Located on the College Square in the heart of Berea where the old Dixie Highway crossed the campus, the hotel and restaurant became a popular destination with the traveling public from the beginning of the "automobile age."

[5] Under the direction of Richard T. Hougen, who headed the restaurant for 35 years beginning in 1940 and published three cookbooks, Boone Tavern established a reputation for fine Southern cooking.

Guest rooms feature solid cherry wood furniture made by Berea College Student Crafts.

[7] In 2008, the college undertook an extensive renovation project on Boone Tavern at an estimated cost of $9.6 million, with the aim of converting it into Kentucky's first LEED-certified hotel while preserving its historic character.

[10] As of 2022, the Boone Tavern Restaurant, Frost Cafe, and Local Food dining options all offer alcoholic beverages for sale.