Burger, fries and beer from Kentucky Local. Photos by Maria Hehman

This story originally appeared in the Feb. 14, 2025 edition of the LINK Reader. To get stories like this first, subscribe here.

This week we take a trip for authentic Mexican, bar grub and Southern specialties in Hebron. Join us as we check out Little Valle, Kentucky Local and Hebron Grill

Little Valle Mexican Grill

The petite version of the vastly popular Valle Escondido in Florence has found a home in a small strip mall along North Bend Road. It’s got all the delicious menu offerings of the larger location on U.S. 42. 

Start with nachos, which come in a dozen different options, like birria, steak, chicken, veggie or a mix of all the above. For entrees, there are traditional burritos, quesadillas, tacos, tortas and bowls. 

Pair your dish with one of a variety of drinks, margaritas and Mexican beer. The mangonada is a refreshing authentic drink for those wanting to try something new. This blended beverage consists of mangos, lime juice, chamoy sauce, chili lime salt seasoning and tequila to create a refreshing and slightly spicy beverage. 

Their small space is vibrant, with colorful artwork enhancing the casual space. To make best use of the space, guests order at the counter before sitting. Food is then brought to guests as it’s prepared. 

Kentucky Local 

Kentucky Local is the epitome of a hometown hangout. However, nonlocals who visit will be warmly embraced; in fact, the TVs even project a message: “Welcome to Kentucky Local. You are family now.” With hospitality like that, who wouldn’t want to visit?  

Kentucky Local is filled with large TV screens, so patrons never have to choose which nail-biting game to watch. 

For starters, Kentucky Local has satisfying options for everyone in your group. With jalapeño egg rolls, fried pickle chips and Buffalo chicken dip, guests will want a taste of all the mouth watering appetizers. Kentucky Local has a great selection of draft beers, too, perfect to pair with burgers, wings or wraps.  

With over 50 bourbons, games and a daily happy hour, there are plenty of reasons for guests to visit. It’s also family friendly to ensure that no member of the family is left out.  

Hebron Grille

There’s something about family-owned, Southern home-cooking restaurants that never disappoints. Hebron Grille is on that list. It serves a variety of classic bar dishes but with unique twists. 

Instead of fried pickles, there are fried pickle fries. For those looking for even more unusual offerings, gator bites and gumbo are great starters. The ample menu runs the gamut with burgers, sandwiches and tacos – each with plenty of Southern-inspired touches. 

The stars of the menu, though, are the Southern specialties: Hot honey chicken, grandma’s meatloaf and Southern fried catfish will have guests thinking their own grandmother is in the kitchen cooking. Each comes with traditional sides – mashed potatoes, green beans and peanut slaw. 

Guests may hardly have room for dessert, but, for those that need a sweet treat, Hebron Grille’s crisps and bread pudding will be the best bookend to a Southern dining experience. 

Besides food, there’s a vast bar menu and plenty of TVs to keep up with every game. 

What to Know If You Go

Little Valle Mexican Grill

Location: 2983 North Bend Road, Hebron

Hours: Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Website: lilvallemexicangrill.com

Phone: 859-534-0465

Kentucky Local 

Location: 2030 Northside Drive, Hebron 

Hours: Sunday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Monday, 3-10 p.m.; Tuesday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.- 11 p.m.; Thursday-Friday, 11 a.m.-midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m.-midnight 

Website: thekylocal.com 

Phone: 859-534-0178 

Hebron Grille

Location: 1960 North Bend Road

Hours: Sunday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Website: hebrongrilleky.com

Phone: 859-586-0473