These NKY spots have some of the region’s best dishes and patios
Warm weather and decreasing COVID-19 cases means outdoor dining is likely at the top of every Northern Kentuckian’s list. Enjoy the sunshine and safely hang out with friends and family at these top NKY restaurants.
Tousey House Tavern– Burlington
Want a history lesson on the side of your meal? The Tousey House is for you. Built in 1822 by Erastus Tousey, this house has some history. Erastus lived with his wife, Catharine, and their six children until he died in 1863. Over the years, the Tousey House has been a home, tavern, hotel, gift shop and—luckily for you—a restaurant.
Some fan-favorite dishes include the chicken thighs—pan-roasted and served with mushroom risotto finished with a house-made bourbon-shallot cream—and the Alaskan Halibut, topped with crab meat, artichoke hearts and parmesan cheese.
Since this is Kentucky, be sure to try the plethora of Bourbon flights. The bourbon is sourced from all over the state, so it’s almost like taking a boozy trip through the bluegrass state.
5963 North Jefferson St.
Burlington, Kentucky 41005
P: (859) 586-9900 E: touseyhouse@fuse.net
https://touseyhouse.com/history/
The Gruff – Covington
Dinner with a view. The Gruff’s outdoor patio gives you the perfect view of everyone’s favorite, the Roebling Bridge. For optimal viewing pleasure, visit at night to see Cincinnati’s skyline while chowing down on some serious brick oven pizza.
You can never go wrong with the classic Margherita—topped with olive oil, garlic roasted tomato, fresh basil and mozzarella. But if you’re wanting to try something new, the smoked brisket pizza is the one for you. This heavenly pizza is loaded with smoked brisket, pickled jalapenos, red onions, smoked cheddar and mozzarella and topped with barbecue sauce.
129 East 2nd St.
Covington, KY 41011
P: 859 581 0040
http://www.atthegruff.com
Pompilio’s– Newport
If you know one thing about Pompilio’s, it’s the fact that this NKY restaurant was featured in the award-winning 1988 film Rain Man.
Outside of its ties to Hollywood, Pompilio’s serves some amazing Italian food. Try the classic homemade meat lasagna, layered with fresh ricotta cheese and seasoned ground beef. If seafood is more your thing, try the shrimp Ronaldo—a yummy dish with oil and garlic sautéed sun-dried tomato, feta cheese, black olives, fresh basil, and spicy red pepper flakes. Tossed with angel hair pasta.
600 Washington Ave.
Newport, KY 41071
P: (859) 581-3065 E: managers@pompilios.com
https://pompilios.com
Behle Street by Sheli – Fort Mitchell
Two words: comfort food. During a pandemic, comfort food is what you need. Plus, there’s live music, which is something most of us have been missing this past year.
From flatbreads to pasta, sandwiches to salmon—this place has everything. Take an edible trip to the south with the Cajun bayou pizza, topped with sautéed onions and peppers, blackened chicken, shrimp, and Andouille sausage.
If you’re wanting to relax, try one of Behle’s famous martinis. Chocolate lovers, you’re in luck. The Godiva chocolate martini includes vodka, Godiva light and dark chocolate liquor and a splash of Bailey’s. Talk about drinks and a dessert.
2220 Grandview Drive
Ft. Mitchell Ky 41017
P: 859-341-8888
http://behlestreetbysheli.com/wordpress/
The Pub at Crestview Hills
If you’ve been yearning for that international trip, try the Pub—which is sure to satisfy your British craving.
The Pub’s claim to fame is their award-winning fish and chips: beer-battered haddock, house-made tartar sauce and creamy coleslaw. Wanting to taste more of London? Try the Big Ben, a beef sandwich layered with swiss and cheddar, maple pepper bacon, ham, crispy fried onions, lettuce and tomato with a brioche bun.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a visit to The Pub without trying some British beer. You have plenty of drafts to choose from—English, Scottish and Irish included.
The Pub also features live music on certain days. For a list of events, visit https://experiencethepub.com/crestview-hills/happenings/.
2853 Dixie Highway
Crestview Hills, KY 41017
P: 859-426-7827
https://experiencethepub.com/crestview-hills/
