This isn’t a theme park food blog and I wouldn’t normally write in tribute of a sausage, but on a recent trip to visit Dollywood and its Great Pumpkin LumiNights I had one of the best theme park meals I have ever had. The “Smoked Brat Sandwhich” blew my mind and my taste buds. It is a great quality bratwurst perfectly prepared on a soft pretzel bun topped with braised red cabbage with a side of fried potatoes, peppers and onions.

The Brat Sandwich is a special offering as part of the Harvest Festival at the Market Square Big Skillet located across the plaza from the Front Porch Cafe. Other times of the year you might see the Big Skillet making fried rice or other skillet dishes which are also great flavored and affordable quick meals. The combination of a perfect pretzel bun, a perfectly cooked sausage, cabbage and a side of skillet potatoes was heaven in a little cardboard container.

I grew up in Wisconsin with a grandmother with strong German heritage. Between that at tailgating for Packers and Brewers games there were lots of brats. In Wisconsin the McDonald’s have even served McBrats. Couple the Wisconsin heritage with several weeks spent in Germany and I feel I’m a pretty good judge of bratwurst. This one is A+, 10/10, 2 thumbs up and 5-stars. So, if you find yourself in the portion of the park between Lighning Rod and the Country Fair this month be sure to check out the Big Skillet. If you’re a lover of bratwurst and German food you won’t be disappointed.