If you live in Kentucky, then you know it takes quite a bit of money, time, and planning to hop on a plane for a European vacation. We can't all always swing that. Thankfully, there are places throughout the Bluegrass State that give us that European flair and flavor, without having to travel far from home. German roots run deep in many parts of our state, and this becomes especially apparent when visiting one of our amazing German restaurants. The menus and atmospheres at these six incredible dining destinations whisk you across the pond with their authentic German food... all without even leaving Kentucky.

1. Wunderbar

Wunderbar is a tiny, hole-in-the-wall corner pub in Covington. Don’t let the unassuming exterior dissuade you; the delicious German food served inside will delight and surprise you. With authentic flavors and all the classics on the menu, the German tavern atmosphere will transport you straight to the streets of Munich.

Learn more about this German gem in our previous feature article here.

2. Hofbrauhaus

Hofbräuhaus was founded in Munich all the way back in 1598, but the first American location opened up right here in Newport in 2003. The atmosphere - both inside the large dining room and outside in the expansive biergarten - is lively and true to its German roots. The restaurant has become a favorite dining destination in Northern Kentucky, and it’s not hard to see why. The food is scrumptious (order a pretzel while you’re here!) and beers are served in steins bigger than your whole head!

Learn more about this fun-filled dining experience on the restaurant's website here.

3. Eiderdown

Eiderdown is a small German eatery appropriately located in the Germantown neighborhood of Louisville. The restaurant puts a southern twist on they German-inspired menu - and it’s delicious! You’ll want to arrive hungry and spend some time enjoying the inviting, laid-back vibe at this delightful pub.

Learn more about Eiderdown on its website here.

4. Marikka's Restaurant & Bier Stube

Marikka's in Lexington may just be the most unique German restaurant on this list. Not only is the food great and the beer selection massive, but you can also have a blast in the large and lively indoor dining room and the attached volleyball complex.

For ore information about Marikka's on its website here.

5. Gasthaus German Restaurant

Louisville’s Gasthaus German Restaurant might just be the most authentic German dining experience you can have in the Bluegrass State. The founding family grew up in Germany and brought their traditional recipes and character to Kentucky, and you can taste the authenticity in every bite. Dining here is the closest you’ll get to sharing a meal in an old German dining room without leaving the state! Take your time to truly enjoy the experience and do not skip dessert at Gasthaus, as its selection has become quite famous.

Learn more about this family-friendly German eatery on its website here.

6. Gasthaus Zum Deutscheu Eck

Deutscheu Eck is an unexpected German cafe and bakery in the small town of Radcliff. It may not look like much from the outside, but inside, you’ll find friendly people and incredibly authentic German food. This is a hidden gem that everyone in Kentucky should try!

Deutscheu Eck is located at 451 N. Wilson Rd., Radcliff, KY 40160.

The next time you're craving schnitzel or a gigantic pretzel with a stein of beer, look no further than these six amazing German restaurants in Kentucky. Do you enjoy German food? Have you tried all of these eateries? Let us know in the comments and definitely share your favorite if we missed it!

And for more restaurants in Kentucky where dining is a blast, check out our previous article here.