Mentions and Blogs

Behind-the Scenes at The Appalachian: Crafting Our Signature Duck Breast Entrée

At The Appalachian, our commitment to excellence extends beyond the plate; it begins with sourcing the finest local and regional ingredients. One of our standout dishes, beloved by locals and visitors alike, is our Duck Breast entrée. Crafted with care and precision, this dish showcases the culinary artistry and dedication to quality that define our restaurant.

Sourcing the Finest Ingredients

Central to the creation of our Duck Breast Entrée is the exceptional Jurgielewicz Duck from Tasty Duck, a family farm known for its dedication to sustainable farming practices and superior duck products. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian in Hamburg, Pennsylvania, Tasty Duck ensures that each bird is raised with the highest standards of animal welfare and environmental stewardship, aligning perfectly with our values at The Appalachian.

Chef David Rule’s Culinary Vision

Owner and Executive Chef David Rule, the creative force behind our menu, has a deep respect for the ingredients he works with. In a recent interview with 5 Reasons to Visit, Chef Rule discussed the inspiration behind our Duck Breast entrée, highlighting its rich flavors and the meticulous preparation that goes into every dish.

“It’s a dish that I have been working on for years and has evolved over that time. It’s a unique balance of savory and sweet. We source the best duck product in the country. It’s paired with locally grown mushrooms that are savory and earthy and served with red grapes. The contrast of the luxurious duck, earthy and savory mushrooms, and the sweetness of the grapes is a beautiful harmony of flavors.” Chef Rule explained to 5 Reasons to Visit.

The Art of Preparation

From the kitchen to your table, every step in preparing our Duck Breast Entrée is a testament to our commitment to excellence. Each duck breast is carefully seasoned and seared to perfection, preserving its natural juices and achieving a crispy skin that complements the tender, flavorful meat inside.

"Our guests appreciate the attention to detail," Chef Rule shared during a recent podcast with Tennessee Farm Table.

Pairing and Presentation

At The Appalachian, we believe that a memorable dining experience involves all the senses. Our Duck Breast dish is thoughtfully paired with locally sourced seasonal vegetables and a delicate mushroom tea that enhances the natural flavors of the dish. The final presentation is not just a meal but a work of art, reflecting our passion for both flavor and aesthetics while highlighting some of the best ingredients available in The Appalachian Mountains.

Join Us at The Appalachian

Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visitor exploring Sevierville, Tennessee, we invite you to experience our Duck Breast Entrée firsthand. From the farm to your fork, every bite at The Appalachian tells a story of quality, craftsmanship, and the vibrant flavors of the Appalachian region.

Stay tuned to our blog for more behind-the-scenes insights, chef interviews, and updates on our seasonal menu offerings. Discover why The Appalachian is not just a restaurant but a culinary destination in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

The Appalachian Welcomes Master Sommelier Thomas Price for an Exclusive Wine Dinner

Join Us in Historic Downtown Sevierville for an Evening Benefiting the Somm Foundation

Sevierville, TN / September 26, 2024 – The Appalachian, a contemporary Southern restaurant in Historic Downtown Sevierville, is collaborating with SommFoundation to host an exclusive five-course wine dinner featuring guest Master Sommelier Thomas Price. The menu will highlight unique dishes not available on the regular menu, each expertly paired with premium wines selected by Sommelier Price.

“We are excited to host events throughout the year that offer our guests something truly special. Whether collaborating with regional restaurants, spotlighting award-winning distilleries, or collaborating with nonprofits, we aim to showcase exceptional experiences our customers may not have encountered before,” said Executive Chef David Rule.

Master Sommelier Thomas Price, Chairman of the SommFoundation and former Board Member of the Court of Master Sommeliers Americas (CMS-A), will guide guests through six premium wine selections for the evening. As the first African American to earn the Master Sommelier title in 2012, Price is dedicated to advancing wine education. His work with the SommFoundation and mentorship at Auburn University's teaching restaurant, 1856, helps shape future hospitality professionals.

"SommFoundation exists to open doors and provide educational opportunities for those who might not otherwise have access. Supporting wine education increases access to this costly field of study and cultivates informed sommeliers who can introduce you to exceptional wines tailored to your palate," said Master Sommelier Price. "Wine culture enhances dining experiences and enriches life in general, and these sommeliers are eager for it; they just need support."

The SommFoundation Wine Dinner will be held on Sunday, October 6th, at 6:00 PM, with the bar opening at 5:00 PM for amuse-bouche. Guests can enjoy beer, wine, and handcrafted cocktails available for purchase. Limited tickets are available via RESY, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the SommFoundation.

Media Contact: Jessica Winspear

Marketing Director, Mountain Hospitality Concepts

marketing@mountainhospitalityconcepts.com

For more information about the SommFoundation Wine Dinner and to stay updated on the latest news and announcements, please visit www.TheAppalachianRestaurant.com or follow us on Facebook or Instagram @eatappalchian.

Mountain Hospitality Concepts was founded by Austin Williams and David Rule. Dedicated to creating exceptional dining experiences and events that showcase the best of the region's culinary and cultural offerings, their concepts include The Appalachian, Trotter's Catering & Whole Hog BBQ, and The Pines Downtown located in the historic district of downtown Sevierville. The concept offerings range from locally sourced cuisine in rustic yet refined settings, traditional Southern BBQ, live music and much more. The company is deeply committed to the growth and development of the Historic Downtown Sevierville community and is a leading contributor to the area's development through its restaurants, events, and partnerships. Mountain Hospitality Concepts aims to create unforgettable experiences that celebrate the best of the region's food, drink, and culture.

Owner and Executive Chef, David Rule of The Appalachian in Historic Downtown Sevierville

David Rule

Duck Breast Entrée at The Appalachian in Historic Downtown Sevierville

Duck Breast

Open-concept kitchen at The Appalachian in Historic Downtown Sevierville

Dining Room