Dining & Restaurants in Elizabethtown
Elizabethtown's dining scene punches well above its weight for a city of 33,000. From genuine Kentucky barbecue and Southern comfort food to international cuisine and farm-to-table fare, E-town offers a surprisingly diverse restaurant landscape. Most dining options cluster along the Ring Road commercial corridor and North Dixie Highway, with a growing number of locally owned gems in the downtown area. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch between house tours or celebrating a successful closing, you'll find plenty of excellent options.
Top Picks
Back Home Restaurant
A beloved local institution serving classic Southern home-style cooking. Known for their plate lunches, country fried steak, and homemade desserts. This is the kind of place where the sweet tea flows freely and portions are generous. A true E-town original.
Stone Hearth
Upscale casual dining with a focus on wood-fired pizzas, steaks, and fresh seafood. One of E-town's nicer sit-down options, perfect for date nights or celebrations. The atmosphere is warm and inviting with exposed brick and a quality bar program.
Colton's Steakhouse
A regional favorite for hand-cut steaks, ribs, and hearty American fare. Popular with families and groups. The rolls and honey butter alone are worth the visit. Consistently reliable for a quality meal in a casual setting.
Impellizzeri's Pizza
Louisville's legendary pizza chain has a presence in E-town, and locals are grateful for it. Known for their thick, cheesy pies and generous toppings. A great family-friendly option with a casual, welcoming vibe.
El Nopal Mexican Restaurant
One of several quality Mexican restaurants in E-town, El Nopal is a local favorite for authentic Mexican dishes, generous margaritas, and a lively atmosphere. The lunch specials are a particularly good value.
Denny's Bar-B-Que
For genuine Kentucky barbecue, Denny's is the go-to. Slow-smoked pulled pork, brisket, and ribs with traditional sides. The kind of no-frills BBQ joint where the food speaks for itself. A must-try for newcomers.
Fazoli's / Rafferty's / O'Charley's
E-town has a solid lineup of regional chains along the Ring Road corridor for reliable, family-friendly dining. These familiar names make the transition easier for newcomers while you discover the local gems.
Downtown E-town restaurants
The downtown area has seen a revival of locally owned eateries and coffee shops. Check out the growing scene around Main Street for brunch spots, craft coffee, and unique dining experiences you won't find in chain-heavy commercial corridors.
Tips for Newcomers
Most restaurants in E-town are casual and family-friendly — you won't need a reservation at most places. The Ring Road corridor gets busy on Friday and Saturday evenings, so plan accordingly. For the best local experience, ask a neighbor or coworker for their favorite spot. Locals are proud of their food and happy to share recommendations. If you're PCSing from a larger city, give E-town's dining scene a chance — you might be pleasantly surprised by the quality and value.
Love great food? Find a home near E-town's best dining with Compass and Key Group. Call (270) 735-3897.