8 Best Bars in Richmond

“I'd like to start this review off by being g totally transparent here. This isn't the biggest place, neither is it the quickest place. However, what it is is something by itself, completely making it a truly unique experience to be had by all.

John, the owner, is an interesting cat with his approach as the proprietor, cook, bartender, prep cook, and short order cook. There is only one thing he makes, and that's hamburgers. The varieties available that day are listed on the blackboard on the wall to your right when you walk in.

The drinks available are on a blackboard on the wall to your left, and these are limited to a few domestics. Soft drinks are limited to bottled water or Ale eight one. Order placement is limited to your seating, which is limited to 12 stools at the counter. Orders are taken beginning at the left end of the counter, moving to the right, one order at a time, one burger completion at a time.

Be forwarned that this isn't the place to go if you're in a hurry! The decor is somewhere between dive bar and Americana diner with stickers from all over the country on the walls and ceiling. There's an old BMX from hanging from the ceiling to the extreme left ceiling, as well as a couple of vintage skateboard decks and motor cycle parts to round out the decor.

The structure itself is an old diner car circa in the 1950s housing this curiously eclectic collection. There are a few stools against the left back wall where you can sit while you wait for the counter stools to become available.

When we entered, the proprietor was playing some really great stoner metal from the band Sleep that wasn't overly loud but added yet another touch to the already unique experience. We were a party of five, all having a great time in this intimate place, enjoying each other company and that of the owner John.

John's hamburgers are started out as balls of ground beef that are flattened out on a griddle that is limited in size, yet adequate to include the strips of bacon for your order.

If needed, there are a few tables outside to sit once you've received your order. Hours of operation are limited, and John closes once he's sold out. Check hours in advance on John's Winks Facebook page for specials and hours.

A really cool experience with a local business owner, the type that needs your help to thrive to keep our downtowns alive.

I can't wait to go back.“

“Great local hangout spot!!“

“Great food and service! I've been going here since they first opened back in the 1990s (different location then). It is family and locally owned. The food, service, and overall atmosphere is just as great now as it was then.

Vegetarian options: Can modify any dish to make it vegetarian.“

“We came out with a couple of friends to celebrate my birthday a couple of weeks ago! It was quite fun, the staff all around were amazing. The bartenders all have great personalities and interact with you in a fun manner.
The live entertainment that night was amazing and even though one of my friends told them a lie that I was 40 and I had to say I was definitely NOT 40, they were playful with it before singing a cover of The Beatles "Birthday". It put a big smile on my face.
We had a lot of fun playing cornhole and throwing darts. It was a well-rounded, shenanigan filled night out at a great bar! We will definitely be back.“

“I had a great experience at Madison Bar and Grill in Richmond, Kentucky. The staff was incredibly friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere from the moment I walked in. But the real highlight? The wings were hands down the best I’ve ever had—perfectly crispy, flavorful, and cooked just right. If you’re a wing lover, this spot is a must-visit!“

“Good place to hang out and play some pool and beer“

“Can't beat the Thursday special during the day, great place to bowl.“

“Could you guys PLEASE add sauces to your menu?!?!?!?!?!?!?? I mean who sells pizza without the option to add ranch??????? Who sells an item such as a steak hoagie wothout the option to add extra pizza sauce?????? Your food is great but c’mon!!!!“