Kentucky has some of the best hiking, climbing, and outdoor destinations in the country, and one of its main features is Red River Gorge. This beautiful area of the Bluegrass State is popular with both seasoned adventurers and those who just want a taste of Kentucky’s natural beauty. While it’s best known for its unique landscape, Red River Gorge should also be recognized for its food. This rather small section of Kentucky offers a surprising number of restaurants that are delicious, laid back, and perfect to add to your list of things to do in the area. Check out these 6 local restaurants in Kentucky that are hiding throughout Red River Gorge.

1. Miguel's Pizza
Only In Your State/Andrea Limke
1890 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, USA
Google/Sue Bruckner
If you've heard of any restaurant in the Gorge, chances are it's Miguel's. This legendary pizzeria has long been popular with climbers, hikers, and campers, but it's now a place where you'll find just about anyone. There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and the atmosphere can’t be topped. Miguel's serves up hot and fresh pizzas that are some of the best in the entire state. Read more about this must-try dining destination in our previous feature article.

Address: 1890 Natural Bridge Road, Slade, KY, 40376

Enjoy this overview of this great place and its relationship with the local area:

2. Sandstone Arches Restaurant
Google Maps
2135 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, USA
TripAdvisor/nationalparkPa
While in Red River Gorge, you must visit Natural Bridge State Resort Park, which is also home to a wonderful restaurant. Sandstone Arches is inside Hemlock Lodge and its hours vary throughout the year, but it's a great spot to enjoy a relaxing meal with beautiful views no matter when you visit. Find out more about the restaurant and park on the Kentucky Parks website.

Address: 2135 Natural Bridge Road, Slade, KY, 40376
3. Hop's Fork
Facebook/Hop's Fork
Facebook/Hop's Fork
Hop's Fork might just win the prize for the most unique eatery in Red River Gorge. You can't miss this shipping container beer garden and restaurant that's right on the side of the road. It has an impressive selection of cold drinks and a flavorful menu that continues to grow. It even has a drive-thru to pick up your beverage essentials! See more of this new favorite spot on its Facebook page.

Address: 2613 KY-11, Campton, KY, 41301

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4. Daniel Boone Coffee Shop & Deli
Facebook/Daniel Boone Coffee Shop & Deli
769 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, USA
Facebook/Daniel Boone Coffee Shop & Deli
This coffee shop and deli is a great spot to visit any time of day. Stop by in the morning for a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich or swing by in the afternoon to pick up a sweet treat. Like many of the restaurants in Red River Gorge, it has a laid back atmosphere and absolutely beautiful views. Read more about this delightful eatery in our previous article.

Address: 769 Natural Bridge Road, Slade, KY, 40376
5. La Cabana Mexican Restaurant
Only In Your State/Andrea Limke
1289 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, USA
Facebook/La Cabana Mexican Restaurant
If you're in the mood for Mexican food while visiting Red River Gorge, head to La Cabana. It's perfectly located and has a great patio area to enjoy on a nice day. This hidden gem also serves breakfast on the weekends. Learn more about this must-visit for Mexican food in the Gorge on its Facebook page.

Address: 1289 Natural Bridge Road, Slade, KY, 40376
6. Sky Bridge Station
Kristen Mack/Google
8 KY-715, Pine Ridge, KY 41360, USA
Facebook/Sky Bridge Station
Sky Bridge Station is located down the road from the others, so be sure to stop by when you're on the eastern side. There are plenty of food and drink options here, and the relaxed atmosphere is perfect after a day of adventures. Learn more about this cozy spot in our previous article.

Address: 8 KY-715, Pine Ridge, KY, 41360

Editor’s Note: One more popular dining spot in Red River Gorge that should not be ignored is Red River Rockhouse. Due to reader demand, we wanted to be sure to add this must-try eatery to the list. You can follow along with it on Facebook, read our previous feature article about it, and to get to the restaurant, head to… Address: 4000 KY-11, Campton, KY 41301

If you’re planning a getaway to Red River Gorge and have been wondering where to eat, now you have a list of options that are some of the best local restaurants in Kentucky. When you need a break from campfire food, head to these must-try eateries in the Gorge.

Have you tried all of these restaurants? What is your favorite spot to eat and drink in the area? Let us know in the comments!

While you’re in the area, here’s a unique adventure to have in Red River Gorge.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Restaurants in Kentucky

William Suphan | May 18, 2023

What are the most famous restaurants in Kentucky?

The most famous restaurants in Kentucky include:

  • The Village Idiot. This was the first gastropub in Lexington and they use only locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Hofbrauhaus. Located in Newport, this is the place to go for outstanding German cuisine and the restaurant’s signature beer.
  • Moonlite Bar-B-Q. Kentucky is famous for its amazing barbecue, and this restaurant is one of the best in the state.
  • Patti’s 1880s Settlement. This restaurant is built in a water mill with pork chops two inches thick and scrumptious pies.

Discover more about the most famous restaurants in Kentucky.

What are the best little-known restaurants in Kentucky?

The best little-known restaurants in Kentucky include:

  • Big Dipper. This is one of those amazing burger joints that aren’t known outside the local area, but locals flock to it in droves.
  • Joe’s Drive-In Chicken. This place is a local secret and has some of the best fried chicken in all of Kentucky.
  • Bread of Life Cafe. Located in Liberty, this is a family-owned restaurant with delicious home cooking and a scrumptious buffet.
  • Blue & White Grill. This gem is in the small town of Hazel and serves simple yet utterly delicious country classics.

Learn more about the best little-known restaurants in Kentucky. 

What are the best bucket list restaurants in Kentucky?

The best bucket list restaurants in Kentucky include:

  • The Old Talbott Tavern. This is the oldest restaurant in the state and it contains the oldest bourbon bar on the planet.
  • The Brown Hotel. This luxurious restaurant looks like a French palace and serves amazing Southern cuisine.
  • Wallace Station Deli and Bakery. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and the chef is a James Beard Award nominee.
  • Sanders Cafe. This is where Kentucky Fried Chicken got its name and it keeps the original quality this chicken once had.

Find out more about the best bucket list restaurants in Kentucky. 

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