From national franchise restaurants like Applebee's, Texas Roadhouse, and the Panera Bread Company to standard fast food chains including Burger King, Arby's and McDonald's, the Heartland has plenty of familiar choices when it comes to satisfying your appetite. But we also recommend sampling the treats at the many unique restaurants in the region.

Long before there were golden arches, Sally and William Laha were serving up what many consider the best burgers around. Laha's Red Castle Hamburgers opened its doors in 1934 on the square in Hodgenville. Today Sally and William's grandson, Kelly, and his wife, Anita, are the third generation of Laha's running the grill, with customers often lined up out the door to enjoy a burger or some tasty chili. Another LaRue County favorite is Paula's Hot Biscuit where patrons can enjoy a country-style breakfast that is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.

And if home style cooking is what you crave, the choices are plentiful. There's Cecconi's in downtown Springfield, Power's Family Restaurant on Old Highway 60 in Hardinsburg, and Farmer's Feed Mill in Leitchfield, all of which have some of the finest comfort food around.

If you prefer ethnic cuisine, Leitchfield is also home to B & B Brother's Italian Restaurant, where Chef Damion Baker and his staff prepare mouthwatering Italian meals as well as traditional American fare. The region is also home to German, Mexican and Asian restaurants like Ginza's in Elizabethtown where customers can sample their favorite sushi or enjoy the traditional Japanese style steak house meals.

Hardin County is also home to the Whistle Stop café in Glendale where you can enjoy a heaping plate of fried green tomatoes before devouring one of the many tasty main dishes. But be sure to save room for a slice of one of Whistle Stop's famous homemade pies. Around the corner, you'll find the Depot, a popular restaurant that specializes in country American food, is noted for great seafood and steaks, and serves a breakfast that will satisfy even the heartiest of eaters.

For more upscale fare at an affordable price, try Mordecai's Restaurant in downtown Springfield where Chef Larry Dodshall's more than 30 years of experience keeps the customers coming back. Brandenburg's historic Doe Run Inn is another local favorite. Nelson County boasts a variety of restaurants including Xavier's and the historic Old Talbot Tavern in Bardstown.

If you're looking for a cappuccino or mocha there are plenty of coffee houses too, like Arnold's in Elizabethtown or the Java Joint in Bardstown.

So as you can see whether it's country cooking, ethnic cuisine, a cup of joe or upscale dining, the choices are plentiful. The restaurants of the Heartland can satisfy your tastes and perhaps introduce you to some new favorites.


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