Those of us who live in the Bluegrass State are lucky to have so many top-notch restaurants no matter what part we’re in. If you happen to find yourself near the Land Between the Lakes and you’re looking for a place with delicious food, an unforgettable atmosphere, and activities for the whole family, then check out Patti’s Restaurant in Kentucky.
Editor's note: Due to a fire at the property, some of these photos may represent the way Patti's looked before rebuilding. We promise it's just as beautiful now (maybe even more so!) and everything is open for your enjoyment!
Patti’s started in 1977 as Hamburger Patti’s Ice Cream Parlor with only had 20 seats. It has grown so much over the years that it now has seating for 400.
Patti's is so much more than a restaurant and has earned statewide and national recognition for food and hospitality. This is truly one of the best country restaurants in Kentucky.
The restaurant was started by Patti and Bill Tullar and is still run by their children.
At one point, Bill decided to open his own restaurant. But since Patti's restaurant kept expanding, Bill's restaurant became part of it. This is why the restaurant has "Miss Patti's Entrance" and "Mr. Bill's Entrance." It doesn't matter what entrance you use as Mr. Bill's has the same menu and servers as Miss Patti's.
Interesting decor like this water wheel is part of what makes the Patti's experience so unique.
Go inside the restaurant, and you'll see even more fun and peculiar decor.
Patti's is one of the most fascinating hidden gems in Kentucky.
From the appetizers to desserts, their food is raved about. Just bring your appetite - the portions are huge!
Patti's is known for Southern-style cooking, offering items like steak and potatoes, catfish fillets, and their specialty two-inch pork chops. Make sure you get a side of their flowerpot bread.
We hope you're not too full for dessert. An assortment of fresh pies is baked daily, including "mile-high" meringue pies and other favorites like turtle pie, Kentucky chocolate pecan pie, and old-fashioned butter crumb apple pie.
Bill's Boatsinker Pie, which is pictured here, is a rich, double-fudge pie with coffee ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and a cherry.
When you're done eating, don't leave yet! There's still a lot to see and do around Patti's property.
Walk off some of that two-inch pork chop by walking around and exploring the site.
They have beautiful gardens you can walk around.
Wander down the flower-lined paths and admire their scenic water features.
Did you know you can get married at Patti's. This picturesque little chapel is a tranquil and intimate place to tie the knot. It has seating for about eight, and standing room for 10 or 12 more.
Also available is Patti's Annex which makes a great reception space with seating for 50 people.
There are plenty of fun activities here like mining for gold and gems.
Kids and adults alike will have fun panning for the glittery stuff and hoping to find some.
Visit the petty zoo where you can make some furry or feathery friends,
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If that's not your cup of tea, Patti's also has a miniature golf course, paddle boats, and a playground.
Take a little bit of Patti's home with you. Visit one of several gift shops where you can buy souvenirs, cookbooks, jewelry, clothing, and jars of sauces, seasonings, jams, and jellies.
They host special events throughout the year. If you're in the area around a holiday, stop in to see how Patti's is celebrating.
The Festival of Lights runs from November to January each year, with special kick off events the first two Fridays in November. During the Festival of Lights, nearly a million Christmas lights illuminate the restaurant and surrounding property. A truly remarkable sight!
Patti's 1880s Settlement has proven itself as a "must-see" destination in Kentucky, plus it's just a stone's throw away from Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, and the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Patti's Restaurant in Kentucky is located at 1793 J H O'Bryan Avenue, Grand Rivers, KY 42045. For more information, visit their Facebook page or website.
Have any of you been to Patti's Restaurant in Kentucky?
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