Kentucky is so much more than bourbon and fried chicken. The Bluegrass State is an important player in the culinary arena, with a distinct cuisine all its own. This is epitomized in small-town Paducah, a place that’s emerging as a true culinary destination. In Paducah, The Freight House is a Top Chef-led restaurant that’s one of the nicest restaurants in Kentucky… and America. Welcome to one of the best places to eat in Paducah, Kentucky.

There's something beautifully simple about The Freight House, both in form and function. Built in a historic train depot, its rustic yet elegant exterior is unassuming and accessible, beckoning guests for what will be an unforgettable dining experience as the best restaurant in Paducah, KY.
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The Freight House opened in 2015 under the helm of Chef Sara Bradley. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and cozy, with a rustic, farmhouse kind of feel. It's a place you'll want to sit and stay -- especially once you get a glimpse of the menu!
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Those seeking a taste of the South will find it here, with comforting classics like cornbread, black-eyed peas, collard greens, chicken biscuits, and shrimp and grits anchoring the menu. Stuff like this is the best food in Paducah, KY.
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One of the things that Freight House excels in is taking a classic and turning it on its head... often quite literally. The crawfish pot pie is a prime example of this; a creamy combination of delicious gravy, tender vegetables, and crawfish tails covered with an impossibly flaky puff pastry blanket.
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Craving something comforting from your childhood? The Freight House is always pushing the boundaries of what "fine dining" is, whether it's the delicious deviled eggs, peaches n’ cream, or even saucy bologna!
the freight house/Facebook

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Speaking of which, Chef Sara is known for her tasty meat-forward dishes, with the crispy pork belly a menu standout.
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Because The Freight House prioritizes local, seasonal ingredients, the menu changes frequently, and specials often grace the menu for just a few days. As such, you're pretty much guaranteed a different dining experience each time, which makes visiting such a treat.
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When it comes time for dessert, let the seasons dictate your decision. Strawberry shortcake and stone fruit cobbler reign supreme in the summer; molasses pie is a fall must-try; and the dark chocolate fudge cake is *always* a good idea.
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Of course, no proper fine dining experience in Kentucky would be complete without a libation, and the bourbon flights feature a taster's pour of four different bourbons, carefully curated to take your palate on a fantastic voyage -- and whet your appetite for an amazing meal!
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At The Freight House, one of the best Paducah restaurants, you’ll dine on down-home Kentucky cuisine that’s truly inspired, and the entire experience will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about our state’s fare.
the freight house/Facebook

Have you dined at The Freight House before? What was your favorite dish? Let us know in the comments! This restaurant in small-town Kentucky is one of the best places to eat in Paducah, Kentucky. While you’re here, check out some of the other wonderful things to do in Paducah.

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More to Explore

What’s Worth Eating In Kentucky

Will Suphan | February 07, 2024

What are the most iconic foods in Kentucky?

The most iconic foods in Kentucky are:

  • Lamb Fries. Kentucky’s answer to Rocky Mountain Oysters is made from the most intimate parts of a lamb.
  • Hot Brown. This Kentucky staple is an open-faced sandwich with turkey, tomato, bacon, and Mornay sauce.
  • Chili Buns. Chili with onions and cheese served on a hot dog bun. A comforting and satisfying local dish.
  • Fried Catfish. A local dish found all over the state with breaded, deep-fried, freshly-caught catfish.

Find out more about the most iconic foods in Kentucky. 

What are some hidden gem restaurants in Kentucky?

Hidden gem restaurants in Kentucky include:

  • Blue & White Grill. The perfect spot for homemade comforting classics full of country charm and tastiness.
  • Bread of Life Cafe. Located in Liberty, this family-owned restaurant has an excellent buffet and a gift shop with homemade fudge. 
  • Family’s Main Street Restaurant. Located in Walton, this old-fashioned, cash-only restaurant cooks like your grandmother.
  • Paula’s Hot Biscuit. Located in Hodgenville, this old-timey breakfast restaurant serves hearty Southern breakfast food.

Learn more about hidden gem restaurants in Kentucky.

What are the most historic restaurants in Kentucky?

These are some of the most historic restaurants in Kentucky:

  • Wallace Station Deli. The building was constructed in the early 1900s and was once a general store.
  • Greyhound Tavern. Located in Fort Mitchell, this was originally the Dixie Tea Room, built in 1921. 
  • Beaumont Inn. This is the oldest family-run bed-and-breakfast country inn which opened in 1919.
  • The Old Seelbach Bar. Nestled in the Seelbach Hilton Hotel in Louisville, this place opened in 1905 and was a favorite haunt of F. Scott Fitzgerald and Al Capone.

Discover more about the most historic restaurants in Kentucky.

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Featured Addresses
Freight House, 330 S 3rd St Suite 102, Paducah, KY 42003, USA