14 Must Try Kentucky Restaurants Where The Views Are As Good As The Food
Kentucky offers more than just bourbon and bluegrass it’s home to some incredible restaurants where you can enjoy amazing meals while taking in breathtaking scenery.
From lakeside dining spots to mountaintop eateries, these places prove that great food tastes even better with a spectacular view.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a fun family outing, I’ve put together this list to help you discover restaurants that deliver on both flavor and atmosphere.
1. Patti’s 1880’s Settlement
If you’re looking for a dining experience that feels like stepping back in time, this spot in Grand Rivers delivers on every level. The restaurant sits near Kentucky Lake, offering peaceful water views that make your meal feel extra special. You’ll love watching the sunset reflect off the lake while enjoying their famous pork chops or mile-high meringue pies.
The property features gorgeous gardens and walking paths you can explore before or after your meal. Families appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and generous portions that won’t break the bank. When weather permits, outdoor seating puts you right in the middle of nature’s beauty.
I recommend visiting during spring when the flowers are blooming for an unforgettable visual treat alongside your dinner.
2. Chart House Restaurant
Perched along the Ohio River in Louisville, this upscale seafood restaurant gives you front-row seats to one of the city’s most beautiful waterways. The floor-to-ceiling windows ensure every table gets a view worth photographing. You can watch boats glide by while savoring fresh seafood that’s flown in daily.
The menu focuses on premium steaks and seafood prepared with expert precision. I find their crab cakes and coconut shrimp particularly impressive, though the real star might be the scenery. Evening visits offer stunning sunset colors painting the sky over the water.
Dress code leans toward business casual, making it ideal for special occasions or date nights. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend dinners when locals flock here.
3. Holly Hill Inn
Are you ready to experience fine dining surrounded by Kentucky’s famous horse country? This historic inn in Midway sits on a hilltop with panoramic views of rolling farmland and grazing horses. The seasonal menu changes based on what’s fresh and available from local farms.
Chef Ouita Michel has earned national recognition for her farm-to-table approach that celebrates regional ingredients. Each dish tells a story about Kentucky’s agricultural heritage while tasting absolutely incredible. The intimate dining room creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for celebrating anniversaries or birthdays.
Spring and fall offer the most spectacular outdoor scenery with colorful landscapes. Prices reflect the upscale experience, but the quality justifies every dollar. Make reservations well in advance since this gem books up quickly.
4. Cliffside Restaurant at Red River Gorge
When you’re exploring Red River Gorge’s natural wonders, this restaurant provides the perfect refueling stop with jaw-dropping views. Situated on a cliff overlooking the gorge, you’ll dine while gazing at ancient rock formations and endless forest. The casual menu features burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food that hits the spot after hiking.
Outdoor seating puts you right at the edge of the cliff for maximum scenery exposure. I love visiting during fall when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. The prices are reasonable, making it accessible for families and budget-conscious travelers.
It’s worth timing your visit around sunset for truly magical lighting. Local craft beers complement the relaxed mountain vibe perfectly.
5. Boathouse at Rough River Dam State Resort Park
How often do you get to eat dinner while watching boats cruise past your table? This state park restaurant offers exactly that experience on Rough River Lake. The menu features classic American fare with a focus on catfish, steaks, and Southern sides that satisfy hungry appetites.
Large windows and a spacious deck ensure everyone enjoys the lake views regardless of where they sit. Boaters can dock right at the restaurant, making it a popular summer destination for water enthusiasts. I find the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere refreshing compared to fancier establishments.
Prices are very reasonable for the quality and portion sizes you receive. Weekend breakfast buffets are particularly popular with locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss the hush puppies they’re legendary among regulars.
6. Rookwood Restaurant & Bar
Did you know that one of the best views of Cincinnati’s skyline comes from the Kentucky side? This Newport restaurant sits right on the riverfront with unobstructed views of the city across the water. The building itself has interesting history as a former pottery warehouse.
Their menu blends American classics with creative twists that keep things interesting. I particularly enjoy their wood-fired pizzas and creative cocktails served on the outdoor patio. The view transforms at night when Cincinnati’s buildings light up the skyline.
It’s an excellent choice for groups since the menu offers something for everyone. The atmosphere balances upscale and approachable, so you won’t feel underdressed in nice jeans. Live music on weekends adds extra entertainment value.
7. Windows on the Water
Though the name might sound straightforward, this Lake Barkley restaurant delivers spectacular water views that never get old. Located inside the State Resort Park Lodge, it offers convenient access for park visitors and destination diners alike. The menu focuses on regional favorites with a contemporary presentation.
Every table provides lake views thanks to the thoughtful architectural design. Watching the water change colors during sunset creates a dining experience you’ll remember long after the meal ends. The Sunday brunch buffet is particularly impressive with made-to-order omelets and Southern specialties.
I recommend calling ahead to check seasonal hours since they vary throughout the year. The adjacent lodge makes it easy to turn dinner into a weekend getaway.
8. Limestone Restaurant
It’s rare to find rooftop dining in Lexington, which makes this downtown gem extra special. The elevated patio gives you views of the city skyline with hints of horse farms in the distance. Chef Ouita Michel brings her farm-to-table philosophy here with a menu celebrating Kentucky’s culinary traditions.
Seasonal ingredients drive the ever-changing offerings, so repeat visits always bring something new. The bourbon selection is extensive, featuring hard-to-find bottles from local distilleries. I love the combination of urban energy and Kentucky charm that defines the atmosphere.
Reservations are essential, especially during Keeneland race season when the city fills with visitors. The prices reflect the upscale experience and prime downtown location. Sunset dinners on the rooftop are particularly romantic.
9. The Café at Shaker Village
Where else can you enjoy modern cuisine while surrounded by 19th-century history and pristine farmland? This Pleasant Hill restaurant sits within a preserved Shaker community offering peaceful countryside views. The setting feels worlds away from busy modern life.
Their farm-to-table menu uses ingredients from the village’s own organic farm when possible. I appreciate how the dishes honor Shaker simplicity while incorporating contemporary culinary techniques. Large windows frame views of rolling fields and historic buildings that transport you to another era.
The village offers hiking trails and tours you can explore before or after your meal. Prices are moderate considering the unique setting and quality ingredients. It’s an ideal destination for history buffs and food lovers alike.
10. Mike Linnig’s Restaurant
Are you craving fresh seafood with a side of river breezes? This Louisville institution has served fried fish and shrimp on the Ohio River banks since 1925. The casual, no-frills atmosphere focuses on quality food and prime waterfront location.
Outdoor picnic tables let you eat right next to the water while watching barges and boats pass by. The menu keeps things simple with fried seafood platters, fish sandwiches, and classic sides. I find the portions generous and prices remarkably affordable for riverfront dining.
It’s strictly seasonal, operating only during warm months when outdoor dining is comfortable. Expect crowds on nice weekends locals know this is one of the best values in town. Cash only, so plan accordingly before arriving.
11. Doe Run Inn
If you’ve ever dreamed of dining in a converted 1800s gristmill, this Brandenburg restaurant makes that fantasy reality. The building sits beside a picturesque creek with water flowing past the windows. Historic stone walls and rustic decor create ambiance that modern restaurants can’t replicate.
The menu features Southern comfort food including their famous fried chicken and country ham. I love how the sound of flowing water enhances the peaceful dining experience. The property includes walking trails through the woods for pre-dinner exploration.
It’s also a bed and breakfast, making overnight stays possible for those wanting to extend their visit. Prices are very reasonable for the unique historic setting. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dinners.
12. Tousey House Tavern
Though this Burlington establishment occupies a building dating back to 1822, the views of the Ohio River feel timeless. The outdoor patio puts you right on the riverfront where you can watch the water flow by. The menu blends tavern classics with upscale touches that elevate familiar dishes.
I find their bourbon selection impressive, featuring bottles from across Kentucky’s distilling regions. The historic building adds character you won’t find in newer establishments. Weekend brunch on the patio has become a local tradition worth experiencing.
The atmosphere strikes a nice balance between casual and refined. Prices are moderate, making it accessible for regular visits rather than just special occasions. Live music events add extra entertainment throughout the year.
13. Claudia Sanders Dinner House
Are you ready to experience the legacy of Colonel Sanders’ wife’s cooking? This Shelbyville restaurant sits on beautiful property with views of Kentucky farmland stretching into the distance. The setting captures the peaceful essence of rural Kentucky life.
Their fried chicken follows Claudia Sanders’ own recipe, offering a taste of authentic Kentucky culinary history. I love the old-fashioned Southern sides that accompany every meal, from green beans to mashed potatoes. The country atmosphere feels genuine rather than manufactured for tourists.
Large windows throughout the dining room ensure everyone enjoys the pastoral views. Prices are very reasonable considering the generous portions and historic significance. It’s a wonderful destination for anyone wanting authentic Kentucky dining in a scenic setting.
14. Dock at Water’s Edge Restaurant
How does eating dinner practically on top of Lake Cumberland sound? This Somerset restaurant extends out over the water, giving you unbeatable lake views from every angle. The casual atmosphere welcomes boaters and land visitors equally.
Their menu focuses on seafood, steaks, and American favorites that satisfy a variety of tastes. I particularly enjoy visiting during summer when you can watch boats coming and going from the marina. The covered deck provides shade while keeping you close to the water.
It’s one of those places where the view almost overshadows the food almost, because the meals are genuinely good too. Prices are moderate for the lakefront location. Sunset timing makes dinner extra special with colors reflecting off the water.
