20 Best Restaurants in Bowling Green, KY
This article was written by local contributor Anthony Thompson & edited by the Travel Lens team.
From mouth-watering BBQ joints to authentic international cuisine and everything in between, we truly have it all.
I've spent countless evenings exploring every nook and cranny of our local dining scene, and I can't wait to share my personal favorites and hidden gems with you.
So, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as we dive into the best restaurants in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
The Bike Rack Bistro
I recently had the pleasure of dining at The Bike Rack Bistro, a small daytime spot that serves American comfort food.
I love how this place has a homey feel to it, complete with a front porch that makes it a perfect spot for a casual lunch with friends or family.
Finding the parking lot took me a few tries, but it was worth it.
I decided to try their famous bistro burger, cooked to perfection and paired with delicious pimento cheese.
I also got the pimento cheese fries, which surprisingly complemented the burger quite well.
The herb wheat bun that came with the burger added a unique, delightful taste to the meal.
I was with a few friends, and we were all satisfied with our sandwiches and sides.
What I particularly loved about this place was the charming old house setting and the chalk-written menu, giving it that local, cozy vibe.
ConCon's
Just the other day, I decided to grab breakfast at one of my favorite spots in Bowling Green, ConCon's.
This cozy little restaurant has always been a local favorite of mine.
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and a friendly "seat yourself darlin'."
The familiar smells of fried pork, toast, and coffee were exactly what I needed to start my day.
As usual, the service was outstanding.
One of the things that set ConCon's apart is their ability to make you feel at home.
The atmosphere is also enhanced by the 80's rock music playing at just the right volume.
Gerard's 1907 Tavern
As a fan of hearty pub eats, I have visited Gerard's 1907 Tavern multiple times, and it never disappoints.
Their menu, which offers everything from daily specials like Jambalaya with shrimp and mussels to lighter options like the GT Salad, has something for everyone.
I remember my first time trying their appetizer of fried pickles and jalapenos, and it was love at first bite.
Freshly made to order, they are a must-try!
It's no wonder that this place gets busy, especially on the weekends.
Thai Thai Restaurant
As a long-time resident of Bowling Green, I have come to love the cozy, authentic atmosphere at Thai Thai Restaurant.
Not only does it offer traditional Thai fares like stir-fries and curries, but the setting in a former home lined with ethnic art adds to the overall experience.
I've tried several dishes there, and the flavors never disappoint.
One of my favorite dishes to order is the Roasted Duck, which is cooked to perfection and has an incredible taste.
The Seafood dishes, such as the Three Buddies, are also great options, although they tend to have more chicken than expected.
If you're looking for a spicy dish, my partner swears by the level 4 Fried Rice.
Their Pad Woon Sen is the best I've ever tasted, and the steamed shrimp dumplings are a must-try.
Every time I find myself craving Thai food, Thai Thai Restaurant is my go-to place.
It's always a pleasant surprise to find such a gem in a smaller city like Bowling Green.
Geno's Italian Deli
Whenever I crave a delicious sandwich or a slice of mouthwatering pizza, I head straight to Geno's Italian Deli.
This colorful, low-key spot has been my go-to place for lunch breaks or when I need to grab a quick bite with friends.
One of the things I love about Geno's is the huge variety of options they offer, which is perfect when I'm with a group of friends, and everyone wants something different.
Not only do they serve incredible pizza and sandwiches, but they also have ice cream and other desserts, satisfying everyone's cravings.
On my last visit, I opted for their Classic Rueben, while my friend tried the Peppered Beef Sub.
Despite being a busy day, the wait for our food wasn't too bad, and as always, it was worth it.
Both sandwiches were packed with flavor, and I found myself savoring every bite.
I can also vouch for their amazing omelets, which I've tried on previous visits.
It's heartwarming to see them calmly and efficiently making orders, even as the place gets busier.
Plus, their prices are quite reasonable, ensuring a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Micki's On Main
I recently decided to head out to Micki's On Main for a night of delicious food and cocktails with my partner and a friend who was visiting us for the weekend.
As we arrived, we were pleased to see a decent crowd and even managed to score a beautiful spot outside under the awning as dusk approached.
We took advantage of their happy hour specials, which included $5 cocktails and other discounts on drinks and food.
For our meal, I ordered the pork chop, which was nothing short of fantastic.
My partner enjoyed the crab cakes, and our friend ordered a perfectly cooked filet mignon au poivre.
It's a cool spot in the square, and I'm looking forward to trying more of their menu options – maybe even some of the upscale fare from the connected 440 menu for special occasions.
Azzip Pizza
Being a pizza lover in town, I decided to give Azzip Pizza a try, and I was not disappointed!
My family and I visited the restaurant, and we had a fantastic time customizing our own personal pizzas.
You can check out their website here.
I got the deep-dish pizza, and the flavor on the crust was absolutely mouthwatering.
The red sauce was also fantastic and had a nice zest to it.
My partner tried The Westsider, which has BBQ sauce and loved it too.
Even our kids enjoyed creating their own pizzas and couldn't wait to dig into them.
They didn't leave any crumbs behind!
As a sweet treat, we also tried some of their delicious cookies.
They were not only tasty but also very affordable.
Honestly, for the price, it was an exceptional meal.
What I particularly loved about Azzip Pizza was the chance to be creative with my pizza.
My brother even called it the "Subway of Pizzas," and I couldn't agree more.
India Oven Fine Indian Restaurant
One of the places that I often go to for a delicious meal is the India Oven Fine Indian Restaurant.
The food here is simply amazing, and I've never been disappointed with any of the dishes I've tried.
The food is excellent, and I've enjoyed many a meal here since the buffet days.
The atmosphere at India Oven is low-key and casual, making it a perfect place to enjoy a laid-back meal with friends or family.
While the decor may not scream "Indian style," the big-screen TV that showcases travel videos adds an interesting touch to the dining experience.
The service at India Oven is always attentive and friendly – they go above and beyond to make sure you have a great dining experience.
The last time I was there, it was surprisingly busy for a Tuesday night, but the food was definitely worth the wait.
The flavors are rich and complex, and each dish has its own unique profile that keeps you coming back for more.
Teresa's Restaurant
Whenever I'm in the mood for some classic American comfort food, I always know where to go - Teresa's Restaurant.
This unpretentious daytime diner has been my go-to spot for years, and it never disappoints.
One of the things I love most about Teresa's is the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The moment you walk in, you'll notice the eclectic decor featuring old tools, vintage signs, and pictures of the people who have made this place the community staple that it is today.
They have a knack for making you feel right at home.
As for the food, I've tried almost everything on the menu, and it's all delicious.
My personal favorites are the ribeye steak and eggs, the veggie omelet, and of course, their biscuits and gravy.
Anna's Greek Restaurant
Last week, I decided to treat myself to a delicious Greek dinner at Anna's Greek Restaurant, set in a former church.
From the moment I walked in, I was captivated by the stunning atmosphere, complete with stained glass windows and a grand pipe organ.
My dining experience began with their famous flaming cheese.
Watching it being set aflame at my table was a spectacle in itself!
I followed up with the Moussaka and lamb chops, which were good but not as amazing as I've had on previous visits.
What truly stood out was their grilled octopus special - it was perfectly charred on the outside and tender on the inside.
Anna's offers a great selection of Greek wines, which paired perfectly with my meal.
Yuki Japanese Restaurant
Whenever I crave authentic Japanese food in Bowling Green, Yuki Japanese Restaurant is my go-to spot.
Ever since I first visited their Facebook page and decided to give it a try, I've been hooked!
The atmosphere and the food truly transport me back to Japan.
The cleanliness of the restaurant and the attentiveness of the service never fails to impress me, and their menu offers a wide range of appetizers, noodles, and sushi.
I have to admit, the sushi they serve is among the best I've ever tasted – always fresh and delicious.
One time, I popped in for lunch, sat at the sushi bar, and had the pleasure of watching the chefs work their magic.
My food was served quickly, and I thoroughly enjoyed the lunch sushi special along with an order of dumplings.
I'm looking forward to going back soon to try more of their hot entrees.
In addition to their amazing sushi, the pot stickers and tempura at Yuki Japanese Restaurant are simply perfect.
K & L Asian Restaurant
I recently decided to try something new and visited K & L Asian Restaurant.
To my delight, the experience exceeded my expectations!
As soon as I walked in, I was warmly greeted and guided to a comfortable booth.
I started with their Fresh Summer Rolls appetizer, which came with a delicious sauce.
For my main course, I had the Pho Tai Bo Vien (Beef Noodle Soup).
Although I added chili paste that turned out to be too spicy for me, the Pho itself was still very good.
The flavorful tea that Mary recommended was the perfect complement to my meal.
One thing to note is that the menu at K & L Asian Restaurant is a bit more limited compared to other Chinese restaurants, and they don't have fortune cookies.
While I did overhear a customer having a less-than-perfect experience, my visit to K & L Asian Restaurant was delightful.
The food was delicious, and the service was exceptional.
I can't wait to go back to try more dishes on their menu.
Burger and Bowl
I recently visited Burger and Bowl for a meal with my family, and I must say, we had an amazing experience.
The gourmet meals offered here are not only delectable but also highly customizable.
It was great to see that each one of us could not only choose what we wanted but also have it prepared just the way we wanted it.
My 10-year-old son absolutely loved this place, which is saying something!
The freshness of the toppings, juicy meat, and delicious buns contributed to the perfect burgers we had.
Another great thing about this place is that one order of fries can easily feed two people.
While their IPA beer selection might not be the best, they more than make up for it with their magical milkshakes and a wide variety of coffees.
We also tried the very berry milkshake, which was simply delightful.
Additionally, the crispy fries and onion rings were a perfect accompaniment to our meal.
Fifth Street Diner
Just the other day, I decided to drop by Fifth Street Diner for breakfast.
As a frequent visitor, I knew I could always count on this local gem for some delicious food at a reasonable price.
Upon entering, it was bustling with activity, which is a common sight here.
I ordered the 5th Street breakfast, which consists of two eggs, hashbrowns, three bacon strips, and toast.
It arrived piping hot, fresh, and perfectly cooked.
It's always a pleasure to dine here, and it's no surprise the place is always bustling with people eager to try their delicious offerings.
MEX-OUT
I absolutely love grabbing a bite at MEX-OUT, especially when I'm in the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine.
Their menu is simple yet flavorful, giving you the option to choose from a variety of meats and packages like tacos, burritos, or tortas.
With so many sauces available, I always find myself experimenting with new combinations to give my meal that extra kick.
One of my favorite things about MEX-OUT is the generous portion sizes.
I'm always satisfied with the amount of filling in my tacos, and I can never resist trying their chorizo, al pastor, and barbacoa.
The atmosphere at MEX-OUT is also appealing, featuring an open space with well-lit tables and minimalist decor.
For me, this place does its job perfectly - providing delicious, authentic Mexican food that keeps me coming back for more.
If you haven't tried it yet, I highly recommend giving their tinga tacos a go - the braised chicken in the chipotle sauce is always a hit!
Boba Lounge & Cafe
I recently visited Boba Lounge & Cafe with my family, and let me tell you, it's an absolute gem in our community!
My 10-year-old son, who can be quite picky, couldn't stop raving about the chicken and rice.
Even their boba tea surpassed the ones we've had from our hometown.
The environment is top-notch, making it a great place for a casual and delicious outing.
We tried the Vegetarian Pho and Grilled Chicken, both of which were simply scrumptious.
I just have to give a special shoutout to Chef Sip for that amazing Grilled Chicken.
It's evident that the quality of food at Boba Lounge & Cafe is a result of passionate and skilled chefs.
El Mazatlan Bar and Grill #8
I've been to El Mazatlan Bar and Grill #8 a few times now, and I must say, it's quite an enjoyable experience.
You can find this gem of a Mexican restaurant here.
It offers a bright and funky atmosphere, with delicious Mexican dishes such as burritos and enchiladas and even patio seating and margaritas to enjoy during the warmer months.
The food is always terrific, with fresh ingredients and well-prepared dishes.
The service is friendly and attentive, making for a delightful dining experience.
It's a spacious restaurant with plenty of tables and booths, so you never feel cramped.
One of my favorite dishes to order is their nachos, which are quite tasty and always leave me feeling full.
The restaurant has average prices, and the quick service makes it a great option for a weekday dinner or lunch.
Toro
Recently, I decided to try out a new restaurant in town called Toro.
My friends and I were looking for a place to have a great dinner, and we had heard good things about this spot.
We were not disappointed!
When we arrived, the atmosphere was lively and inviting.
We ended up sharing several dishes, including the pork belly and meat pie, which quickly became our favorites.
I played it safe by ordering the skirt steak, potatoes, and rice with beans, and while they were delicious, I was thoroughly impressed by the more adventurous dishes that my friends had ordered.
It was then that I promised myself to try something new the next time we visit.
As we enjoyed our meal, we couldn't help but notice that the service was fast and efficient, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.
Pub by Novo
Just the other night, I decided to visit Pub by Novo for a casual dinner with friends.
As usual, the place was bustling with patrons during peak hours, but we managed to score the patio couch while we waited to be seated.
Once we settled in, we ordered a variety of dishes - pasta, pizza, and salads, and I even tried their famous bison burger with onion rings.
To my delight, the burger had an excellent flavor, and the onion rings were homemade and truly delicious.
My friends enjoyed their meals as well, especially the wood-fired pizza with its super thin yet soft crust.
The stuffed mushrooms were a hit among the appetizers, and we couldn't get enough of their unique and well-crafted cocktails like the Spritz.
Throughout the night, we enjoyed the cool atmosphere and great company, which made our dining experience even better.
The Bistro
I recently decided to treat myself to a night out at The Bistro, a sophisticated restaurant nestled in a restored 19th-century home in downtown Bowling Green.
Known for its Italian and American cuisine and fabulous martini selection, I had high hopes for a memorable dining experience.
Upon entering, I immediately noticed the beautiful artwork adorning the walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
I opted for the Crab Meat Beignets as a starter, followed by the Chef's Chicken, a delectable Cajun fried chicken dish served with grilled pineapple, red beans, and rice.
My taste buds were blown away by the flavors and presentation of each dish, and I knew I had to try one of their specialty martinis to top off the evening.
Throughout the night, the service and ambiance remained top-notch.
I couldn't help but overhear fellow diners raving about their seafood specials, including the Salmon and Chilean Sea Bass.
The Bacon-wrapped dates also seemed to be a hit amongst the appetizers.
As a dessert lover, I couldn't resist sampling their offerings, although they turned out to be not quite what I expected.
Final Thoughts
Bowling Green's restaurant scene has something for everyone.
As someone who has personally tried many of these establishments, I can attest to the variety and quality each one offers.
So, whether you're in the mood for a comforting bowl of pasta from Geno's Italian Deli or want to try something new at Yuki Japanese Restaurant, you won't be disappointed.
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