking lot that overlooks the lake. There is a huge cross here and it is just so peaceful to get out of your vehicle and just sit and look.

There are also a few shops located back in Lake Junaluska Retreat Center and there are also places to stay here.

Soco Falls

If you dive up Highway 19, headed towards Cherokee, North Carolina there is a pull-off on the left-hand side of the road where you can visit Soco Falls. If you are not careful, you will ride right past it. There is a little tiny sign that lets you know about it but it is hard to see. The parking is in a sharp curve and there isn’t much room for many cars.

The trail to the waterfall is very short but also it is very steep. Just take your time and you can do it. Be careful if you go in the wintertime as the overspray from the waterfall will make the rocks and bridge icy and slick. Ask me how I know haha.

Visit Haywood Community College

You may be thinking why visit a community college in the first place? The first time I visited this place, it was to play disc golf. They have a challenging but beautiful course.

Not only is the course beautiful, but the campus is as well. They have a horticulture program here so the grounds look great.

There is a grist mill that the students built on site and there is Zinnia Garden too. There is a nice walking trail that goes around the campus if you want to get out and walk without hiking up mountains. I definitely recommend this place.

Other Activities

Although these activities listed are some of my favorite ones or ones I want to try, there are many other things to do in Maggie Valley, NC such as visiting the Stompin’ Grounds, trout fishing, carpet golf, riding the train in nearby Bryson City, NC, visit Wheels Through Time museum.

Conclusion

In the heart of the picturesque Maggie Valley, North Carolina lies a true gem for breakfast enthusiasts – Joey’s Pancake House. As we’ve explored in this blog post, Joey’s Pancake House isn’t just a place to grab a delicious meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a simpler time when hearty, homemade breakfasts were savored with family and friends. From their mouthwatering pancakes, made with secret family recipes, to the warm and welcoming atmosphere that envelops you the moment you step inside, Joey’s Pancake House is a testament to the enduring tradition of Southern hospitality and culinary excellence.

Visiting Joey’s Pancake House isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about creating lasting memories with loved ones and enjoying the authentic flavors of the region. Whether you’re a local looking for your regular breakfast fix or a traveler seeking a taste of the South, Joey’s Pancake House will leave you craving more.

As we conclude our journey through this delightful breakfast haven, we encourage you to pay a visit to Joey’s Pancake House next time you are in Maggie Valley. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-made pancake, a warm smile, and the simple joys of life.

So, the next time you find yourself in Maggie Valley, make sure Joey’s Pancake House is on your list of must-visit places – it’s a delicious slice of Southern hospitality you won’t want to miss.

Joey’s Pancake House
4309 Soco Rd. (Hwy 19)
Maggie Valley, NC

Click the video below to watch our review of Joey’s Pancake House:

Thanks for stopping by Southern Food Junkie. It is our hope that you enjoy this recipe sharing it with friends, family, and coworkers. Make sure to take time to give thanks to the creator, God, by which all blessings flow.
John 6:35

-Ronnie | Let’s Get Food Junked