International Flavor in a Rural Community: The Willow Bistro

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Nestled on the edge of Murray State University is a culinary gem: The Willow Bistro. I recently had my first meal there and I’m so excited to introduce them to y’all today. A favorite of locals, professors, and students, the Willow Bistro quenches appetites for international cuisine and flavor in a small, rural Western Kentucky community. Visit and you’ll see why it’s so special!

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The Willow Bistro: Murray, KY

About the Restaurant/Owners

Breanna and Quique met in New York City in 2010 in a restaurant that they both worked in; they soon became friends and later married. They shared many interests, one being a love of good food and a dream of one day owning a restaurant together. When their son Oliver came along, they felt their tiny New York apartment wasn’t the right fit for them anymore. So, they decided to move to Breanna’s hometown of Murray.  Shortly after, they became aware that the local international restaurant “Gloria’s” was for sale.  Jumping at the opportunity, they excitedly purchased the unique eatery – now affectionally know as The Willow Bistro.

The restaurant is housed in a gorgeous circa-1929 home built by Price “Pop” Doyle, a familiar name in Murray. Doyle is the namesake of the Price Doyle Fine Arts Center on Murray State’s campus.

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What We Ordered

Appetizers

Spring rolls with sweet chili sauce

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Made-to-order guacamole

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Falafel served with greens and homemade tzatziki sauce

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Mains

Open-face chicken gyro with rice, onions, tomato, pita bread, and tzatziki

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Panang, a spicy curry stew with potatoes, onions, carrots, and green peas

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Gyro with creamy tomato soup

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Visit the Willow Bistro

124 N 15th St, Murray, KY 42071

(270) 759-3233

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About Murray, KY

Home to Murray State University, Murray was named the Friendliest Small Town in America by Rand McNally and USA Today. The enchantment of the small, southern town is abundantly clear. Smiles, big hearts, and impressionable interactions are aplenty; locally-owned boutiques and restaurants dominate the local economy; and the charm is tangible. Visit Murray to experience arts + culture, one of Kentucky’s premiere farmers markets, and a community unlike any other in the Commonwealth. It’ll feel like home.