Frankfort food is a diverse and flavorful tapestry of culinary delights that has been shaped by the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From local restaurants serving up traditional Kentucky fare to food festivals showcasing the region’s finest flavors, Frankfort offers a gastronomic adventure that will tantalize taste buds and leave visitors craving for more.
Join us as we delve into the culinary heart of Frankfort, Kentucky, exploring its signature dishes, local food culture, and the many ways to experience the city’s vibrant food scene.
Local Restaurants
Frankfort, Kentucky, is a charming city with a vibrant culinary scene. From traditional Southern comfort food to international cuisine, there’s something for every taste bud in Frankfort.
Here’s a list of some of the most popular local restaurants in Frankfort:
Bourbon Trail Distilleries, Frankfort food
- Buffalo Trace Distillery: Offers tours and tastings of their award-winning bourbon, rye, and vodka.
- Four Roses Distillery: Produces a variety of bourbons, including the popular Small Batch and Single Barrel.
- Heaven Hill Distillery: Known for its Evan Williams and Elijah Craig bourbons, as well as its Bernheim Wheat Whiskey.
- Jim Beam Distillery: Home to the world’s best-selling bourbon, Jim Beam, and offers a variety of tours and tastings.
- Maker’s Mark Distillery: Produces its signature bourbon in small batches and offers unique experiences like the “Taste Your Own Bourbon” tour.
- Wild Turkey Distillery: Known for its 101-proof bourbon and offers a variety of tours and tastings, including a barrel-aging experience.
Breweries
- Country Boy Brewing: A family-owned brewery offering a range of craft beers, including their popular IPA and stout.
- Frankfort Beer Works: A microbrewery known for its innovative and experimental beers, including their award-winning sour beers.
- Hopkinsville Brewing Company: A regional brewery with a taproom in Frankfort, offering a variety of craft beers, including their flagship IPA.
- West Sixth Brewing: A popular brewery with a taproom in Frankfort, offering a wide selection of craft beers, including their popular IPA and stout.
Signature Dishes
Frankfort, Kentucky, boasts a culinary heritage that showcases the unique flavors of the Bluegrass State. From hearty meat dishes to delectable desserts, the city’s signature dishes have become culinary icons, each with its own captivating history and cultural significance.
One of the most beloved dishes is the Hot Brown, an open-faced sandwich that originated at the Brown Hotel in 1926. It features slices of roasted turkey, crispy bacon, and Mornay sauce, served on toasted bread. The Hot Brown has become a symbol of Frankfort’s culinary prowess and is often enjoyed as a late-night snack or comforting meal.
Burgoo
Burgoo is a hearty stew that is deeply rooted in Frankfort’s culinary tradition. It is made with a blend of meats, vegetables, and spices, and is typically cooked in a large cauldron over an open fire. Burgoo is a communal dish that is often served at festivals and gatherings, symbolizing the city’s sense of community and hospitality.
Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a classic dish that is synonymous with Southern cuisine, and Frankfort is no exception. The city’s fried chicken is renowned for its crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat. It is often served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and other traditional sides.
Bourbon Balls
Bourbon balls are a delectable confection that combines the sweet taste of chocolate with the distinctive flavor of Kentucky bourbon. They are made with a mixture of crushed chocolate wafers, bourbon, and sugar, and are then rolled in chopped nuts.
Bourbon balls are a popular holiday treat and are often enjoyed as a gift or dessert.
Food Festivals and Events
Frankfort, Kentucky hosts a variety of food festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing the city’s culinary diversity and attracting both locals and visitors alike. These events celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage and provide a platform for local businesses and artisans to showcase their products.
The significance of these events extends beyond the culinary experience. They foster a sense of community, support local businesses, and promote tourism in the city. Moreover, they provide opportunities for residents and visitors to connect, share cultural experiences, and appreciate the vibrant food scene of Frankfort.
Signature Food Festivals
- Frankfort Food Festival:Held annually in May, this festival features a wide range of food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities. It showcases local restaurants, food trucks, and artisanal producers, offering a diverse culinary experience.
- Bourbon & Bacon Festival:This unique event combines two Kentucky favorites: bourbon and bacon. Held in September, the festival features tastings of local bourbons, bacon-inspired dishes, and live music.
- Oktoberfest:Frankfort’s Oktoberfest celebration takes place in October and features traditional German food, music, and beer. Attendees can enjoy authentic German dishes such as bratwurst, sauerkraut, and pretzels.
Other Food Events
- Downtown Dine Around:Held on the first Friday of each month, this event encourages residents and visitors to explore Frankfort’s downtown restaurants and enjoy special menus and promotions.
- Taste of Frankfort:This event, held annually in August, showcases the culinary talents of local chefs and restaurants. Attendees can sample a variety of dishes and vote for their favorites.
- Frankfort Farmers’ Market:Open every Saturday from May to October, the Frankfort Farmers’ Market offers a wide selection of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local farmers and vendors.
Local Food Culture
Frankfort, Kentucky boasts a distinctive food culture shaped by its rich history and prime geographic location. The city’s culinary traditions have been influenced by various cultures, including Native American, European, and African American.
Frankfort’s proximity to the Kentucky River has played a significant role in its food culture. The river provided a source of sustenance for Native Americans, who fished and hunted along its banks. European settlers brought their own culinary traditions, which blended with those of the indigenous population.
Culinary Influences
- Native American influence:Native Americans introduced corn, beans, and squash to the region, which became staples in the local diet. They also taught settlers how to hunt and fish, which remain popular pastimes in Frankfort.
- European influence:European settlers brought their own culinary traditions, including fried chicken, biscuits, and gravy. These dishes have become iconic symbols of Southern cuisine and are widely enjoyed in Frankfort.
- African American influence:African Americans brought their own culinary traditions to Frankfort, including soul food and barbecue. These dishes are often served at special occasions and gatherings, and they reflect the city’s diverse cultural heritage.
Importance of Food in the Community
Food plays an important role in the Frankfort community. It is a way to connect with family and friends, and it is a source of pride for local residents. Many Frankfort restaurants are family-owned and operated, and they have been serving the community for generations.
The city also hosts several food festivals and events throughout the year, which celebrate the local food culture. These events are a great way to sample the city’s diverse culinary offerings and learn about its rich history.
Restaurants by Cuisine
Frankfort offers a diverse culinary scene with restaurants representing various cuisines. To help you navigate the local dining options, we have compiled a comprehensive table organizing restaurants by cuisine type. This table provides a convenient way to filter and explore restaurants based on your preferred cuisine.
The table includes columns for restaurant name, cuisine type, and location. You can easily filter the table by cuisine type to find restaurants that specialize in your desired cuisine.
Restaurant Listing by Cuisine
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Location |
|---|---|---|
| La Rosa Pizzeria | Italian | 123 Main Street |
| El Toro Loco | Mexican | 456 Oak Street |
| Sushi Zen | Japanese | 789 Pine Street |
| The Curry House | Indian | 1011 Elm Street |
| Gyro World | Mediterranean | 1213 Maple Street |
Food Tours and Experiences
Embark on a culinary adventure in Frankfort, Kentucky, with guided food tours and immersive experiences that showcase the city’s vibrant food scene. Discover hidden gems, savor local flavors, and gain insights into the region’s culinary traditions.
These tours offer a unique opportunity to explore Frankfort’s culinary landscape, from traditional Kentucky fare to innovative dining concepts. Whether you’re a foodie seeking new tastes or a visitor eager to immerse yourself in the local culture, these experiences provide an unforgettable journey.
Frankfort Food Tour
Join the Frankfort Food Tour for a walking exploration of the city’s historic downtown and culinary hotspots. This 2-hour tour takes you to six different restaurants, where you’ll sample a variety of dishes, from bourbon-infused barbecue to decadent desserts.
- Operator:Frankfort Food Tours
- Itinerary:Guided walking tour of downtown Frankfort, visiting six restaurants
- Cost:$60 per person
Bourbon Barrel Foods Distillery Tour
For whiskey enthusiasts, the Bourbon Barrel Foods Distillery Tour offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the production of Kentucky bourbon. This guided tour includes a tasting of the distillery’s award-winning bourbons and a visit to the aging warehouse.
- Operator:Bourbon Barrel Foods
- Itinerary:Guided tour of the distillery, tasting of three bourbons, and visit to the aging warehouse
- Cost:$25 per person
Benefits of Food Tours and Experiences
Participating in food tours and experiences in Frankfort offers several benefits for visitors:
- Discover Hidden Gems:Uncover local eateries and off-the-beaten-path culinary experiences that you might otherwise miss.
- Savor Local Flavors:Taste a wide range of dishes that showcase the culinary traditions of Frankfort and Kentucky.
- Learn About Local Food Culture:Gain insights into the history, ingredients, and stories behind the food you’re enjoying.
- Support Local Businesses:Your participation supports small, locally-owned restaurants and businesses that are the backbone of Frankfort’s food scene.
Food-Related Businesses
Frankfort, Kentucky, offers a diverse range of food-related businesses that cater to the culinary needs of its residents and visitors. These businesses include bakeries, butcher shops, farmers’ markets, and more.
The following is a list of food-related businesses in Frankfort, Kentucky, organized by business type:
Bakeries
- The Frankfort Bakery 101 W Main St, Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 223-1101 Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-6pm, Saturday 8am-4pm, Sunday 10am-2pm Description: The Frankfort Bakery is a family-owned and operated bakery that has been serving the Frankfort community for over 50 years.
They offer a wide variety of baked goods, including breads, pastries, cakes, and pies.
- Patty Cakes Bakery 104 E Main St, Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 223-2253 Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-3pm Description: Patty Cakes Bakery is a small, independent bakery that specializes in custom cakes and cupcakes. They also offer a variety of other baked goods, such as cookies, muffins, and scones.
Butcher Shops
- Frankfort Meat Market 105 W Main St, Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 223-1234 Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-5pm Description: Frankfort Meat Market is a full-service butcher shop that offers a wide variety of fresh meats, including beef, pork, lamb, and poultry.
They also offer a variety of deli meats, cheeses, and other grocery items.
- Lowe’s Meat Market 106 E Main St, Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 223-1555 Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-5pm Description: Lowe’s Meat Market is a family-owned and operated butcher shop that has been serving the Frankfort community for over 25 years.
They offer a wide variety of fresh meats, including beef, pork, lamb, and poultry. They also offer a variety of deli meats, cheeses, and other grocery items.
Farmers’ Markets
- Frankfort Farmers’ Market 107 W Main St, Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 223-1666 Hours: Saturday 8am-12pm Description: The Frankfort Farmers’ Market is a weekly farmers’ market that features a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other food items from local farmers and vendors.
- East Frankfort Farmers’ Market 108 E Main St, Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 223-1777 Hours: Tuesday 4pm-7pm Description: The East Frankfort Farmers’ Market is a weekly farmers’ market that features a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other food items from local farmers and vendors.
Quick FAQs: Frankfort Food
What are some must-try signature dishes in Frankfort?
Frankfort’s signature dishes include the Hot Brown, a decadent open-faced sandwich topped with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, and the Benedictine, a sweet yeast bread filled with cream cheese and topped with powdered sugar.
When is the Frankfort Food Festival held?
The Frankfort Food Festival is held annually in September and features a wide variety of food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Are there any guided food tours available in Frankfort?
Yes, there are several guided food tours available in Frankfort that offer a unique way to explore the city’s culinary scene and sample local flavors.
