A lot of Kentuckians love steak, but a good steakhouse can be hard to find. A lot of places advertise high quality meat and serve cheap, gristly substitutes. Some chains have the best deals and meals, but there are quite a few fantastic steakhouses that aren’t chains as well. As far as I know, only one or two of these have multiple locations. Those that want a scrumptious steak dinner will have to go to the source as listed in most cases.

If you are looking for a mouthwatering hunk of red meat, you will want to check out these 12 steakhouses:

12. Reno's Roadhouse

This is a classic southwestern themed steakhouse at 240 Kroger Center Drive in Morehead, and they add a twist to some dishes. They create unique entrees that are incredibly delicious, such as Trevor’s Blackened Steak Fiesta Salad, which has tender steak cooked to order.

11. #9 Steakhouse

The #9 had a rough way of things but recently reopened better than ever at 1002 N Main St. in Madisonville. They have some fantastic dishes ranging from seafood to steak, but the steak is a must have. Reservations are available, as is call ahead seating, and on weekend you should likely take advantage of it. As a side, try the cheddar grits with sweet chili sauce, as the flavor explosion is unbelievable.

10. BJ's Steakhouse

This unique steakhouse at 201 Camptown Road in Bardstown offers the regular selection of mouth-watering steaks. However, it also has some tasty twists to the norm, such as a Prime Rib sandwich. They do steak right at BJ’s, complete with sides that remind you of your Grandma’s home cooking. The desserts are absolutely delicious as well, so you’ll want a "to go" box to save room.

9. Cattleman's Roadhouse

This steakhouse located at 2901 S. Hurstbourne Prky in Louisville is known for its high quality meat and sides. All steaks are professionally cooked to the exact specifications of the patron. The variety of side choices is beyond what you find at many restaurants--and each and every one is delicious.

8. Horseshoe Steakhouse

This delicious steakhouse offers up weekly specials at 2112 Fort Campbell Blvd in Hopkinsville, such as two steak dinners for $29.95, including a side and salad. They do not skimp on quality with their specials either, as they have a reputation to uphold. This is a great little place that you wouldn’t expect to find in a mid-size town. Everything is cooked to perfection and the service is always excellent. This is a great place to stop if you happen to be in the Hopkinsville area.

7. Malone's

This high end establishment at 3347 Tate’s Creek Road in Lexington pairs steak with seafood, making an irresistible combination. When it comes to sides, they create an original Kale or Greek salad, both of which are amazing, and healthy. Their cuisine is always presented in a professional way and everything they serve creates a mouth-watering memory.

6. Sahara Steak House

People travel from all over and dine at 413 E. Happy Valley Street in Cave City. The steaks are delicious and there is a wide selection of sides. The baked sweet potato is always a winner and a unique change. Their sautéed onions and mushrooms go great with their steaks also. They did not have a quality image available of their building, so you get to see two steak combinations instead.

5. Whabah Steak House

The steaks at 2361 Russellville Road in Bowling Green are worth the wait on a busy night and the potato skin appetizer makes it easier. Once the steak arrives you will be reminded of what a great place this is to dine at. Steak is always cooked to perfection and you can’t go wrong ordering a loaded baked potato and salad to accompany it. The staff is always friendly, but reminders might be necessary on an extra busy night.

4. Shiloh Steakhouse

Shiloh at 218 Russell Dyche Memorial Hwy in London is a great place to go for all ages. The food selection is so versatile, as they get both high school prom dates and family gatherings. All the steaks are cooked to order and come with a wide selection of sides. Any vegetable ordered will be fresh and not overcooked, and the rolls are hot and fresh. The staff is quick to make sure you get your drinks and your order gets on the grill.

3. Pat's Steakhouse

This friendly family environment welcomes guests in a comfortable and stylish traditional wood dining area at 2437 Brownsboro Road in Louisville. Candles are lit for ambiance in the evening and the steak is always tender and cooked to order. The sides are also quite delicious from their mac and cheese to the tender baked potato.

2. Blue Heron Steakhouse

You will feel right at home when visiting Blue Heron at 185 Jefferson St. in Lexington. The cozy fireplace offers and inviting atmosphere to what you know is going to be a delectable meal. Everything is fresh here, and even the pasta is made fresh locally at the Lexington Pasta Co. The steaks are of the highest quality and cooked to perfection on order, and pasta makes an excellent accompaniment.

1. Cast Iron Steakhouse

This higher end steakhouse at 6325 River Road in Prospect offers quality meat and exceptional service for about what one would expect to pay. Their best cuts are truly "best", and the chefs know how to prepare them with skill and precision, regardless of cooking preference. Their steak literally melts in your mouth, as do most the sides. This is what could easily be considered a 5 star steakhouse.

When it comes to good meat, Kentuckians don’t want to mess around with low quality. If we say the steak is good, you can bet your bottom dollar it is mouth-watering. Now everyone can have an off day… but at the restaurants listed, that isn’t known to happen. We would happily dine at any of the above and trust that the food would be the high quality expected, as I happen to be a picky eater. What is your favorite steakhouse to dine at in Kentucky?