Kentucky Restaurant and Dining Guide

Going on a flavor-filled adventure through the Bluegrass State is a taste bud tantalizing experience like no other. From the vibrant city of Louisville to the culinary gems in Lexington, and the charming local eateries in Owensboro, Bowling Green, Hopkinsville, and Paducah, Kentucky invites you to savor every bite of its diverse and rich culinary landscape. Our guide takes you through the backroads and main streets, introducing you to the most appetizing dishes, restaurants, and attractions that make each of these cities unique. Each bite, sip, and sight is deeply rooted in history and tradition, delivering an authentic taste of the region's hospitality and gastronomic flair. Get ready to tantalize your senses with everything from traditional Southern comfort food to innovative fusions, all served up with a hearty helping of Kentucky charm.

Lovin’ Louisville: The Melting Pot of Flavors

In the heart of Bourbon Country, Louisville boasts a dynamic culinary scene steeped in tradition and inventive flair. Among the standout establishments is Doc Crow's, known for its delightful spin on the iconic Kentucky Derby Pie. Each mouthful offers a harmonious blend of rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts, subtly enhanced by a bourbon-chocolate drizzle and a dollop of whipped cream. Don't leave without trying their Grilled Portobello sandwich, where a marinated portobello mushroom is perfectly paired with fried green tomato, coleslaw, spring mix, and Doc's Remoulade on a brioche bun. Another Louisville staple, Lobby Bar & Grill, serves a historic and indulgent treat - the Hot Brown. This Louisville tradition, dating back to 1926, consists of roasted turkey breast, toast points, Mornay sauce, and Pecorino Romano Cheese, baked until golden brown, and then finished with bacon and tomatoes. Pair it with their signature Lobby Bar Burger, a satisfying stack of Angus beef, cheddar, bacon, and special sauce, sandwiched between a brioche bun.

Don't miss out on Buck's Restaurant, where each dish is a testament to refined southern cuisine. Their Duroc Pork Chop, seared with brown butter and thyme, rests over Wiesenberger grits and crispy Brussels sprouts, then finished with a honey bourbon glaze. As for the Limoncello Chicken, it's a plate of pure joy, featuring a seared chicken breast topped with a limoncello pan sauce over jasmine rice and asparagus, all finished with parmesan and a baked lemon. Finally, La Bodeguita De Mima offers an authentic Cuban dining experience with its Arroz Imperial, a traditional Cuban dish consisting of yellow rice layered with chicken ropa vieja, manchego cheese, peas, and roasted peppers, all topped with pan-roasted airline chicken breast and sweet plantains.

After satisfying your culinary cravings, explore Louisville's cultural gems like the Louisville Mega Cavern, Kentucky Derby Museum, Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, or the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft, all offering a different slice of Louisville's heritage.

Lexington: A Blend of Bluegrass and Bon Appetit

In Lexington, Kentucky's horse country, the culinary scene is as thrilling as a derby race. For a true local favorite, saddle up for Winchell's Restaurant and Bar. Known for their Winchell's Hot Chicken Stack, it's a mouthwatering symphony of hand-breaded chicken strips dusted in Nashville spice blend, layered on a buttermilk pancake with jalapeno cheese grits, two eggs, and sliced pickles. Their Blue & White Pancakes - a nod to the state colors - are another must-try, bursting with blueberries and white chocolate chips. Head over to Carson's Food & Drink for their Sweet and Spicy Steak, an 8 oz. flame-grilled prime top sirloin glazed with Sriracha bourbon BBQ sauce and served on a bed of Yukon Gold garlic mashed potatoes. Or, try their Carson's Fried Chicken, a buttermilk-marinated chicken breast served over the same delicious mash and topped with pork belly sage gravy.

Tony's of Lexington offers a memorable Pistachio Pesto Orecchiette. Their house-made pesto, a blend of basil, parsley, and pistachios, harmonizes perfectly with grilled chicken and a variety of cheeses. Their bone-in Pork Chop is another standout, served with bourbon whipped sweet potatoes, house-made marshmallow, braised greens, and a whole grain mustard demi. Don't leave Lexington without stopping at Josie's Restaurant. Their Hot Brown and Mediterranean Chicken are both local favorites and offer comforting home-style flavors.

Once you've had your fill, trot over to Lexington's prime attractions like Keeneland, the Kentucky Horse Park, or The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky.

Owensboro: Where Barbecue Dreams Come True

Famous for bluegrass music and barbecue, Owensboro provides a down-home dining experience you won't forget. Start your gastronomic tour at the iconic Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn, a family-owned eatery since 1963. They're famous for their Burgoo, a hearty stew full of various meats and vegetables. A bite of their Chopped Bar-b-q Mutton Sandwich or their signature Club Sandwich will transport you straight to food heaven.

Next, try Colby's Fine Food & Spirits, a charming, rustic-style restaurant known for its American fare. The Hawaiian Rib-Eye, marinated in soy sauce, pineapple juice, and spices, is topped with grilled pineapple and a sweet soy glaze. Their Allegro Pork Chops - prime pork-loin medallions grilled to perfection and served with house-baked apples - are another must-try. No visit to Owensboro would be complete without a slice of Fetta Specialty Pizza & Spirits. Try their Chicken Chorizo Valentina pizza with chorizo sausage, Valentina sauce, roasted chicken, onion, tomato, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Or go for the Apple Bacon Red Onion Pizza, an addictive combination of white sauce, mozzarella, apple, bacon, and red onion.

After your meal, enjoy the stunning riverfront views at Smothers Park, dive into the history of bluegrass music at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum, or take a look at the World's Largest Sassafras Tree for a truly memorable experience.

Bowling Green: A Culinary Strike

Nestled in the hills of South Central Kentucky, Bowling Green serves up a diverse menu of flavors. Make your first stop at Anna's Greek Restaurant and order their Mousaka, an oven-baked masterpiece of roasted eggplant, potato, zucchini, and ground beef topped with a light béchamel sauce. Their Arni Briamai, slow-cooked lamb oven-roasted with mixed vegetables in a light tomato garlic sauce, is equally divine. Just around the corner is Hickory & Oak, a local favorite known for its innovative Southern cuisine. The pan-seared Sea Bass Risotto with black pepper parmesan risotto, brown butter, and roasted tomatoes is a must-try. For a heartier option, go for the Chicken Spaghetti, which features marinated grilled chicken breast, spaghetti, lemon butter, kale, parmesan, and grilled baguette.

If you're in the mood for a slice of American West, head to Montana Grille. Their Kentucky Bourbon Filet, slow-roasted over hickory wood and basted in a rich bourbon sauce, is the star of the menu. Pair it with their Iceberg Wedge, an indulgent salad topped with cubed Benton's bacon, tomatoes, crumbled bleu cheese, and a creamy sherry mustard dressing. For some Indian flare, drop by India Oven Fine Indian Restaurant and order the Mulligatawny Soup or Chicken Karahi, both are divine.

When you're not indulging in Bowling Green's culinary scene, check out the National Corvette Museum, take a boat tour at the Lost River Cave, or catch a show at the Capitol Arts Center.

Hopkinsville: A Dash of Southern Hospitality

Brimming with Southern charm, Hopkinsville delights visitors with its vibrant food culture. Begin your culinary journey at Horseshoe Restaurant, a community staple known for its rustic American comfort food. Try their signature Pork Chop Sandwich, the Patty Melt with Grilled Onions Sandwich, or their succulent Grilled Porterhouse Chops.

Next, satisfy your Italian cravings at Da Vinci Little Italian. Their Pasta Toscana, with roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, artichokes, and capers sautéed with garlic butter and olive oil, will transport you to the Mediterranean. The Pollo Alla Saltimbocca, topped with prosciutto, portabello mushrooms, fresh spinach and smoked gouda cheese, is another crowd-pleaser. For a taste of Mexico in Kentucky, make your way to El Bracero. Start with their Bracero Dip, featuring seasoned ground beef and pico de gallo smothered in cheese sauce. Follow it with the Nachos Machos, loaded with grilled chicken, steak, and chorizo, cooked with onions and jalapeños, and topped with guacamole.

As you explore Hopkinsville, don't forget to visit the Cherokee Trail Of Tears Commemorative Park, which offers a poignant reminder of the city's past. Or head to Copper Canyon Ranch for some outdoor adventure.

Paducah: A Taste of the Quilt City

Enriched with a potent mix of Southern hospitality and culinary prowess, Paducah is a true food lover's paradise. One must-visit establishment is Doe's Eat Place, a landmark in its own right. Their legendary Ribeye, Sirloin, and Tenderloin cuts are adored by locals and travelers alike. Each steak is cooked to perfection, offering the kind of mouthwatering flavors that make you momentarily forget everything else.

At Flamingo Row, get ready for an exciting gastronomic adventure. Try the Poseidon’s Adventure sandwich, which features a blackened mahi-mahi fillet with melted swiss cheese, or the Sun Rumba Burger, piled high with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and your choice of cheese. These dishes are as fun as they are flavorful, capturing the spirit of Paducah in every bite. Another Paducah gem is Cynthia's Ristorante, where each dish reflects a piece of Italy. The Rigatoni Calabrese combines homemade pasta, Italian sausage, pancetta, and peppers in a spicy tomato sauce. For a milder option, the Lemon Chicken Ziti combines chicken breast and broccoli in an Asiago Bechamel Sauce.

Paducah is also home to The National Quilt Museum, a unique attraction that complements the city's vibrant culinary scene. The River Discovery Center and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area also offer fascinating experiences.

From the thriving culinary scene of Louisville to the cozy charm of Paducah, Kentucky's food landscape is as diverse as it is delicious. Each city adds its unique flavor to the state's gastronomic identity, with restaurants that offer both timeless classics and innovative creations. As you savor the flavors of Kentucky, you'll also come across attractions that capture the state's rich history, unique culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Whether you're a seasoned gourmand or a curious traveler, Kentucky offers a feast for the senses. From its melt-in-your-mouth steaks to its heavenly hot browns, it’s an exploration of flavors and experiences that go beyond the ordinary, and into the extraordinary. In Kentucky, every meal is a celebration, every bite is a journey, and every city is a new culinary adventure waiting to be discovered. So grab your appetite, bring your sense of adventure, and experience the unforgettable taste of Kentucky.

Must-Try Restaurants in Kentucky

Da Vinci Little Italian

304 North Dr, Hopkinsville, KY 42240

Omg how have I not eaten here before .. my husband and I decided to travel from Lewisburg ky to hopkinsville I was wanting Italian food so we loowe on Go...

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Good87 Reviews4

La Bodeguita De Mima Cuban Restaurant and Rum Bar

725 E Market St, Louisville, KY 40202

I always love the atmosphere here.. it's so lovely and vibrant. Staff was amazing. We had reservations and were sat fairly quickly. Within just a co...

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Superb408 Reviews4.7

Lobby Bar & Grill at The Brown Hotel

335 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202

Very disappointed hot brown not good at all. Dessert not good at all. Server seemed to forget many things. It was a Christmas celebration we looked forw...

Superb266 Reviews4.4

Cynthia's Ristorante

125 Market House Square #0789, Paducah, KY 42001

5 stars for our first date night at Cynthia's! Make a reservation in advance, they have limited seating. Which creates an exceptional dining experie...

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Superb44 Reviews4.8

Winchell's Restaurant and Bar

348 Southland Dr, Lexington, KY 40503

We came here to sit outside with our dog. I watched the hostess say to who would have been our server, “Maggie, you cool with two outside?” To which the ...

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Superb169 Reviews4.4

El Bracero of Hopkinsville

200 Richard Mills Dr, Hopkinsville, KY 42240

We had a large group and we were seated quickly. Had a big menu and great portions sizes.

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Good119 Reviews3.9

Anna's Greek Restaurant

1202 State St, Bowling Green, KY 42101

Read other negative comments and you will see. Im not going to rehash but think about where you are spending your money. These are bad people.

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Superb242 Reviews4.7

Buck's Restaurant

425 W Ormsby Ave, Louisville, KY 40203

My wife and I were there for dinner tonight for the first time. Not only was the food amazing but our server Tony was absolutely fantastic. It was my wif...

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Superb151 Reviews4.5

Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn

2840 W Parrish Ave, Owensboro, KY 42301

Clean, good value for the money, and still has the banana rolled in peanuts like mom used to take to potlucks. Good friendly service.

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Good263 Reviews4.2

Montana Grille

1740 Scottsville Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42104

Cool spot. Loved that it is independent although our food was just average. I would give it another try though

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Good225 Reviews3.9

India Oven Fine Indian Restaurant

1755 Scottsville Rd #2, Bowling Green, KY 42104

Very satisfying. Had a big lunch and ordered a lot of food so we could try different things and have some to take home. Food was served quickly and was v...

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Good154 Reviews4.1

Colby's Fine Food & Spirits

204 W 3rd St, Owensboro, KY 42303

Colby's is one of finest eatery's that there is. The menu is amazing, the service is even better. I would recommend the jambalaya it is fantastic!

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Superb107 Reviews4.5

Fetta Specialty Pizza & Spirits

118 St Ann St, Owensboro, KY 42303

The service was great and the pizza was delicious! I loved the thin crust, the ranch was extremely good and it had just the right amount of sauce on it.

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Superb90 Reviews4.6

Tony's of Lexington

Victorian Square Shoppes, 401 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507

One of the best steaks I've ever eaten and the wait staff is wonderful. Beautiful interior as well!

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Superb436 Reviews4.3

Josie's Restaurant

821 Chevy Chase Pl, Lexington, KY 40502

I'm a simple guy. Breakfast on a weekday with Counter service, black coffee and any of the omelets. Just can't go wrong with any of the omelet&...

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Superb172 Reviews4.5

Carson's Food & Drink - On Main

362 E Main St, Lexington, KY 40507

I went down town for a college tour and we wanted try this place it was the best sandwich ever I had the spicy Hawaiian sandwich and my mom had the wagyu...

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Superb819 Reviews4.6

Doc Crow's

127 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

Best chicken sandwich ever. We were in town for a football game on an extended weekend and we liked this place so much we went back the next day for dinn...

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Good642 Reviews3.9

Flamingo Row

2640 Perkins Creek Dr, Paducah, KY 42001

That big kahuna burger. Was slipping and sliding out of my hands. Like a cell phone at Diddy‘s party. It was absolutely fire.

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Superb99 Reviews4.4

Doe's Eat Place

136 Broadway St, Paducah, KY 42001

Last Night My company had it's Christmas party at Doe's. We've been there for several Year's but last Night was the poorest Experien...

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Good161 Reviews3.9

Recently Opened Restaurants

Sake Bomb Newport

500 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071

Great friendly service and delicious food! We were happy to see Sake Bomb moved into the old Mokka space in Newport! We will definitely be back soon!

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Superb55 Reviews4.8

Penn Station East Coast Subs

8412 US-60, Ashland, KY 41102

Spend the extra in gas and go to the Ashland location. I have been to the summit location twice, both times orders have been wrong and the fry portions...

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Superb4 Reviews4.3

Dewey's Pizza

8901 US-42 Suite A, Union, KY 41091

Pizza was amazing. Service was amazing. However an extra $11 on a $25 pizza to add onions, spinach and tomatoes is criminal.

Good20 Reviews3.5

Sweet Dots

1303 Chestnut St, Murray, KY 42071

The mocha drink had way to much powder to milk ratio and left my mouth utterly dry after a few sips hope they get the ratios down in a month or so. I do ...

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Superb30 Reviews4.7

Playa Bowls

3900 Fountain Blue Ln #120, Lexington, KY 40513

I had an amazing experience at Playa Bowls!!! The customer service was top-notch. My server was Elise (I hope I spelled that right). She was friendly, at...

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Superb95 Reviews4.7

La Cumbre Bar & Grill

3428 Decoursey Ave, Covington, KY 41015

Real AUTHENTIC Mexican food. I've been several times and it's always great!

Superb14 Reviews4.7

Mileta

3565 Nicholasville Rd Suite 932, Lexington, KY 40503

Amazing experience! I loved everything about this place: atmosphere, food, service. Excellent fresh ingredients coming from different places, and combina...

Superb71 Reviews4.5

Carmelo's Restaurant

434 Madison Ave, Covington, KY 41011

amazing food, service, and atmosphere! Billy, Mitch, and the entire staff provided an outstanding experience! A "can't miss" opportunity. ...

Superb82 Reviews4.6

McDonald's

9825 Brownsboro Rd, Louisville, KY 40241

Overall vibe is dystopian box. No service, no people in sight, self checkout on a screen. Smelled like the employees were smoking pot somewhere in the st...

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Poor54 Reviews1.6

Cadillac restaurant

1315 W 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42301

Cadillac Restaurant has wonderful pizza and Drinks there. Everyone who works there are very nice and friendly. Thanks for your Services.

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Average10 Reviews3

HELLO FALAFEL

3120 Pimlico Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40517

I love this place! I think they gave the best Baba Ghanoush in town! Everything is always sooooo fresh! Their beef shawarma is my fav... especially becau...

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Superb75 Reviews4.8

Los parientes Mexican restaurant

2398 Woodhill Dr, Lexington, KY 40509

The place is nice and great customer service but my daughter ordered a kids chicken quesadilla and it looked pink like fish, my oldest daughter ordered a...

Superb19 Reviews4.7

Panera Bread

1816 Alysheba Way, Lexington, KY 40509

My sandwich was thrown together with wilted lettuce, which I ended up picking out. Wasn't too thrilled.

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Average18 Reviews2.6

Chick-fil-A

962 Breckenridge Ln, Louisville, KY 40207

I would avoid this location, definitely think it's an imposter. Very poor experience.

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Good57 Reviews3.8

Craft House Pizza - Colonial Gardens

816 W Kenwood Dr, Louisville, KY 40214

We were very impressed with the clean and fresh look of the restaurant. My pizza was delicious as was the baked spaghetti and the spaghetti with meatball...

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Good39 Reviews3.5

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Huddle House

3060 S Dixie Blvd, Radcliff, KY 40160

I have been a customer at Huddle House now since they opened~ I have had many waitresses in that time frame. The BEST ONES ARE KELSEY, STACEY, SANTANA......

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Good124 Reviews3.7

KFC

2725 Jackson St, Paducah, KY 42003

Last two times I've been here, something from my order has been missing so I will not return.

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Good42 Reviews3.5

El Torito

54 Public Square, Elkton, KY 42220

Great service. Very family oriented the workers and owners are awesome. Thank you for all you do for us. Great food. Love the environment.

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Good28 Reviews4

R&S Barbecue

217 S Jackson St, Tompkinsville, KY 42167

If you want a pedigreed in fine southern barbeque, you gotta go by and try Ms. Anita’s finest. It’s a celebration every time we go!

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Superb46 Reviews5

Carrabba's Italian Grill

617 S Hurstbourne Pkwy, Louisville, KY 40222

I like Brian the bar tender. He is nice, friendly and does a good job. He sure knows how to make a good manHatton I would recommend this place to every ...

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Superb255 Reviews4.4

Page’s Pizza

1532 Meador Port Oliver Rd, Scottsville, KY 42164

Have read good and negative thoughts about Pages Pizza,but my wife and I live only 4 minutes away, the best pizza and staff /employees are super great . ...

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Superb74 Reviews4.6

Wonder Whip

2434 E 4th St, Owensboro, KY 42303

I love the Wonder whip eat there quite often always friendly triple people working food great just so good..

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Superb102 Reviews4.4

Our Best

5728 Smithfield Rd, Smithfield, KY 40068

This is a true down home Southern restaurant. There were 5 in our party so we were able to sample a wide variety of the food. Details about the food in ...

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Superb140 Reviews4.6

Smashburger

600 Terminal Dr #10, Louisville, KY 40209

Employee is RUDE!! When I asked for a PRINTED RECEIPT they pointed to a sign and said they COULD NOT GIVE ONE! When I asked again and that I needed one f...

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Poor114 Reviews1.8

Tippy's

10245 US Hwy 27, Eubank, KY 42567

We were going to McDonalds but then we found Tippy's and it was AMAZING! And if you love spicy (like me) get the spicy chicken sandwich and chili Fr...

Superb36 Reviews4.4

Cluckers

480 Lexington Rd, Versailles, KY 40383

Cluckers is an absolute joke. Borderline fraudulent. The food was okay, but nothing justifies the disaster that was the service. My wife's chicken s...

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Good68 Reviews3.7

Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken

3014 Richmond Rd, Lexington, KY 40509

February 2025 Ordered 2 piece snack (spicy), ordered 2 piece original dinner. Got to window, worker opened window and was covered in animal hair, we tol...

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Average73 Reviews3.1

O'Charley's Restaurant & Bar

3916 Hinkleville Rd, Paducah, KY 42001

Ordered lunch (delivered by door dash) food arrived quickly and every single dish was cooked and presented with perfection.manager was very kind and appr...

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Good120 Reviews4.1

Wendy's

105 Hospital Dr, Winchester, KY 40391

Three friends and I were at your location on Sunday the 26th of Jan this year. Two of the ladies ordered hamburgers. When they went to eat them they ta...

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Good74 Reviews3.8

ABSEAFOOD

321 S Mulberry St, Elizabethtown, KY 42701

Everything is fresh, the Royal Red Shrimp is large, sweet and so yummy. We have had it in a shrimp boil, fabulous. The cole slaw is out of this world!...

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