11 Best Bars in Bardstown

“This is our go to bar/lounge whenever we visit the area. They know their stuff, have a great selection, and have a great bar. I cannot recommend them enough, if you are in the area, visit them. You won't be disappointed.“

“Colin and team created an amazing experience for us during a stop on the trail. His knowledge of spirits brought some exceptional cocktail options to our group. The craftsmanship shows through from the aesthetic to the taste. Great stop to whet your whistle!“

“My husband and I visited Bardstown for the first time and stumbled upon Liam Ash, and we are so glad we did! It’s an absolute gem all the way around… Amazing cocktails, beautiful aesthetics, and an extremely knowledgeable, certified bourbon expert bartender named Nicki that not only knew the bourbons, but all the great history behind each one. We loved our experience so much that we went two nights in a row! Please be sure to visit them when you’re in Bardstown!“

“Everything is top notch, especially the meatball sub. Will always be a stop anytime we’re in Bardstown!“

“When we arrived in Bardstown for our Bourbon Trail tour last Tuesday, we walked a little in town, and Stopped by Old Steelhouse. Brian greeted us, and let us know they had just opened the new tasting room. What a beautiful place! The place is doing a 'soft opening' and Brian took his time explaining a lot about Bourdon, the process, the history of their brand, how Rye and Wheat work with the blend.... He and his staff were amazing, friendly, and so knowledgable! If you are in town, this is a great place to stop by, rest, and have a taste! It is spectactular what they have created here.“

“Always a good time! Music has a good vibe and friendly people! Great place to meet people visiting.“

“For my birthday dinner this year, we finally visited the Talbott Tavern in Bardstown—and I left wondering why I had waited so long.

Few restaurants in Kentucky can match the history packed into this building. Over the years, famous visitors have included Abraham Lincoln and Jesse James, and after dinner we took time to explore the tavern and soak in that history. My favorite stop was the Jesse James Room, where you can still see bullet holes in the wall reportedly left behind by the infamous outlaw.

But history alone doesn't make a great restaurant. Fortunately, the food more than holds its own.

We started with the house-made cornbread muffins served warm with bourbon butter. The muffins were sweet and comforting, while the bourbon butter added a unique Kentucky twist that immediately set the tone for the meal.

For my entrée, I ordered the Bourbon Mango Pork Chop with mashed potatoes, white gravy, and seasonal vegetables. This was one of the best pork chops I've had anywhere in Kentucky. I'd put it in the same conversation as the famous pork chop at Patti's 1880's Settlement Restaurant—not as thick, but every bit as memorable. The bourbon mango sauce was unlike anything I've had before and paired perfectly with the pork.

My wife chose the Bourbon Walnut Chicken, which was equally impressive. Once again, the bourbon-infused sauce was the star of the dish, adding a rich flavor that made it stand out from a typical chicken dinner.

Since it was my birthday, dessert was mandatory. We finished with the Talbott Tavern Pie, a chocolate and walnut pie with a pastry crust. It was rich, delicious, and the perfect ending to an outstanding meal.

Between the incredible food, the unique bourbon-inspired flavors, and the chance to walk through a piece of Kentucky history, Talbott Tavern delivered an experience that felt special from start to finish.

I'll definitely be back—and next time, it won't take me this many years to return.“

“We played today, January 7, 2026, and the greens were in excellent shape! Joan was very cordial! Very sweet lady! We will definitely be playing thus course in the near future!“

“Stopped in the other day before a tour at HH. Might have been the best breakfast I ever had. Chicken fried steak was incredible….and those biscuits were fresh and fluffy. If I lived close I might eat there every day. Very friendly and welcoming staff, great atmosphere and decor. I would say its a “must-stop” for anyone visiting the area!“

“Fast and super friendly staff during the festival and being so busy. Best pizza we've ever had! We will definitely be coming back and recommending this wonderful little cafe to all that we know. 5 stars from us!! 🌟 🤩“

“we went on the training days. very good food and the servers were friendly“