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Welcome to Stephen Foster Restaurant

Stephen Foster Restaurant, located in the heart of Bardstown, Kentucky, is a beloved establishment renowned for its authentic Southern cooking. Guests rave about the homey atmosphere, where hearty dishes like fried chicken and fresh greens take center stage. The self-serve buffet features unique offerings such as stewed tomatoes and sugar creme pie, appealing to both traditional tastes and adventurous palates. With a commitment to quality and comfort, the restaurant fosters a welcoming environment, making diners feel like family. Though it is currently closed for renovations, the spirit and memories of Stephen Foster continue to resonate with the community.

Stephen Foster Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings

Indiana Jane
Indiana Jane

Loved it. This little place is a quintessential southern cooking kitchen. It’s not the prettiest, it’s nothing glamorous, but it is truly American. Excellent fried chicken. Perfect gravy to smother your dish. Great dessert selection. It’s the kind of place where people are thanking an old veteran for their service and dining with family. Enjoy it for what it is. I much preferred this to any chain.

Christi Winkler
Christi Winkler

We really enjoyed the food. It's a self-serve buffet. There were foods we had not seen on a buffet before. Stewed tomatoes, which my husband, being born & raised in Kentucky, he's familiar with them , not me or my daughter, it was almost like eating a jam, thick and tasty, yet not overly sweet. Of course, for myself, the fried fish & baked chicken were my favorites, but my husband loves fresh greens & ham. On the dessert bar, a pie we had never heard of before, sugar creme pie, again, very tasty and not as sweet as the name implies. We thoroughly enjoyed our meals. The iced tea was perfect, too. We look forward to dining here again. Everything was very delicious.

Mary Sykes
Mary Sykes

My daughter and I visit this restaurant frequently because it is a comforting, relaxed place to enjoy a home cooked meal. The staff remember you and you feel welcomed. Good hearty Southern food. Note: The restaurant is closed until further notice because they are remodeling Update: does not seem like the restaurant will reopen and that makes me so sad.... Great memories there We really want this restaurant back.... A nostalgic buffet icon who's experience is disappearing from America, and that's tragic

A.L.F
A.L.F

Update: These negative reviews, don't listen to them! This place is awesome! Seriously! I have over 1 million views on my photos from this place and it is that good! I wish they had one closer to me but I eat here when my dad suggests it. I recommend you go around 3pm or 4pm to eat. Their food is always fresh at that time of the day. We usually go on a Thursday or Saturday. Good food. Been here three times, always a treat for me. Everything is clean, bathroom was really clean. Staff seem to be nice. I recommend this place. Back Again 8-16-2018 and everything looks good again. Took some pics of the plates of food we got. Good food, yummy.

Selina Goode
Selina Goode

Good home style cooking. Buffet with a variety to please everyone. Friendly, "down home" staff goes above and beyond for an enjoyable dining experience.

Andy Sparks
Andy Sparks

This might be my new favorite. Buffet style restaurant with really good food and reasonable prices. Drink and desert are included in the price. Everything thing I tasted was good.

Joshua Coolidge
Joshua Coolidge

The restaurant was great. They have a really good buffet with fish, chicken, pork, mashed potatoes and gravy, cornbread, bacon, Salisbury steak, breakfast items, etc. The staff were polite. Would definitely recommend trying this place.

Derick Trx
Derick Trx

A great place to have a true southern family breakfast, lunch or dinner ( supper) for us that live down south. lol The food was good and hot. Had lunch with my wife. We both enjoyed the good food. And the way the waitress was always there removing our plates from the table. She was on the game. We will return. So much enjoyment or a down home dinner. Thumbs up from us.

Location

Welcome to the heart of Bardstown, Kentucky, where the Stephen Foster Restaurant offers a slice of quintessential Southern hospitality. Located at 503 W Stephen Foster Ave, this charming eatery is not just a restaurant; it's a nostalgic journey back to casual family dinners and communal gatherings.

Step inside, and you're greeted by the smells of home-cooked meals that evoke warmth and comfort. The décor may not be extravagant, but the essence of true American dining pulses through its walls. Picture families sharing laughter over hearty plates, veterans receiving a gratitude-filled handshake, and food that speaks of tradition.

The restaurant is renowned for its self-serve buffet, a treasure trove of Southern delights. Customers rave about dishes not always found on typical buffets, such as stewed tomatoes and fried fish. These items are crafted with care, bringing authenticity to your plate. The fried chicken is often hailed as a highlight, served alongside perfectly seasoned gravy that makes any dish a joy. And let’s not forget the dessert bar, featuring unique sweets like the sugar cream pie—a delightful surprise that appeals to both the palate and the spirit.

The friendly staff at Stephen Foster not only serve food but also share stories, making each visit feel like coming home. Guests repeatedly mention the warm welcome that adds to the overall experience, ensuring patrons feel like part of the family. This restaurant is more than just a meal; it’s a place to create memories and build connections.

Despite recent challenges with remodeling, the essence of Stephen Foster Restaurant remains cherished by the community. It's a nostalgic icon that many hope will return soon, proving that some places hold a special place in our hearts. Whether it's your first visit or a long-honored tradition, ensure to stop by, relish in delicious comfort food, and experience the Southern charm that has captivated many. You might just find yourself returning time and time again.