The Oldest Bourbon Bar In The U.S. Is Kentucky's Old Talbott Tavern And It’s Delicious
By Sarah McCosham|Published August 22, 2021
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
In a state that’s world-renowned for its bourbon, it should come as no surprise that the world’s oldest bourbon bar would naturally be here, too. Kentucky is, after all, the birthplace of bourbon, crafting 95% of the world’s total supply. Only the Bluegrass State has the perfect natural mix of climate, conditions, and pure limestone water necessary for producing this smooth, sweet spirit. And since 1779, folks have been visiting The Old Talbott Tavern to imbibe in the finest Kentucky bourbon. The oldest bourbon bar in the U.S. is Kentucky’s Old Talbott Tavern, and everything here — from the bourbon-glazed chicken and sticky bread pudding to the 200+ varieties of Bluegrass bourbon — is absolutely delicious.
Located in charming Bardstown, The Old Talbott Tavern dates back to the late 1700s, and not much has changed in the 250+ years since.
Back then, visitors would arrive on foot or on horseback, looking for a place to sleep and put up their feet for the night. Today, people continue to visit the tavern for the exact same reasons -- and some even pull up to Old Talbott's via horse, too!
Many famous people have visited Talbott Tavern over the years. It's now a popular dining destination in Bardstown, with folks coming to enjoy its historic atmosphere and ambiance.
And indeed, the tavern is just bursting with old-world charm. A warm, worn wood bar, well-preserved stone walls, cobblestone sidewalks, and antique decor all add to the Talbott's allure.
Of course, for Bluegrass bourbon drinkers, The Old Talbott Tavern is a bucket list destination. As the oldest bourbon bar in the world, partaking in "America’s only native spirit" here is a rite of passage.
Visitors can come and order from over 200 varieties of Bluegrass bourbon. Bourbon flights are available for those who wish to sample multiple varieties.
The pub's two most ordered mixed drinks are an old fashioned and the award-winning "Side Car Named Desire" cocktail. Each year, the Kentucky Bourbon Festival has a contest to determine the "Official Drink" of the festival for the next year. In 2013, the 2014 Official Drink was the Old Talbott's "Side Car Named Desire" creation, which features bourbon, lemon juice, apple cider, Cointreau, and a fresh strawberry simple syrup.
Of course, in addition to a delicious drinks menu, this Bardstown restaurant also dishes up some seriously amazing fare. Fan-favorites include the beer-battered fried pickles, fried green tomatoes, and bourbon-glazed chicken.
Have you visited Kentucky’s Old Talbott Tavern before? This winsome old restaurant really is a piece of Kentucky history you must experience for yourself. Learn more about Old Talbott Tavern at its website and Facebook page.
If you’re curious to learn more about all things bourbon in Kentucky, you can read up on the Bourbon Trail here!
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