Winks Bar, nestled in Richmond, Kentucky, is a shining gem in the local dining scene, attracting patrons with its irresistible charm and mouthwatering menu. The small but mighty eatery, known for its exquisite burgers, showcases the culinary artistry of owner and chef John Dale. Reviewers enthusiastically praise the unique two-burger-at-a-time cooking method, which ensures that each bite is flavorful and impeccably crafted. The atmosphere exudes a welcoming vibe reminiscent of a classic diner, making it the perfect spot for casual gatherings. Guests rave about the quality of the burgers, with testimonials describing them as some of the best they've ever had. Coupled with a solid beer selection featuring local brews and affordable options like Coors and Bud Light, Winks Bar offers an experience that goes beyond just food. Diners appreciate the warm service and personal touch from John, who often engages patrons in conversation, enhancing the communal atmosphere. With mentions of creative weekend specials and an inviting space for both locals and visitors, Winks Bar is a must-try destination for anyone seeking not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a burger enthusiast or simply looking for a laid-back place to unwind, Winks Bar delivers on all fronts.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Popular for
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves food
Serves food at bar
Serves spirits
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Photos
Reviews For Winks Bar
Britten McDowell
May 20,2025
This place is awesome!!!!! My son took us here for dinner one night while in town for a visit. I love the way this place operates!!! 2 burgers at a time! Great selection of beers.
Renee Pulda
Apr 17,2025
One of the best burgers I've had in a long time! Super cool vibe too. You definitely need to check this place out if you love an old time diner feel.
Joseph Badgett
Apr 12,2025
Hands down the greatest small dining in Richmond, Kentucky! I could leave a lengthy review but it’s as simple as that - the food, drinks, service, and atmosphere are as good as it gets, an all around local favorite and must try!
Clay Royse
Apr 4,2025
Wink's is special. Very special. John Dale has created here the perfect little burger joint, a redneck izakaya, a y'allternative oasis. He is the man that Bruce Lee feared, a man who has practiced one kick ten thousand times, only that kick is a lacy smashed patty, juicy and crunchy and incredibly flavorful. He cooks two burgers at a time, it takes as long as it takes, and no matter how long that is, it's worth it. There's cheap beer while you wait, slightly less cheap selections from Dreaming Creek, and your choice of Grippo's barbecue chips or plain Lay's. He does a special or two every weekend. Sometimes there's bourbon, which he sells at cost. This is, no joke, the best hamburger I've ever eaten, and I've eaten hamburgers all over the galaxy. I debated making this a one-star review in the hopes that it'd keep out the amateurs, the tourists, the turkeys, and the people who just don't get it the way I, the smartest person in the world, do, but my man is rolling a perfect game and that is bad juju. Drop whatever horrible thing you're planning on jamming into your gullet and get one of these immediately. You will see the face of God.
Joe Durham
Mar 21,2025
Go for the food, stay for the experience. John Dale is the super friendly chef and sole proprietor of this gem. Sit at the bar if you can, soak it in, talk to JD if you want - about anything, he's sure to interest you.
Jigga FIRE
Mar 12,2025
The Pineapple, Bacon & BBQ cheeseburger was delicious!
Amy Rogers
Mar 9,2025
Wink's is one of the main reasons why I love Richmond. EXCELLENT food, great energy and you just walk in and feel like you're home. We have become regulars at Wink's and I'm always happy to see the same faces (and new as well), grab some grub and chat with John Dale, the owner. It has a very unique, buzzing ambiance and it's easy to feel comfortable there. I know I've mentioned the great vibe, but the show stealer has to be the food. One of my favorites is the vegetarian friendly black bean burger with an egg on top. I also absolutely love a classic cheeseburger with bacon and egg on top. They're served with Lays chips or Grippos. Honestly, Wink's has the best burgers in the city. The prices are suprub and the quality is top notch. Also, they serve a house made mustard that is out of this world. if you've not tried it out, do yourself a favor and go grab a burger!
John Babcock
Feb 10,2025
I'd like to start this review off by being totally transparent here. This isn't the biggest place, neither is it the quickest place. However, what it is is something by itself, completely making it a truly unique experience to be had by all. John, the owner, is an interesting cat, with his approach as the proprietor, cook, bartender, prep cook, and short order cook. There is only one thing he makes, and that's hamburgers. The varieties available that day are listed on the blackboard on the wall to your right when you walk in. The drinks available are on a blackboard on the wall to your left, and these are limited to a few domestics. Soft drinks are limited to bottled water or Ale eight one. Order placement is limited to your seating, which is limited to 12 stools at the counter. Orders are taken beginning at the left end of the counter, moving to the right, one order at a time, one burger completion at a time. Be forwarned that this isn't the place to go if you're in a hurry! The decor is somewhere between dive bar and Americana diner with stickers from all over the country on the walls and ceiling. There's an old BMX bike hanging from the ceiling to the extreme left ceiling, as well as a couple of vintage skateboard decks and motor cycle parts to round out the decor. The structure itself is an old diner car circa 1950, housing this curiously eclectic collection. There are a few stools against the left back wall where you can sit while you wait for the counter stools to become available. When we entered, the proprietor was playing some really great stoner metal from the band Sleep that wasn't overly loud but added yet another touch to the already unique experience. We were a party of five, all having a great time in this intimate place, enjoying each other's company and that of the owner John. John's hamburgers are started out as balls of ground beef that are flattened out on a griddle that is limited in size, yet adequate to include the strips of bacon for your order. If needed, there are a few tables outside to sit once you've received your order. Hours of operation are limited, and John closes once he's sold out. Check hours in advance on John's Winks Facebook page for specials and hours. A really cool experience with a local business owner, the type that needs your help to thrive, keeping our downtowns alive. I can't wait to go back!
Reviews For Winks Bar