These 9 Old Restaurants In Kentucky Have Stood The Test Of Time
By Jenn Shockley|Published March 09, 2016
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Jenn Shockley
Author
I am somewhat a cliche'. I grew up running around barefoot on a farm in Kentucky.
I love writing, art, sunshine, all animals and my incredibly patient husband, who tolerates my "crazy animal lady" side.
Restaurants come and go, especially ones that focus on more trendy fare. It seems that less than 90% of new restaurants succeed and continue to be a favored dining spot for more than a few years, much less decades. There are a few old restaurants in Kentucky that have withstood the test of time, and their renowned reputation is well earned. They not only have delicious food—but also a bit of history as an added bonus.
Here are 9 old restaurants in Kentucky that have withstood the test of time:
9. Claudia Sanders Dinner House at 3202 Shelbyville Road in Shelbyville
This was a home owned by Colonel Sanders in 1959, which is now a museum of KFC history attached to a wonderful dining area. You can get all your KFC favorites here, along with some delicious other southern dishes.
8. Old Stone Inn at 6905 Shelbyville Road in Simpsonville
The historical records for this old building date back to the 1800s, with completion in 1817. It has had many faces over the decades, including tavern, stagecoach stop, inn and residence. Famous faces like General Lafayette of the Civil War and Andrew Jackson, a former president have stayed here. Now visitors can dine on traditional southern dishes and enjoy the historic atmosphere.
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7. Olde Bus Station at 227 S Greenville Street in Harrodsburg
For decades this was a Greyhound Bus Station, taking passengers to and fro from all around. Today it is a wonderful restaurant offering a variety of southern comfort foods including homemade banana ice cream.
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6. Seelbach Hilton Louisville at 500 S 4th Street in Louisville
This building is on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the only surviving examples of what life in a small railroad community once was. It was an old station back in the day and is conveniently located along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Visitors can pop in for homemade soups, sandwiches and salads all made with a special southern touch.
4. Talbott Tavern at 107 W Stephen Foster Avenue in Bardstown
This historic tavern was built in 1779 and has been a wonderful source of food, shelter and drinks for weary travelers. Many initially arrived in horses and buggies, but today’s visitors drive up. The house specialties are Chicken Phillipe, Country ham and fried chicken.
3. Historic Boone Tavern Hotel and Restaurant on 100 Main Street North in Berea
This historic part of Berea was built in 1909 at the coercion of Lady Nellie Frost, wife of William G. Frost, the Berea College President of the time. As the college became more prominent, the president’s guests increased in number. This allowed them a comfortable stay and a good meal. They offer a signature coffee, along with many delicious dishes.
2. The Brown Hotel at 335 W Broadway in Louisville
Since 1923 The Brown has been serving delicious food to guests. It has been a favored hotel of celebrities and is home to the famed Kentucky Hot Brown. The open faced turkey sandwich covered in Mornay sauce was made in the 20s as an alternative to eggs for late night patrons.
1. Greyhound Tavern at 2500 Dixie Hwy in Fort Mitchell
This was built in 1921 as the original Dixie Tea Room, and the two original rooms still exist today. The Tavern Room and the Hunt Room are still used and maintained in their traditional style. The cuisine is varied and includes steaks, chops, seafood and other chef specials.
A little nostalgia can go a long way, and these old restaurants in Kentucky hold a deep nostalgia for locals. Do you have a favored restaurant that serves nostalgia with its cuisine?
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