31 Best Louisville Restaurants for 2024
Louisville, Kentucky is most famous for its rich history, sporty culture and bourbon distilleries, but there’s also a wealth of Louisville restaurants just waiting to be explored by eager foodies. If you’ve never been to this city or you’ve only visited for the Kentucky Derby, you might find yourself wondering, “What kind of foods do Louisville restaurants specialize in? What are some of the most popular Louisville restaurants today?”
From barbecue to Asian fusion, vegan vittles and beyond, there are dozens of incredible restaurants Louisville, KY has to offer. Check out our list for the best restaurants in Louisville so you can let your tastebuds lead the way on your next trip through the city!
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31 Best Restaurants in Louisville, KY
1. Jack Fry’s
Jack Fry’s is easily one of the oldest and best-known Louisville restaurants. Opened in 1933 by husband and wife duo Jack and Flossie Fry, this restaurant has held a special place in the history of Louisville, as well as in the hearts – and stomachs – of their lifelong fans.
The Vibe
Framed news clippings and old photographs of Louisville residents line the walls of Jack Fry’s restaurant, where you can also see some historical elements of the original space left in place. Today, many people still flock to this iconic Louisville restaurant for quiet, romantic dinners and special occasions.
What to Order
Jack Fry’s serves upscale American fare, with pork chops, spicy fried oysters and lamb chops being some of their most popular dishes. Jack Fry’s also makes some of the best craft cocktails in town, so pair your meal with a delicious Bluegrass Mule or classic Old Fashioned.
Jack Fry’s | 1007 Bardstown Rd., Louisville, KY 40204 | $$$
2. Sake Blue
Located near Jeffersontown, Sake Blue Japanese Bistro is one of the best Louisville restaurants for sushi, hibachi and a diverse selection of Japanese cuisine. This award-winning and family-owned restaurant is known for providing some of the freshest sushi in town, with a vast menu that consistently impresses guests.
The Vibe
With its dark interior and soft, glowing orange lamps, Sake Blue has a sleek, warm and modern vibe. Large tables and cozy, intimate seating arrangements make this one of the best Louisville restaurants for hosting groups or enjoying a romantic date night.
What to Order
Sake Blue has a large menu with dozens of sushi and sashimi options, but if you’re finding it hard to choose, the sushi nigiri platter, rainbow roll or green goddess roll are a good place to start. For those who prefer fully cooked dishes, try the teriyaki chicken or vegetable udon.
Sake Blue | 9326 Cedar Center Way, Louisville, KY 40291 | $$
3. Mike Linnig’s
Since 1925, Mike Linnig’s has been located near Valley Station and the Ohio River Levee Trail, and what started out as a humble roadside vegetable stand soon became one of the most beloved Louisville restaurants for fresh, delicious seafood and classic Southern comfort foods. The property itself has experienced its fair share of floods, fires and wartime closures, but the Linnig family has always revived the restaurant as a beacon for the community.
The Vibe
The vibe at Mike Linnig’s Louisville restaurant feels like a neighborhood backyard cookout where everyone is included, the fried fish is always piping hot and the beer is always ice cold. Mike Linnig’s has some seating inside the café, but their outdoor picnic tables are the best place to enjoy delicious food and the garden-like scenery with a group.
What to Order
Mike Linnig’s is a great Louisville restaurant to enjoy all things fishy and fried, from their tasty fried fish sandwich to spicy fish nuggets, crab cakes, hushpuppies and onion rings. If you’re a fan of fried frog legs – or you’re curious about giving them a try – Mike Lennig’s is also one of the best Louisville restaurants to enjoy this classic Southern treat.
Mike Lennig’s | 9308 Cane Run Rd., Louisville, KY 40258 | $$
4. Mesh
Yet another award-winning Louisville restaurant, Mesh is located near the swanky Rolling Fields neighborhood of the city, positioning itself in a prime area for residents and visitors to enjoy a classy night out. Diners are consistently impressed with Mesh’s attentive service and locally sourced menu, which features unique takes on classic American favorites.
The Vibe
With soft lighting, contemporary wood details and a fabulous outdoor seating area, Mesh gives off upscale and slightly masculine vibes that set the stage for a seriously good meal. Mesh’s hip, modern interior makes it one of the best Louisville restaurants for a delicious and memorable experience, whether it’s a business meeting with a client, a romantic date night or a celebratory brunch with friends.
What to Order
If you’re looking for Louisville restaurants with top-of-the-line steak and seafood, you’ve come to the right place. Some of Mesh’s best dishes include their short rib with stout & sorghum braise ricotta gnocchi and crispy brussel sprouts and the jumbo lump crab cakes with fregola, rainbow carrot, asparagus and herb butter.
Mesh | 3608 Brownsboro Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 | $$
5. Doc Crow’s
Another one of the most scrumptious Downtown Louisville restaurants specializing in surf & turf, Doc Crow’s is located near the heart of downtown just off of West Main Street. This favorite restaurant serves up steaks, seafood, barbecue and other Southern favorites with a mouthwatering smokehouse flair.
The Vibe
Doc Crow’s Louisville restaurant has a casual and laid-back feel with aged wood floors and décor inspired by whiskey and bourbon distilleries – as well as an impressive amount of stock on display. Doc Crow’s can be a bustling spot during their most popular hours, so be sure to secure your table ahead of time if you’ve got a large group.
What to Order
Doc Crow’s specializes in smokey, Southern-style dishes, raw bar bites, and bourbon and whiskey tastings and cocktails. One of this Louisville restaurant’s most popular dishes is undoubtedly the pulled pork sandwich, with slow-smoked pork, coleslaw, pickles and tobacco onions on a brioche bun. For lighter bites, check out the oysters Rockefeller or peel & eat shrimp.
Doc Crow’s | 127 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202 | $$
6. The Silver Dollar
The concept behind The Silver Dollar is inspired by the story of the Bakersfield Sound music genre, a subculture of musicians who had a profound impact on country music and music as a whole.
The Silver Dollar Louisville restaurant itself was built into a converted 1890s firehouse and is one of the best restaurants Louisville, KY has to offer, serving unexpected and iconic brunch and dinner plates.
The Vibe
At the Silver Dollar, you’ll find cozy picnic tables, a kicked-back whiskey bar and authentic Bakersfield Sound music blasting from vinyl records. This is one of the best Louisville restaurants for lovers of music, bourbon and Southern brunch, which might seem like an odd combination anywhere else, but at The Silver Dollar, it’s a whole vibe you won’t want to miss.
What to Order
This Louisville restaurant is famous for its brunch menu, which includes craveable choices like buttermilk biscuits and gravy, pancakes, breakfast sandwiches and huevos rancheros. If you’ve missed brunch hours, you can still dig into delicious dinner options like Texas-style chili, brisket sandwiches or chicken and waffles.
The Silver Dollar | 1761 Frankfort Ave., Louisville, KY 40206 | $$
7. Nami Modern Korean Steakhouse
NYC-based chef and author Edward Lee has had experience opening a few highly successful Louisville restaurants, including another local favorite, 610 Magnolia. Nami Modern Korean Steakhouse is one of his latest ventures, featuring fresh takes on traditional, savory Korean favorites.
The Vibe
Nami Modern Korean Steakhouse’s dining area features tall ceilings, cozy rattan chandeliers and plenty of dining tables as well as eight grilling tables, perfect for enjoying self-grilled Korean barbecue with a group.
This Louisville restaurant is very new on the scene, but has already earned praise for its sophisticated, calming atmosphere and is a great place for date night or group dinners with friends.
What to Order
Start with a tasty appetizer like the steamed shrimp mandu or spicy tuna tartare before moving on to a tender main course of daeji kalbi or deung-shim. If you’re looking for a real treat or special occasion dinner, Nami Modern Korean Steakhouse is one of the few Louisville restaurants where you can enjoy rare wagyu beef ribeye.
Nami Modern Korean Steakhouse | 835 E Main St., Louisville, KY 40206 | $$$
8. J. Graham’s Café
Just woke up with a rumbling tummy in Louisville? J. Graham’s Café is easily one of the best Louisville restaurants for breakfast and brunch. Located within a local landmark, The Brown Hotel, this charming restaurant is the birthplace of one of Louisville’s most iconic dishes, The Hot Brown.
The Vibe
J. Graham’s Café offers classic Southern hospitality and stunning historical surroundings, with a large dining area covered in vintage wallpapers and textiles. The dress code at this Louisville restaurant is casual, but many people choose to dress up slightly to honor the hotel’s gorgeous interior design.
What to Order
If you’re visiting Louisville and especially if you’re visiting The Brown Hotel, you simply must order the Hot Brown sandwich. This famous dish was invented at this Louisville restaurant in the 1920s and features roasted turkey breast, toast points, mornay sauce and pecorino romano cheese, baked until golden brown and finished with bacon and tomatoes.
J. Graham’s Café | 335 W. Broadway Louisville, KY 40202 | $$
9. Dragon King’s Daughter
Dragon King’s Daughter is a modern sushi bar and Asian fusion Louisville restaurant serving up some of the best rolls, sashimi, cooked dishes and even quesadillas in Louisville. This popular restaurant has a food truck and two physical locations, one near Bonnycastle in Louisville and another just across the Ohio River in New Albany, Indiana.
The Vibe
The dining area at Dragon King’s Daughter feels moody and modern, with dark furnishings, a full bar and soft globe pendant lights. There’s also a beautiful outdoor area with wooden booths and plants. This would be a great Louisville restaurant to visit on a casual date night or dinner with friends.
What to Order
The menu at Dragon King’s Daughter offers an assortment of tempting rolls, soups and more, but their fusion items are really one-of-a-kind. Try the Al Pastor bibimbap with spicy Mexican miso sauce or Asian eggplant quesadilla with red miso sauce and shiso.
Dragon King’s Daughter | Multiple Locations | $$
10. Safier Mediterranean Deli
Located in the heart of downtown, not far from The Brown Hotel, Safier Mediterranean Deli is a staple Louisville restaurant for locals who love delicious, high-quality salads, shawarma, kabobs, soups and more. This fast-paced deli shop stays busy, but their incredible foods are well worth the wait.
The Vibe
Safier Mediterranean is your friendly neighborhood deli shop, perfect for grabbing a quick snack on the go, Monday lunch treat or a casual weeknight dinner. Visitors to this Louisville restaurant love Safier’s downtown vibe, fast service and smiling faces.
What to Order
The chicken shawarma sandwich is a go-to at this Louisville restaurant for a good reason; grilled chicken breast and delicate spices intermingle perfectly with the lettuce, tomato, pickle and garlic sauce all wrapped in a freshly made pita. Be sure to pair your main dish with a side of falafel or savory lentil soup.
Safier Mediterranean Deli | 641 S Fourth St., Louisville, KY 40202 | $$
11. Oskar’s Slider Bar
Oskar’s Slider Bar is consistently named as one of the best restaurants in Louisville, especially for fans of classic sliders – mini-burgers packed with a whole lot of flavor. Oskar’s hours vary slightly throughout the week, so double check their website or book ahead to secure your spot.
The Vibe
Oskar’s Slider Bar is a casual Louisville restaurant with a humble stone exterior, woodsy Scandinavian-inspired décor, full bar and outdoor patio. This is an awesome spot to meet up with friends for a cold pint of beer, unbeatable bar food and casual conversation.
What to Order
Oskar’s sliders feature tons of tasty Scandinavian twists, like the venison sausage slider with caramelized onions, tart cherries and Swedish mustard or Skagen smørrebrød slider with cod, salmon, peppers, onion and citrus aioli. With sliders around just $3-4 each, you can feel free to try a few!
Oskar’s Slider Bar | 3799 Poplar Level Rd., Louisville, KY 40213 | $
12. The Eagle
Ask any local about where to find Louisville restaurants serving classic Southern comfort food with a fresh and modern edge, and you’ll probably hear about The Eagle. The Eagle has two locations near Louisville, one off of Bardstown Road in Tyler Park and another near Oxmoor Center.
The Vibe
The interior of this Louisville restaurant feels cozy and casual, with wood tables and chairs, a large bar and a few backyard tables with built-in firepits. While they’re open for both lunch and dinner on weekends, The Eagle is really a great place to be on a chilly night out with friends or a casual date.
What to Order
Fried chicken is arguably The Eagle’s most popular dish, and diners rave about the chicken’s juicy, flavorful house-made brine and perfectly crispy batter. You truly can’t go wrong with The Eagle’s fried chicken sandwich or bucket of drumsticks and a Southern-inspired craft cocktail, like the bourbon punch.
The Eagle | Multiple Locations | $$
13. Buck’s Restaurant & Bar
Opened in 1992, Buck’s Restaurant & Bar is a long-standing favorite among romantic Louisville restaurants. This charming restaurant located near Old Louisville is renowned for its classic aesthetic, extensive wine and whiskey selection and reliable and decadent American dinner options.
The Vibe
The interior design of Buck’s Restaurant & Bar was inspired by the idea of a “moon garden,” featuring dark teal walls, fresh white flowers and touches of elegant black and gold. Buck’s also hosts live piano performances, making this one of the best Louisville restaurants for a romantic date or special occasion.
What to Order
Start your dinner with fried oysters Rockefeller before digging into Buck’s ever-delicious filet mignon or tender prosciutto-wrapped lamb chops, served with decadent whipped potatoes and asparagus. Be sure to ask your server for their recommendation on a wine or whiskey pairing to enjoy with your meal.
Buck’s Restaurant & Bar | 425 W. Ormsby Ave., Louisville, KY 40203 | $$$
14. Hammerheads
Located in Germantown, Hammerheads is another one of the most popular Louisville restaurants for Southern comfort foods and American classics. Hammerheads draws crowds from miles around with their mouthwatering burgers, live music and laid-back atmosphere.
The Vibe
While it might look unassuming to any outsiders, Hammerheads is a small neighborhood restaurant that’s brimming with activity and fun, small-town vibes. The interior of the Louisville restaurant feels much like a local bar, with metal signage, quirky artwork and lots of laughing locals.
What to Order
Two popular items on Hammerheads’ menu include the elk burger with brie cheese and sundried tomato mayo on a pretzel bun and the pork belly tacos, served with jalapeño lime mayo, pico de gallo and cilantro on soft corn tortillas. Wash it down with a cold beer on-tap as you soak in the vibes of this quaint Louisville restaurant.
Hammerheads | 921 Swan St., Louisville, KY 40204 | $$
15. Sidebar at Whiskey Row
Louisville restaurants have no shortage of great gastropubs, but Sidebar at Whiskey Row stands out from the crowd with their unique snacks, desserts and delicious American fare. Nestled within a historic 1877 limestone building off of 2nd street, Sidebar at Whiskey Row embraces the culture of Louisville to the fullest.
The Vibe
The entrance to Sidebar is located just under one end of Clark Memorial Bridge, but the tall ceilings and dark décor make it feel very urban and chic. This is a great dinner destination for anyone touring the city or looking for Downtown Louisville restaurants within walking distance of other popular bars and distilleries.
What to Order
Whiskey might seem like an obvious thing to taste on Whiskey Row, but Sidebar really raises the bar with their decadent bourbon ball milkshake dessert, decorated generously with bourbon cream and candied pecans. For something more hearty, try the popular Hung Jury burger with beer cheese, bourbon onions and bourbon mushrooms.
Sidebar at Whiskey Row | 3422 W. Roosevelt Rd., Chicago, IL 60624 | $$
16. Mayan Café
While whiskey, burgers and other American foods may be staples of Louisville culture, that doesn’t mean you can’t find excellent Latin cuisine at Louisville restaurants.
Established in 1997, Mayan Café is one of the most popular Louisville restaurants for incredible dishes inspired by traditional Central American ingredients.
The Vibe
While its menu comes from ancient Latin cuisine, Mayan Café’s dining area feels modern, open and cozy with wood tables and chairs and breezy outdoor patio seating. Mayan Café is a casual Louisville restaurant, but some people like to dress up while enjoying dinner here.
What to Order
Mayan Café’s menu features Latin favorites with seasonal farm-to-market ingredients like cochinita pibil with roasted pork, achiote sauce, tok-sel and lima beans. Menu options may change throughout the year, so check by frequently to taste their latest mouthwatering creations.
Mayan Café | 813 E Market St Louisville, KY 40206 | $$
17. Four Pegs
Another popular gastropub in Germantown, Four Pegs specializes in smoked wings, barbecue and all things grilled, tender and meaty. While the building has changed hands a few times, the original structure has served as an icon of the local community since 1876, making it one of the oldest Louisville restaurant buildings.
The Vibe
Four Pegs has a charming black-and-white storefront from the outside with an eye-catching mural and ample posters in the windows. Inside, the dining area feels like a cozy bar with fun artwork and local news clippings – a perfect Louisville restaurant for enjoying a casual yet hearty dinner.
What to Order
News about Four Pegs’ amazing dry-rubbed and hickory-smoked chicken wings has traveled far and wide, luring locals and long-distance visitors alike. Many people also rave about the restaurant’s smoked baby back ribs, beef brisket sandwich and even their vegetarian options. For a lighter snack, try the Bavarian pretzel with warm beer cheese.
Four Pegs | 1053 Goss Ave., Louisville, KY 40217 | $$
18. V-Grits
“Vegan Louisville restaurants” might sound like an oxymoron, but V-Grits is here to make dreams come true for any plant-based people on the hunt for delicious vegan food and beer in Louisville. V-Grits name stands for “vegan girl raised in the South,” a testament to how challenging it can be to go meat-free in Kentucky, but V-Grits makes it easy!
The Vibe
V-Grits is a modern, minimal Louisville restaurant with lots of tables and chairs, perfect for bringing large groups or enjoying a casual meal with a friend or partner. While the restaurant maintains a clean, minimal aesthetic, there are a few beautiful murals painted on the walls with happy, colorful animals.
What to Order
V-Grits’ menu is entirely plant-based, so it can be hard to choose between all their tempting options! One mouthwatering option is the brunch burger with vegan bacon, egg, cheese and maple sriracha on a brioche bun – sure to entice even the pickiest of omnivores.
V-Grits | 1001 Logan St., Suite 123 Louisville, KY 40204 | $$
19. Bar Vetti
According to legend, two Kentucky-based friends with passion for food noticed that no Louisville restaurants were making fresh pasta in town, and thus, Bar Vetti was born. Located in the artsy East Market District, also known as NuLu, Bar Vetti is one of the best Louisville restaurants for authentic Italian food, pasta, pizza and wine.
The Vibe
This trendy Louisville restaurant has a swanky, modern feel and upscale downtown vibe. Bar Vetti is a great place to relax and wind down with delicious food, whether you’re looking for an intimate date night, weeknight pizza takeout or a place to sip wine and catch up on girls’ night.
What to Order
The house-made pasta is a must-try at this Louisville restaurant, whether you opt for their tender rigatoni or decadent butternut squash cannoli. If you’re feeling pizza, try the Fancy Pepperoni with Calabrian chili honey and pickled fresno peppers.
Bar Vetti | 727 E. Market St., Louisville, KY 40202 | $$$
20. Proof on Main
Nestled within the 21c Museum Hotel in downtown Louisville, Proof on Main hosts a vast collection of Kentucky bourbon, as well as an impressive dining menu. Since opening in 2006, this iconic Louisville restaurant has become a very popular place for tourists and those seeking to taste some of the world’s finest and rarest bourbons.
The Vibe
Upon arriving outside Proof on Main, you’ll see a golden Statue of David – just a hint at the colorful, eclectic and at times bizarre artworks that will greet you inside this Louisville restaurant. “Casual elegant” is the dress code here, setting the mood for a romantic date, special dinner or creative business meeting.
What to Order
Proof on Main’s menu is as unique as their décor, with one popular option being the bison burger with sharp cheddar, smoked bacon and onion jam. All meals at Proof on Main come with a delightful wad of pink cotton candy to end your visit on a sweet note.
Proof on Main | 702 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202 | $$$
21. Bandido Taqueria Mexicana
Craving burritos, tacos or other Mexican staples in Louisville? Head to your nearest Bandido Taqueria Mexicana for generous portions at affordable prices. With three locations around the city, there’s no excuse not to give one of these delicious Louisville restaurants a try.
The Vibe
Bandido Taqueria Mexicana’s Louisville restaurants might look like your typical fast food spot from the outside, but they’re a great place to stop in for a quick lunch or late-night study snack. Each location varies slightly, but the vibrant artwork and colorful interiors will awaken your senses for a delicious meal.
What to Order
There are tons of tasty options on the menu, but Bandido’s burritos and burrito bowls are what keeps hungry customers coming flocking back to this Louisville restaurant. Try the classic Bandido Burrito with grilled steak, bacon, fresh grilled jalapeños, beans and cheese or the chorizo breakfast burrito with chorizo, eggs, beans, cheese and sour cream.
Bandido Taqueria Mexicana | Multiple Locations | $$
22. The Joy Luck
With the help of his immigrant parents, a young Taiwanese man named Alvin Lin wanted citizens of Louisville to understand and appreciate the delicate flavors of his childhood, and so, The Joy Luck was born. Today, The Joy Luck has two popular Louisville restaurants, one near Cherokee Triangle and another near the Springhurst neighborhood.
The Vibe
Both of The Joy Luck’s locations have a fun-loving, handcrafted and casual vibe, with hand drawn wall murals, chalkboard humor and plenty of tables and chairs. The Joy Luck is an excellent Louisville restaurant to enjoy a tasty meal with family or grab a drink at the cozy full bar.
What to Order
The Joy Luck’s menu is mostly Taiwanese fare, which combines some of the best flavors of both Japanese and Chinese cuisine. Start with an order of pork soup dumplings or crispy fried duck wings for the table, then dig in one of their popular entreés like honey walnut shrimp or mapo tofu.
The Joy Luck | Multiple Locations | $$
23. 610 Magnolia
If you’re on the hunt for Louisville restaurants with a classy, romantic vibe and cozy, homestyle atmosphere, look no further than 610 Magnolia. Located in Old Louisville off of Magnolia Avenue, this elegant restaurant raises the bar for Southern food, bringing upscale, flavorful twists to some of the South’s most famous dishes.
The Vibe
From the outside, you might mistake 610 Magnolia for a regular residential house, but step through the yellow front door and you’ll find a cozy and classy restaurant. Quiet, candlelit tables amid original wood beams and brick floors make this one of the best Louisville restaurants for an intimate date or anniversary dinner. Reservations are required.
What to Order
610 Magnolia has a multi-course tasting menu that changes frequently to honor seasonal availability and chef creativity, but you can rest assured that anything you try here will be top-notch. Look forward to decadent dishes like wagyu beef tongue, butternut squash and goat cheese agnolotti and fig tart with salted white chocolate.
610 Magnolia | 610 W. Magnolia Ave., Louisville, KY 40208 | $$$$
24. Copper & Kings Rooftop Bar & Restaurant
Located in Butchertown near NuLu, Copper & Kings Rooftop Bar & Restaurant sits atop the Copper & Kings brandy distillery. This is one of the best and only Louisville restaurants with a great view of the city skyline – as well as some excellent foods and craft cocktails.
The Vibe
Copper & Kings is a modern, casual restaurant with cozy lounge-like seating and a luxurious urban vibe. The best part about this unique Louisville restaurant is its stunning view of the skyline, perfect for lounging with friends or family on a beautiful summer night.
What to Order
Copper & Kings offers both a brunch and dinner menu, with tasty crowd pleasing options like the classic lox sandwich, vegan black bean tostadas or the double smash burger. While you’re here, treat yourself to one of their fine brandy cocktails as well.
Copper & Kings Rooftop Bar & Restaurant | 1121 E. Washington St., Louisville, KY 40206 | $$
25. La Bodeguita de Mima
There’s Louisville restaurants with Latin food, and then there are authentic Latin Louisville restaurants. Located in the trendy East Market District, La Bodeguita de Mima is one of the best Louisville restaurants for real cuisine and décor that will make you feel like you’ve teleported to Cuba.
The Vibe
La Bodeguita de Mima’s atmosphere is cute, colorful and vintage, with old photographs on the walls, red leather booths and a beautiful open patio. This fun vibe makes La Bodeguita de Mima a great place to enjoy dinner with friends or family.
What to Order
La Bodeguita is the place to fill up on delicious Cuban classics. Some of their most popular dishes include the ropa vieja en lata, a braised and shredded pork rib with onions and peppers in tomato wine sauce and the arroz imperial, a yellow rice with chicken, plantains, cheese and cilantro aioli.
La Bodeguita de Mima | 725 E. Market St., Louisville, KY 40202 | $$
26. Momma’s Mustard, Pickles & BBQ
If there’s one thing Kentuckians do well, it’s barbecue, and Momma’s Mustard, Pickles & BBQ is one of the best Louisville restaurants to get a bite of Kentucky’s famously tender, mouthwatering meats.
With one location near Norbourne Estates and another near Blue Ridge Manor, this famous Louisville restaurant might even rival your own Momma’s cooking (don’t worry; your secret’s safe with us).
The Vibe
Momma’s Mustard, Pickles & BBQ isn’t your standard greasy spoon, but they do have many of the comforts of a classic southern Barbecue joint, from the welcoming wood tables to rows of sweet, savory sauce bottles on every table.
What to Order
Momma’s has anything a little carnivorous heart could desire, but some of their most popular bites include the beef and pork ribs, classic hickory meatloaf or brisket by the pound.
Momma’s Mustard, Pickles & BBQ | Multiple Locations | $$
27. In Season
In Season is relatively new to the realm of Louisville restaurants, but its founders are well embedded into the fabric and culture of the city. In Season relies on local, farm-fresh ingredients to make delicious and seasonally conscious salads, bowls, breakfasts and more.
The Vibe
In Season’s dining area feels sleek and modern, but never cold, with gorgeous warm wood floors and furniture to brighten up the space. This is one of the best Louisville restaurants to visit when you’re craving a quick, nourishing lunch on the go.
What to Order
In Season’s menu changes, well, seasonally, so visiting often is the best way to get a bite of their latest yummy concoction. A tasty lunch here might include the spicy jollof chicken bowl with free-range chicken, sweet potatoes, spicy jollof rice, diced tomatoes, pickled peppers and green onions, plus a freshly squeezed orange juice.
In Season | 324 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202 | $$
28. Lupo
A brother and sister team, Adam Turla and Sarah Balliet opened Lupo to fulfill Adam’s teenage dreams of owning his own Neapolitan restaurant. Open only in the evening, Lupo is one of the best Louisville restaurants for wood-fired pizzas and Italian small plates today.
The Vibe
Lupo’s Louisville restaurant feels rustic and cute with a brick exterior, warm and woodsy interior and casual full bar. Their unique yet crowd-pleasing menu, award-winning pizzas and near-downtown location make Lupo an ideal spot for sharing dinner with a group or snacking light before a big night out.
What to Order
The Sting Like a Bee pie is one of Lupo’s most popular choices, featuring Detroit-style pepperoni, san marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, parmesan and a generous drizzle of house hot honey.
Lupo | 1540 Frankfort Ave Louisville, KY 40206 | $$
29. Repeal Oak Fired Steakhouse
Located in downtown Louisville, Repeal Oak Fired Steakhouse is sandwiched right between the Hotel Distil and the former Bitters End bar. This upscale restaurant is one of the best Louisville restaurants to spoil a date or impress out-of-towners.
The Vibe
This popular Louisville restaurant has a sleek, modern and masculine vibe, from its tall glass ceilings to the swanky leather upholstery, terrace dining area and cozy barrel tasting room. Dress code here is casual, but reservations are highly recommended.
What to Order
Repeal Oak Fired Steakhouse is the only oak-fired steakhouse on Whiskey Row, so it’s crucial to try some of their tender oak-fired meats, such as the popular bone-in filet mignon or luxurious A5 wagyu strip steak.
Repeal Oak Fired Steakhouse | 101 W. Main St., Unit 101, Louisville, KY 40202 | $$$$
30. Royals Hot Chicken
It wouldn’t be a list of Louisville restaurants if we didn’t include picks for the best fried chicken. Royals Hot Chicken, located in the artsy NuLu district, earns praises from locals, tourists and chicken enthusiasts alike for their piping hot and flavorful fried chicken, sandwiches and more.
The Vibe
Royals Hot Chicken has a fun and casual atmosphere, with a funky king chicken mural on the outside, a minimalist dining room inside and repurposed boxcar patio seating outdoors. This is one of the best Louisville restaurants to visit when you’re craving spicy Nashville-style chicken on a busy day downtown.
What to Order
Royals’ fried chicken sandwich is a classic go-to here, with hot and crispy chicken, shredded lettuce, pickles and mayonnaise on a potato bun. Royals also allows you to choose your own spiciness level, from spice-free to extra hot or even “Gonzo” level heat.
Royals Hot Chicken | 736 E. Market St., Louisville, KY 40202 | $
31. Louisville Cream
After a busy day full of enjoying the best spic and unique Louisville restaurants, you might be craving a little cherry on top – of your ice cream, that is! Louisville Cream whips up incredible small batch ice creams, frozen yogurts, pastries and more to indulge your senses.
The Vibe
Located in NuLu, Louisville Cream is a small pop-in shop just off of East Market Street. This cute ice cream shop has a few tables and chairs inside and outside the front entrance, so it’s a great place to stop in for a quick scoop with your family or a friend.
What to Order
Louisville Cream’s unique small-batch flavors are to die for, so grab a scoop of their popular banana pudding, bourbon butter cake or pistachio honeycomb. For an extra special treat, try the haute fudge sundae or cookie ice cream sandwich.
Louisville Cream | 632 E. Market St., Suite 101, Louisville, KY 40202 | $
Where there’s a hankering for incredible sushi, fried chicken, barbecue or seasonal salads, there’s a Louisville restaurant just waiting to serve up your next scrumptious bite.
We hope this list of amazing Louisville restaurants has inspired you to take your tastebuds on a journey around the “Gateway to the South,” or at least put on some Bakersfield Sound music and whip up some iconic Louisville dishes at home!
For even more ways to explore Louisville and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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