Billy Ray’s Restaurant

In the early 20th century, pharmacist H.E. Hughes branched out beyond pills and tonics into real estate in downtown Prestonsburg. The result was the Hughes building, completed in 1927 and opened as a pool room and arcade. In the 1970s, the building was purchased by City Councillor Billy Ray Collins, who transformed it into a full-service restaurant.

Today, third-generation Collins family members operate Billy Ray’s Restaurant in this historic building. Slide into a diner booth under a beautiful tin ceiling to experience the Original Pool Room Burger, an old-fashioned hand-patted hamburger that’s been served here for almost 100 years. Try more American classics like open-faced roast beef served with mashed potatoes and Texas toast, or a juicy 20-oz prime rib. For dessert, the apple dumpling is a must—a breaded and fried granny smith apple topped with vanilla ice cream.