An Official Website of the Commonwealth of Kentucky
Here, history isn’t just something you read about—it’s something you can taste.
The Kentucky Historic Dining Guide shines a spotlight on locally owned restaurants operating within buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, weaving together the stories of Kentucky's heritage and its beloved food traditions. By highlighting historic dining venues across the state, the Guide helps you explore Kentucky's rich culture through a culinary lens - one meal, and one fascinating building at a time.
This guide is a tribute to Kentucky’s enduring heritage. It leads you to restaurants across the Commonwealth where the architecture, atmosphere, and food all carry the legacy of generations. These are the places where time-honored recipes meet timeless settings—where each meal connects you to the stories of the past.
From historic downtown cafés and old roadside diners to grand hotel dining rooms and lovingly preserved taverns, each stop in this guide invites you to experience Kentucky’s rich cultural tapestry through its culinary traditions. Whether you're a traveler seeking authentic local flavor or a Kentuckian rediscovering your roots, this guide is your invitation to explore the Commonwealth’s past—served fresh daily.
View the Kentucky Historic Dining Guide on the Kentucky Tourism website
Other ways to explore the Kentucky Historic Dining Guide:
Apple Maps Guide
Places.Travel
Would your restaurant like to be in the Kentucky Historic Dining Guide? We're actively seeking restaurants that meet the guidelines. Send your completed application to Jennifer Peachee-Harris