Posted in Kentucky
February 09, 2018
The 10 Wackiest Restaurants In Kentucky Where Dining Is A Blast
A great dining experience is about so much more than the food. Of course, what you find on your plate is ultimately how you judge a restaurant, but there’s more to it than a well-created menu. There are many eateries around Kentucky that believe that going out to eat is about an overall experience, so they have each added some sort of creative factor or character to their restaurant to make dining there a blast. These 10 restaurants throughout the Bluegrass State all have charm, vibrancy, good food, and just enough wackiness to make them worthy of a visit.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Flamingo Row is a tropical-themed restaurant in Paducah that takes you to the Caribbean with each visit. The interior is as colorful as the exterior and is filled with palm trees, bright lights, and of course, flamingos. The menu is very diverse, but the sandwich offerings are definitely a favorite. And don't forget to order a tropical drink to really make you feel like you've escaped to the beach, without leaving Kentucky.
We've always been wild about Patti's 1880's Settlement in Grand Rivers; it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination in Kentucky. The restaurant boasts its famous flower pot bread, home cooked meals, and over-the-top desserts, and the property is just as impressive. You'll find a little bit of everything here. Sadly, Patti's recently experienced a fire, but they are already working hard to rebuild. Follow them on Facebook for current updates!
As the oldest diner in Frankfort, Rick's White Light Diner is a Kentucky institution. While the food is a standout - especially the surprisingly fresh seafood - the real character here comes from Rick himself, the staff, and decor. It's always a memorable stop and definitely a unique place to dine in our state's capital.
With a name like this, how could we not include it in a wacky restaurant list? Hog Wild is a locally owned BBQ joint, just minutes from the Kentucky Speedway. It's a lively spot for some incredible barbecue and made-from-scratch sides. It's very convenient for race-goers, locals, and even those driving past on the highway, as it's right off the exit.
Dining at The Parkette is another one of those quintessential Kentucky food experiences. It's nostalgic flair and uniqueness make for a fun atmosphere and the friendly staff and delicious food aren't bad either. Try the fried chicken or the hot brown burger and leave full and happy.
With multiple locations in Louisville, El Taco Luchador takes eating tacos to a whole new level. The flavor combinations are unique and out of this world and the decor of each restaurant is eye-catching and fun. The line is often out the door at all locations, but don't let that deter you from the freshest tacos in one of the most colorful restaurants in Kentucky.
If you haven't tried Bard's in Covington yet then you are really missing out on one of the best burger joints in Kentucky! The restaurant has a cool, retro feel but the craziness here comes from the food! Try the Bardzilla Challenge (if you dare), freshly fried cheese curds, coneys, a burger on a donut, or one of their many other mouthwatering options.
It's crazy to think that you can find an amazing pizza restaurant in the middle of nowhere in Kentucky, but that's exactly the case thanks to Miguel's Pizza. This locally owned dining destination is a treasure of Red River Gorge and really our entire state. The pizza is fresh and delicious, but the atmosphere is also why you should visit. They also offer a gear shop and lodging choices and it's a great stop to make when in this beautiful area of Kentucky.
Diners have been driving in to Dee's Drive Inn since the 1940's and the crazy thing is, not much has changed since. This local icon in Louisa has vintage charm like no other place in the state and the food is classically delicious. Ditch your diet and splurge on a burger with onion rings and a milk shake and live like they did in Louisa decades ago.
Jailhouse Pizza in Brandenburg allows you to dine like nowhere else in Kentucky - as if you were locked up in jail! This local pizza joint is housed in an old jail and the owners have kept many of the original features, including a jail cell where you can enjoy some of the best pizza around. The entire restaurant is a fun experience and full of that wacky character that makes dining here a blast.
When dining out in Kentucky, you’ll not only enjoy tasty food, but have some wacky fun at the same time! How many of these character-filled restaurants have you been to? Any that we missed? Let us know in the comments!
And for more exciting dining destinations in Kentucky, check out our previous article here.
