Isaac's Cafe — Restaurant in Kentucky

I would have given them five stars 4 years ago. I am giving it 4 stars only because I think it is a place that would appeal to most people. If I were judging just for myself I would give it 3 stars.

When the trolls came in I began to notice some changes in offerings at the cafe. They had to. I get that. But I was less drawn to specials and began turning away from the cafe more often. Of course they closed for the pandemic and then reopened with a limited menu. Now they are offering more items, with a balance of offerings that please kids and adults, meat eaters and vegans. I find the prices reasonable - for a place that serves high-quality real food it is very reasonably priced. The prices compare to those charged by most food trucks; they are certainly higher than McDonalds. The outdoor seating is located in a beautiful setting. I wasn't clear yesterday on whether there is indoor seating at this point. Food - I miss the ham sandwiches for adults but one can order a ham sandwich and peel off the Kraft single. I have a feeling I will never again have their wonderful bean soup with high quality ham. I miss the salads with citrus vinaigrette. I do not like the hummus - it has a harsh flavor and lacks the creaminess of a good hummus. I will not order it again. There are some sandwiches that sound wonderful until I see mayonnaise or mayonnaise-based dressings. The mayonnaise is vegan, which is great for vegans. Unfortunately it still tastes like mayonnaise. What about olive oil for the chickpea sandwich or salsa for the black bean wrap? Overall it is a really nice place, most people would like it, they have offerings for different groups and that is a really positive thing. The addition of vegan items not only accommodates vegans; it also shows the Arboretum's overall commitment to sustainability. But I miss that bean and ham soup, a soup I normally avoid. Isaac's was the only place that made this...

The food is very good and locally sourced. The customer services, however, is not good. On my first visit, We had to wait and make an effort to get someone's attention to be served. Staff seem to go out of their way to avoid customers and not make eye contact. Staff stayed in the back and did not take the time to look for customers. On my second visit, they had changed their hours for the winter. the large sign posted at the entrance of the forest said they closed at 4pm when they actually closed at 3pm. They made no effort to communicate this change and took no responsibility for the confusion and contradiction when I was finally able to speak to someone. ( I made them aware that the hours were incorrect when you Google the cafe and the staff said "I can't control Google". I submitted the change in hours while I was standing there.) The rating would be lower if the food wasn't so good. They really need to improve their...

As members of Bernheim we have visited Isaac's Cafe many many times and have never been disappointed! My personal all time favorite was the Chicken Salad sandwich but with the new addition of the ChickPea Salad Sandwich (pictured)... I'm having a hard time choosing a favorite. I'm somewhat of a picky eater and the menu made me a little nervous upon first visit but Isaac's has broadened my horizons and I have never had anything I do not like. Today I am enjoying the ChickPea Salad Sandwich, Cup of Tomato Basil soup and kettle chips which are all hitting the spot. My husband's favorite was the Nutty Bird sandwich until the ChickPea came along as well. Its a winner on all fronts!

On a closing note, we live 20 minutes away but still find the urge and time to drive out here even if just for food and not hiking around Bernheim. I...