Grub for game day or grab and go in Wilder

This story originally appeared in the Oct. 11, 2024 edition of the LINK Reader. To get stories like this first, subscribe here.

This Streetscapes, we turn left and right from the Licking Pike exit off I-275. We’ll start with a brewpub, then double back for a new Indian restaurant and end with a local favorite. Join us as we check out three restaurants in Wilder. 

Barleycorn’s Brewhouse

Barleycorn’s has long been a Northern Kentucky staple, with locations in the three major counties. It’s known for wings and countless on-tap beer choices. Its newest venture, Barleycorn’s Brewhouse, takes the same great food and atmosphere from its other restaurants and amplifies them by adding in its own house-brewed beers. 

Ten brews rotate seasonally. For the fall season, there’s an Oktoberfest, brewed with Vienna and Munich malts to create a balanced blend of flavors. For guests enjoying the spacious patio on warm days, their Schneider’s 85th Anniversary Ale is a great sweet treat to beat the heat. Inspired by the 85th anniversary of Schneider’s Sweets Shops in Bellevue, Barleycorn’s Brewhouse created a beverage that resembles Schneider’s most popular treat, a cherry ice ball – vanilla ice cream topped with a cherry slushie. 

Besides beer, Barleycorn’s Brewhouse is also a full service bar with featured cocktails. 

For food, the brewhouse has a similar menu to the other Barleycorn’s restaurants. Fans of the Doc style wings, Black N Bleu Burger or their Saratoga chips can munch on their beloved dishes. There also are menu items unique to the brewhouse, like flatbreads. Choose from balsamic Caprese or brewhouse BBQ chicken for sharing over a brew or two. 

Barleycorn’s also serves a weekend buffet brunch with an array of options and breakfast booze, including a Mimosa flight. After all, what’s brunch without a mimosa? 

Maharaja Indian Restaurant

For all cuisine Indian, Maharaja Indian restaurant has residents of Wilder covered. This addition to the area is the spot to grab and go for a cozy Friday night in. Its menu features traditional Indian favorites like chicken tandoori and saag paneer plus some creative combinations. 

Guests who love the creamy flavor of chicken tikka masala should try the tikka masala waffle fries, a creative twist on a beloved dish. Nearly every dish is just under $20; naan breads are another $5 – and, let’s be honest, no Indian meal is complete without naan. Choose among traditional, onion, garlic, chicken, aloo (potato) and paneer (cheese) to enhance an already delectable meal. 

Don’t forget about drinks. For a refreshing treat, mango lassi – chilled, blended mangos with rose water and fresh yogurt – is the way to go. For something warm and cozy, Maharaja’s special tea or special coffee are brewed with cardamom and milk. They’re comfort in a cup. 

You can dine in or carry out. There’s simple but spacious seating inside for guests wanting a quick lunch or relaxed dinner. 

Longnecks Sports Grill

For guests wanting a bar atmosphere with restaurant quality food, Longnecks Sports Grill is the answer. The local chain – there are two locations besides Wilder – offers guests a laid-back establishment with great tasting food and plenty of options. Visit on a Bengals Sundey or during a Kentucky basketball game for “the next best thing to being at the game in person.”

For fuel there are wings and burgers for those wanting classic bar grub. Those visiting in a larger group may want to opt for pizzas and calzones. Extra hungry fans can have pot roast, country fried steak, or fish and chips. It’s a rarity to find a sports bar that serves homestyle food, let alone one where those meals are standouts. 

Longnecks has seemingly endless libation options. Whether it’s beer, bourbon or Red Bull guests need to power through the game, Longnecks has it. 

The spacious outdoor patio is a great escape for a midweek pick-me-up or to celebrate the start of the weekend. Converse with friends over a beer bucket or make new ones cursing at the Bengals. Either way, Longnecks has a spot waiting. 

What To Know If You Go

Barleycorn’s Brewhouse

Location: 402 Licking Pike, Wilder

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

Website: barleycornsbrewhouse.com

Phone: 859-291-2739

Maharaja Indian Restaurant

Location: 1007 Town Drive, Wilder

Hours: Monday, closed; Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Website: maharajaindianrestaurantky.com

Phone: 859-279-3663

Longnecks Sport Grill

Location: 1009 Town Drive, Wilder

Hours: Monday, 11-12 a.m.; Tuesday-Saturday, 11-1 a.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-midnight.

Website: longneckssportsgrill.com

Phone: 859-291-5664