Situated at the trailhead of the Kentucky Bourbon trail, Bardstown is the state’s second-oldest city. Alongside renowned bourbon distilleries, a rich Civil War history and a fascinating railroad legacy, this small town also provides fantastic opportunities to sample local Southern cuisine. We explore the area’s top spots for eating out.
Located in the basement of a former boarding school, The Rick House has a menu that features quality ingredients and seasonal produce as well as an extensive collection of the best local bourbons. For meat-lovers the steaks here are exceptional, as is the two-inch-thick 24oz porterhouse pork chop, which is grilled to perfection and served with sweet bourbon apricot chutney. For lighter options, there is a good selection of sandwiches and soups, as well as chicken and fish dishes. The bourbon blueberry salmon pan served on a bed of sautéed spinach will not disappoint.
Xavier Drive, Bardstown, KY, United States, +1 502 348 2832
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train offers a unique culinary experience on the move, aboard an elegant 1940s dining car. The two-hour train excursion features lunch and dinner menus and operates all-year round to a varied schedule. Riding past picturesque landscapes and historical sights, visitors can enjoy entrees such as lobster pot pie, mushroom ravioli or harvest beef bourguignon. As you approach the end of your journey, sample the bourbon pecan pie or the appropriately named chocolate “Choo-Choo for Two”, a chocolate locomotive filled with Chantilly cream.
602 N 3rd St, Bardstown, KY, United States, +1 502 348 7300
Rincon Mexicano is Bardstown’s choice for authentic Mexican food. In addition to offering a large selection of Mexican beers and margaritas, the menu features an extensive array of quesadillas, fajitas, chimichangas and enchiladas. Smothered with freshly prepared hot sauces and salsas, the food is spicy and cravings are sure to be satisfied at this neighborhood joint.
204 N 3rd St, Bardstown, KY, United States, +1 502 349 0049