Local Restaurants in Williamsburg
By Ally Kennedy
Williamsburg. Kentucky, home of the University of the Cumberlands, is a relatively small town. While a few chain restaurants are across the city, it can sometimes feel as if there are no authentic places to go. This assumption could not be further from the truth, as Williamsburg hosts many great, locally-owned restaurants for residents to enjoy. Restaurants such as The Brick Oven, G&E Burgers, Moon-bow Mercantile, Grits & Grace, and Kendall’s Kitchen we fun, vibrant places to eat, with each restaurant’s unique culture and aesthetic.
Although many of these restaurants may go unnoticed, many locals enjoy going and eating at these delicious establishments. One of the most exciting things about local independent restaurants is that they are specifically themed and provide their customers with special foods and services. For in-stance, The Brick Oven offers a unique menu of traditional wood-fired pizzas. The use of a wood fired oven distinguishes these pizzas from those of other cham restaurants in town. The Brick Oven also served sub sandwiches and chicken wings. The various foods served ai this establishment wake The Brick Oven one of Williamsburg’s most popular restaurants.
G&E Burgers is another local restaurant many residents love to eat at because of their Americano menu and the scenic vicus This establishment’s menu includes various burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and catfish dinners. G&E is a popular spot during the summer because of its scenic view of the Cumberland River and the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, G&E has been in business since 1969 and is consistently the “Best Burger in Town,” The beautiful view and fantastic food make G & E a special place for many who call Williamsburg home.
Moonbow Mercantile is yet another local business in town that serves the community in its unique way. While the establishment does serve food and homemade ice cream, it also doubles as a store. At Moonbow Mercantile, they otter dishes with fun names like “Train Whistle Turkey” and “Mamaw’s Grilled Cheese” while selling cure little souvenirs. Interestingly, the restaurants name derives from the moonbow at Cumberland Falls. University of the Cumberlands students can use meal swipes to purchase some items on the Moonbow Mercantile’s menu. This shop is one of the most unique places in Williamsburg because of the blend of college life and Williamsburg history.
As of this year. Williamsburg has gained an independent breakfast spot: Grits and Grace. This lovely little restaurant serves various breakfast items. from breakfast tacos to avocado toast. On Tuesday, September 26, they even had a deal for National Pancake Day, They only charged $1 per pancake! While the menu, culture, and prices set this establishment apart, its most distinguishing characteristic is that Lily Hamilton, a University of the Cumberlands student, owns and operates the business. Her hard work and dedication helped to make Grits and Grace the premier breakfast spot.
Williamsburg has many local businesses waiting to be discovered. The fast-food restaurants in town may seem appealing, but exploring the locally-owned restaurants throughout the city offers the opportunity to try something different. Visiting these hometown establishments not only provides the chance to try new food but also shows the owners of these restaurants that the local community is supporting them.
