Located in the heart of downtown Louisville on the ground floor of the 21c Museum Hotel, Proof on Main has captured the hearts, minds and palates of diners throughout the city. Inside the blend is modern and chic, but upon first glance it looks like an ersatz safari scene, with large sculpted faux animals such as tigers and zebras on the walls. The white tablecloths and elegant, light wooden fixtures and chairs only add to the eclectic mix. The food is just as varied, and though most would classify it as New American, the kitchen tries to transcend any compartmentalization or label. And with dishes such as diver scallops on rice grits or traditional Italian campanelle made with local lamb, it's easy to understand why.
Being inspired by the location of his restaurant in Old Louisville and the bounty of farm raised foodstuffs in the Kentucky region, chef/owner Edward Lee knows his way around the Southern kitchen. Here at 610 Magnolia, he serves Southern dishes that often defy even that particular description. Each dish has complex, yet familiar flavors and almost all of the items and produce come from within the state or from nearby Indiana. Since the menu changes often due to Ed's constant adherence to seasonal products, there is always something new and fresh on the menu.
Wiltshire on Market is another hip dining spot in the East Market District of Louisville and a place where many travelers enjoy that one special meal on their trip. Here diners receive fresh, seasonal plates from the mind of executive chef Johnathan Exum. The menus change daily, but some standards remain like the Charcuterie plate as well as the Mezze marinated olives. Since many travelers inevitably visit 'NuLu' (a portmanteau of New Louisville) while in town, Wiltshire on Market is a good way to expend your dining capital.
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.
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.
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 classy restaurant with numerous beautifully decorated dining spaces, Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse is perfect for a good time with a group. This vibrant restaurant does not limit its menu to steaks, but also has seafood and sushi for you to enjoy. Starting off with crispy duck ravioli and herb grilled oysters, you can gorge on entrées like the signature bone-in filet mignon, steak Collinsworth, diver scallops, steak and lobster and more. An excellent wine list is also on offer.
Being inspired by the location of his restaurant in Old Louisville and the bounty of farm raised foodstuffs in the Kentucky region, chef/owner Edward Lee knows his way around the Southern kitchen. Here at 610 Magnolia, he serves Southern dishes that often defy even that particular description. Each dish has complex, yet familiar flavors and almost all of the items and produce come from within the state or from nearby Indiana. Since the menu changes often due to Ed's constant adherence to seasonal products, there is always something new and fresh on the menu.
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.
Designed for more sharing, Mojito Tapas Restaurant offers endless plates of tapas alongside sangria delicacies and beer. The menu includes a large selection of light dishes, ranging from salads and soups such as the Heirloom Caprese Salad and Caesar Salad, to heavier picks from the Spanish palate, such as cured meat tapas, various sliced cheeses served with fruit, cold tapas varieties, hot favorites and taco dishes. Those with a healthier appetite can also opt for elaborate seafood specialties and stuffed sandwiches. The Mojito Tapas Restaurant is ideal for quick business lunches, family dinners or some weekend time with friends.
Varenese is a chic and modern restaurant and is known for their New American and Mediterranean cuisines. The restaurant is passionate about the concept of farms to table and you will find only the freshest local ingredients used in the food. Their four seasons patio is a beautiful extension of the building and has a breathtaking 20-foot slate water wall. It is enclosed by winding glass doors which can be retracted to give you a great outdoor dining experience. You will just relish their signature dishes like stuffed crab avocado, curried lamb and lentil soup, a flat-iron steak with mushroom and Parmesan risotto, and the bourbon barrel-smoked pork chop. Chef’s specials are really amazing, and there three or four each evening. Their yummylicious Tres leches cake and the toffee-marshmallow bread pudding with salted caramel ice cream makes choosing a tussle. Veranese has a good list of wine and special cocktail lists to go with the menu. You will surely be pampered by their great customer service, food, live entertainment, and making it into an amazing dining experience.