This Streetscapes explores some of the most iconic dives in all of NKY and some new(ish) additions to West Pike Street in Covington. From American classic burgers and beers to pocket-sized pastries with flavors from all over the world, this Streetscapes explores some of the overlooked spots along West Pike Street.
The Empanada’s Box
With a name like the Empanada’s Box, one would guess that the offerings stop short of anything outside of Mexican cuisine. However, the Empanada’s Box gives guests flavors from all over the world, in handheld savory pastries.
The majority of its empanadas are named after a different city, state or country to reflect the flavors traditionally found there, with a few simply named after their ingredients. The Buenos Aires features ground beef, onion, bell pepper and green onion, while the Kentucky features bourbon smoked pork belly, bell pepper, mozzarella and Tabasco.
The menu is broken down into five empanada categories; beef, pork, chicken, veggie and vegan, with ample choices in each category. Everyone, regardless of dietary choices and restrictions, has plenty of options. Vegans have choices of a savory Mumbai, a potato-and-pea samosa, or a sweet apple empanada with green apple, brown sugar, raisins and cinnamon.
The Cinci Chili is a fan favorite, with all the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili in a portable pastry.
Sides also cover the spectrum of flavors, with corn esquites, Asian noodle salad and yellow rice. These additions create a full meal with any empanada. The sides and empanadas all come in under $5, making for quick, cheap on-the-run options perfect for lunch breaks.
The Empanada’s Box has dine-in options, both inside and out.
Anchor Grill
One of the most iconic places in all of NKY has been serving customers breakfast, lunch and dinner at all hours of the day. Hungry travelers have been able to count on the Anchor for more than 75 years.
Guests step back in time to the 1950s, when cash was the only currency and jukeboxes were in every diner. The Anchor Grill is still a cash-only establishment and has the decor to rival any ‘50s restaurant.
The charm and nostalgia of the Anchor have landed it recognition nationally among dive restaurants, a title it wears with pride. The Food Network and The New Yorker have tasted and raved about the Anchor; but we NKY natives get to experience this greasy spoon any time we may please.
Regardless of inflation, Anchor Grill is still able to keep menu prices low. Guests can find a plethora of options under $10. The menu consists mostly of breakfast, burgers and home-cooked classics. Seeing as it’s only a stone’s throw away from Glier’s goetta factory, it’s only fitting that its most famous dish is the GLT — goetta, lettuce and tomato.
This savory sandwich is good any time of day. And at the Anchor, they may doze, but they never close, so that’s truly any option for any hungry soul.
Herb and Thelma’s Tavern
On the other end of West Pike Street sits another “dive” with a completely different atmosphere. Herb and Thelma’s is a tried-and-true burger joint. Much like the Anchor, it’s been in business over 75 years, is cash-only and has great food for cheap prices. It has more of a bar atmosphere and is a great spot for watching Sunday football.
Outside of its famous burgers, Herb and Thelma’s is best known for its bratwursts, fried bologna, chili and soups. The soups change seasonally and in the winter are the best pair to any sandwich.
Check this place out on Coney Wednesdays, quite possibly the best way to celebrate making it halfway through the week.
Every patron is warmly welcomed like they’re a familiar face, even on their first visit. With decor that is as quirky and charming as your grandparents’ basement, you can pull up to the bar, order a burger and cold beer, and let the nostalgia wash over.
Have a street, city or business you want to see covered next? Email Maria Hehman at mchehman@gmail.com and it could be featured on the next installment of LINK Streetscapes.
What To Know If You Go
The Empanada’s Box
Location: 212 W. Pike St., Covington
Hours: Monday, closed; Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Website: theempanadasbox.com
Phone: 859-279- 3297
The Anchor Grill
Location: 438 W. Pike St., Covington
Hours: Sunday-Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-11 p.m.
Phone: 859-431-9498
Herb and Thelma’s Tavern
Location: 718 W. Pike St., Covington
Hours: Sunday, noon-6 p.m.; Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Website: herbandthelmas.com
Phone: 859-491-6984