Evening in Monticello, Kentucky after a day on Lake Cumberland

The question every cabin crew asks

Is Monticello KY still a dry county?

Short answer: no. You can get a beer or a margarita with supper in town — here's where.

All Monticello restaurants

Forget what the old forums said

For years, the advice for Lake Cumberland visitors headed to Wayne County was “pick it up before you get there.” That's out of date. Monticello now has alcohol sales, and several hometown restaurants serve drinks with dinner. Rules can still differ outside city limits, so don't assume every marina or county spot does — ask first, and bring your ID.

A drink with supper in town

Sit-down Monticello kitchens where the grown-ups can have a beer or margarita after a lake day — including the steakhouse with a bar. Call ahead for the current drink menu.

Drinking on the water? Have a sober boat driver — Kentucky treats boating under the influence like driving under the influence.

Drink questions we get

Straight answers for lake week visitors.

Is Monticello KY a dry county?

Not anymore. Older Lake Cumberland forum posts told visitors to buy alcohol before they got to Wayne County, but Monticello now has alcohol sales, and local restaurants in town serve drinks. Rules can differ outside city limits, so ask before you count on it at a marina or out in the county.

Where can I get a margarita or a beer in Monticello KY?

Sit-down spots in town like El Cazador Mexican Grill (margaritas on the menu), Dos Amigos Bar and Grill, Lakeside Tap & Grill, and Black Stallion Steak House (which has a bar) are where most cabin crews go for a drink with supper. Drink menus change, so call ahead if it matters.

Does Black Stallion Steak House have a bar?

Yes — Black Stallion has a bar alongside its dining room, so a mixed group can do steaks and a drink at the same table. Their drink menu isn't posted on Monticello Eats & Finds yet, so call (606) 343-0011 to ask what's pouring.

Do I need ID?

Yes — bring a photo ID. Kentucky's drinking age is 21, and staff will ask.