I have been working at the same place off and on for nearly 11 years. This last run being 4+yrs!
People ask me all the time, where you working… I say Ken Bar Lodge/ Embers Restaurant. The response is either “Oh I didn't even know that place was still open” or “ Where is that?”
I want to give you a little background on my knowledge of the Ken Bar Lodge. Located at 7711 US Highway 641N, Gilbertsville, KY 42044. Less than 1/4 mile from KY Dam Village State Park.
It was built in the late 60’s. Early to Mid 70’s it was the grand of the grand hotel/lodge. Many at my age and older spent hours of skipping school to swim in the indoor and outdoor pools! Proms and many dances were held in the large ballrooms. Kaintuck Territory located on 641 near Draffenville was known for booking musicians such as Conway Twitty, Dolly Parton, Oak Ridge Boys, Tanya Tucker, and many others. With Ken Bar being located so close visitors would stay in hopes of seeing such people!
Do you have a clue of how the Ken Bar was named? NO ITS NOT NAMED AFTER A PERSON! It is named for Kentucky Lake and Barkley Lake.
The current owners have spent YEARS and lots of money getting the place back in shape. Before they purchased it had gone changed hands a couple times, rooms “remodeled into suites”, a fire, and years of being a “ghost town”! Ken Bar is a huge building, so can you just imagine how many gallons of paint to just repaint the hotel portion, including hallways, stairwells, etc. Try between 80 and 100 gallons!
Embers is located in the lodge portion of the Ken Bar. This part of the hotel has 3 levels. Upstairs a large ballroom (250-300 people), landing/balcony over the main entrance to restaurant, as well as storage rooms, and smaller meeting areas.
Main floor, Embers Restaurant with full kitchen/ private dining area, dance floor, large bar, band stage and balcony for those that enjoy the sunsets!
Embers came about because of the double sided fireplace on the main floor.
Our bar is tucked behind the fireplace for those that do not like the fact we serve. There are plenty of tables and dining room in front that will allow you to be cozy and enjoy the great food that is prepared in the kitchen! For those that enjoy a nice COLD adult beverage, step on back to the bar or enjoy yourself at any table!
We are a family restaurant. Children are welcome.
Downstairs, a smaller but lovely ballroom (120+) Opens to the back drive and yard area.
In the past we have had many groups small and LARGE! Weddings, Family Reunions, Zumba, Dance lessons, Bikers, Quilters, Birthday parties, Beauty Pageants, Plays, Craft Shows, Car Shows, and even a petting zoo!
I have watched this place go from GRAND to GETTO before the current owners purchased! I have seen the improvements. Ken Bar is locally owned, not a chain hotel. It takes time and money to make changes.
The place has great character, charm, class, and is cozy! The outside and location may be poor BUT come in and check it out!
For those that have been THANK YOU SO MUCH! I hope you continue to visit and enjoy your time with us!
For those that HAVE NOT…. Please stop by.
I want to offer EVERYONE ……
Mention this post and YOU WILL RECEIVE A FREE APPETIZER WITH YOUR FOOD PURCHASE! (Managers pick of the day)
Hope to see you soon!
