8 Restaurants In Elizabethtown (KY) That Locals Love For Food & Vibes!

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Last updated on December 30, 2022 by Wandering our World

Also known as E-Town, Elizabethtown is an often overlooked yet it’s a thriving community nestled between Louisville and Nashville, with a history rooted in the Civil War and plenty to discover.

If you happen to be exploring the area, you’ll need to fuel up with some good food of course, and that’s where we jump into the picture. 

Here’s a list of what we think are some of the best restaurants in Elizabethtown, KY, offering everything from down-home comfort food to Mediterranean, Thai, and Indian cuisine. 

Eat up, kick back, and savor the charm of this small town. Bon appetit! 

Chef cooking in kitchen
Photo for illustrative purposes only: Unsplash+

Our Top Eight Must-Visit Restaurants In Elizabethtown, KY

1. Back Home Restaurant 

Southern comfort food served in a quaint and cozy dining area with a shaded patio 

If there’s one place that can satisfy your cravings for Southern comfort food and remind you of grandma’s cooking, it’s Back Home Restaurant.

What started 38 years ago with Linda and Tommy Fulkerson selling antiques from the trunk of their car has now expanded into a full-fledged restaurant situated inside a historic old house.

Everything about this place is comfy, especially the dining area which feels homey and cozy with creative decor on the walls. Of course, the front of the restaurant is a gift shop dedicated to selling these cute decor items and antiques, continuing the business the family started with. They also have a charming outdoor seating area that’s shaded.

As for the food, it’s the perfect fix for when you’re on the go, sick of all the fast food, and just want something hearty and homey.

Start with the small tidbits they’ve got for appetizers, such as fried green tomatoes, onion rings, or fried pickles, but save enough room for the generously-portioned entrees!

Stuff like Poppy’s Meatloaf – a family recipe – and the slow-roasted beef with gravy and mashed potatoes are so very heart-warming to munch on with just the right flavors and seasonings.

Other hearty options include country ham, pork chops, and country-fried chicken steak. Throw in a side of their buttered corn, green beans, or pinto beans, and you’re all set.

But if you’re in the mood for handhelds, try the XL Toaster Cheeseburger that comes stuffed with two juicy beef patties, onion rings, BBQ sauce, and some drool-inducing pepper jack cheese. 

Visit this place any day between Tuesday-Sunday from 11 am onwards. And if you’ve got time, do check out their boutique store ‘O’Neal’s’ on the upper floor.

Address: 251 W Dixie Ave, Elizabethtown, KY

2. J.R. Neighbors 

Elevated burgers and vibrant cocktails served in a modern space and a relaxed atmosphere with a bar 

A recent and very welcome addition to the town’s dining scene, J.R. Neighbors stands out with its gourmet burgers and sandwiches and contemporary interior.

This 2021-established eatery could easily pass for a big city restaurant with its elevated food and bougie drinks, so naturally, it’s become one of the most popular restaurants in Elizabethtown, KY.

Settle down in the airy dining area, where floor-to-ceiling windows run the entire length of the walls, bathing the dining room in natural light with a view of Public Square. A long and spacious bar dominates the room alongside luxurious booth seating and fancy light fixtures.

You can also head downstairs to experience the dark, dim, and elegant-looking speakeasy bar called the Cavern Club, with a beautiful patio to sip on drinks. You’ll love the atmosphere on either of the floors! 

As for the food, it’s as good as it gets in Elizabethtown, KY, and worth every penny you shell out. Appetizers include spicy fried dill pickles with blackened seasoning and remoulade and various innovative versions of the classic deviled eggs.

After that, hone in on their extraordinary burgers. Made with a blend of chuck, brisket, and short rib, these beef burgers are seriously out of this world, especially the ‘Hatch-et’ that comes topped with pecan-smoked bacon and a sunny-side-up egg. There are bison and elk varieties too, alongside the ‘Notta’ burger made with a homemade vegetarian patty topped with Aleppo pepper aioli. And don’t leave without trying one of the fabulously creative cocktails!

Weekends also come with brunch (11 am – 2 pm) which is equally exciting, with everything from innovative benedicts to vibrant tuna poke and fresh juices to excellent mimosas.

Find them open every day from 11 am onwards, or come during the 4 – 6 pm happy hours on weekdays for discounted beers and wines.

Address: 75 Public Square, Elizabethtown, KY 

Top view of home made tasty burgers on wooden table.
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Kesu01

3. WooHoo II

Long-running eatery dishing out gyros and other Mediterranean eats in a casual, sun-lit atmosphere with outdoor seating 

When in doubt, a gyro or juicy chicken shawarma can be the answer to all your cravings, and there’s no better place for that than Woohoo II.

This humble little counter-order eatery has been cooking up Mediterranean food for over 10 years, with 6 years in E-Town spent wowing the locals with their terrific food.

It’s located inside an old gas station, and the cozy and quaint atmosphere makes for a comfortable setting to chow down all the hearty food. Large windows let in lots of natural light here, but if that’s not enough, you can always settle on the few outdoor tables they’ve got when the weather is nice and sunny.

Although their menu isn’t vast, whatever they serve is always fresh with spot-on flavors – after all, they’ve been doing this for over a decade.

Start with something classic like the Dolma and the spinach and feta stuffed Spanakopita, or go light with their refreshing Greek salad. Within the mains, their gyro and fries combo is the most popular pick featuring your choice of juicy beef and lamb or chicken on a soft pita. The spicy chicken shawarma stuffed with red hummus, relish, and veggies is also among the top choices.

Entrees offer more variety on a plate, such as the Sparta which has two types of meat on fluffy basmati rice alongside some refreshing tzatziki sauce and greek salad. Those of you with a sweet tooth, save some room for their heavenly baklava too.

Drop by between Monday-Saturday from 11 am onwards to see why this place is a staple in Elizabethtown, KY. Check out the smashing lunch discounts too!

Address: 420 N Mulberry St, Elizabethtown, KY

Mediterranean dishes
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/los_angela

4. 2B Thai 

Thai eats and beers served in an elegant yet casual dining area with outdoor seats and delightful service 

Sometimes the best kind of food can be found in the most unexpected places, and that’s exactly the case with 2B Thai.

Located in a small strip mall just off the interstate, this family-owned eatery is the go-to spot for locals and passersby in Elizabethtown, KY to grab some heart-warming authentic Thai eats.

With personable service and an owner that always greets you with a smile, dining here is an absolute delight for guests. Part of the credit also goes to the very Thai-oriented dining area full of statues and authentic decor, with an atmosphere that’s calm and quiet yet casual – something you wouldn’t expect looking at the unassuming storefront. Their sidewalk also has some shaded outdoor seats for alfresco diners.

With a sprawling list of appetizers, you’re pretty much spoilt for choice here. The Thai dumplings and spring rolls make for excellent picks to start the meal with, or you could go for their sampler platter that includes four apps and many sauces to choose from.

Moving on, there are lots of noodles for patrons to slurp up, and we recommend the coconut noodles in a rich tomato-coconut broth or the Pad Kee Mao if you’re going for classics. Of course, there’s the ever-so-popular Panang curry or the spicy Jungle curry.

And oh, their duck! Even if duck meat isn’t your favorite protein, you’ll love this crispy and tender delicacy infused with spot-on Thai flavors.

Substitute almost any dish with tofu or veggies, and try to make the spice level ‘hot’ for the ultimate Thai experience. Everything comes in extremely generous portions, so order accordingly! 

Wash it down with some Thai beer, Sake, or house wine – what else could one ask for? Go ahead and visit them between Tuesday-Friday from noon onwards and 2 pm onwards on Saturdays. 

Address: 3040 Ring Rd, Elizabethtown, KY 

beef pad thai and chicken satay dinner viewed from above
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/rez-art

5. The Wicked Eyed Woman

Gastropub serving Southern food and bar eats in an eclectic dining area with live music 

The Wicked Eyed Woman is just as quirky as it sounds and that’s one of the reasons why it’s E-Town’s favorite locally-owned gastropub.

The vibe here is truly unlike any other restaurant, which is what the owner aimed for when she bought this historic 1800s building and renovated it into the magical place it is today.

Of course, the homemade food and drinks are just as good, and the quaint atmosphere only enhances the experience. It’s a small place doused in unique and eclectic decor and twinkling lights, alongside a cozy brick-walled bar.

There’s so much to look at and take in, and the live music and weekly trivia nights make the dining experience even more immersive. It almost goes without saying, but The Wicked Eye Woman really is one of the restaurants in Elizabethtown you must try!

The menu revolves around handhelds and Southern comfort food, and it’s all homemade, fresh, and always in hearty portions. Start with their very sought-after dragon balls made with potatoes, bacon, cheese, and dill relish squished into a deep-fried ball, or the beer-battered mushrooms and cauliflowers.

Move on to the fresh and juicy beef burgers with homemade patties – we recommend the Sloppy Daniel stuffed with peppers, onions, provolone, and mushrooms. The sandwiches are pretty good too, including the hefty pulled pork and beef brisket ones. If you’re in for a bigger meal, they’ve got some wonderfully satisfying entrees like bourbon pork shoulder, chicken and waffles, and Shepherd’s pie.

Plenty of craft beers and some splendid cocktails also grace the menu, alongside daily lunch specials. So visit them any day from Monday-Saturday, 11 am onwards for a round of great drinks and even better food while singing along with other patrons! 

Address: 133 W Dixie Ave, Elizabethtown, KY 

Homemade Chicken and Waffles
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Bhofack2

6. Namaste Indian Cuisine and Bar 

Quaint eatery serving North Indian staples and beers in a casual setting 

There’s nothing a bowl of Indian curry can’t fix, and Namaste is the perfect place to grab all the Indian food you could ever want.

Locally owned and operated, this under-the-radar eatery has an unassuming venue just off the highway, with a quaint dining area that has vibrant-colored walls and a relaxed atmosphere. There are a few booths and tables for seating alongside shelves stocked up with Indian pantry items.

As low-key as the place seems, the food is a straight-up 5 stars – the locals are always raving about it! A menu of traditional vegetarian and non-veg Indian staples leaves the guests licking their fingers.

Small plates featuring samosas, pakoras, spicy chaat, and other famous street foods of India are served as appetizers, while notable items from the mains include Tikka Masala and Shahi Korma, both of which have meats of your choice drenched in rich sauces.

The Bhindi Masala (okra) and Mutter Paneer (peas and cottage cheese) are excellent choices for plant-based diets. But if you’re a meat eater don’t forget the juicy and tender Tandoori grilled kebabs – an absolute must-try! 

Pair that with it one of their wines or beers, and you’re all set for a roller-coaster of a ride for your tastebuds. They’re open between Monday-Saturday, 11 am onwards, and Sunday from noon onwards – do grab some of the interesting grocery items they sell on your way out! 

Address: 1609 N Dixie Hwy #102, Elizabethtown, KY 

Assorted curries on table
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Roxiller

7. Little Charlie’s Pizza 

Local pizza parlor serving NY-style pizzas in a small red-walled dining room

Little Charlie’s Pizza is as close as you can get to authentic NY-style pies in Elizabethtown, thanks to owner Charlie Messina – a New Yorker who has worked at his father’s pizzeria since 1976 and owns several restaurants.

The 80’s style mom-and-pop eatery serves these delightful pizzas by the slice, and the locals are all here for it. It’s a small venue dominated by red walls and chairs, with an enticing display of pizzas at the front that can get you drooling the moment you walk in.

With freshly-made dough, homemade sauces, high-quality cheese, and fresh toppings, these hand-tossed pizzas are highly sought-after in E-Town. They’ve got thin crispy crusts, large slices, and thick edges – just as every NY-style pizza should be. Get them by the slice, or order the whole thing.

We recommend the Meat Lovers topped with ham, meatballs, sausage, and pepperoni, and the Governor’s Green with green peppers and pecorino romano. Make it an Italian feast by ordering some Penne Alla Vodka or the Manicotti dripping with a variety of cheese.

They also do sandwiches, calzones, and heavenly slices of tiramisu, and believe us when you tell you these are just as good as the pizzas! 

Oh and, did we mention it’s all very affordable? Quality pizzas, friendly service, and pocket-friendliness at one of the most budget-friendly restaurants in Elizabethtown, KY? Count us in! Drop by any day from 11 am onwards and find out for yourself what’s all the rage about. 

Address: 2030 N Dixie Hwy Suite #108, Elizabethtown, KY

Wine and pizza display
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Foxys_Forest_Manufacture

8. Bub’s Cafe

Family-owned cafe serving hearty breakfast picks and American comfort food in a diner-like atmosphere 

Bub’s Cafe is E-Town’s favorite breakfast spot, where locals line up regularly to get their breakfast or lunch fix.

Homestyle, down-to-earth, and hearty – those are the perfect words to describe the kind of food they serve. Even the atmosphere is very diner-like and homey, with eclectic decor, casual seating, and friendly servers busily weaving their way through the room.

You can tell this is a family-owned and operated place, as the food is clearly made with love and effort, and the staff knows many regulars by their name. Even if you’re new here, you’ll always feel welcome and be treated like family. 

Although the menu isn’t very extensive, it’s got a bunch of delicious stuff cooked homestyle and served in enormous portions, so come with an empty stomach!

They’re known for their hearty breakfast spread, which includes cheesy omelets (try the Denver style), fluffy pancakes, or some good ol’ bacon and egg.

Speaking about bacon, their strips are cut extra thick with the perfect ratio of crispy to fat, so you might want to throw in an extra side of those. Of course, there’s biscuits and gravy too, and some great coffee.

As for lunch, they’ve got plenty of handhelds ranging from cheeseburgers dripping with juice to tuna melt and corned beef on rye. For a more hefty meal, try the loaded plates of roast beef and mashed potatoes or meatloaf for the ultimate homestyle cooking experience. Get some of the thick and meaty chili too – it’s one of the daily specials well-worth drooling over! 

They keep it simple and humble, and the locals love it just like that. Try them out yourself between Monday-Saturday from as early as 6 am to 2 pm. 

Address: 611 W Poplar St # B3, Elizabethtown, KY 

Pancakes with banana, walnut and caramel.
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Lilechka75

The Best Restaurants In Elizabethtown, KY: Our Final Thoughts 

E-Town’s dining scene is expanding and flourishing, and we’re sure you’re going to love all it has to offer.

So visit our favorite eight restaurants in the area to experience great food and small town vibes at the same time! 

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.