Sergio's is a haven for hard-core beer lovers and the beer-curious alike. Although humble in size and stature, with its vast and varied selection of beers from around the globe, this simple bar has garnered a reputation as local legend. The walls are lined with flags of every kind, and coolers displaying a seemingly endless array of bottled beers, including several rare and hard to find varieties. Once you have made your selection, just amble over to the counter and you can choose to either stay and enjoy your brew at the bar, or take it home to quaff later. Apart from the bottled varieties, Sergio's also boasts an impressive rotating selection on tap, with the seasonal specialties being the most popular. Paired with a food menu that features everything from pretzels, wings, mozzarella sticks and hummus platters to burritos, fajitas, burgers, pizzas and other pub grub, at Sergio's you are sure to find something that suits your beer.
Zanzabar is a local institution. Since its opening in 1938 it has changed templates many times, but it has always remained a local watering hole. The recent incarnation has it all, from old-school arcade games and pinball tournament nights to local farm-to-table food and live music, things have surely changed since those prewar days. The food and drinks are outstanding, but a lot of people come just to revert back to their childhood with games like Paperboy, Asteroids, Frogger and Donkey Kong. When you add the live music, this version of Zanzabar appears as if it is the best one in the last 80 years.
Four Pegs bills itself as a "Beer Lounge and Social Eatery." It aptly fits the bill because the friendly and knowledgeable staff treat guests to a smorgasbord of great beer and hearty grub that sticks to the ribs. The beer selection is carefully curated and has choices from some of the best regions in the world, Belgium, Germany, Czech Republic, and much more. Almost every night, there is some kind of special, wings on Tuesdays, pints on Wednesdays and Trivia Sundays are always a blast.
This local bar in the Louisville exurb of St. Matthews is a place to watch Cardinals basketball, build your own pizza and dance the night away to salsa music. The downstairs part of the establishment functions as Saints, where guests can watch a game and order some pub style American grub. The upstairs area is Sky Bar, a lounge for dancing and drinks. The music isn't entirely Latin either, on certain nights live bands and DJs make their appearance as well. On Sundays, be forewarned if you're a Chicago Bears fan during NFL season, because the Saints pub (despite its name) is known as a place where Packers fans congregate.
Holy Grale is a beer-lover's paradise housed in a former Unitarian church, however now the gospel is according to King Gambrinus (an old European beer hero) as opposed to those out of the Good Book. Here, the beer flows happily through ever-changing taps and bottles. The food menu features small bites on their pickle, charcuterie and cheese plates, yet some larger, more filling options are on there as well. On tap there are more than 20 distinct brews that keep the seasonally-drawn menu good company, in fact, the staff will recommend the perfect beer-pairing with your meal(s).
A venture by renowned chef Anthony Lamas of Food Network fame, Seviche is the place to go for not only its namesake dish, but for plenty of Latin flavors. Making use of local ingredients, the chefs at this restaurant serve mouthwatering Ceviche like the signature Old Fashioned which is tuna cooked from the acidity in a bluegrass soy, Kentucky bourbon, orange and pineapple brine. Some of the other dishes include plates from around the world as well, with skirt steak and Chimichurri from Argentina, the traditional Paella dish influenced from Spain and veggie chimichangas that hail from the Mexican kitchen. As the menus constantly change, guests can rest assured that they will eat something novel and innovative.
Unwind in style at the opulent Lobby Bar located in the luxurious Brown Hotel in Louisville. Experience a unique setting where contemporary edge and old-world elegance amalgamate to create awe-inspiring beauty. An uber-elegant bar serving hand-crafted cocktails, fine wines and spirits cater to every taste bud. The bar also serves sophisticated pub-grubs that are simply irresistible. With enthusiastic staff always at your service, be sure to have an unforgettable experience at the extravagant Lobby Bar.
If you plan to catch a performance at the Louisville Palace, the Marketplace makes for a great pre-show stop. The cuisine on offer is Italian-inspired Southern fare, and there is even a lounge with great drinks and live jazz for your entertainment. The food is absolutely delicious, and dishes like garlic beef tenderloin, balsamic-marinated NY strip and roasted spaghetti and lamb bolognese will definitely leave you wanting more. The patio features a dessert counter where you can enjoy numerous sweet treats.
8UP is a restaurant and bar offering one of the best rooftop views, paired with a unique dining and drinking experience which will satisfy your palate. Being located just a few blocks away from The Mercury Ballroom and the Louisville Palace Theater, this is a good place to visit either before or after a concert. The seasonal contemporary menu is coupled with a creative cocktail list and promises a dining experience to remember. Savor dishes like the duck confit with pinenuts and sherry vinaigrette; mussels steamed in beer with bourbon butter and green chilies; and flounder with fennel, watercress, and hazelnuts while soaking in views of the Ohio river through the all-glass walls.
Tucked away in downtown, Limbo is a Tiki bar and lounge where guests can enjoy a variety of entertainment ranging from live Hawaiian music, burlesque, DJs, and much more. The joint was founded by the Queen of color, Olivia Griffin who moved to Kentucky from San Francisco in 2014 and realized there was no Tiki bar in Louisville. Be it ladies or gents, this bar welcomes all, especially ladies who can relax, let loose and have a good time. Their cocktail menu is moderately priced and one can enjoy a fine selection of house and signature cocktails. Happy hours are between 4p to 7p daily. It is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a good time in the company of your buddies.