Many locals agree that of the numerous traditional Irish pubs in Louisville, the one most worth a visit is the Irish Rover. Like every Irish pub, it's got traditional food and lots of Guinness, but here they go the extra mile. The recipes are extra traditional. The Guinness is poured just right. And thanks to all of that, locals pack the place, creating a true feeling of community on any given night. See website for menu, sister location and more.
One of the most beloved little holes-in-the-wall within city limits, the Fish House/Cafe Beignet serves some of the best fish & chips in town. Not only do diners find breaded fish, oysters and other treats from the sea, but the New Orleans style Beignets are out-of-this-world. The prices are equally super, a definite treat while in the Germantown neighborhood.
Housed in a former garage, The Garage Bar is one of the most popular eateries and bars in the NuLu neighborhood or East Market District of Louisville. The place is always thumping with excitement and the two crashed cars at the entrance is a cool, gimmick that belies what the bar is all about. Their wood-fired oven pizzas are phenomenal and every single one of them uses local, farm fresh ingredients. Just check the menu, it has the local farmers and purveyors listed behind the products in your dish.
Please & Thank You may sound like an odd name for a restaurant, but once you leave you'll know why the name was given. All pleasantries aside, the simple menu has snacks, pressed sandwiches, salads, coffee and baked goods. P & T follows the seasons as best as possible and locals consistently rate it as one of the best breakfast spots in town. Most visitors fall in love with the cookies or brownies, so much so that the bakery sells a pre-made mix to bake at home. Overall, it's a great place to start the day while in the Louisville's East Market District.
Blue Dog is an artisan bakery located in Louisville's Crescent Hill neighborhood. Their breads are handcrafted using the best ingredients and are prepared sans preservatives. From the classic crusty baguette to rustic French country bread and chewy Italian pugliese, the bakery bakes European-style breads in time-honored technique. For those with a sweet tooth, the cinnamon buns and muffins are a treat. Brunch, lunch and light eats are served here through the day and this is a great spot for a Saturday family brunch.
A fast favorite with Louisville natives, as well as the occasional tourist, Nord's is a Germantown institution known for its decadent donuts and sweet treats. Locals head here for their early morning sugar high - the bakery opens at 6a - of fresh-made donuts that fly off the shelves. Regulars swear by the maple bacon, cherry cinnamon, french fry twist, and pineapple danish. The neighborhood charm and friendly service make it an enjoyable visit, but be forewarned, lines can get long in the mornings and favorites sell out quickly.
If you are a lover of chicken then visit the Yummy Pollo and enjoy delicious Peruvian style chicken cuisines. This is a small, counter-service eatery with a few side walk seating. They primarily specialize in chicken dishes and their menu is fairly simple, consisting of chicken dishes that can be paired with steak fries, fried rice, green beans or mashed potatoes. All dishes are reasonably priced and an ideal place to enjoy a meal with your family.
A fast favorite with Louisville natives, as well as the occasional tourist, Nord's is a Germantown institution known for its decadent donuts and sweet treats. Locals head here for their early morning sugar high - the bakery opens at 6a - of fresh-made donuts that fly off the shelves. Regulars swear by the maple bacon, cherry cinnamon, french fry twist, and pineapple danish. The neighborhood charm and friendly service make it an enjoyable visit, but be forewarned, lines can get long in the mornings and favorites sell out quickly.
Dairy Kastle is little more than an ice cream stand, with a few picnic benches out front, but to its loyal patrons it is nothing short of a local treasure. Dairy Kastle has been around since 1974 and continues to dish out delicious treats that will keep you coming back for more. The ice cream parlor is best known for its classic soft serves and milkshakes with homemade toppings, but also offers sundaes, sorbets and chili dogs that are no less scrumptious. The Dairy Kastle is a popular summer-time hangout that delights all with its old-school treats.
If you are looking for a taste of the Mediterranean then visit the Safier Mediterranean Deli in Louisville. The eatery specializes in Persian and Lebanese style cuisines and one can enjoy a variety of dishes, the popular ones being hummos, falafel, shawarma and kabob sandwiches, variety of salads like Tabouleh, Fatoush with toasted bits of pita. They serve a few Indian cuisines too and vegetarian food lovers will be happy with the tasty and healthy options offered. Vegan options are also available. After a hearty meal try some creamy masala tea or sweet Baklava.
The Shack in the Back BBQ welcomes all to enjoy its slowly-smoked specialty meats in old-fashioned pits for a more traditional experience. Enjoy from a variety of appetizers, sandwiches, baby-back ribs, smoked sausage, chicken wings and more. Perfect accompaniments of home-made sides, sauces and pickles accentuate the delightful offerings of the kitchen. Perfect place to get-together with family and friends, Shack in the Back BBQ offers budget-friendly dining when everyday is an occasion.
Gralehaus Cafe is a the holy grail for lovers of bean and brew. The charming little cafe occupies the first floor of the Gralehaus Bed and Breakfast, housed within an early-20th-century Victorian home. The menu showcases a rotating selection of coffees sourced from local roasters, alongside Intelligentisa Coffee and Kilogram Tea, expertly brewed and blended to create signature coffee-based drinks and all the classic espresso-based varieties. Coffee-infused draft beer is a regular feature, alongside three taps that offer a rotating selection, beer cocktails, and over 150 bottled ciders and beers. To help soak up the suds, a seasonal breakfast and lunch menu lists contemporary comfort food, packed with the goodness of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, country style cooking and oodles of creativity. Beer- and coffee-centric events are hosted often so be sure to stay updated with the latest happenings at the Gralehaus.