Kentucky has a thriving dining scene, and Woodford County is at the heart of it. Whether you’re planning a road trip or a weekend getaway, this area in the Bluegrass State offers unforgettable dining experiences. Home to the charming towns of Lexington, Versailles, and Midway, Woodford County boasts a variety of talented chefs, artisan producers, and unique dining spots waiting to be discovered.

Known as the birthplace of bourbon, Woodford County has a deep-rooted history in both bourbon and Southern cuisine. From traditional dishes beloved by locals to modern takes on regional flavors, the area’s restaurants offer a perfect blend of history and innovation.

Morning Munchies: J&B Food

A hidden gem located inside a BP Gas Station, J&B Food surprises visitors with its unforgettable Southern breakfast. This no-frills spot is famous for its towering Biscuit Egg and Cheese sandwich, paired with your choice of bacon or sausage. Another must-try is their Biscuits and Gravy, along with deep-fried hashbrown sticks that are delightfully crispy. The line moves quickly, and locals stop here for breakfast before heading to work, but there’s no seating. Grab your meal to-go and enjoy it in nearby downtown Versailles or at a local park. It’s the perfect way to fuel up and recover from a bourbon-filled night.

Lunch Like a Local: Wallace Station

Set in a charming, rustic building, Wallace Station is a quintessential Kentucky dining experience. Known for its garden-fresh ingredients and use of locally baked bread, the menu is perfect for a satisfying lunch. You can’t go wrong with the Fried Catfish or the Kentucky Cobb Salad, featuring house-made pimento cheese and a Sassy Sorghum Vinaigrette. For sandwich lovers, the East Hampton Ham and Brie is a standout, and their famous burgers have drawn the attention of many celebrity chefs. Wallace Station is steeped in history, as it sits along what was once an old railroad line, adding to the restaurant’s authentic Kentucky charm.

Southern Comfort on the Bourbon Trail: The Stave

A must-stop along the Bourbon Trail, The Stave offers an elevated menu showcasing the best of Kentucky-inspired cuisine. The Deviled Eggs, Fried Oysters, and Shrimp and Grits are crowd favorites, while the traditional Burgoo (a hearty Kentucky stew) and house-smoked BBQ Platter keep locals coming back. Nestled between famed distilleries like Castle & Key and Woodford Reserve, The Stave is rich in bourbon history. Their extensive bourbon cocktail menu complements the comforting, soul-warming dishes. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the “old South” as you dine at this beloved local treasure.

A Hidden Gem: The Glitz

For a truly unique dining experience, head to The Glitz, tucked inside the whimsical Irish Acres antique store. The journey through the store’s maze of antiques sets the stage for what’s to come. Downstairs, you’ll find an opulent, underground dining room with an ever-changing pre-fixe menu, ensuring every visit is a delightful surprise. Local farm-to-table ingredients dominate the menu, but the star of the show is the Grape Champagne Sorbet, a favorite dessert that’s earned legendary status. Reservations are a must, and while they don’t serve bourbon, tea and coffee service are available, offering a charming reprieve from Kentucky’s cocktail scene.

Downtown Dining: Vallozzi’s

Vallozzi’s brings a touch of Italy to downtown Versailles, with a menu blending authentic Italian cuisine and Kentucky flair. Enjoy a light patio meal featuring Arancini, fresh pasta, and pizzas, or dine inside for an upscale experience. The menu is crafted with both imported Italian ingredients and farm-fresh produce from local farmers. Standouts include the Lobster Risotto, the Veal Francese (a dish crafted with Southern palates in mind), and the decadent Snake River Wagyu Carpaccio. Their cocktail program is stellar, with creations like the Paper Plane, made with Kentucky bourbon, and a Cosmopolitan that rivals any New York bar.

Sweet Treats: Kristen’s Kreations

For a sweet finale to your day, make sure to visit Kristen’s Kreations. Opened by local baker Kristen after the pandemic, this bakery has become a beloved spot for cookies, cakes, and other delicious confections. Kristen’s passion for her craft is evident in every treat she creates, making this a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a wedding cake or a quick snack, Kristen’s Kreations has something for everyone.

Staying Overnight? A Storybook Inn

If you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay, don’t overlook A Storybook Inn. The innkeeper creates a three-course breakfast fit for royalty, and while the full experience deserves its own post, the breakfast is something you have to mention! From award-winning cookies to scones that are absolutely to die for, the flavors and warmth of the inn will leave you ready for a day of exploring Woodford County. Every bite feels like a true Kentucky welcome.

Fine Dining in a Castle: The Kentucky Castle

Another must-visit is The Kentucky Castle, a destination that also deserves its own spotlight. This luxurious property offers a dining experience fit for royalty. The Lobster Fries, Filet Mignon, and Deviled Eggs are just a few of the standout dishes. Pair them with their signature Espresso Martinis, and you’re in for a treat. Inside the dark, sexy restaurant, you’ll experience impeccable service and farm-to-table ingredients. The Kentucky Castle is not just a place to dine but an experience of high-end vibes and unforgettable local flavors.

A Historic Culinary Experience: Holly Hill Inn

One of the culinary treasures of Woodford County, Holly Hill Inn is set in a historic 19th-century home surrounded by the rolling hills of Kentucky horse country. The restaurant is known for its elegant and refined take on farm-to-table cuisine, highlighting seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Chef Ouita Michel, a James Beard Award nominee, leads the kitchen and creates menus that reflect Kentucky’s rich culinary heritage while embracing modern flavors. Signature dishes include the Kentucky Black Bass and the Bourbon-Braised Pork Shoulder, making Holly Hill Inn a destination for both history lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Dining at Holly Hill feels like stepping back in time, with each bite connecting guests to the land and traditions of the region.

Woodford County’s dining scene is full of passion, talent, and Southern hospitality. With a commitment to farm-fresh cuisine and a rich culinary heritage, these dining destinations reflect the heart and soul of Kentucky. If you find yourself in the Bluegrass State, be sure to sip, savor, and enjoy all the culinary delights this charming region has to offer.