Spring 2021 (Vol. 69)

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contents SPRING 2021 | VOLUME 69

SPRING 2021

RESTAURANT GUIDE

38 | 74 | Maps

Dining Guide Our comprehensive listing of over 1,300 area restaurants, complete with reviews.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR RON MIKULAK

Find all of the restaurants in our Dining Guide on these user-friendly maps — a unique resource you can’t find elsewhere.

WEB EDITOR ROGER BAYLOR

PROFILE | 1894 Lodge In New Washington, Indiana’s 130 year old Masonic lodge, Chef Nick Sullivan and owner Logan Hostettler have laid the cornerstone of a new tradition.

PROFILE | Ricky B’s Club Cafe | 28

Rick Bartlett’s reputation as an artist of impeccable grace inspires every aspect of this classic (and classy) celebration of music and dining.

COLUMNS Starters

6| 8|

It’s been a year like no other. We look at the numbers.

COMINGS & GOINGS A summary of changes in the local restaurant scene — with openings, closings, changes and more.

12 | BAR BELLE | It’s our civic duty to drink local 14 | HIP HOPS | Brewery boom Our irrepressible correspondent Sara Havens is…well, irrepressible!

Yeast has been around for hundreds of millions of years — and pandemic or no, it will rise, like the six new breweries Roger Baylor discusses in this issue.

More than just mighty, these extreme spirits are fascinating expressions of the distiller’s art. Susan Reigler discusses the nuance.

COOKING WITH RON | City ham cookery | 24

Yes, country ham has gravitas, but these citified ham recipes will inspire the imagination and delight the multitudes.

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COLUMNISTS ROGER BAYLOR SARA HAVENS RON MIKULAK SUSAN REIGLER FEATURE WRITERS ROGER BAYLOR MICHAEL L. JONES ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS-AT-LARGE TIM & LORI LAIRD GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRODUCTION ED ROTHER JOHN CARLOS WHITE ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES KAREN SHANE

Food & Dining Magazine® P.O. Box 665, Louisville KY 40201 502.509.EATS (3287)

www.foodanddine.com socialmedia@foodanddine.com facebook.com/foodanddine @FoodAndDining

For advertising information call 502.509.3287 (EATS)

BOURBON | Barrel strength behemoths

Food

34 |

PHOTOGRAPHERS DAN DRY ANDY HYSLOP

FROM THE EDITOR

Liquids

16 |

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MARTY ROSEN

(RESTAURANT LOCATOR)

FEATURES

18 |

PUBLISHER JOHN CARLOS WHITE

EASY ENTERTAINING | Derby – Kentucky style Derby. And Spring. Nothing could be easier than letting the season define your plans.

Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

Food & Dining Magazine® is published quarterly by Louisville Dining Magazine, Inc. P.O. Box 665, Louisville KY 40201 The publisher and advertisers are not responsible or liable for misprints, typographical errors or misinformation. The opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. *Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. All rights reserved.

ON THE COVER

Country ham and whipped goat cheese potato wedge from 1894 Lodge (page 18). Photo by Dan Dry.

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starters | from the editor

From the Editor W hen our publisher John Carlos White founded Food & Dining back in 2003, he laid out an ambitious two-part agenda.

First, he envisioned a publication that would cover the Louisville dining scene with the same high photographic and journalistic standards found in national publications. If you’re a regular reader, you know that since the beginning every issue has been illustrated by the work of Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Dan Dry, and that over the years our roster of expert writers (too many for me to list here) has covered Louisville Metro with authority and style.

Second, White wanted F&D to document Louisville’s ever-changing dining scene at a level of detail that was – and is – unmatched in its scope and detail.

From the very beginning, each issue of the magazine offered a directory of every restaurant in Louisville Metro (except for national drive-through fast-food chains). Each quarterly issue has tracked every opening, closing, relocation, or expansion. When a new place opened we listed and described it, whether it sported white tablecloths or served tipico tacos in a space the size of a postage stamp. None of these listings were “pay-toplay.” It was our mission.

Not only did we list every restaurant, but we also featured every opening and closing in our front-of-the-magazine “Comings and Goings” column, where Ron Mikulak’s incisive analyses of dining and neighborhood trends have been required reading for Louisville diners and restaurant professionals for years.

All this is to say that from the beginning F&D has had a uniquely detailed understanding of the Louisville dining scene.

In the first issue, published in the Summer of 2003, our directory included 768 restaurants. In this issue, we list 1,402, an increase of 83%.

Over the years we have tracked a total of 2,076 openings and 1,401 closings. Over the past 17 years, we have observed an average of 118 openings per year and an average of 75 closings, yielding an average net gain of 43 restaurants per year: a new restaurant every 10 days over the last 17 years.

Prior to Covid, there were only seven issues (out of 67) where we did not report a net gain in absolute numbers, and only twice did we see a net loss in double figures (Spring 2010 and Winter 2012).

Before Covid, the highest number of closings we reported was 45 (Summer 2008) — and in the same issue, we recorded our second highest number of openings, 41. (Our all-time top number of openings was 44, in Spring 2006).

As we go to press, we are almost exactly a year into the Coronavirus pandemic that has had such an enormous and devastating effect on people around the world. Death tolls continue to rise. Businesses continue to close, and the ultimate health and economic impacts of this crisis are still impossible to calculate.

In the last issue, I quoted Humphrey Bogart’s line from Casablanca where Rick says to Ilsa, “Our problems don’t amount to a hill of beans.”

In the context of a yet-unfolding global disaster, the fate of Louisville’s dining scene may be a metaphorical hill of beans. But as I wrote before, it is our hill of beans. It’s what we cover. And it is part of the global picture.

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Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

So we’ve been counting beans (or more precisely our Publisher, John Carlos White, has been counting) in an attempt to get a data-driven sense of exactly how the last year has affected the Louisville dining scene.

This year, as throughout our history, we have been rigorous about documenting every listing. And in weeks leading up to our issue deadline, we worked to confirm by direct observation or contact the current status of every restaurant in our listings.

That is a mammoth undertaking, and at press time, we still have been unable to reach or visit 27 locations. By policy, we don’t remove restaurants until we have confirmed that they have closed. So those 27 places remain in place. In our search, we also discovered a handful of closures that we missed from earlier periods. We also de-listed a few other establishments — all were bars or groceries that no longer served food. These establishments remain open but are not included in our dining listings. The numbers below are based on what we know and can confirm.

We released our Spring 2020 issue just 10 days before the restaurant shutdown went into effect on March 16. This issue is slated to hit the streets almost exactly one year to the day after the shutdown. Based on our tracking, these numbers offer one measure of the impact of the pandemic on the Louisville Metro restaurant scene as of our press deadline.

• 149 restaurants closed during Covid. 63 are temporarily closed but vow to reopen when seating restrictions are lifted.

• 104 restaurants opened during Covid. An astonishing number, all things considered.

• 45 restaurants were the net loss. Still tragic, but a mere 3.4% decline in the face of predictions ranging from 20% - 50%.

• 1,081 are currently offering full-service indoor dining with seating restrictions.

• 231 are offering carry-out only (about a third were carry-out before the pandemic).

We calculate Metro’s year-over-year net loss of restaurants as 45.

Depending on the status of the 27 unknowns, and the 63 who are temporarily closed, that number could rise as high as 135 (a 9.3% decline).

Either figure represents an enormous loss for the entrepreneurs who invested time, money, imagination, and hope in these businesses.

And though we can’t measure employment across a restaurant workforce that has witnessed historic reductions in force — with servers and kitchen staff out of work for months — we know that for workers this has been an unmitigated disaster. And yet, the number of restaurants still operating in the face of this unique disaster offers hope. It is a tribute to the resilience, courage, and creativity of Louisville’s dining scene — and to the loyalty and support of Louisville diners and writers and readers and social media advocates throughout this year.

Keep ordering, keep tipping, keep wearing masks, and stay safe. We hope you enjoy this issue. We’ll be back in a few months. In the meantime follow us on social media and the web.

Marty Rosen

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starters | comings & goings

comings & goings

BY RON MIKULAK

o one needs to be told that this has been a brutal year for us all, but the hospitality indus-

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tries — hotels, breweries, restaurants, Bourbon tourism — have suffered especially hard times. Restaurants have endureed mandatory public health closings, and then reopened

with severe restrictions on seating capacity. The shift to take-away dining offered relief for restaurateurs (pizza purveyors, according to many reports, have experienced an actual uptick); but takeout service requires fewer people in the kitchen, and eliminates the need for most service staff. So the restaurant industry has trimmed personnel to the bare-bones minimum. And, beyond that, even with reduced, generously spaced seating standards that comply with social distancing advice, the idea of restaurant dining is still frightening for many would-be diners. And we shouldn’t forget the expense restaurants incurred in meeting these stringent new sanitary standards, installing heated tents in parking lot or igloos on the roof, or other efforts to give diners safe space.

With all that in mind, it is hardly surprising that our list of restaurant closings this issue is a long one — with downtown restaurants and smaller family-run eateries in the West End being hit especially hard. A number of small food businesses in southern Indiana have also closed.

What is surprising is that despite the pandemic turmoil, F&D is adding 55 new restaurants, a number that includes additional new locations of existing restaurants, to our listings, against 58 closures.

In the 18 years F&D has been publishing, we have happily reported more frequently than not, on the steady expansion, in numbers and in culinary reputation, of the local restaurant industry. That more businesses than usual have succumbed to the unparalleled blows the last six months have wrought is understandable. The fact that almost as many new businesses have opened speaks to the resilience of restaurateurs, and to their guarded optimism about the future.

NEW TABLES

That resilience can be seen in the welcome return of three local classic dining spots, and in the hopeful expansion of two others.

After a valiant effort to boost their takeout business, the Uptown Café (1624 Bardstown Rd.) closed last October. But patrons and local business owners Tom Drexler and his wife decided that depriving the Highlands of an iconic dining spot and watering hole should not be tolerated. After negotiations with the management, kitchen crew and wait staff, the Drexlers have bought the business, re-hired that same kitchen crew and most of the wait staff and, after some refurbishing and updating in both kitchen and dining room the Uptown will reopen with its same menu focus later in the spring.

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After being chased out of its long-time St. Matthews location by a collapsing roof more than a year ago, Del Frisco’s (101 Whittington Pkwy.) has reopened in the space that had been Z’s Steakhouse and Oyster Bar. And the iconic West End supper club and jazz venue, The Palm Room (1821 W. Jefferson St.) is once again pouring and serving.

Ramsi’s Café on the World (10639 Meeting St.) and W. W. Cousins (4913 Dixie Hwy. ), two restaurants long-ensconced in their original locations, are finally expanding, each to an additional outlet. Ramsi’s is opening a second restaurant in Norton Commons and W.W. Cousins will bring its premium burgers and lavish toppings bar to Shively. This second location is the former

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comings & goings | starters site of a Dixie Highway Steak ’n’ Shake.

As evidence of the precariousness of the restaurant business and of the perseverance of restaurant owners, we present The Ainsworth (3929 Shelbyville Rd.) and La Chandeleur (304 W. Woodlawn Ave.). F&D announced the opening of both of these restaurants back in the Spring 2020 issue, but a variety of obstructions delayed both openings, impediments that were met and conquered. The Ainsworth is now open in St. Matthews in the building that was the original location of Bluegrass Brewing Company; La Chandeleur will serve crêpes and other casual fare in the Beechmont neighborhood.

Perhaps a year of sheltering in place has stimulated the need for beer. That may explain the happy fact that four more craft breweries have opened recently. Atrium Brewing (1154 Logan St.) is now pouring in Germantown and Ten20 Craft Brewery (1020 E. Washington St.) is brewing in Butcherown. Imbibers’ hunger will be satisfied by food trucks.

Locally-owned Monnik Beer Co. (415 Bank St.) has taken over the former Bank Street Brewhouse in New Albany for its second location. Lexington-based West Sixth has opened West Sixth NuLu (817 E. Market St.) in NuLu. An influx of Cajun-style seafood boil restaurants are on the horizon, kicked off by the audacious double opening of the Ohio-based chain Millions Crab (4600 Shelbyville Rd.) in the Shelbyville Road Plaza and (12951 Shelbyville Rd.) in Middletown.

Another out-of-state chain, Bubbakoo’s Burritos (12919 Factory Ln.), has opened its first Louisville location in the East End near the Gene Snyder. And Emmy Squared Pizza (825 E. Market St.) has added a NuLu location to its growing list of outlets.

And speaking of pizza, two more purveyors have entered the crowded local pizza landscape, Hog Father Pizza (1301 Story Ave.) in Butchertown, and Pizzaville (2901 Goose Creek Rd.) near Goose Creek.

Several upscale casual restaurants have opened in this parlous time. Cultured Cheese, Cheers and Charcuterie (1007 E. Main St.) specializes in regionally inflected appetizer boards with cheese from Kenny’s Farmhouse Cheese and Capriole Goat Cheese.

Charcuterie is provided by Red Hog Butcher and Schuckman’s Fish Co. and Smokery. Morning Fork (1722 Frankfort Ave.) is a breakfast, brunch, and lunch eatery run by chef Geoffrey Heyde, of Fork & Barrel. Morning Fork is in the lower Clifton space that formerly was North End Café.

At Melba’s Culinary Canvas (430 W. Jefferson St.) you can get omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, burgers, lobster rolls, ramen, salad and tacos, and more. The Florida-based chain (now owned by Cracker Barrel) Maple Street Biscuit Company (1004 Bardstown Rd. ) has occupied the former Yang Kee Noodle space. There you can order all manner of biscuit sandwiches, as well as waffles, oatmeal and grits.

Fry Daddy’s, a new concept by the owners of Six Forks Burger Co., has opened two locations. The focus is a version of poutine

— a pile of French fries, topped with cheese and a choice of protein, with twelve sauces to choose from as garnish. The two Fry Daddy’s locations are at 1991 Brownsboro Rd., and 1270 S. Preston St. Several new fast-casual restaurants have recently opened. The folks behind Texas Roadhouse have a new concept, Jaggers (6464 Dutchmans Ln.), serving burgers and a variety of chicken sandwiches and salads. Burgers, naturally, are the main attraction at Week-End Burgers (5600 National Tpke.) but you can get Philly cheesesteaks, grilled cheese and chicken wraps here too. Cadillac’s Chicken & Fish (7105 Fegenbush Ln.) menu focus is also in its name, with choices ranging from gator bites, fried clams, fried or baked chicken sandwiches and fish tacos to baked or fried catfish, cod or pan-fried oysters, with two vegetable sides.

Downtown, the space across from the Palace Theater that had been Cunningham’s, among other restaurant efforts, is now The Black Jockeys’ Lounge (630 S. Fourth St.), honoring the history of black riders, and serving upscale soul food. In St. Matthews, the folks behind Molly Malone’s have revamped and rebranded their space in Saint Matthews Station as The Raven (3900 Shelbyville Rd.). Don’t tell Edgar Allen Poe, but it’s still an Irish pub with the expected pub grub (burgers, wraps, fish & chips, shepherd’s pie).

The decor celebrates Celtic myths and legends and the TVs are tuned to rugby games.

Three new sushi places have opened: Daisuki Sushi (1001 Logan St.) in Logan Street Market; Bento Asian Kitchen + Sushi (12951 Shelbyville Rd.) in Middletown Station and Asiana Sushi (6435 Bardstown Rd.) in Fern Creek.

And three new Mexican restaurants have arrived: Vallarta Mexican Seafood & Grill (9874 Linn Station Rd.) in the Plainview Village Center; El Comal Taqueria (9609 Dixie Hwy.) in Pleasure Ridge Park; and Tino’s Tacos (161 Outer Loop) in Fairdale.

Fun Food Kitchen and Deli (4106 Murphy Ln.) is serving deli items with a soul food focus in Worthington.

Five new dessert purveyors offer more choices for cheesecakes, donuts and crêpes. Two of these, La Maison Aux Crêpes and LeAnn’s Home Made Cheesecakes, are in Logan Street Market (1001 Logan St.). Georgia’s Sweet Potato Pie Co. (1559 Bardstown Rd.) has opened in the Highlands. Duck Donuts (4600 Shelbyville Rd.), which originated on the North Carolina coast, has opened a local store in Shelbyville Road Plaza. King Donut (814 Eastern Pkwy.) is frying in Parkway Village and out in Norton Commons, Fleur de Tea (10704 Meeting St.) is now pouring.

We count five local businesses that have opened additional locations, and five regional chains expanding their Louisville presence. Among that first group, Parlour (225 State St.) has opened a third store in New Albany. Hot chicken fans in Middletown now have a Royals Hot Chicken (10310 Shelbyville Rd.) to satisfy that fire-in-your-mouth need. And in Clarksville Joella’s Hot Chicken (1225 Veterans Pkwy.) has added a third location.

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starters | comings & goings into the former Panera Bread space in the Highlands. And Green District Salads (13301 Shelbyville Rd.) has its third store in Middletown Commons.

The regional chain Agave & Rye (324 E. Main St.) has opened a second location across the river in New Albany. CoreLife Eatery (9365 Viking Center Dr.) is bringing its healthful menu to a second location in Hurstbourne.

The breakfast and lunch spot First Watch (12913 Shelbyville Rd.) has opened a fifth store in Middletown Station and Logan’s Roadhouse (5229 Dixie Hwy.) has opened a third area presence near Pleasure Ridge Park.

Steel City Pops (6301 Moonseed St.) is surely waiting for the cold weather to end, but has kept busy opening its third store in Norton Commons.

The long-time New Albany coffee house Starlight Coffee (7613 Old Hwy. 60) has taken over the former Cricket Café in Sellersburg and will move its roasting and wholesale operation there. And Sunergos Coffee (1647 Norris Pl.) has its fifth local store in Deer Park.

And a historic business name returns with the opening of Top Hat Café (1300 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd.). The original Top Hat, at Thirteenth and Walnut, was a nightclub featuring jazz, and attracting the Black elite of Louisville and beyond. Its contemporary namesake, in the Old Walnut Plaza building, offers the Russell neighborhood a place to meet and relax, with Heine Bros. coffee and homemade baked goods and lunch items.

CLOSINGS

The more than fifty restaurants that have closed run the gamut, from long-standing local businesses, to national chains to small family-run home-cooking style places. Restaurants downtown, in the West End, and in Southern Indiana comprise a large number that found the current climate to be too inhospitable to continue.

And a number of old-school chain restaurants have reduced their local footprint, often to just one location.

Among the locally-owned old-timers that we will miss are Another Place Sandwich Shop (119 S. Seventh St.), which has been feeding lunch to downtown government and business workers for 50+ years. Buckhead Mountain Grill (707 W. Riverside Dr.) has been on the local scene for half that long, still a formidable longevity in the restaurant biz. Buckhead has closed its final location, on the riverfront in Jeffersonville. Pastry Plus (7407 Fegenbush Ln.) had been in business for 30-some years but is now closed.

Downtown, the following restaurants have had to close: Addis Grill (109 S. Fourth St.); Cellar Door Chocolates (601 S. Fourth St.); Downtown Deli (428 W. Market St.); Nancy’s Bagel Box (651 S. Fourth St.); Pesto’s Italian Restaurant (566 S. Fifth St.) is another distinguished old-timer that lost its lunch-time business; Superior Market & Deli (307 W. Broadway); The Celtic Pig (217 E. Main St.); Original Impellizzari’s (110 W. Main St.) is no longer dishing 10 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

up pies; and Fourth Street Live! lost another major presence with the closing of Hard Rock Café (424 S. Fourth St.).

The West End has seen the following closures: two Chicago Steak & Lemonade locations, 2124 W. Broadway and 4501 Cane Run Rd.; L’bads Ice Cream Parlor (2606 W. Market St.); Rooftop Grill (706 Louis Coleman Dr.) leaving only their Old Louisville location; Sweet Peaches 2 Roll (2900 W. Broadway) is gone but their flagship on W. Muhammad Ali Blvd. is still rolling along; and King’s Fried Chicken (5603 Preston Hwy.) has closed.

Some more old familiar mid-range chains have reduced their local presence. Golden Corral closed three locations (4032 Taylorsville Rd., 8013 Preston Hwy., and 5326 Dixie Hwy) and is now down to a single local outlet. Some other chains have departed completely. Ponderosa Steakhouse (11470 S. Preston Hwy.); and Mimi’s Café (615 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy.) are now gone totally. But O’Charley’s (10641 Fischer Park Dr.) still operates three locations and Gigi’s Cupcakes (10538 Fischer Park Dr.) still has one location after both closed their Springhurst Towne Center locations.

The Cajun-Creole restaurant Couvillion (1318 McHenry St.) closed in Germantown, as has Alchemy Restaurant (1001 Logan St.) in the Logan Street Market.

In the Highlands, Barret Avenue saw a flourish of closings. Flora Kitchenette (1004 Barret Ave.) closed its doors. Just down the street Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint (984 Barret Ave.) has also closed, but its first suburban location is still smoking. And a few doors away M+A+F Gallery & Café (976 Barret Ave.) also stopped serving.

Gracious Plenty (2900 Brownsboro Rd.) has closed its walk-in retail business, but is still doing catering. Among the other small, locally-owned restaurants that have ceased operation are JoJo Jack’s (2240 Frankfort Ave.) after the briefest of runs in Clifton.

Philly Cheesesteak Express (12406 LaGrange Rd.) and Stacey’s Donuts (12907 Factory Ln.) in O’Bannon, near the Gene Snyder Freeway, have closed. Out in Fern Creek, two sushi spots, Hibachi Sushi Buffet (5316 Bardstown Rd.) and Kai Lana Sushi (6435 Bardstown Rd.) have both shuttered. Cardinal Hall of Fame Café (2745 Crittenden Dr.) near Cardinal Stadium is gone. So is Savannah Restaurant (2750 S. Seventh St.) near UofL and Panda China (9543 U.S. 42) out in Prospect.

The list of closings of small local food businesses continues, unfortunately. In the South End Jeff’s Burger Shack (14216 Dixie Hwy.) in Waverly Hills has stopped flipping burgers. A-Chau Restaurant (5103 S. Third St.), Safari Café International Kitchen (5600 S. Third St.), and Chilakiles (5600 National Tpke.) all closed in the Iroquois neighborhood. In Edgewood, The Sporting News Grill (6551 Paramount Park Dr.) inside the Holiday Inn closed, and not far away Kuhl’s Liquor and Deli (7302 Grade Ln.) was severely damaged by fire this February.

Southern Indiana saw its share of closings. In Clarksville Divine Treats (1404 Eastern Blvd.) and Jersey’s Café (1515 Lynch Ln.) are

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comings & goings | starters no more. Likewise, Daisy’s Country Cooking (223 W. Fifth St.) in New Albany.

Adrienne & Co. (133 E. Market St.) has closed its New Albany location but still has one spot open operating. A Nice Restaurant (2784 Meijer Dr.) closed in Jeffersonville but has three others still serving. Also the Jeffersonville Zaxby’s (2740 Allison Ln.) has closed, but eight other locations remain.

Encouragingly, two other recently shuttered Southern Indiana spots have already been taken over. Cricket’s Café (7613 Old Hwy. 60) in Sellersburg is now a Starlight Coffee outpost and in Jeffersonville, Bella Italia (130 W. Riverside Dr.) is being renovated to enlarge neighboring Harry’s Taphouse footprint into both buildings.

Several multi-location businesses have closed one location but continue serving at other sites. The Comfy Cow (1449 Bardstown Rd.) closed its Highlands store but five ice cream shops remain. Buffalo Wild Wings (6801 Dixie Hwy.) still serves at six local stores after closing this one.

Seventeen Heine Bros. Coffee (2714 Frankfort Ave.) remain after closing the coffeehouse in Clifton. And nine locations of Panera Bread (4024 Shelbyville Rd.) remain after the East End departure.

MOVES & CHANGES

A few businesses have made some changes. Troy King, the man behind Six Forks Burger Co., has been busy. He moved Six Forks Burger Co. to 1039 Ash St. Its original location at 1270 S. Preston has been transformed into a new concept from him called Fry Daddy’s. He also closed Pollo (1991 Brownsboro Rd.) in Clifton and transformed it into a second Fry Daddy’s.

The Molly Malone’s Irish Pub (3900 Shelbyville Rd. ) in St. Matthews has been re-imagined by the owners as The Raven, still an Irish pub with the sports focus on rugby and what the rest of the world calls football, and Americans call soccer. And The Coffee Zone has moved from 1301 Herr Ln. to 9601 Whipps Mill Rd. F&D www.foodanddine.com Spring 2021 11

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liquids | the bar belle

Belle B elle

The

Bar

It’s our civic duty to drink local

BY SARA HAVENS AKA THE BAR BELLE

Just about a year ago, Louisville was home to more than 300 dive bars, neighborhood pubs, cocktail lounges, trusted taverns, dance clubs, breweries, taprooms, sassy saloons, speakeasies — and whatever genre Hikes Point Lounge fits into.

But that number has quickly dwindled due to the global pandemic we’d like to forever contain in a time capsule titled “2020 Can Suck It.” Whether or not you agree with Uncle Andy and his decision to enforce early closing times and indoor capacity restrictions, our watering holes desperately need us now more than ever.

I declare it a state of emergency for our beloved bars, and it is our civic duty as dedicated drinkers to keep them afloat so that our grandchildren can finally pay off that family tab.

So how do we go about drinking local when the weather is so unpredictable this spring? The first step is easy: Wear a coat! Keep out those gloves, hats, scarves, long underwear and butt warmers you’ve been hoarding since last month’s sledding adventure and go have a few drinks.

Many bars are spending money they don’t have on industrial heaters, fancy igloos, insulated domes, etc., to keep customers warm and cozy outdoors. Hell, TimTam Tavern down the street from me recently pitched a six-man tent in the parking lot! Perhaps it’s their version of a champagne room — I cannot confirm nor deny.

So Step 1 will keep your outsides warm, so how about your insides?

Step 2 is easy, too: Take a shot of bourbon. And let’s go ahead and make it Kentucky bourbon to continue our “drink local” theme. My advice would be to go for a bourbon that’s 100 proof or higher to really ramp up that warming, fire-in-the-hole Kentucky hug. Take two shots, and you’ll practically forget about the chill altogether.

Moving on to Step 3. Let’s assume you’re a Karen and you just can’t fathom enduring the elements. Don’t worry, there’s room in this mad, mad world for you, too. Get your shit to-go.

So many local bars and restaurants are offering quick, curbside service — and you can get beer and cocktails, too! Your only inconvenience 12 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

will be keeping your overworked index finger on the window’s down button, and — BOOM! — they’ll bring your Green Chili Wontons right to your grubby little hands.

Margaritas, Old Fashioneds, Negronis, Kentucky Mules, Mojitos and even Long Island Iced Teas can all be taken to-go from most places, and some — like Dragon King’s Daughter, Merle’s Whiskey Kitchen, and Pizza Lupo — even have intricate Capri Sun-like pouches for the drinks. And if you’re a beer-lover, even better. Local breweries serve up their beer in growlers, crowlers, howlers, cans, buckets — basically any vessel will do.

(Speaking of Dragon King’s Daughter and their Highlands location, I want to applaud them for their above-and-beyond effort for totally renovating their dining room to create a cozy, socially-distanced space. The partitioned-off, high-top tables remind me of the old Cunningham’s downtown, where you could eat your lunch in what once was a highfalutin River City brothel.)

The final step in our civic duty quest to drink local is geared toward supporting the people who staff our favorite places — be kind, support and tip well. These servers, bartenders, owners and cooks are working tirelessly to keep their doors open and keep their customers coming back week after week.

Did I mention tipping? I know you think 20% is generous, but let’s go ahead and double that. And do more if you can! I’m sure after the bills are paid, the money is going right back into the bar to make it a better, more welcoming space we’ll all be able to return to soon.

By following the steps above, plus a little luck and an ample supply of butt warmers, we can help our favorite bars get back on their feet.

I’d also like to welcome all the new bars that dared open during a pandemic, riding out the waves of uncertainty like Patrick Swayze in “Point Blank.” Some of those include names like I Love Tacos, PG&Js Dog Bar, TEN20 Craft Brewery, Atrium Brewing, West Sixth NuLu, Cultured, La Bodeguita Cuban Restaurant & Rum Bar, The Palm Room, Monnik New Albany, Parlour Pizza New Albany, Board and You Bistro & Wine Bar, and Agave & Rye New Albany, Levee Bourbon Lounge, among others.

To those who spent small fortunes on redesigning, reimagining and/or reinvigorating outdoor and indoor spaces, we raise a toast to you, too! I see you, Chill Bar. And remember, heaters aren’t cheap, so if it’s above 50 degrees, don’t be a Karen and waste our finite fossil fuels.

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the bar belle | liquids

Checking in on those New Year’s Resolutions

Since 2020 was the green Skittle of years, I gave myself an extra season to heal until the self-punishing rules and mandates known as New Year’s Resolutions restricted my every waking hour.

I’m not sure we need to give ourselves extreme punishments this year. When the COVID dust settles and we look back on those soul-crushing 365 days of 2020, just having survived will be a tremendous accomplishment in and of itself.

But alas, whether you started them and have long abandoned them by the side of the road or are still going hard, good for you. I only had two this year, and I can’t say I’ve been successful thus far.

Lose the COVID 19

Here I thought I was fat before the pandemic, now I have some extra weight on top of those previous layers and I can’t fit into pants I had labeled “fat jeans” — you know, the ones you put on during those few bloated days of the month or when you decide you’re eating Mexican for dinner.

Diet is 70% of the issue, according to the fit and trim professionals like Oprah (huh?), so if I can just cut out the cheese, beer and ice cream, I think I can chisel some of that 19 off.

A girl can dream.

For exercise, I recently purchased a Peloton bike, so I’ve been spinning away in my basement. But I tend to pick the 20-minute Sade Shuffle and call it a day, while I should be doing the 60-minute Beyoncé Burn. Hell, to fit back in those pants, I probably need to jump on that saddle a few times a day and not reward myself with Dundee Dip afterward.

Be Patient

The older he gets, the less patience my dad has for the world. He’s grumpy, he drives recklessly, he thinks he’s above all the rules and he’ll let anyone and everyone know about his most recent joint pain or indigestion. I don’t want to be like that, so I’m going to start putting patience first whenever I get frustrated, frazzled or downright fed up.

I’ve got the road rage of 20 Jersey housewives, but I’m going to be more mindful of my mood, take deep breaths and politely curse someone under my breath instead of waving my longest fingers around like a Karen trying to land a plane. F&D www.foodanddine.com Spring 2021 13

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liquids | hip hops

Barrelling On Six New Breweries Rise During the Pandemic oger Huff is the co-owner of Gallant Fox Brewing Company, a consummately laid-back destination occupying a storefront nestled south of the railroad crossing on Frankfort Avenue by New Main Street, precisely the sort of junction where any other selfrespecting industrialized nation would be disembarking beer-seeking customers from frequent suburban commuter trains.

In Huff ’s view, he and business partner Patrick Workman chose the ideal space for their 3.5 barrel brewing system.

“The people of the Clifton neighborhood have embraced us and our brewery like we never could've imagined,” he told me between sips of the profit margin. “Customers walk and ride their bikes, and come from just up the road.

We love being their neighborhood brew pub and being able to introduce them to our beer.”

Tiny Gallant Fox is a huge hit. This would be

R

BY ROGER BAYLOR

wonderful news anytime, but it’s even more noteworthy given that Huff ’s and Workman’s brewery debuted in late April, just as the COVID-19 pandemic plunged Louisville’s small business community into uncertainty.

942 breweries opened in the United States in 2019, boosting the total past 8,200. But 294 breweries also shuttered, quite possibly the greatest number of closings in a single year since the catastrophic onset of Prohibition.

The rapidly maturing American craft beer industry entered 2020 with numerous issues to be addressed, then along came COVID-19 to pose unprecedented existential challenges for established breweries nationwide, as well as several hundred in planning, including at least nine in metropolitan Louisville.

And yet Gallant Fox is one of six new local breweries to have defied the pandemic and opened their doors in less than a year’s time, including Atrium Brewing, Fistful of Ale, Monnik Beer Co. New Albany, TEN20 Craft Brewery and West Sixth NuLu. At least three others (Wild Hops Brewery, Noble Funk Brewery and

Shippingport Brewing) remain in development.

These brewery start-ups share the same quandary. With investments already made and revenue needed, pandemic containment measures preclude packing the house with beer drinkers, so they’re incorporating best practices in safety, hygiene and capacity protocols; adding as much outdoor seating as possible; and emphasizing carryout beer sales in a variety of packages: growlers, crowlers, cans and bottles.

With the exceptions of Fistful of Ale and Monnik, Louisville’s new breweries aren’t offering full-service dining. Rather, existing brewery taproom models utilizing food trucks, delivery and “carry in” snacks and meals are being modified to fit individual circumstances.

Of the two kitchen exceptions, Fistful of Ale opened in July in New Albany as an extension of Fistful of Tacos, an existing eatery with a catering operation and food truck fleet. Now there’s a single-barrel (31-gallon) “nano” brewing system, too.

“We chose to brew on a nano system because we wanted to prove the concept before making a substantial investment,” owner Dereck Washburn wrote in an e-mail. “The nano system is also well sized for the number of seats that we have available (and) we’re not tied to any specific beer for a long period of time.”

Coffee Stout, Belgian Candi Quad and Citrus Wit have stood out as crowd favorites in the early going. “These are three beers that will stay on the menu,” noted Washburn. “We’ll brew every style we possibly can, and slowly decide which styles best serve the market.”

The long-awaited Monnik Beer Co. branch in New Albany debuted in January at the remodeled and expanded former NABC Bank Street PHOTO COURTESY OF TEN20 CRAFT BREWERY

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hip hops | liquids Brewhouse, emphasizing both dining and drinking. The 15 barrel turnkey brewery is roughly twice the size of the one at Monnik’s original, still thriving Germantown location, and it’s ideal for canning; wider distribution was the goal all along, given added significance by the pandemic.

West Sixth NuLu is the popular Lexington brewery’s first foray into Louisville. The taproom launched in September with a takeaway/drivethrough/walk-up beer window fronting the colorfully named alley called Billy Goat Strut.

Spacious outdoor seating was added later, and the interior became accessible in October. Most West Sixth beers come to NuLu from Lexington, but small batches brewed with its own 3-barrel system began appearing in January.

In Shelby Park, Atrium Brewing is the nextgeneration successor to T. Eddie’s – which was the very definition of a “dive bar.” T. Eddie’s appalled the fastidious and delighted those with a Bukowski predilection. In 2018, a Yelp reviewer penned a colorful review: They don't have a grill anymore but they do have plenty of Cheetos. I usually grab a bag or two early, put a good base down, and start building a wicked buzz. Blast off baby. Cheetos dust and regret here we go. Man you can take 'er to 11 here no problem. 5 Stars.

T. Eddie’s duly became Cheetos dust in the wind. Now Atrium’s owners Princeton Hurst and Mark Rubenstein have stripped the building to bricks and studs, applied oceans of paint and beefed up a deceptively extensive patio. A 10– barrel brewery was installed. The ironically named Brick & Mortar food truck (aka BAM) took up residency in the courtyard. There, ChefOwner Daryk Havlicek offers an electic, shapeshifting menu that is inspired by the brewery’s list and is friendly to carnivores, vegans, and everybody in between. And thus a showplace for neighborhood-brewed beer emerged.

Rubenstein shares the mash paddle with Spencer Guy, a rising star previously stationed at Akasha Brewing, where he developed a local reputation for fruited-sour prowess. Between

Atrium Brewing 1154 Logan Street atriumbrewing.com (502) 690-3069

Fistful of Ale 2708 Paoli Pike New Albany IN fistfuloftacos.com/ fistful-of-ale (812) 961-1384

Rubenstein’s homebrewing-perfected recipes (a very robust, semi-Baltic Porter, for one) and Guy’s flair for spontaneity, there’s a little something for everyone, including two everyday session strength winners, Neuer Köln (4.6% Kölsch) and Microdose, a Hazy IPA at only 3.4%.

TEN20 Craft Brewery’s bottom-to-top reimaging of the former Dryden Provision warehouse in Butchertown is reminiscent of a ziggurat, with loading docks at street level replaced by a patio; a second outdoor area located upstairs directly above; and a third patio planned for the roof. When the pandemic abates, TEN20 will have plenty of acreage for drinking Dryden Providin’ Pils while watching the sunset.

Landing Larry Horwitz as head of brewing operations is undoubtedly a coup for TEN20. His career includes brewhouse tenures in Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania, as well as teaching and consulting work.

Upon stepping into the TEN20 brewhouse, I was handed a glass of Horwitz’s stellar Schnitzelburger Vienna Lager, representative of a malty, amber Central European style that has long intrigued me. Asked to explain the stylistic differences between Vienna, Marzen, Oktoberfest and Festbier, Horwitz embarked on a seminar that lasted almost 40 minutes (short version: they’re kissing cousins). It was enough time to drink two – so I did.

Back at Gallant Fox, Huff described what it’s like to the business plan as evolving organically: it began when his and Workman’s home-brewing equipment became too big for their garages and took shape when through “divine intervention” opened up some additional square footage in the building where they were operating. “After tearing down drop ceilings, building a bar, painting, hanging wall paper, making tables, piecing together used equipment from Detroit to Nashville to St Louis to Etown, we finally opened our brewery and taproom in the midst of a pandemic.”

Huff smiled broadly.

“It's been a wild ride and we wouldn't change any of it for anything.” F&D

Gallant Fox Brewing Co.

TEN20 Craft Brewery

2132 Frankfort Ave.

1020 Washington St.

gallantfoxbrewing.com (502) 822-1988

Ten20brewery.com (502) 290-7106

Monnik Beer Co.

West Sixth NuLu

415 Bank Street New Albany IN monnikbeer.com (812) 913-4259

821 E. Market St. westsixth.com/nulu (502) 234-4733

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liquids | bourbon

BARREL STRENGTH

BEHEMOTHS When the Jim Beam Distillery introduced Booker’s bourbon in 1992, it may not have known it was starting a significant trend in the American whiskey industry. Booker’s was the first post-Prohibition, commercially released bourbon not diluted with distilled water in order to adjust its proof.

What’s in the bottle is exactly the same alcohol by volume as the bourbon that has finished its time in the barrel. In the case of Booker’s, that proof ranges from 127 to as high as mid-130s. Barrel strength bottles were soon to become a thing.

y the rules governing bourbon’s production, the new make whiskey off the still cannot be introduced to the barrels in which it will be aged at any higher proof that 125. Beam, Buffalo Trace, and Heaven Hill all push this upper limit by barrelling their bourbons at 125. Other distillers use lower barrel entry proofs. Four Roses likes 120. Wild Turkey whiskeys go in at 115. Both Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve prefer 110. And one of the lowest, if not the lowest barrel entry proof in the industry is that of Michter’s at 103.

Now dozens of barrel (or cask) strength bourbons and other American whiskeys are available. Their proofs can range anywhere from 107 to an eyepopping 145. How does that wide range of alcohol concentrations hap-

B

pen? The answer mostly lies in where the barrels spend their years in the rickhouse.

Let’s say entry proof is the maximum 125.

During the months-long sauna sessions that double as Kentucky summers, the temperature difference from the top to the bottom floors of a seven-story rickhouse means the top floors are as much as 35 degrees (F) hotter than at ground level. If a barrel is resting on those higher floors the proof goes up to as much as 145 due to the evaporation of water. Since they are smaller that ethanol, more water molecules than alcohol molecules slip through the barrel wood and into the air. Result: Higher alcohol concentration.

The barrels in the middle levels of the rickhouse and equidistant from the outer walls are essentially insulated so that their aging tends to be fairly uniform and to a certain

BY SUSAN REIGLER PHOTO BY DAN DRY

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bourbon | liquids

extent, predictable. Typically, their final proof is somewhere between 120 and 130.

In the lowest levels of the rickhouse it stays much cooler and there is more humidity. Here the alcohol is evaporating faster from the barrel. So proof drops from that original 125 to 110. If you want to age bourbon for a really long time and not wind up with whiskey that tastes like wood, this is where to keep those barrels.

Between the evaporation that occurs during aging and the amount distillers adjust the proof with water before bottling, bourbons are sold in a wide range of concentrations starting at 80 proof (the minimum by law at which a bourbon can be bottled) and those three-digit barrel strength beasties.

Why drink a whiskey at tongue-searing strength? Flavor. But, it’s highly recommended that you do your own adjustment with water to get the maximum enjoyment out of that high-power sip. Water (or an ice cube) acts as a solvent to release aromatics that are bound to the alcohol. You don’t need a lot. But play around with how much to use depending on your taste. And be patient. As a high proof whiskey sits in the glass, more and more aromatics of vanilla, caramel, fruits, and spices will emerge. This makes barrel strength whiskeys the perfect accompaniment to reading by the fireplace on a cold winter night. Just be sure to keep that flammable liquid on the side of your chair away from the heat!

To help you get started on your barrel strength sipping journey, here are a few recommendations, listed in alphabetical order.

Note that proof can vary within brands based on date of batched releases and with single barrel selections.

Booker’s (high 120s to mid-130s)

This can be a bit woody on the nose, so don’t forget the water. It will instantly sweeten and open the bourbon bringing rich caramel, lots of dark fruit, fine leather, and even some distinct notes of dark chocolate.

Bulleit Cask Strength (119)

Bananas Foster with some light mint, vanilla, and ripe berries. Surprisingly floral aromas on the nose. Dry and spicy on the finish.

Buzzard’s Roost Barrel Proof Rye (115.2)

The distinctive herbal rye spice is joined by loads of caramel, and a complex medley of ripe fruits and baking spices. Finish is long and as complex as the palate.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Crème brulee with dried cherries and orange zest. Add some sweet pipe tobacco, cinnamon, cloves, and brown sugar to the fruit. This one really evolves in the glass.

(127.2 – 132.8)

Four Roses Private Select (usually 114 and up)

These are single barrel selections and variation is added by the fact that Four Roses uses 10 different bourbon recipes based on five yeast strains and two mash bills. Whether floral, spicy, herbal, or fruity they are always intriguing.

Maker’s Mark Cask Strength (113.2)

The Maker’s you know and love is turbocharged here. More vanilla and more ripe apples. Added to these are a savory note of barbecued pork or smoked bacon.

M.B. Roland Dark Fired Whiskey (114.4)

A portion of the corn used is literally smoked in a special shed. Think grilled corn on the cob with some vanilla, pears, and oak. Truly unique.

Michter’s U.S. *1 Barrel Strength Bourbon (110.6)

Toffee, caramel corn, dried fruit, and sweet spices including nutmeg. Definitely keeps changing as it sits in the glass with different flavor notes changing leads. Impressively smooth sip neat. But add that drop of water.

Old Forester 1920 (115)

Apricots, berries, rich toffee, and ripe apples sipped neat. Add water and out pop nuts to mingle with the fruit and spices.

Wild Turkey Rare Breed (108.2)

Cherries, dates, honey, almonds, chocolate with new saddle leather. Water brings the rich caramel forward and enhances a velvety mouthfeel. F&D www.foodanddine.com Spring 2021 17

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profile | the 1894 lodge

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the 1894 lodge | profile

ew Washington occupies a Hoosier

N

locale guaranteed to evoke comparisons with John Mellencamp’s 1987

hit song “Small Town.”

Situated astride northbound State Road 62 between Jeffersonville and Madison, the town doesn’t possess cosmopolitan pretense, and yet with the steady outward expansion of metropolitan Louisville — in particular the River Ridge Commerce Center and recently erected Lewis & Clark “East End” Bridge — the distance between city and countryside becomes demonstrably shorter, both physically and psychologically.

Main Street in New Washington is a right-hand turn at the Four Quarters Mini Mart. If you pass Kettle Bottom Road to the west, you’ve missed it.

Main Street becomes Bethlehem New Washington Road, leading eventually to the tiny settlement of Bethlehem on the Ohio, but long before, on the left side of Main, you’ll glimpse a stately older brick structure comprised of two floors and an attic beneath a steeply pitched roof, with a grassy area in front reminiscent of the village green and a stolid water tower looming in back, emblazoned with “New Washington

Mustangs” (the high school teams’ mascot).

The 1894 Lodge Neighborhood Bar & Grill has occupied this building for the past five years.

Head of operations Logan Hostettler and his family own it. Bearded, talkative and relentless, Hostettler busily oversees the task of renewing the space’s founding purpose.

“Every brick in this building was made in the front yard,” says Hostettler. “It’s always been some sort of economic center for New Washington. Through the ages, it's been a vital point in bringing monies to town.”

Few regional eateries possess as distinctive a setting. “1894” refers to the year the building was erected as Masonic Lodge #167. Ignoring novelist Dan Brown’s best-selling, overcooked oeuvre, American freemasonry helped build a nation.

Masonic lodges were accepted as prerequisites for community-mindedness as 19th-century Americans moved west.

For 106 years the lodge’s meetings were held here. Masons converted the building into classrooms when New Washington’s school burned down in the early 1900s, and hosted a groundfloor movie theater during the Thirties and Forties. The archaic projectors remain as décor, watching silently as new-school diners savor The 1894 Lodge’s signature dishes, like Pork Belly Shrimp and Grits, New York Strip, Kung Pow Brussels, Pan Seared Trout and a side of Parmesan Truffle Fries.

BY ROGER BAYLOR PHOTOS BY DAN DRY

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profile | 1894 lodge Items like these surfaced in autumn 2020, after Hostettler created a stir in Louisville foodie quarters by hiring Chef Nick Sullivan, who in 2012 had been named

by Gayot.com as one of the “Top 5 Rising Chefs in the U.S.” Eight years later, Sullivan’s probing, karmic culinary muse was taking him from The Ville to Southern Indiana, because “it’s a greater opportunity to not only stretch my true talents but to build a team that shares the same passions as well.”

Currently Hostettler, Sullivan and their team are taking The 1894 Lodge quite literally to a whole new level — specifically, upstairs to fill the second floor with a members-only speakeasy, opened in January.

“We’re a real restaurant, and not just something in the middle of nowhere,” Hostettler says. Here’s how it happened.

Back home, building an eatery from the ground up

Former catchers often make the best baseball managers. Catchers guide pitchers, position the defense, and run the game from behind the plate. They’re tasked with seeing the whole field of play and mastering the tactical intricacies.

Unsurprisingly the New Washington-born Hostettler was a catcher growing up in Tennessee, talented enough for four years of college baseball at David Lipscomb University in Nashville. He was coaching in California when his family returned en masse to New Washington, having resolved to help revitalize their hometown by investing in the community.

The Hostettlers bought a 100-acre farm near New Washington and began transforming it into Franklin Farms, an events venue; the first customer was Logan himself, who celebrated his marriage to wife Christy there. A second aim was to grow food and raise livestock on the acreage, a more urgent priority once the family’s eye fell on the town’s most iconic and historic building.

In 2000 escalating maintenance expenses compelled Masonic Lodge #167 to sell its iconic property. The buyer was Marvin Maxwell, arguably New Washington’s most famous son. A musician, Maxwell parlayed a career of 1960s-era pop-rock into the successful run of Mom’s Music stores, and his sons Mark and Max are the core of The Crashers, a phenomenally popular Louisville rock band.

Maxwell remodeled the masonic lodge into a reception hall, later installing a kitchen purchased intact from a shuttered Tumbleweed eatery, but eventually wheeled and dealed another real estate transaction, this time with the Hostettlers.

From floor joists to ceiling beams, an overhaul commenced, augmented by the addition of a bar area and spacious outdoor patio on the building’s east side. By

(top, from left) Chef Nick Sullivan and 1894 Lodge owner Logan Hostettler. (center and left) Views of the dining room.

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the 1894 lodge | profile summer of 2015, the restaurant was ready. Initially the kitchen was Cajun-themed, contracted to a hired cook. Meanwhile, ex-catcher Logan Hostettler arrived to join the family’s burgeoning commercial pursuits.

Claiming no formal experience working in restaurants or hospitality, Hostettler adapted quickly, voraciously immersing himself in all aspects of the dining experience, from portion sizes and the type of plates being used, to ordering and office processes, and with a noticeable flair for harnessing every aspect of electronic efficiency to his daily promotional efforts.

For four years, through continuous cycles of trial, error and spit-balling, Hostettler steered The 1894 Lodge toward his emerging vision of an all-purpose destination restaurant where New Washingtonians could be at home hanging out, and visitors from afar would feel the drive was worth it.

Hostettler’s first big change came after six months.

“There were some great dishes, but the CajunSouthern-Bayou type menu wasn’t working,” he remembers. “I revamped everything from the service to the food to the alcohol, and we just went simple.

Simple, quick and cheap.”

His customers soon adapted (“they trust us,” Hostettler says), and his program started evolving. The question he’d ask himself each day was this: “How do we bring the entertainment factor here, to make it a huge experience?” Hostettler booked music, updated the cocktail selection and added craft beers.

“Slowly but surely, every couple of months, we took another step forward. There were steps backward, too. We would try to implement different things, whether it be painting, a better software system, POS, new tables and chairs, e-mail marketing, whatever it was.”

The 1894 Lodge was trending pleasingly upward when COVID-19 arrived. “I turned the front room into a grocery overnight,” says Hostettler, “and it worked. People came in and bought food to-go stuff.

It taught me that you have to be very, very rounded, and you've got to be able to shift gears and do things differently very quickly.”

The pandemic was chaotic, but Hostettler kept his sights on a goal he’d already articulated: “I knew that we had to take our food to the next level.” Serendipity intervened when Dallas McGarity, chef and owner of The Fat Lamb and Portage House (favored dining spots for Hostettler and his wife), mentioned to his friend Sullivan that 1894 was seeking a new chef.

Sullivan’s kitchen odyssey: moving ahead to give back

It was mid-afternoon on a Saturday in December, and 1894’s youthful employees shuffled in for the evening

(top) The second floor members-only speakeasy. (center) Seared salmon with baby bok choy and a Thai coconut ginger sauce. (right) Roasted heirloom carrots.

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shift. As we chatted, Sullivan paused occasionally to offer them direction.

“The team here at 1894 is very small,” begins Sullivan.

“We have high school kids. But the staff now has been here for three years, and when you start out at 14 washing dishes, and you’ve got a 16-year-old on the fryer who comes in when he’s done with school work, it’s cool they can be really successful at such a young age.”

Sullivan enjoys paying it forward. “Teaching from the ground up is something I’m good at,” he says. “It might be frustrating at times, but teaching’s always been part of me, Now, I know I’m good at it.” His approach is the same whether cooking or teaching.

“I really appreciate attention to detail, and I appreciate the small, minute things that are easily overlooked.”

At 38, Sullivan is a grizzled Louisville dining scene veteran. He moved here from his home town of Jackson, Tennessee in 2001 to attend Sullivan University (no relation), which was a huge leap into the unknown.

“My only restaurant experience prior to that was in a Pizza Hut,” Sullivan recalls, but in 2004, with three associate degrees tucked inside his apron, he quickly commenced a dizzying upward career trajectory. “I got a job at the Galt House, the Flagship, working with Richard Lewis, who was part of the old Dean Corbett brigade back in the day.”

Next came a gig with Corbett himself as sous chef at An American Place, followed by five years as executive chef at 610 Magnolia as Edward Lee’s right-hand man, taking Sullivan to South Korea, Italy and Malaysia, with frequent appearances at The James Beard House.

Departing 610 Magnolia in 2015, Sullivan became Chef de Cuisine at The Oakroom at The Seelbach Hotel, eventually landing a position as Chef de Cuisine at the Turf Club at Churchill Downs, and cooking with David Danielson. At the Turf Club, it was “doing small things on a massive level.”

COVID-19 put an end to Sullivan’s employment at Churchill Downs, but McGarity’s cameo as employment concierge led to The 1894 Lodge. Far from being a backwards step, Sullivan regards New Washington as the most logical locale for moving forward amid an ongoing personal dialogue about what being a chef really means.

Sullivan has considered his place in the lineage of Louisville chefs, from the “old guard” (Corbett, Lewis, Anoosh Shariat, Peng Looi, et al) through their successors, the younger “guns” influenced by Anthony Bourdain and our contemporary era of saturation culinary media. His detail-driven work ethic neutralizes any lingering desire to be a “rock star chef.”

“Notoriety doesn’t appeal to me, and neither does that lifestyle. At 1894 I have an opportunity to really focus on the details. I feel like maybe I lost sight of real passion, what the kitchen was for me, which is touching every-

(top) Mussels and frites. (center, from left)1894 Prime Burger; roasted cauliflower. (left) Country fried steak with collard greens and kimchi.

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the 1894 lodge | profile thing and fine-tuning it.

“It's not just about me. It's about us as a team, and growing that.”

Sullivan shares Hostetter’s vision, embraces the history of the surroundings and extols the possibilities for the family’s businesses.

“We have the farm for an event space, and also the ability to grow our own herbs and produce, and to raise some of our own animals. I like that aspect right now.”

“It’s bringing in the new trends in food, pushing the envelope in textures and playfulness, but still keeping roots in what our culture is, the Southern influence. My past with Edward Lee, with Korean – I’ve really gained a huge world palette because of it, but I still have my foundation in Southern soul food.”

I asked Sullivan which menu item best reflects this style, and he didn’t hesitate. “I have a Pork Belly Shrimp and Grits, a foundation of shrimp and grits but with pork belly added. It’s a fun new approach, with olives, apple, and a red curry gastrique. You don’t expect all these together, necessarily, but it works and it’s fun.”

Still, one of Sullivan’s most popular dishes at The 1894 Lodge is a throwback to the Flagship: “Getting back to the new guard versus the old guard, I have a dish that I learned from Richard Lewis. It’s Chicken Piccata. This and the pork belly are both huge sellers right now. It’s the old and new influences coming together.”

Team teaching and the art of the learning curve

Resolved: The creative chemistry of Hostettler and Sullivan is fueled by love of teaching and attention to detail. When I mentioned the many Louisvillians currently making the trip to New Washington, the chef was eager to have the final word.

“That’s a huge thing for me. I noticed it when I made the move to the Lodge, and I was very, very humbled by it, to be honest, the people and their outpouring of sincerity.

“I didn't realize my reach, or how many people actually knew me or knew of me, and the positive comments I heard, and the positivity that it brings, is very humbling. I'm very proud that I've always kept my integrity, and always try to do the right thing — and always do the best job that I can do.” F&D

(top) Filet with a mushroom madeira sauce. (center, from left) Farrotto and rapini in a light cream sauce; smoked wings. (right) Pork belly shrimp and grits.

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food | cooking with ron

BY RON MIKULAK PHOTOS BY ANDY HYSLOP

Country Ham’s Refined, Modest Cousin

W

hen I first moved to Louisville more than thirty years ago, I found I had to adjust my taste buds to unfamiliar flavors and textures, and my culinary vocabulary had to be both expanded and refined. I spent my formative

years on the East Coast — childhood through high school in New Jersey, college in New England. In my second-generation ethnic household, plain middle European cooking was the norm, made from scratch with a practical appreciation for fresh vegetables, but with a limited cupboard of herbs, spices or condiments. Experimenting

with food different from that which you always ate never entered my family’s minds.

But when you move to a different cultural environment confronting the unfamiliar is inevitable. Before I moved to Louisville I had never eaten grits, but I quickly found them quite tasty — when drenched in butter. I soon became enamored of cornbread, both skillet-fried hoe-cake and baked buttermilk corn sticks, both made with white corn meal, please, not that sweet yellow meal favored in New England. Hush puppies I found fun, not because of their bland mealiness, but because of the contentious etymology of the name. And, of course, there is ham.

Before I moved to Louisville, I did not know that there were two families of ham, the Country Hams and the City Hams. It turned out, though, that I had had a passing acquaintance with the City Ham line. The hams my family purchased at New Jersey supermarkets were “wet-cured,” the process used to make City Ham, as opposed to the “dry-cured” Country Ham.

Curing with salt makes a ham Both types of ham depend on salt to permeate the meat. In so doing, the salt alters the water concentration in the cells of the meat, a process that inhibits bacterial growth. Dry-cured Country Hams, rubbed with a salt-curing mixture flavored differently by various ham purveyors and hung to dry for up to a year or more before being smoked, has a drier, coarser consistency than City Ham. Using salt-based brine, often spiked with a small quantity of sodium nitrite, or pink salt, for further bacterial control, City Hams can be safely cured in days or weeks, depending on size. Some are then smoked, some not.

Pay some attention to the details on 24 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

the ham packaging. Wet-cured City Hams will absorb the brine. Some commercial packers inject the brining solution.

Percentages of water added should be clearly marked on the packaging. The Food Lab of the website Serious Eats explains what the language of ham packaging means in terms of added water: • "Ham" indicates a cured pork leg that is at least 20.5% protein with no added water.

• "Ham with natural juices" is the next level down. It needs to be only 18.5% protein, and generally has about 7 or 8% added water.

• "Ham and water product" can contain any amount of added water. Check the

label to see how much water is actually added to it.

Two other considerations: City Hams are sold as “bone-in” or “boneless.”

Boneless cuts may be easier to slice, but meats cooked with the bone-in, whether chicken thighs or ham, gain flavors from the bones while cooking. City Hams are often sold as half-hams, divided into shank end or butt end. Aficionados will argue for each, but there is little difference, except that with butt end cuts you might find carving around the aitchbone, part of the hip joint, a bit of a challenge. Start carving from the other end, and you can cut and pull chunks of ham from the aitchbone for use in soups or ground ham salad.

Country Ham is a show-off item at Derby time. For ordinary celebrations, like having the family over once the pandemic allows, City Ham is the thing. It is an economical cut of meat to serve at large gatherings. A 7 or 8 pound ham, plenty for 10 or 12 people, plus a day or two of leftovers, can run about $15 at a supermarket.

Left-over ham is wildly versatile. In addition to satisfying sandwiches of thinly sliced ham and plenty of mustard, the remains of a big ham can be chopped or ground for a ham salad spread, or diced to add to an omelet or frittata, or the bone and meat scraps used as a basis for a variety of soups.

There are many variations on how to cook a City Ham, which you don’t really have to do, since curing the meat, either wet-curing or dry-curing makes both members of the Ham family ready to eat.

But roasting hams makes this basic cut of pork more visually pleasant, and various glazes or toppings add interesting elements to the robust taste. Some recipes I have seen call for glazing with Coca-Cola or Dr. Pepper. I offer here a marriage of southern and northern tastes with a maple-Bourbon glaze.

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–––––––––––––––––––––––––– Glazed Bourbon Maple Ham Depending on appetites, a moderate size ham like this should serve a party of 10 to 12.

Fewer initial eaters will mean more left-overs.

7-9 pound City Ham, fully cooked, bone-in

For the glaze: ½ ¼ 1 2 1

cup brown sugar, firmly packed cup Dijon mustard teaspoon ground cloves tablespoons chopped thyme teaspoon ground cinnamon Zest of one orange ¼ cup maple syrup ¼ cup bourbon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put a cup of water in the bottom section of a large broiler pan. Add rack and place ham, meat side down.

Combine glaze ingredients and mix well. Brush half of the glaze mixture all over ham. Loosely cover ham with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes. Brush the remaining mixture all over ham and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes or until internal temperature is 130 to140 degrees and the glaze has caramelized and become glossy. If ham begins to darken too much, cover loosely again with foil.

–––——————––––––––––– Curried Ham Salad (Makes enough for at least 6 sandwiches)

½ pound wet-cured City Ham, coarsely ground 1 medium red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced 1 celery stalk, diced 1 medium shallot, peeled and diced ½ cup unsalted, roasted cashews, chopped ½ cup mayonnaise 3 tablespoons mango chutney 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons minced peeled fresh ginger 2 teaspoons curry powder Cut left-over ham into 2-inch chunks and pulse in a food processor until ground. Be careful not to overprocess into a paste. Mix everything in a large bowl, cover, and refrigerate for a couple hours to blend the flavors. The ham salad can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to a week.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– Gruyère, Ham and Spinach Frittata (Serves 4 to 6)

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 onion, peeled and coarsely chopped ¼ pound left-over ham, cut into ¼-inch dice 4 loosely-packed cups baby spinach, coarsely chopped 8 large eggs 1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese (3 ½ ounces) Salt and freshly ground pepper Preheat the broiler. In a 10-inch nonstick ovenproof skillet (cast-iron is ideal), melt the butter.

Add ham and onions and cook over moderately high heat, stirring until onions soften, 5-7 minutes. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, stirring to distribute spinach evenly.

In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs with the Gruyère, salt and pepper. Pour the eggs over the ham and spinach and cook over moderate heat, without stirring until the bottom of the frittata is just set, about 2 minutes.

Lift the edge of the frittata and tilt the pan to allow the uncooked eggs to seep underneath. Cook the frittata, continuing to lift the edges, until the bottom is set and the top is slightly runny, about 2 minutes. Place the skillet under the broiler and cook until the frittata is cooked through and lightly golden is spots. Watch carefully so the top does not burn. Slide the frittata onto a work surface.

Cut into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature. F&D

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profile | ricky b’s club café

BY MICHAEL L. JONES PHOTOS BY DAN DRY

28 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

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ricky b’s club café | profile

n the early 1980s, Rick Bartlett was singing five nights a week at the Old Seelbach Bar with pianist Benny Holton. The Seelbach’s retro décor and well-dressed clientele inspired Bartlett to change his repertoire to match the scenery. He decided to replace the contemporary hits in his setlist with the pop and jazz standards that make up the American Songbook.

In those pre-internet days, Bartlett had to spend hours in the library researching the lyrics to oldies like “New York, New York” and “Heart and Soul”. But the hard work paid off. His new style was a hit with patrons at the Seelbach and even got the stamp of approval from a jazz legend. Ella Fitzgerald was in Louisville to headline a jazz festival when she attended a reception at the Seelbach. As she made her way to her table, Bartlett and Holton launched into “Sophisticated Lady,” a song Fitzgerald recorded with Duke Ellington. She stopped to listen for a minute and then nodded to the musicians.

That’s when Bartlett knew he’d found his niche.

“My career took off because I became one thing,” he admitted. “I became the Nat King Cole guy. I started wearing a tuxedo all the time and singing these songs that people couldn’t hear on the radio anymore. Most of the tunes were new to me, but I thought, ‘This is great music. Where has this been all of my life?’”

Three decades later, Bartlett, 66, is in the midst of a transformation that is nearly as pivotal as the one that initially launched his career: in July, he opened Ricky B’s Club Café, a supper-club style restaurant in Crescent Hill.

I

Ricky B’s is Bartlett’s second attempt at creating a restaurant and lounge. In the late 1990s, he operated Rick’s Square Piano Bar in Theater Square near the Brown Hotel. Bartlett closed the piano bar after three years because he was spending more time managing events for other artists than he did performing himself.

Ricky B’s Club Café is entering a vastly different restaurant scene than the one that greeted Rick’s Square Piano Bar. The Covid-19 pandemic has led to intermittent limits on in-person dining that have been especially devastating for white table-cloth restaurants, which depend on great service and atmosphere rather than takeout food. Lilly’s Bisto/La Peche in the Highlands and Bistro 42 in Prospect are among the many high-end restaurants Louisville has lost in 2020. However, Bartlett said he has faith that its restaurant-social club concept and the resiliency of the local dining scene will help Ricky B’s Club Café weather the Covid-19 storm.

“Just before all this started, I was talking to my son about the importance of always knowing in your mind that anything can happen, whether it’s an earthquake or whether it is something very, very good,” Bartlett remembered. “After that conversation, Covid happened. I had already signed everything, but it wasn’t until I had a liquor license in my hand that I started to move forward. I just put on my overalls, got a paint bucket, a hammer and nails, and everything. I spent six to eight hours a day, trying to get the club done as quickly as possible.”

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profile | 1894 lodge

T

alent and Drive

Bartlett spent five years searching for the perfect location for Ricky B’s Club Cafe. At one point, he had an agreement to rent a space only to have the deal fall through before the contract was signed. The day after Thanksgiving 2019, he drove past the property at 2901 Brownsboro Road that has been home to Shariat’s and several other restaurants thorough the years. The property’s owner happened to be there, and he let Bartlett come in to look around.The singer spent three hours walking through the space imagining what he could do with its 3,500 square feet.

Nowadays, among the pictures hanging on the walls of the club are portraits of Bartlett’s mother, Ella, and of Moritz von Bomhard, the German-born conductor who founded the Kentucky Opera. Bartlett credits both with setting him on the path to Ricky B’s Club Cafe.

Bartlett is the oldest of four children, the youngest being his sister, Robbie Bartlett, another notable local singer. Their mother was a pianist and choir director so singing was just a normal part of her children’s lives. Ella was the first to recognize the special quality of Bartlett’s voice. When he was about 14, she suggested that he start taking voice lessons. A music teacher at Fern Creek High School convinced him to audition for the Kentucky Opera, where Bomhard mentored him.

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ricky b’s club café | profile Bartlett began his professional career as a jingle singer.

After hearing a lecture from a jingle composer in one of his music classes at the University of Louisville, Bartlett made an audition tape singing an Amtrak jingle and the Dr. Pepper’s “Be A Pepper” theme song. He sent the tape out to agencies in Lexington and Cincinnati, where most of the jingles for the region are recorded.

Bartlett got a response the next day. His first gig was as a back-up singer for a session in Lexington. The main vocalist liked him so much that she recommended him to a bigger agency in Cincinnati — and soon Bartlett found himself traveling to Cincinnati three to four times a week for recording sessions. His first session as the main vocalist was a commercial for the Louisville Galleria.

“I’ve always had this ability to move from style to style,” he explained. “It started in the opera with Moritz Bomhard.

That’s why I was a very successful jingle singer. If they wanted me to sound like Ray Charles, I’d sing like Ray Charles. If they wanted me to sound like Kenny Rogers, I’d sing like Kenny Rogers.”

Jingles are a seasonal business. Some months Bartlett only worked one or two days a week. He started picking up club gigs to make up the difference. In addition to the Old Seelbach Bar, Bartlett was a regular at Joe’s Palm Room, and on the Star of Louisville. In fact, his club dates were adding up so quickly that they eventually conflicted with the jingle singing. He decided it was time to move on.

When he was in college, Bartlett knew his way around the piano well enough to do his voice lessons, but he was far from a player.That changed when he was performing on the Star of Louisville. Bartlett had hired a keyboard player who had oversold himself and Bartlett knew things were not going to work out between the two of them.

“I knew more than this guy in my head, but I hadn’t put in the time on the instrument,” he said. “So, I started taking two lessons a week — one classical and one jazz — and a year later I fired him. I was practicing six hours a day at one point because I wanted to get on the stage as quickly as possible.”

By this time, Bartlett had established himself as the “Nat King Cole guy.” This led to an opportunity to move to New York for a couple of years to front a 10-piece orchestra.

One night, he even performed for rock star David Bowie.

But Bartlett missed the River City. He moved back in 1992.

He had enough money that he didn’t have to look for work right away, but a mutual friend introduced him to Hensel “Buck” Heath. Heath was opening a fine-dining restaurant in Old Louisville and he thought Bartlett’s retro style would fit in perfectly. That is how Bartlett began a residency at Buck’s that lasted, with a few interruptions, for nearly 20 years.

Heath sold Buck’s several years ago. He retired from the

(opposite, top) Fried ravioli. (left) Seared barramundi sea bass over jasmine rice and season vegetables. (top) Views of the dining room and (center) bar. (near right) The Gorgeous George. (far right) Bartlett’s Rasberry Bellini.

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restaurant business due to a cancer diagnosis, but he and Bartlett still keep in touch. Bartlett said, “One of my dreams is to have Buck come here. He’s in a facility right now, so I can’t get to him. I pray that he lasts, and I last, so we can get together here.”

T

he Personal Touch

Bartlett and I met at Ricky B’s Club Café on a Tuesday afternoon to talk.The restaurant was closed, so it was just the two of us. We’ve known each other casually for nearly two decades. I first met Bartlett after a show at Rick’s Square Piano Bar. We became reacquainted a few years later when F&D assigned me to write a feature story about Buck’s. I took my then-girlfriend, now wife, Melissa with me to the restaurant. She is very partial to show tunes, so she and Bartlett hit it off.

Because Bartlett was part of our courtship, Melissa and I go to hear him sing every year on our wedding anniversary.

In early August, we visited Ricky B’s Club Café to celebrate the occasion. Bartlett’s piano is stationed near the entrance to the club, so he can greet guests as they arrive. He’d taken our reservation personally, so when he saw us, Bartlett yelled “Happy Anniversary” and started playing “Hello, Dolly,” a song Melissa often requested.

Ricky B’s Club Café is a small place, it seats about 100 people. There is a party room that Bartlett intended to use for dancing, but that must wait until life after Covid. There were about 30 patrons in the restaurant when we arrived. Like Melissa and I, most of them seemed to be long-time fans who had enjoyed hearing Bartlett at Buck’s or Jeff Ruby’s. Another couple was celebrating their anniversary too and a woman dining with friends for her birthday. Bartlett greeted everyone by name and performed requested songs for them.

“I don’t presume to be able to compete in the kitchen with an Anoosh Shariat or with Buck’s or with Varanese.Those are places with very accomplished culinary reputations,” Bartlett said during our interview. “My offering is good food and great entertainment. I don’t think there is any other restaurant in town that is as focused on entertainment. That is my lane.”

Ricky B’s has a small staff, just seven people on the first night Melissa and I visited. Many of them are restaurant veterans that Rick has met throughout his career. Our waitress had come with him from Buck’s. She was deeply knowledgeable of the food and drink offerings.

Bartlett consulted with Chef Anthony Pizzitola, a former sous chef at Buck's, to craft Ricky B’s small menu. There are two salad choices, four appetizers, and five entrees. However, the restaurant also has nightly specials. Despite the limited choices, the food at Ricky B’s is excellent. Like the rest of the restaurant, current Chef Michael Smith and his kitchen staff display a high level of sophistication and craft.

Melissa had the Caesar salad and the sea bass while I went with the wedge salad and prime rib. We shared an appetizer of

(top) Panko fried shrimp. (center, from left) Wedge salad; owner Rick Bartlett. (left) Airline Chicken — seared chicken breast with season vegetables and a raspberry gastrique.

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ricky b’s club café | profile Brussel sprouts, which were fried with a flavorful sweet chili glaze. Our waitress recommended drinks. I had the Whiskey Sour. Bartender Michael Shelley, formerly of the Red Herring Cocktail Lounge, made Melissa a Lemon Drop that tasted exactly like the eponymous candy. She talked about it so much that a few of our neighbors convinced us to accompany them to Ricky B’s a few weeks later.

On our second visit, our waitress was younger, but just as fun. My neighbor Stefanie Buzan kept giving her song request to take to Rick. One time, Stefanie asked for a song by ’70s icon Meat Loaf and the waitress came back and said, “Rick doesn’t know who Meat Ball is.”

This time I tried the Fettuccine Alfredo and Melissa went with the Airline Chicken, a seared chicken breast with seasoned rice and vegetables.

Our neighbors all ordered Ricky B’s Bouncing Back Burger, a prime rib patty with bacon jam and swiss cheese on a Brioche bun. The burger gets its name from “Bouncin' Back (Bumpin' Me Against the Wall),” a song by the New Orleans rapper Mystikal.

Bartlett even named the fries that accompany the burger Mystikal Fries, in honor of the rapper. The fries come with a special seasoning and drizzle of bourbon barbecue sauce.

Bartlett said the rap song with the refrain — “But until you seen me, trust me/You ain't seen bouncin' back” — is a sort of anthem for him when it comes to facing the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic. “Although I’m 66, my enjoyment of music is the same as it was when I was 15,” Bartlett added. “I always enjoy listening to that song. The message of sometimes you have to get knocked down to get up resonated with me. I don’t do a lot of hip hop, but I do enjoy a wide variety of music.”

Bartlett’s listening habits are starting to find their way into Ricky B’s Club Café. He still plays songs like “Embraceable You,” but it might be in a sequence that includes songs by Prince, Queen, or even Drake. He said the people who feel in love with him at the Seelbach and Buck’s are having fun with the new material, but it is still the standards that they respond to the best. During my last visit to Ricky B’s I saw it firsthand. As I sipped on a Brownsburro, the restaurant’s take on the Old Fashioned, a socially distanced dance party broke out around me. Couples swayed next to their tables as Bartlett pounded out a sentimental version of “Someone to Watch Over Me.” My wife reached over to grab my hand. I looked over at Bartlett. He sat at the piano, smiling like he was the happiest man on earth. F&D

(top) Bouncing Back Burger with Mystikal Fries. (center) Fettuccine Alfredo with seared chicken breast. (right) Sweet chili glazed Brussels sprouts.

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food | easy entertaining

EASY entertaining Derby...

BY TIM & LORI LAIRD PHOTOS BY DAN DRY

Kentucky Style

We all know that last year was unprecedented, but there’s a bit of trivia about last year’s Derby that you might not have noticed.

Three hours before Authentic came across the finish line to win the 2020 Kentucky Derby, on September 5th, the first official prep race in the run-up to this year’s Derby had already been run on the same course! n that race at Churchill Downs, the Iroquois Stakes, the top three horses 1were Sittin’ On Go (at 50-1), Midnight Bourbon, and Super Stock. As we go to press, all three of those horses are still on the 2021 Derby leaderboard.

As far as Tim and I are concerned, it would be perfectly okay to start running the Derby in both Spring and Fall! Any excuse to gather with friends and celebrate Kentucky’s equine heritage and our local foods and beverages is just fine with us. In fact, maybe we’ll even start our own Fall Derby Kick-Off tradition this year.

In the meantime, though, we hope you’ll find ways to celebrate our beautiful Kentucky spring traditions safely with friends and family as the country gradually finds its way back to normalcy.

All of our easy recipes are designed for small gatherings of a half-dozen or so, and are perfect for your patio or yard. And all of them are designed to highlight Kentucky’s superb spring produce.

A century ago — maybe even a few decades ago — when Kentuckians thought about luxurious menus, they may have thought about imported food and drink.

Nowadays, all over the world people recognize that Kentucky produces some of the best foods, beverages, and chefs to be found anywhere. They come here in search of new ideas and our local products. And that’s what we try to feature on our Derby menu, whether we’re entertaining out-of-town guests or just gathering with our neighbors.

The hunt for great local goods is half-the-fun of entertaining, and it’s fun to share with your guests where you found local products, whether at the corner store or farmers’ markets. And oh, that country ham from the traditional artisanal producers in the western part of the Commonwealth. And for pure luxury, nothing else in the world is better than world-renowned Capriole goat cheese or Kentucky Spoonfish caviar from Shuckman’s, a Louisville institution. Yes, it’s too early for our spectacular mid-summer homegrown tomatoes, but Romas are great year-round, and the texture and flavor of our simple tomato sandwiches are light and pleasing.

Everything on this menu is designed for easy, low-stress preparation and service. So here’s our advice: Shop local. Shop safely. Take your time and enjoy the process of getting everything together while sipping on an Oaks Lily. Most of all, enjoy the company of your friends and family.

That is Easy Entertaining!

I

34 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

–––––––––––––––––––––––––

The Oaks Lily

This drink made its debut at the 132nd Oaks Day in 2006 and was created in our “Laird Libation Lab” also known as our kitchen. It is the signature drink of the prestigious Kentucky Oaks race, run on the Friday before Derby Day. The color of the drink emulates that of the Stargazer Lily, which is the flower in the prized blanket, known as the Lilies for the Fillies, awarded to the winning horse.

This mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until serving time.

1 ounce vodka 1 ounce lemonade 3 ounces cranberry juice Splash of triple sec Squeeze of lime 3 blackberries, for garnish Add ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a tall glass filled with crushed ice.

Garnish with blackberries.

To make by the pitcher: (serves 8)

8 8 24 ½

ounces vodka ounces lemonade ounces cranberry juice ounce triple sec Juice of ½ lime 24 blackberries, for garnish

In a pitcher, combine ingredients and stir. Pour into tall glasses filled with crushed ice. Garnish with blackberries. Add sipping straws and enjoy.

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––––––––––––––––––––––

Easy Mint Juleps

You can adjust the sweetness of the drink by adding more or less of the simple syrup.

2 ounces Bourbon 1 ounce simple mint syrup Crushed ice Garnish with Kentucky mint sprig Mix Bourbon and mint syrup. Pour into a tall glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a sipping straw.

To make by the pitcher: 16 ounces Bourbon 8 ounces simple mint syrup

To make mint simple syrup: Combine 1 part water and 1 part sugar.

Bring sugar and water to a boil while stirring to dissolve. Add 1 part looselypacked mint leaves and remove from heat.

Let stand for 20 minutes then strain into a tempered glass jar, let cool and refrigerate until ready to use. If you use 1 cup each of water and sugar, you’ll make about 1 cup (8 ounces) of syrup.

The Oaks Lily

Easy Mint Juleps

Kentucky Eggs Benedict

–––––––––––––––––––––––

Kentucky Eggs Benedict (Serves 6) Eggs can be poached a day ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator in a bowl of cold water. Reheat before serving by dipping them in a pan of slightly boiling water.

2 egg yolks 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice ½ cup butter (1 stick), cut into tablespoon size pieces ¼ cup boiling water Salt and ground cayenne pepper, to taste 12 thin slices cooked Kentucky country ham 2 tablespoons white vinegar 12 Kentucky farm fresh eggs 6 English muffins, split, toasted and buttered Paprika In the top of a double boiler, whisk egg yolks and lemon juice together. Add 3 tablespoons of butter. Place double boiler over simmering water. Cook, beating constantly, until butter

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Herbed Goat Cheese with Kentucky Mint

Kentucky Bison Stew

melts and sauce begins to thicken. Add 3

–––––––––––––––––––––––

more tablespoons of butter, stir until butter

Kentucky Bison Stew

melts, then add remaining 2 tablespoons

(Serves 6)

of butter. Slowly whisk in boiling water.

Continue cooking over simmering water, stirring, until mixture thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in salt

Don’t be intimidated by the long list of ingredients. There really isn’t much work involved, just adding everything to the slow

Broil 4 inches from heat for about 4 minutes, or until ham begins to brown.

While ham is broiling, pour about 3 inches of water into a pan. Add white vinegar and lightly salt the water; bring to a boil. Carefully put eggs in the water, breaking into a cup first, then gently slipping them into the water one at a time. Simmer eggs for 3 to 4 minutes or until set. Remove with slotted spoon, drain, and pat dry.

Place English muffins on serving plate, top with a slice of ham and a poached egg. Spoon a little sauce over the egg and sprinkle with paprika. Serve immediately.

36 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

teaspoon Worcestershire sauce potatoes, diced carrots, sliced stalk celery, chopped cup frozen pearl onions, thawed

cooker and turning it on.

and cayenne pepper.

Place ham slices on rack of broiler pan.

1 3 4 1 1

Place meat in slow cooker. In a small bowl

2 pounds bison cube steak or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes ¼ cup flour ½ teaspoon each salt and ground black pepper 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 bay leaf 1 teaspoon paprika ¼ teaspoon each dried thyme, oregano, and basil ¼ cup Bourbon 1 cups reduced-sodium beef broth

mix together the flour, salt and pepper; pour over meat and stir to coat meat with the flour mixture. Add remaining ingredients and stir. Cover and cook on low setting for 10 to 12 hours or on high setting for 4 to 6 hours. Serve over wide noodles, rice or

––––––––––––––––––––––– with a chunk of crusty bread.

Herbed Goat Cheese with Kentucky Mint (Serves 8)

We suggest Capriole Farms goat cheese from Indiana and locally grown Kentucky mint.

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Caviar

12 ounces soft goat cheese, room temperature 3 tablespoons milk 2 teaspoons whole cumin seeds 1 teaspoon dried dill weed ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 2 garlic cloves, crushed 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 20 Kentucky mint leaves, thinly sliced Crackers — water or seeded Mix the goat cheese, milk, cumin seeds, dill weed, black pepper and garlic in a small bowl until smooth. Cover. Chill for at least 1 hour. Flavor is best if it rests overnight.

Transfer cheese to a platter, form into a mound, sprinkle with mint leaves then drizzle with olive oil. Serve with crackers.

Tomato Sandwiches

–––––––––––––––––––––––––

Caviar (Serves 6)

We recommend Shuckman's Spoonfish Caviar which is raised in Kentucky and hand packed for freshness. It is uncommonly mild and flavorful with rich, luscious, bright berries.

4 ounces Kentucky Spoonfish Caviar 4 slices white bread, sliced thin 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Optional Garnishes: Red onion, minced Hard boiled egg yolk, minced Hard boiled egg white, minced Capers, minced Sour cream Lightly toast the bread so it is soft, not crumbly like crackers. Spread one side with butter, cut off the crusts and cut diagonally twice so you end up with 4 mini-triangles of toast.

Let your guests build their own toasts as they

wish with just the plain caviar (our recommendation) or with the optional garnishes.

––––––––––––––––––––––––

Tomato Sandwiches (Serves 6)

12 5 1 1

slices white bread Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced cup mayonnaise sweet onion, very thinly sliced to fit bread 2 bunches Italian parsley, finely chopped

Cut 1-inch to 1½-inch rounds out of bread using a cookie cutter or top of jar. You should be able to get approximately 3 rounds per slice of bread.

Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread round. Place onion slice on bread round.

Top with tomato slice. Top with second piece of bread. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise around the outside edge of the sandwich. Place chopped parsley on a flat plate. Roll mayonnaise edge of the sandwich in chopped parsley. F&D www.foodanddine.com Spring 2021 37

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dining guide Cuisine Style African..............................69 Asian/Chinese..................63 Asian/Japanese. ..............64 Asian/Korean ...................65 Asian/Thai........................66 Asian/Vietnamese ............66

Bar & Grill/Taphouse........60 Barbecue .........................56 Bistro/New American .......46 Burgers/Chicken ..............50 Cafés ...............................52 Cafeterias/Buffet ..............60 Cajun/Creole....................66 Casual Dining ..................53 Coffee/Tea Houses ..........73 Cuban/Caribbean.............66 Deli/Sandwich ..................57

Alphabetical Index RESTAURANT

The 1894 Lodge 211 Clover Lane 21st Amendment Tavern 4 Seasons Restaurant 502 Bar & Bistro 610 Magnolia 78 Coffee Shop 80/20 @ Kaelin's 888 Great Wall 8th Street Pizza 8UP Drinkery A Nice Restaurant A Taste of China Abol Café Abyssinia Ada's Kitchen and Catering Adrienne & Co. Bakery Café Adrienne's Italian Against The Grain Agave & Rye Epic Tacos Aji Sushi and Asian Cuisine Al Hamra Halal Buffet Aladdin's Mediterranean Alex&nder Alley Cat Café Alwatan Restaurant American Smokehouse Stadium Amici Angie’s Cafe Angilo's Pizza Angio's Italian Restaurant Annie Café Annie May's Sweets Café Annie's Pizza Anoosh Bistro Apna Café Apocalypse Brew Works Applebee's Arata Sushi Arni's Pizza Arno's Pizza Aroma Café Asahi Japanese Asian Buffet Asian Wok Asiana Sushi Aspen Creek Restaurant Atlantic No. 5 Atrium Brewing Atrium Café August Moon B.J.'s Restaurant & Brewhouse Babie Bac'z Good Grill Baby Mae's Bandido Taqueria Mexicana bar Vetti Baraka Restaurant Barcelona Bistro Bar Barn8 Barrelhouse on Market Barry's Cheesesteaks Baxter's 942 Bean Bearno's Beef O'Brady's Bella Roma Bento Asian Kitchen + Sushi Big Al’s Beeritaville Big Ben's BBQ Big Momma's Soul Kitchen Biscuit Belly Bistro Le Relais Bitters End Blackbeard Espresso Blackstone Grille Blaze Fast Fire'd Pizza Blind Squirrel Blue Dog Bakery Blue Horse Café Bluegrass Brewing Company Board and You Bistro & Wine Bar Bob's Steak & Chop House Bombay Grill Bonefish Grill Bonnie & Clyde's Pizza Book & Bourbon Southern Kitchen Boombozz Pizza · Watch Bar Boomer's Café Boomtown

RESTAURANTS LISTED ALPHABETICALLY, FOLLOWED

BY THE PAGE NUMBER OF ITS REVIEW, THE CUISINE STYLE, AND THE CORRESPONDING MAP NUMBER(S). [ ] DENOTES UNMAPPED MULTIPLE LOCATIONS.

PAGE #/CUISINE STYLE 42 42 48 68 44 42 73 49 63 53 42 52 63 73 63 58 72 67 62 52 64 69 69 44 50 69 55 67 50 53 67 65 72 53 44 68 62 52 64 53 53 50 64 63 63 64 52 50 62 50 63 59 55 55 69 67 63 68 42 59 56 59 73 53 59 67 64 59 55 58 52 66 60 73 42 53 52 50 50 62 44 47 68 46 53 58 53 50 52

MAP #

Upscale Casual 16 Fine Dining 3 Gastropub 13 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 11 Bistro / New American 8 Fine Dining 13 1 Coffee / Tea Houses Burgers / Chicken 2 Asian / Chinese 8 Pizza 14 Upscale Casual 1 Casual Dining 14, 16 Asian / Chinese 1 Coffee / Tea Houses 3 African 1 Southern / Soul Food 1 Desserts / Bakery 16 European / Italian 16 Microbreweries 1 Casual Dining 2, 14 Asian / Japanese 11 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 2 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 14 Bistro / New American 2 Cafes 5 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 4 Barbecue 16 European / Italian 13 Cafes 16 Pizza 13 European / Italian 6 Asian / Vietnamese 13 Desserts / Bakery 3 Pizza 9,12 Bistro / New American 7 Indian 8 Microbreweries 2 Casual Dining 11,12,13,15 Asian / Japanese 10 Pizza 14 Pizza 4 Cafes 14 Asian / Japanese 3 Asian / Chinese 14 Asian / Chinese 2 Asian / Japanese 11 Casual Dining 3,11 Cafes 1 Microbreweries 1 Cafes 5 Asian / Chinese 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 5 Barbecue 12 Barbecue 14 Mexican 1,13 European / Italian 1 African 1 European / Spanish 6 Fine Dining 10 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 16 Deli / Sandwich 1,2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Coffee / Tea Houses 13 Pizza [14] Bar & Grill / Taphouse 5,3,14 European / Italian 14 Asian / Japanese 5 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Barbecue 16 Southern / Soul Food 9 Casual Dining 1,3,13 European / French 4 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 Coffee / Tea Houses 1 Upscale Casual 10 Pizza 3,5,8,15 Casual Dining 5 Cafes 2 Cafes 13 Microbreweries 1 Bistro / New American 14 Steakhouse 1 Indian 5 Seafood 5 Pizza 12 Southern / Soul Food 13 Pizza 2,5,6,15 Cafes 1 Casual Dining 14

38 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

Latin American .................69 Mediterranean/Mid East...68 Mexican ...........................70 Microbreweries ................62 Pizza ................................54 Seafood ...........................48 Southern/Soul Food.........60 Southwest/Tex Mex..........71 Steakhouse......................49 Upscale Casual................44

Desserts/Bakery ..............72 Diner/Home Style.............59 Entertainment Dining .......63 European/French .............67 European/German ...........67 European/Irish .................67 European/Italian...............67 European/Spanish ...........68 Fine Dining.......................44 Gastropub ........................50 Indian ...............................68

RESTAURANT

Bootleg Barbecue Co. Borromeo's Pizza & Italian Borsalino Café & Deli Boudreaux's Cajun Cooking Boudreaux's Sno-Balls Boujie Biscuit Bourbon Raw Bourbon's Bistro Brasserie Provence Bravo!

Brazeiros Churrascaria Breadworks Brendon's Catch 23 Brian's Deli Brick House Tavern + Tap Bridge and Barrel Bristol Bar & Grille Brix Wine Bar Brooke & Billy’s Brooklyn & The Butcher Brownie's 'The Shed' Bruegger's Bagels Bubbakoo's Burritos Bubba's 33 Buca Di Beppo Buck's Bud's Tavern & Barbecue Buffalo Wild Wings Bungalow Joe's Bar & Grill Bunz Restaurant Burger Boy Burger Girl BurgerIM Butcher Block Eatery at High Horse Butcher's Best Butchertown Grocery Butchertown Grocery Bakery Cadillacs Chicken and Fish Café 157 Café 223 Café 360 Café Aroma Café Thuy Van Caffe Classico California Pizza kitchen Cancún Captain's Quarters Riverside Grille Carali's Rotisserie Chicken Caribbean Café Carrabba's Italian Grill Carr's BBQ and Market CASK Southern Kitchen & Bar Caspian Grill Persian Café Cast Iron Steakhouse Catfish Haven Restaurant Cattleman's Roadhouse The Cheesecake Factory Cellar Door Chocolates Chamling Kitchen & Bar Champions Grille Charcoal Charlestown Pizza Co. Charr'd Bourbon Kitchen Check's BBQ & Blues Check's Café Cheddar Box Café Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen Cheer King Star Chef's Cut Pizzeria Chicago Steak & Lemonade The Chicken House Chicken King Chicken Salad Chick Chik'n & Mi Chili's China 1 China Bistro China Buffet China Café China Castle China Chef China Coast China Dragon China Garden China King China Star China Taste Chinese Express Chipotle Mexican Grill

PAGE #/CUISINE STYLE 55 53 50 66 72 52 42 44 66 42 47 72 42 56 52 44 42 44 52 47 60 56 69 60 67 42 60 49 60 49 58 58 49 60 56 44 72 46 50 50 50 69 66 50 53 69 46 69 66 67 55 58 69 47 46 47 42 72 68 52 69 53 42 55 58 50 52 63 53 56 49 49 49 66 52 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 70

MAP #

Barbecue 11 Pizza 13 Cafes 4 Cajun / Creole 5 Desserts / Bakery 5 Casual Dining 2 Upscale Casual 1 Bistro / New American 2 European / French 5 Upscale Casual 3 Steakhouse 1 Desserts / Bakery 2,7 Upscale Casual 1 Deli / Sandwich 1 Casual Dining 6 Bistro / New American 16 Upscale Casual 1,2,5 Bistro / New American 8 Casual Dining 1 Steakhouse 14 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 6,14 Deli / Sandwich 3 Mexican 5 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 15 European / Italian 6 Fine Dining 13 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 6,12 Burgers / Chicken 3,5,6,8,11,15 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 11 Burgers / Chicken 2 Diner / Home Style 13 Diner / Home Style 3 Burgers / Chicken 3 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Deli / Sandwich 10 Bistro / New American 2 Desserts / Bakery 1 Seafood 11 Cafes 14 Cafes 16 Cafes 2 Mexican 2 Asian / Vietnamese 13 Cafes 2 Pizza 5 Mexican 5 Seafood 10 Latin American 1,2,5,6 Cuban / Caribbean 2 European / Italian 5 Barbecue 14 Southern / Soul Food 6 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 2 Steakhouse 16 Seafood 12 Steakhouse 6,13, 14 Upscale Casual 3 Desserts / Bakery 1 Indian 4 Casual Dining 16 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 8 Pizza 16 Upscale Casual 6 Barbecue 5 Diner / Home Style 13 Cafes 3 Casual Dining 8,13,15 Asian / Chinese 1 Pizza 5 Deli / Sandwich 6 Burgers / Chicken 14 Burgers / Chicken 1 Burgers / Chicken 15 Asian / Vietnamese 2 Casual Dining 2,4,5,8,13,15 Asian / Chinese 3,5 Asian / Chinese 1 Asian / Chinese 15 Asian / Chinese 8,13 Asian / Chinese 12 Asian / Chinese 11 Asian / Chinese 13 Asian / Chinese 12 Asian / Chinese 13 Asian / Chinese 6 Asian / Chinese 3 Asian / Chinese 16 Asian / Chinese 12 Mexican 1,2,5,8

RESTAURANT Chong Garden Chopsticks House Christi's Café Christmas Morning Café Chubby Ray's Chung King Palace Chuy's Ciao City Barbecue Clay Oven Clifton Donuts Clucker's Wings Coals Artisan Pizza Coconut Beach Tacos Coffee Crossing Cold Smoke Bagels Cold Stone Creamery Come Back Inn The Comfy Cow Con Huevos CoreLife Eatery Corner Corner Café Cottage Café Cottage Inn Crave Café & Catering Cravings Ala Carte Cuba y Mas Cuban Restaurant and Bakery Cultured Cheese and Charcuterie Culver's Cunningham's Creekside Cup of Joy Cuvée Wine Table D. Nalley's Daddy Rich's Dairy Kastle Daisuki Sushi Dakshin Indian Restaurant DaLat's Gateaux & Bakery Danny Mac's Pasta & Pizza Dasha Barbours Bistro Dave & Buster's Dave & Peg's Copper Kettle Day's Espresso Decca Deeno's Pizza & Wings Del Frisco's Denny's Derby Café Express Derby City Pizza Derby Dinner Playhouse Diamond Pub & Billiards Diamond Street Grub & Hops Difabio's Casapela Dino's Bakery DiOrio's Pizza & Pub District 6 Ditto's Grill Dixie Chicken Dizzy Whizz Drive-In Doc Crow's Doc's Bourbon Room Donum Dei Brewery Dos Gringos Double Dogs Double Dragon Double Dragon 9 Double Dragon II Double Flame Burger Down One Bourbon Bar Dragon Café Dragon City Dragon King's Daughter Drake's Duck Donuts Dundee Tavern East Star Buffet Eat A Pita Eat Your Bourbon Marketplace Eatz Vietnamese Restaurant Eden & Kissi Eggs Over Frankfort Ehrler's Ice Cream El Caporal El Comal Taqueria El Frijol El Mariachi El Molcajete El Mundo El Nopal El Rinconcito El Rio Grande El Sabor de Cuba El Sazon de Abuela El Sombrero El Taco Loco El Taco Luchador El Tarasco El Torazo El Toro Cantina & Grill Emmy Squared Pizza Endless Summer Coffee Company English Grill Equus & Jack's Restaurant Ev's Deli Exchange Pub + Kitchen Executive Bistro Faces Bar/Bistro Falafel House Falafel Oasis Falls City Taproom Family Ties Famous Dave's BBQ Fante's Coffee Farm to Fork Café Fat Jimmy's FDKY BBQ Feast BBQ Fiesta Mexicana Fiesta Time Amigos Fiesta Time Mexican Grill Firehouse Subs First String Bar & Grill First Watch Fistful of Ale Fistful of Tacos Five Guys Burgers

PAGE #/CUISINE STYLE 63 63 50 51 53 63 71 67 55 68 72 49 54 70 73 56 72 67 72 70 52 48 51 58 58 51 59 69 66 42 49 46 51 44 58 49 72 64 68 72 54 58 62 58 73 42 54 47 52 51 54 62 60 60 68 72 54 48 44 49 49 42 48 62 70 52 63 63 63 49 48 63 63 64 60 72 60 63 69 52 66 66 44 72 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 69 70 66 69 70 70 70 70 70 70 54 73 42 42 56 48 58 44 69 69 60 49 55 73 51 54 55 55 70 70 70 56 60 52 62 70 49

MAP #

Asian / Chinese 11, 12 Asian / Chinese 9,13 Cafes 12 Cafes 2 Pizza 6 Asian / Chinese 1 Southwest / Tex Mex 3,15 European / Italian 2 Barbecue 5 Indian 5 Desserts / Bakery 2 Burgers / Chicken 14,16 Pizza 3,5,13 Mexican 13 Coffee / Tea Houses 14, 15, 16 Deli / Sandwich 1 Desserts / Bakery 6,16 European / Italian 1 Desserts / Bakery 2,5,13 Mexican 1,2,8 Casual Dining 5, 15 Gastropub 1 Cafes 5 Diner / Home Style 5 Diner / Home Style 13 Cafes 2 Cafeterias / Buffet 1 Latin American 11 Cuban / Caribbean 13 Upscale Casual 1 Burgers / Chicken 6,13,15 Seafood 10 Cafes 9 Bistro / New American 8 Diner / Home Style 1 Burgers / Chicken 1 Desserts / Bakery 13 Asian / Japanese 1 Indian 11 Desserts / Bakery 13 Pizza 2 Southern / Soul Food 1,2 Entertainment Dining 3 Diner / Home Style 5 Coffee / Tea Houses 2 Upscale Casual 1 Pizza 12 Steakhouse 5 Casual Dining 3,13 Cafes 13 Pizza 2,6,12,13 Entertainment Dining 16 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2,3 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 3 European / Italian 2 Desserts / Bakery 9 Pizza 2,3 Gastropub 3 Bistro / New American 2 Burgers / Chicken 9,12 Burgers / Chicken 1 Upscale Casual 1 Gastropub 1 Microbreweries 11 Mexican 16 Casual Dining 5 Asian / Chinese 9,2 Asian / Chinese 6 Asian / Chinese 8,11,12,13 Burgers / Chicken 12 Gastropub 1 Asian / Chinese 10 Asian / Chinese 12 Asian / Japanese 2,14 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 3,8 Desserts / Bakery 3 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 3 Asian / Chinese 13 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 2 Casual Dining 2 Asian / Vietnamese 2 Cuban / Caribbean 4 Bistro / New American 2 Desserts / Bakery 1 Mexican 4,6 Mexican 12 Mexican 2 Mexican 5 Mexican 13 Mexican 2 Mexican [22] Latin American 11 Mexican 5 Cuban / Caribbean 13 Latin American 13 Mexican 16 Mexican 13 Mexican 2,3,6,13 Mexican 3,5,13 Mexican 6 Mexican 5 Pizza 1 Coffee / Tea Houses 1 Fine Dining 1 Upscale Casual 3 Deli / Sandwich 1 Gastropub 14 Diner / Home Style 13 Bistro / New American 2 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 2 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 1 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 Burgers / Chicken 9 Barbecue 6 Coffee / Tea Houses 2 Cafes 9 Pizza 5 Barbecue 6 Barbecue 1,6 Mexican 4 Mexican 5,11 Mexican 8 Deli / Sandwich 11 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Casual Dining 3,5,6,15 Microbreweries 14 Mexican 14 Burgers / Chicken 3,5,8,11,14

Guide Index_Spring 21_Ed-final.qxp_Layout 1 3/1/21 8:12 AM Page 39

RESTAURANT FIX Coffeehouse and Bakery Flanagan's Ale House Fleur de Tea Flo’s House of Soul Floyd County Brewing Co. Foko Fork & Barrel Forty Acres & A Mule Restaurant Four Kings Café Four Pegs Beer Lounge Franco's Restaurant Frankfort Ave. Beer Depot Frank's Meat & Produce Fresco Tea Bar Fresh Out the Box Frontier Diner Fry Daddy's Fuji Asian Bistro Fuji Japanese Steakhouse Full Stop Filling Station Fun Food Kitchen & Deli Fun Tea Funmi's African Restaurant Galan's Meat Market & Deli Galan's Meat Market & Grille Galaxie Gallant Fox Brewing Galley at Goodwood Game Gander, An American Grill Garage Bar Gaslight Diner Gasthaus Gatsby's On Fourth Gelato Gilberto Georgia's Sweet Potato Pie Co. Geraldine's Kitchen Gerstle's Place Get It On a Bun at Booty's Gigi's Cupcakes Ginza Asian Bistro Gogi 1055 Korean BBQ Gold Bar Golden Buddha Golden Corral Golden Gate Donuts Golden Star Chinese Goose Creek Diner Gordon Biersch Brewery Gralehaus Granville Inn Grape Leaf Grassa Gramma Gravely Brewing Co. Great American Grill Great Flood Brewing Co. Great Wall Great Wok Green District Salads Grind Burger Kitchen Guaca Mole Gustavo's Mexican Grill Guy Fieri's Smokehouse H. M. Frank's Habana Blues Tapas Hammerheads Happy China Happy Dragon Harbor and Hops Harley’s Hardwoodz Bar-B-Q Harrods Creek Tavern Harry's Taphouse & Kitchen Harvey’s Cheese Havana Bakery Café Havana Rumba Havana Rumba & Tapas Heart & Soy Heine Brothers' Coffee Heitzman Bakery & Deli Hell or High Water Hibachi Buffet Hibachi Sushi Buffet Hideout Pizzaria Hi-Five Doughnuts Highland Coffee Co. Highland Morning Highlands Taproom Grill Highview Ice Cream & Coffee Hiko A Mon Sushi Bar Hill Street Fish Fry Hillcrest Tavern Hilltop Tavern Hitching Post Inn Hog Father Pizza Holy Grale Holy Smokes Bar-B-Que Home Run Burgers Homemade Pie Kitchen Hometown Brewing Co. Hometown Pizza Honest Indian Honey Crème Donut Shop Honeybaked Café Hong Kong Fast Food Hooked on Frankfort Hoops Grill and Sports Bar Hooters Hot Box Eatery Howl at the Moon Hungry Pelican I Love Tacos IHOP Imanka Restaurant Indi's Restaurant International Tap House Irish Rover Iroquois Pizza Israel’s Delicias de Mexico Gourmet J. Alexander's Redlands Grill J. Graham's Café J. Gumbo's J. Harrod's Jack Binion's Steakhouse Jack Fry's Jade Palace Jaggers Restaurant Jake & Elwood's Jasmin Bakery

PAGE #/CUISINE STYLE 73 60 73 58 62 70 43 58 58 48 58 55 56 73 65 58 58 64 64 51 58 73 63 56 66 48 62 55 52 52 44 58 66 52 72 72 58 60 49 72 64 65 60 63 59 72 63 58 62 48 60 69 68 62 60 62 63 63 53 49 70 70 56 48 66 44 63 63 60 56 53 60 56 66 66 66 64 73 72 60 63 63 54 72 73 51 60 73 64 46 60 60 60 54 44 56 49 72 62 54 68 72 56 63 46 60 49 51 62 46 69 53 63 49 60 67 54 70 43 51 66 43 47 42 63 49 54 72

MAP #

Coffee / Tea Houses 8 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Coffee / Tea Houses 8 Southern / Soul Food 9 Microbreweries 14 Mexican 1 Upscale Casual 2 Southern / Soul Food 13 Diner / Home Style 4 Gastropub 13 Southern / Soul Food 12 Barbecue 3 Deli / Sandwich 13 Coffee / Tea Houses 14 Asian / Korean 1 Diner / Home Style 12 Southern / Soul Food 2, 15 Asian / Japanese 12 Asian / Japanese 8 Cafes 1 Southern / Soul Food 8 Coffee / Tea Houses 2 African 4 Deli / Sandwich 9 Cuban / Caribbean 9 Gastropub 1 Microbreweries 2 Barbecue 1 Casual Dining 2 Casual Dining 5 Bistro / New American 1 Diner / Home Style 6 European / German 7 Casual Dining 1 Desserts / Bakery 8 Desserts / Bakery 2 Diner / Home Style 16 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 3 Burgers / Chicken 14 Desserts / Bakery 6 Asian / Japanese 5 Asian / Korean 2 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse Asian / Chinese 13 Cafeterias / Buffet 15 Desserts / Bakery 13 Asian / Chinese 13 Diner / Home Style 8 Microbreweries 1 Gastropub 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 2 European / Italian 7 Microbreweries 1 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Microbreweries 2,5 Asian / Chinese 2 Asian / Chinese 13 Casual Dining 1,3, 5 Burgers / Chicken 1 Mexican 5 Mexican 8,10 Barbecue 1 Gastropub 16 Cuban / Caribbean 14 Bistro / New American 1, 2 Asian / Chinese 6 Asian / Chinese 6 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 16 Barbecue 16 Casual Dining 10 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 16 Deli / Sandwich 1 Cuban / Caribbean 11 Cuban / Caribbean 5 Cuban / Caribbean 2 Asian / Japanese 2 Coffee / Tea Houses [17] Desserts / Bakery 5 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 Asian / Chinese 12 Asian / Chinese 13 Pizza 12 Desserts / Bakery 1 Coffee / Tea Houses 2 Cafes 2,3 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Coffee / Tea Houses 11 Asian / Japanese 1,5 Seafood 13 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 3 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 11 Pizza 2 Bistro / New American 2 Barbecue 13 Burgers / Chicken 5,6,13 Desserts / Bakery [6] Microbreweries 13 Pizza 6,7,11,13 Indian 6 Desserts / Bakery 14 Deli / Sandwich 3,11,14 Asian / Chinese 13 Seafood 3 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Burgers / Chicken 3,13,12,15,16 Cafes 1 Entertainment Dining 1 Seafood 11 Latin American 2, 6 Casual Dining 6,15 African 1 Burgers / Chicken [8] Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 European / Irish 2 Pizza 13 Mexican 14 Upscale Casual 3 Cafes 1 Cajun / Creole 2,6 Upscale Casual 10 Steakhouse 14 Fine Dining 2 Asian / Chinese 5 Burgers / Chicken 3 Pizza 2 Desserts / Bakery 4

www.foodanddine.com Spring 2021 39

Guide Index_Spring 21_Ed-final.qxp_Layout 1 3/1/21 8:12 AM Page 40

RESTAURANT

PAGE #/CUISINE STYLE

Jasmine 63 Jasmine Asian Bistro 63 Jason's Deli 56 Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse 47 Jeff's Bakery 72 Jersey Mike's Subs 56 Jerusalem Kitchen 69 Jets Pizza 54 Jimmy John's 56 Joe Huber Restaurant 62 Joella's Hot Chicken 49 Joe's Crab Shack 46 Joe's Older than Dirt 53 John O'Bryan's Tavern 60 Joy Luck 63 Jucy's Smokehouse 56 JujuBe at La Que 66 Jumbo Buffet 63 Juno 64 JW Café & Bakery 51 Kansai Japanese Steakhouse 64 Karem's 53 Kashmir Indian 68 Kathmandu Kitchen and Bar 68 Kayrouz Café 51 Kern's Korner 60 Khalil's 60 Kim & Bab 65 King Donut 72 King Donuts 72 KingFish 46 King's Fried Chicken 50 Kolkin Coffee 73 Koreana II 65 L & J Asian Cuisine 63 La Bamba 70 La Bodeguita de Mima 66 La Catrina Mexican Kitchen 70 La Chandeleur 44 La Chapinlandia 70 La Chasse 42 La Guanaquita 69 La Lupita 70 La Maison Aux Crepes 72 La Popular 70 La Riviera Maya 70 La Rosita Taqueria 70 La Sierra 70 La Suerte 69 La Torta Loca 70 La Tropicana 70 Lady Tron's 56 Las Cazuelas 70 Las Gorditas 70 Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant 70 Le Moo 48 LeAnn's Home Made Cheesecakes 72 Lee's Korean 65 Legacy Pizza & Bakery 54 Lemongrass Restaurant 66 Lenny's Sub Shop 57 Levee Bourbon Lounge 43 Liège & Dairy Ice Cream + Waffles 72 Lil' Wagners 58 Limòn y Sal 71 Lindsay's Kitchen 58 Ling Ling 64 Little Caesar's Pizza 54 Little Greek Fresh Grill 69 Liu's Garden 64 Logan's Roadhouse 48 Longhorn Steakhouse 48 Lonnie's Best Taste Of Chicago 57 Los Aztecas 71 Lotsa Pasta 57 Lou Lou Food + Drink 44 Louie's Hot Chicken & Barbecue 56 Louisville Cream 72 Louisville International Pub 60 Louisville Tea Co. 73 Louvino 44 Lucky Burrito 71 Lucretia's Kitchen 58 Lueberry Acai & Superfoods 72 Luigi's 54 Luna's Rotisserie 71 M&M BBQ 56 Ma Zerella's 54 Mack Bros BBQ 56 Mac's @ Mile Wide 54 Main Eatery 57 Main Event Bar & Grill 62 Maira Mediterranean Grill 69 Mai's Thai Restaurant 65 Mama's Kitchen Carryout 58 Mango's Bar & Grill 71 Manhattan Grill 57 Maple Street Biscuit Company 53 Marco's Pizza 54 Mark T's Slabhouse 56 Marketplace Restaurant 43 Mark's Feed Store 56 Martini Itialian Bistro 68 Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint 56 Masa Japanese 64 Masala Grill 69 Matt Winn Steakhouse 48 Mattie's Kitchen 58 Mayan Café 71 McAlister's Deli 57 McQuixote Books & Coffee 73 Melba's Culinary Canvas 43 Melting Pot 43 Mercato Italiano 68 Merle's Whiskey Kitchen 44 Mesa 62 Mesh 43 Metro Diner 58 Mexa Tacos 71 Mexico City Tacqueria and Restaurant 71 MG's Prime Time Café 60 Mi Casita Parrilla Mexicana 71 Mi Sueño 66 Mi Tierra Mexican Restaurant 71 Mike Linnig's 46 Milantoni Italian Restaurant 68 Million's Crab 46

MAP #

Asian / Chinese 5 Asian / Chinese 7 Deli / Sandwich 3,5 Steakhouse 1 Desserts / Bakery 14,16 Deli / Sandwich 5,6,8 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 13 Pizza 2,3,5,8,11 Deli / Sandwich [11] Entertainment Dining 14 Burgers / Chicken 3,5, 15 Seafood 1 Casual Dining 5 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 12 Asian / Chinese 2,8 Barbecue 5 Asian / Vietnamese 2 Asian / Chinese 6 Asian / Japanese 13 Cafes 5 Asian / Japanese 6,15 Casual Dining 8 Indian 2 Indian 4 Cafes 3 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 12 Asian / Korean 14 Desserts / Bakery 13 Desserts / Bakery 5 Seafood 7,16 Burgers / Chicken 9 Coffee / Tea Houses 14 Asian / Korean 13 Asian / Chinese 10 Mexican 2 Cuban / Caribbean 1 Mexican 14 Bistro / New American 13 Mexican 13 Fine Dining 2 Latin American 13 Mexican 15 Desserts / Bakery 1 Mexican 13 Mexican 13 Mexican 5,13 Mexican 11 Latin American 2 Mexican 13 Mexican 13 Deli / Sandwich 14 Mexican 13 Mexican 11 Mexican 5, 13 Steakhouse 2 Desserts / Bakery 1 Asian / Korean 13 Pizza 14 Asian / Vietnamese 4,5 Deli / Sandwich 4 Upscale Casual 7 Desserts / Bakery 7 Diner / Home Style 13 Mexican 8 Diner / Home Style 12 Asian / Chinese 5 Pizza [10] Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 3 Asian / Chinese 5 Steakhouse 6,12 Steakhouse 6,8,13,15 Deli / Sandwich 2 Mexican 5,10 Deli / Sandwich 3 Bistro / New American 3 Barbecue 1,13 Desserts / Bakery 1 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Coffee / Tea Houses 5 Bistro / New American 2,5 Mexican 2 Southern / Soul Food 9 Desserts / Bakery 1 Pizza 1 Mexican 13 Barbecue 13 Pizza 15 Barbecue 9 Pizza 1 Deli / Sandwich 1 Entertainment Dining 6 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 3 Asian / Thai 16 Southern / Soul Food 9 Mexican 3, 11 Deli / Sandwich 1 Casual Dining 2 Pizza 14 Barbecue 13 Upscale Casual 1 Barbecue 2,5,11,12,14 European / Italian 8 Barbecue 8 Asian / Japanese 5 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 1 Steakhouse 13 Southern / Soul Food 9 Mexican 1 Deli / Sandwich [10] Coffee / Tea Houses 9 Upscale Casual 1 Upscale Casual 6 European / Italian 8 Bistro / New American 1 Entertainment Dining 14 Upscale Casual 3 Diner / Home Style 11 Mexican 1,3 Mexican 16 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 12 Mexican 1,6 Cuban / Caribbean 4 Mexican 5,7 Seafood 12 European / Italian 6 Seafood 3, 5

40 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

RESTAURANT

Mimo's Pizzeria Mirage Mediterranean Restaurant Misawa Hibachi & Sushi Mission BBQ Mitchell's Fish Market Moe's Southwest Grill Mojito in Havana Mojito Tapas Restaurant Molly Malone's Momma's Mustard, Pickles & BBQ Monnik Beer Co. More Shenanigan's Morning Fork Morris Deli & Catering Morton's Of Chicago Moya's American Kitchen Mozza Pi Mr. Gatti's Mt. Fuji Mussel & Burger Bar My Favorite Muffin My Old KY Dinner Train Naila's Caribbean Cuisine Naïve NamNam Café Napa River Grill Neighborhood Services Neil & Patty's Fireside Grill New Albanian Brewing Co. New Direction Bar & Grill New Wave Burritos Nirvana No Baked Cookie Dough Noche Mexican BBQ Noodles & Company Noosh Nosh Nord's Bakery North Lime Donuts Nouvelle Bar & Bottle Ntaba Coffee Haus O'Charley's O'Connell's Irish Pub O'Dolly's Off the Rails Tasting Room Oishii Sushi Old Hickory Inn Old Louisville Tavern Old School NY Pizza Old Spaghetti Factory Olé Frijole O-Line Sports Grill Olive Garden Ollie's Trolley One Thirty Three Onion Restaurant & Tea House Open Caribbean Kitchen Orange Clover Kitchen Oriental Café Oriental House Oriental Star Original Impellizzeri's Osaka Sushi Bar O'Shea's Irish Pub Oskar's Slider Bar Ostra Our Lady of Perpetual Hops Outback Steakhouse OvrDrive Games P.F. Chang's China Bistro Panchitos Ice Cream Panda Express Panera Bread Co. Papa Murphy's Pizza Parlour Parnelli's Chicago Eatery Pasha's Mediterranean Passtime Fish House Patrick O'Shea's Pat's Steak House Paul's Fruit Market Payne Street Bakehouse Pearl Street Game & Coffee House Pearl Street Taphouse Pearl Street Treats Peking City Express Penn Station Pho Ba Luu Pho Café Pho Phi Pier 17 Cajun Seafood Pin + Proof Piña Fiesta Mexican Grill Pints&Union Pizza Donisi Pizza King Pizza Lupo Pizza Place Pizzaville Please & Thank You Plehn's Bakery PokeHana Polly Freeze Porch Kitchen & Bar Porcini Porkland BBQ Portage House Potbelly Sandwhich Shop Po-Z's Kitchen Pregame Coffee Primo's Pizzeria Proof On Main Public House by Against The Grain Puerto Vallarta Pure Blendz Purrfect Day Cat Café Qdoba Mexican Grill Queen of Sheba Queue Café Quick Wok Quill's Coffee Quizno's Subs Rafferty's of Louisville Railbirds Hot Chicken Raising Cane's Ramen House Ramiro's Cantina Ramiro's Cantina Express

PAGE #/CUISINE STYLE 54 69 64 56 46 71 66 68 67 56 62 67 53 57 48 53 54 54 64 50 72 62 66 53 66 43 44 60 54 60 71 60 72 71 53 44 72 72 44 73 53 67 58 46 64 60 61 54 68 71 61 68 50 43 64 66 51 64 64 64 54 64 67 50 46 62 48 62 46 72 64 57 54 54 57 69 47 67 48 57 57 73 61 72 64 57 66 66 66 47 62 71 61 54 54 54 54 54 73 72 64 72 61 68 56 53 57 59 73 54 43 62 71 51 51 71 63 51 64 73 57 53 50 50 64 71 71

MAP #

Pizza 14 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 13 Asian / Japanese 11 Barbecue 3,15 Seafood 8 Southwest / Tex Mex 3,6,8,11 Cuban / Caribbean 3 European / Spanish 7 European / Irish 2 Barbecue 3,5 Microbreweries 13, 14 European / Irish 4 Casual Dining 2 Deli / Sandwich 2 Steakhouse 1 Casual Dining 6 Pizza 5 Pizza 12,13,15 Asian / Japanese 13 Burgers / Chicken 1,6 Desserts / Bakery 5 Entertainment Dining 13 Cuban / Caribbean 15 Casual Dining 2 Asian / Vietnamese 3 Upscale Casual 5 Bistro / New American 3 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 14 Pizza 14 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 5 Mexican 13 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Desserts / Bakery 6 Mexican 2 Casual Dining 6,8,13 Bistro / New American 7 Desserts / Bakery 13 Desserts / Bakery 13 Bistro / New American 1 Coffee / Tea Houses 2 Casual Dining 3,6,12 European / Irish 11 Diner / Home Style 13 Bistro / New American 4 Asian / Japanese 4 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Pizza 5,8 European / Italian 1 Mexican 11 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 8 European / Italian 6,8,11,15 Burgers / Chicken 1 Upscale Casual 1 Asian / Chinese 14 Cuban / Caribbean 13 Cafes 16 Asian / Chinese 4 Asian / Chinese 3 Asian / Chinese 13 Pizza 2,5,10 Asian / Japanese 1,2 European / Irish 2 Burgers / Chicken 13 Bistro / New American 2 Microbreweries 14 Steakhouse 3,8,11,13,15 Entertainment Dining 1 Bistro / New American 5 Desserts / Bakery 2,13 Asian / Chinese 5,6,8,15 Deli / Sandwich [9] Pizza [8] Pizza 2, 14, 16 Deli / Sandwich 16 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 4 Seafood 6 European / Irish 1 Steakhouse 2 Deli / Sandwich 3,4,5,7 Deli / Sandwich 2 Coffee / Tea Houses 16 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 16 Desserts / Bakery 16 Asian / Chinese 3 Deli / Sandwich [17] Asian / Vietnamese 2 Asian / Vietnamese 3 Asian / Vietnamese 3 Seafood 6 Entertainment Dining 1 Mexican 12 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 14 Pizza 13 Pizza 14,16 Pizza 2 Pizza 4 Pizza 8 Coffee / Tea Houses 1,2,10 Desserts / Bakery 3 Asian / Japanese 1 Desserts / Bakery 14 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 European / Italian 2 Barbecue 1 Casual Dining 16 Deli / Sandwich 1,6,8 Southern / Soul Food 12 Coffee / Tea Houses 1 Pizza 6 Upscale Casual 1 Microbreweries 2 Mexican 11,14,16 Cafes 1 Cafes 2 Mexican [17] African 4 Cafes 1 Asian / Chinese 1 Coffee / Tea Houses 1,2,3,13,14 Deli / Sandwich 14 Casual Dining 3 Burgers / Chicken 13 Burgers / Chicken 2,6,8,11,12 Asian / Japanese 2 Mexican 2 Mexican 16

RESTAURANT

Ramsi's Café Rawnaissance Desserts Recbar Red Hog Red Hot Roasters Red Lobster Red Robin Red Sun Chinese Restaurant Red Top Gourmet Hot Dogs Red Yeti Brewing Co. Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse Rice Bowl Rice Box Ricky B's Club Café Riot Cafe River City Drafthouse River House Restaurant River Road BBQ ROC Restaurant Roof Top Grill Roosters Rootie's Sports Bar Roots Royal's Hot Chicken Rubbie's Southside Grill Rubbin' Butts BBQ Rumors Raw Oyster Bar Ruth's Chris Steakhouse Sabor Latino Safai Coffee Safier Mediterranean Deli Saint's Sake Blue Sakura Blue Sala Thai Sal's Pizza & Wings Salsarita's Fresh Cantina Sam's Food & Spirits Sam's Gyro Sam's Seafood & Grill Samurai Sanag Coffee Sanag II Restaurant Sante Fe Grill Sapporo Japanese Grill Sarang Sarino Scene Schlotzky's Deli Scooter's Triple B's Sea Fresh Seafood Seafood Lady Seeds & Greens Deli Selena's At Willow Lake Tavern Senegambia African Restaurant Señor Iguana's Sergio's World Beers Seviche A Latin Restaurant Shack In The Back BBQ Shady Lane Café Shahar Café Shalimar Indian Shark's Seafood Shenanigan's Irish Grille Sherrilli's Pizza Parlor Shiraz Mediterranean Grill Shirley Mae's Café Shogun Shoney's ShopBar Shreeji Indian Vegetarian Sichuan Garden Sicilian Pizza & Pasta Sidebar Silvio's Italian Restaurant Simple Greek Simply Thai Sister Bean's Six Forks Burger Co. Skyline Chili Smashburger Smoked on Second Smokey Bones BBQ SnoWhat Sol Aztecas Somewhere Louisville Sonal's Kitchen Soul Food Dining Soupy's Southern Express Southern Hospitality Spaghetti Shop Spinelli's Pizzeria Star Sushi Starbucks Coffee Starlight Café Starlight Coffee Co. Steak & Bourbon Steak 'n Shake Steel City Pops Stevens & Stevens Deli Stoney River Storming Crab Sub Station II Sue's Touch of Country Sugar & Spice Donut Shop Summa Dat Sunergos Coffee SuperChefs Sushi Master Sway Sweet Peaches Sweet Stuff Bakery Sweet Surrender Sweets By Morgan Swizzle Syrian Grill Abu Abdu Taco Choza Taco City Louisville Taco Tico Tacolicious Taj Palace Tandoori Fusion TanThai Restaurant Taqueria Don Juan Taqueria La Mexicana Tavern On Fourth

PAGE #/CUISINE STYLE 51 73 61 51 73 47 50 64 50 62 48 65 64 44 51 61 44 56 68 66 50 61 64 50 56 56 47 48 69 73 69 61 64 64 65 54 71 53 69 47 64 73 63 71 64 65 68 59 57 61 47 66 57 66 63 71 61 42 56 51 51 68 47 67 54 69 59 64 53 61 68 64 54 46 68 69 65 73 50 53 50 56 56 73 71 46 68 59 57 59 59 68 54 65 73 51 73 48 50 73 57 48 66 57 59 73 56 73 53 65 44 57 73 73 73 42 69 71 71 71 71 68 68 65 71 71 61

MAP #

Cafes 2, 8 Desserts / Bakery 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 6,14 Cafes 2 Coffee / Tea Houses 2 Seafood 3,13,15 Burgers / Chicken 3,8,15 Asian / Chinese 4 Burgers / Chicken 13 Microbreweries 16 Steakhouse 1 Asian / Korean 14 Asian / Chinese 13 Upscale Casual 2 Cafes 1 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Upscale Casual 7 Barbecue 7 European / Italian 2 Cuban / Caribbean 1 Burgers / Chicken 5,8,11,12,13,15 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 8 Asian / Japanese 2 Burgers / Chicken 1,5, 6 Barbecue 13 Barbecue 14 Seafood 5 Steakhouse 3 Latin American 13 Coffee / Tea Houses 2 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 1 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 3 Asian / Japanese 11 Asian / Japanese 3 Asian / Thai 11 Pizza 5 Southwest / Tex Mex 3,5 Casual Dining 14 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 13 Seafood 13 Asian / Japanese 5 Coffee / Tea Houses 13 African 13 Mexican 13 Asian / Japanese 2 Asian / Korean 2 European / Italian 13 Southern / Soul Food 1 Deli / Sandwich 8 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 6 Seafood 11 Cajun / Creole 1,13 Deli / Sandwich 14 Cajun / Creole 5 African 4 Mexican 11,13,15 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Fine Dining 2 Barbecue 13 Cafes 7 Cafes 2 Indian 6 Seafood 4 European / Irish 2 Pizza 15 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 2,5,7,8,13 Southern / Soul Food 1 Asian / Japanese 6,8 Casual Dining 13 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 2 Indian 6 Asian / Chinese 6 Pizza 1,11 Bistro / New American 1 European / Italian 3 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 2 Asian / Thai 3,5 Coffee / Tea Houses 13 Burgers / Chicken 13 Casual Dining 2,3,6,14 Burgers / Chicken 1,5,13 Barbecue 1 Barbecue 6 Desserts / Bakery 13 Mexican 2,11 Bistro / New American 2 Indian 8 Southern / Soul Food 13 Deli / Sandwich 4 Southern / Soul Food 13 Southern / Soul Food 9 European / Italian 14 Pizza 2,3 Asian / Japanese 16 Coffee / Tea Houses [36] Cafes 14 Coffee / Tea Houses 14, 15 Steakhouse 5 Burgers / Chicken 13,15 Desserts / Bakery 2,3, 8 Deli / Sandwich 2 Steakhouse 8 Cajun / Creole 15 Deli / Sandwich 13 Southern / Soul Food 12 Desserts / Bakery 11 Barbecue 9 Coffee / Tea Houses 1, 2, 13 Casual Dining 2 Asian / Japanese 8 Upscale Casual 1 Deli / Sandwich 9 Desserts / Bakery 14 Desserts / Bakery 2 Desserts / Bakery 16 Fine Dining 1 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 4 Mexican 3 Mexican 2 Mexican 12 Mexican 14 Indian 8 Indian 8 Asian / Thai 14 Mexican 16 Mexican 13 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1

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RESTAURANT

Taylor's Cajun Meat Co. Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe Tea Station Chinese Bistro TEN20 Craft Brewery Texas Roadhouse TGI Friday's Thai Café Thai Noodles That's My Dog The Ainsworth The Back Door The Bard's Town The Black Italian The Black Jockey's Lounge The Block Gourmet Deli The Café The Champagnery The Cheddar Box The Cheddar Box Too The Chicken Box The ChillBurger The Coffee Zone The Corner The Eagle The Earl The Early Edition The Fat Lamb The Fish House The Fishery The Fudgery The Funky Waffle Co. The Goat The Grain Haus The Hall on Washington The Hub Louisville The Library The Manhattan Project The Palm Room The Pearl The Pine Room The Post The Raven The Sauce The Silly Axe Café The Silver Dollar The Sports & Social Club The Standard Plate & Pour The Starving Artist Café The Table The Water Company The Wing Zone Thelma's Deli Thirsty Hound Sports Bar Three Brothers Tikka House Tim Tam Tavern Time 4 Thai Tin Roof Tino's Tacos TNT Chicago Style BBQ & Chicken Toast on Market Toasty's Tavern ToGo Sushi Tokyo Japanese Tomo Japanese Restaurant Tony Impellizzeri's Toonerville Deli Top Hat Café Topp't Pizza & Chopped Salad Town Troll Pub Under The Bridge Tsubaki Sushi & Bar Tucker's Tumbleweed Tuscany Italian Restaurant Twig & Leaf Union 15 Union Restaurant & GameYard Uptown Café Vallarta Mexican Seafood and Grill Varanese V-Grits Vibes Restaurant & Ultra Lounge Vic's Café Victoria Mexican Restaurant Vietnam Kitchen Village Anchor Pub & Roost Ville Chicken and Seafood Vinaigrette Salad Kitchen Vincenzo's Vindhu Bhojanam Indian Volare W.W. Cousin's Wagner's Pharmacy Walker's Exchange WayCool Café Week-End Burgers Wei Wei Chinese Express West 6th NuLu Which Wich?

Whiskey Dry Wick's Pizza Wild Dog Rose Tea Boutique Wild Eggs Wild Ginger Sushi & Fusion Williams Bakery Wiltshire at the Speed Wiltshire On Market Wiltshire Pantry Bakery and Café Wingstop World of Beer Yafa Café Yamato Japanese Steak House Yang Kee Noodle Yellow Cactus Yen Ching Yoki Buffet Yummy China Yummy Pollo Zanzabar Za's Pizza Zaxby's Zeggz Amazing Eggs Ziba's Bistro Zoe's Kitchen Zombie Taco

PAGE #/CUISINE STYLE 66 69 64 62 48 53 65 65 58 44 61 62 68 59 58 52 46 52 52 50 50 73 54 50 61 52 46 47 47 73 73 61 54 48 46 61 48 61 61 46 54 67 56 52 46 61 49 52 52 61 50 58 61 47 68 61 65 61 71 56 53 62 65 65 65 55 58 52 55 68 62 65 53 71 68 53 55 62 44 71 44 59 59 52 71 66 46 47 58 42 68 68 50 58 44 52 50 64 62 58 50 55 73 52 65 73 46 44 52 50 49 69 65 64 71 64 64 64 69 62 55 50 52 63 69 71

MAP #

Cajun / Creole 14 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 3,5 Asian / Chinese 8 Microbreweries 2 Steakhouse 2,5,12,13,15 Casual Dining 1 Asian / Thai 7 Asian / Thai 13 Deli / Sandwich 16 Upscale Casual 3 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse Entertainment Dining 2 European / Italian 2 Southern / Soul Food 1 Deli / Sandwich 5 Cafes 1 Bistro / New American 2 Cafes 3 Cafes 3 Burgers / Chicken 12 Burgers / Chicken 15 Coffee / Tea Houses 5 Pizza 8 Burgers / Chicken 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 14 Cafes 16 Bistro / New American 2 Seafood 2,5 Seafood 11 Desserts / Bakery 1 Desserts / Bakery 15 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 5 Pizza 14 Gastropub 1 Bistro / New American 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 Gastropub 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 9 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Bistro / New American 10 Pizza 13 European / Irish 3 Barbecue 1 Cafes 2 Bistro / New American 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 Gastropub 14 Cafes 5 Cafes 9 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 Burgers / Chicken 4,13 Deli / Sandwich 1 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 11 Seafood 9 Indian 3 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Asian / Thai 2 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 3 Mexican 13 Barbecue 9 Casual Dining 1,14 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 Asian / Japanese 5 Asian / Japanese 7 Asian / Japanese 14 Pizza 14 Deli / Sandwich 1 Cafes 1 Pizza 14 European / Italian 16 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 1 Asian / Japanese 5 Casual Dining 14 Southwest / Tex Mex [8] European / Italian 13 Casual Dining 2 Pizza 13 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 16 Upscale Casual 2 Mexican 6 Upscale Casual 2 Southern / Soul Food 2 Southern / Soul Food 1 Cafes 14 Mexican 4 Asian / Vietnamese 13 Bistro / New American 5 Seafood 13 Deli / Sandwich 5 Fine Dining 1 Indian 5 European / Italian 2 Burgers / Chicken 3, 12 Diner / Home Style 13 Upscale Casual 1 Cafes 1 Burgers / Chicken 13 Asian / Chinese 1 Microbreweries 1 Deli / Sandwich 6,8,14 Burgers / Chicken 1 Pizza 2,4,6 Coffee / Tea Houses 2 Cafes 1,3,5,15 Asian / Japanese 2 Desserts / Bakery 15 Bistro / New American 13 Upscale Casual 1 Cafes 2, 8 Burgers / Chicken 6,12 Gastropub 8 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 1 Asian / Japanese 14 Asian / Chinese 5 Mexican 14 Asian / Chinese 6 Asian / Chinese 6 Asian / Chinese 11 Latin American 13 Bar & Grill / Taphouse 13 Pizza 2 Burgers / Chicken 5,12,13,14,16 Cafes 5 African 1 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern 8 Mexican 1

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GUIDE KEY Average Entrée Price: $$$$ $$$$ $$$$ $$$$

under $8 = $9 - $14 = $15 - $20 = $21 & up =

B = Breakfast Br = Brunch L = Lunch D

p

= Dinner

Bar = Outdoor Dining RED = Advertiser

f

= Full

ALL RESTAURANTS ARE LOCATED IN LOUISVILLE, KY (unless noted otherwise) All phone numbers in KENTUCKY use area code 502 All phone numbers in INDIANA use area code 812 cakes, shrimp and grits) and worked in newer items (braised pork shank, squash risotto). $$$$ L D p 211 CLOVER LANE RESTAURANT 211 Clover Ln., 8969570. 211 Clover Lane has been tucked away across the railroad tracks in St. Matthews, in the corner of a little cluster of upscale shops since 1992. Those who know how to find it enjoy drinks in a quiet elegant lounge and dine off seasonal menus. Owner Andrew Smith and his staff keep 211 Clover Lane among the town’s top tables. $$$$ D pf 610 MAGNOLIA 610 Magnolia Ave., 636-0783. Since taking over this Old Louisville landmark restaurant in 2004, Edward Lee has become a Food TV fixture and opened several new restaurants. Jeff Potteris the Executive Chef at this perennial top table and continues the adventurous prix-fixe menu. $$$$ D pf BARN8 10500 W. US Hwy 42, 398-9289. The newest project of Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson is to develop their Hermitage Farm as an agro-tourism destination.

Building number 8 of the historic thoroughbred stable (where Dark Star, who defeated Northern Dancer in the 1953, was foaled) is now a restaurant open to the public.

Diners can choose to dine at private tables (in the stalls) or rent the Hayloft for parties up to 200. Executive Chef Alison Settle’s eclectic menu features heirloom, local and seasonal ingredients drawn heavily from the farm’s extensive gardens. $$$$ D pf BUCK’S 425 W. Ormsby Ave., 637-5284. Elegant and understated, this fine dining room in the Mayflower Apartments is overseen by Chef Allen Sims, who has kept long-standing favorites like the crispy fish and spicy Cantonese noodles but has put his own stamp on the menu with items like fried chicunion 15ken livers, beet and pear salad, west sixthshort ribs Wellington and prosciutto-wrapped lamb chops. Rick Bartlett continues his long tenure at the piano during dinner. $$$ L D pf ENGLISH GRILL 335 W. Broadway (The Brown Hotel), 583-1234. Executive Chef James Adams oversees the formal dining room in one of downtown’s historic hotels.

The Hot Brown is still on the menu, but new dishes tempt visitors and old timers: roasted cauliflower with quinoa and mushrooms, crispy skin duck and a vegetarian harvest plate. The chef’s table in the kitchen is still a great place for a special party. $$$ D p JACK FRY’S 1007 Bardstown Rd., 452-9244. Inside its unprepossessing exterior is one of Louisville’s longestrunning top tables. Seating is tight but the food is consistently excellent. Chef Duncan Williams has continued classic menu items that regulars love (crab 42 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

LA CHASSE 1359 Bardstown Rd., 822-3963. Font-of-thehouse man Isaac Fox creates the ambience of a fine European country inn in the heart of the Highlands. The frequently-changing menu, overseen by Chef Alex Dulaney, fuses the tastes and techniques of Southern France and Northern Spain. $$$$ D p SEVICHE A LATIN RESTAURANT 1538 Bardstown Rd., 473-8560. Chef Anthony Lamas’ menu offers an eclectic range of Latin American dishes in addition to its namesake, the Latino seafood dish “cooked” in tart citrus juices. Continuing to get notice throughout the Southeast for his imaginative cooking, he is setting a standard of cool for the Bardstown Road eating scene. $$$$ D pf SWIZZLE 140 N. Fourth St. (The Galt House), 252-2500.

The Galt House replaces Rivue, its 25th floor restaurant, with Swizzle, a retro-meets-modern redesigned room with a menu focused on steaks, chops and sustainable seafood served up from the open-concept exhibition kitchen in the middle of the restaurant, allowing diners to watch the action. The retro beverage program will focus on classic cocktails, with seasonal specials. $$$$ D p VINCENZO’S 150 S. Fifth St., 580-1350. Known for its suave professional service, high-end Northern Italian fare and many trademark dishes finished at tableside, Vincenzo’s continues to hold its own against growing downtown competition. $$$$ L D pf

THE 1894 LODGE 409 E. Main St., New Washington IN, 628-9006. Once a Masonic Lodge, and later a schoolhouse and a movie theater, The 1894 Lodge is making restaurant news since it hired Nick Sullivan, formerly of Corbett’s An American Place, 610 Magnolia and The Oakroom, as chef. Dishes like pork belly shrimp and grits, New York strip, kung pow brussels, pan seared trout and a side of Parmesan truffle fries are luring new diners to this outpost in rural Indiana.$$$ D pf 8UP ELEVATED DRINKERY AND KITCHEN 350 W. Chestnut St. (Hilton Garden Inn), 631-4180. This rooftop restaurant and bar above the hotel at the corner of Fourth and Chestnut has three elegant areas - an upscale casual dining room, the bar with a separate kitchen and menu, and an expansive outdoor patio that overlooks downtown. The bar kitchen’s two wood-fired ovens offer small plates to nibble while sipping; the main kitchen serves fine dinners. $$$ B D pf

BLACKSTONE GRILLE 9521 U.S. 42, 228-6962. Longtime restaurateur Rick Dissell’s comfortable, casual restaurant in the Prospect Center continues to please regulars and to find new fans. The menu offers sandwiches and an array of bistro entrées — pasta, seafood, beef and chicken, including fried chicken livers and “light” fried chicken. $$$ Br D pf BOURBON RAW 446 S. Fourth St. (Fourth Street Live), 568-9009. This bar and restaurant in Fourth Street Live! features a raw seafood bar, an eclectic Southern menu, special Bourbon dinners and more than 85 Bourbons. The classy interior includes a 57-foot marble bar top, and an outdoor patio area. $$$ Br L D p BRAVO! 206 Bullitt Ln. (Oxmoor Center), 326-0491.

Management describes the Ohio-based Bravo! chain as “a fun, white-tablecloth casual eatery … positioned between the fine-dining and casual chains.” A Roman-ruin setting houses abundant Italian-American style fare. We particularly enjoyed appetizers and first-rate grilled meats. $$ Br L D pf BRENDON’S CATCH 23 505 S. Fourth St. (Embassy Suites), 909-3323. This restaurant inside Embassy Suites hotel has a strong seafood focus: “wild caught” Hawaiian tuna, king crab, Chilean sea bass, fresh oysters, black grouper, and the famous Brendon’s seafood tower. The setting is a relaxed but elegant atmosphere; other choices include steak and Low Country cuisine. $$$ D p BRISTOL BAR & GRILLE 1321 Bardstown Rd., 456-1702, 300 N. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 426-0627, 614 W. Main St., 582-1995. A cornerstone of Louisville’s restaurant renaissance, Bristol started three decades ago on Bardstown Road. Now, with three venues around town, diners can always find dependable pub grub, eclectic entrées, and evergreen standards like the green-chile won tons and the Bristol Burger. $$ Br L D pf CHARR’D BOURBON KITCHEN & LOUNGE 1903 Embassy Square Blvd. (Marriott Louisville East), 4911184. The J’town Marriott Hotel’s restaurant is on the Urban Bourbon Trail. Chef Raquel Romero’s eclectic menu offers Kentucky burgoo, Kentucky Kobb salad and several dishes (Buffalo Trace Reuben, Makers Mark ribs) that incorporate some of the bar’s 75 offerings of Bourbon. $$$ Br L D p THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY 5000 Shelbyville Rd. (Mall St. Matthews), 897-3933. One of 175 outlets of the California-based chain, this popular restaurant maintains a large and diverse menu that entices and satisfies a wide range of diners. Food quality is above average for this kind of restaurant chain, though its namesake cheesecakes are baked in California and North Carolina. $$$ Br L D pf CULTURED CHEESE, CHEERS, AND CHARCUTERIE 1007 E. Main St., 409-8706. Made-to-order charcuterie boards, including some with vegan and vegetarian options. Cheese selections showcase the owner’s family’s Kenny’s Farmhouse Cheese and other mainly local food products. $$ L D pf DECCA 812 E. Market St., 749-8128. Decca’s handsomely re-done 19th-century building, its serene garden, its classy basement bar and breezy second-floor eating balcony are all fun. But Chef Annie Pettry’s inventive, locally-sourced menu combined with the restaurant’s wine program make it a classy place to dine. $$$$ D pf DOC CROW’S 127 W. Main St., 587-1626. Doc Crow’s solidly anchors the dining choices on Whiskey Row. Oysters from both coasts, raw and fried, fried green tomatoes, pork rinds, shrimp and grits, all served in a handsome renovation of one of Main Street’s classic castiron front buildings. $$ L D p EQUUS & JACK'S RESTAURANT | LOUNGE 122 Sears Ave., 897-9721. A Louisville institution since 1985 under the ownership of the late culinary icon Dean Corbett, Jared Matthews now runs both the restaurant and Jack’s Lounge. Matthews has made some physical updates, but

RED = Advertiser B = Breakfast Br = Brunch L = Lunch D = Dinner

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has striven to keep the restaurant’s and the lounge’s classic upscale casual atmosphere and approachable menu. The signature mushroom fumé remains, along with satisfying entrées like Yankee pot roast, fried chicken with sawmilll gravy and Parmesan-crusted sea bass. $$$ D pf FORK & BARREL 2244 Frankfort Ave., 907-3675.

Chef/owner Geoffrey Heyde serves upscale modern American cuisine in upper Clifton, with an emphasis on local ingredients, craft cocktails and southern hospitality.

Look for pork shank with roasted garlic grits, buttermilksoaked and cornmeal dusted chicken livers and chocolate bourbon truffles. $$$ D p J. ALEXANDER’S REDLANDS GRILL 102 Oxmoor Court, 339-2206. This comfortably upscale venue, a Nashville-based chain, features “contemporary American” fare with a broad menu that ranges from burgers and sandwiches to such upscale eats as grilled tuna or a New York strip steak. $$$ D p J. HARROD’S 7507 Upper River Rd., 228-4555. A Prospect mainstay since 1994, J. Harrod’s substantial menu— grilled steaks and chops, pasta, seafood, fried green tomatoes and chicken livers with gravy—is served with aplomb in a quiet, comfortable dining room. Comfort food Sundays and Wednesday Italian Nights brings out special dishes. $$$ D p LEVEE BOURBON LOUNGE 3015 River Rd., 897-5000.

John Varanese’s riverside music bar has been redesigned and rebuilt as a Bourbon-centric bar and lounge, with Bourbon barrel tables, sofas and easy chairs in the lounge, artwork and decor made from barrel tops and staves, and, of course, a large, eclectic selection of over 200 Bourbons (and other spirits). Order from the River House menu while you sip: sautéed mussels, grilled octopus, a charcuterie tray or any of the delights on the raw bar. $$ D pf MARKETPLACE RESTAURANT 651 S. Fourth St., 6253001. Going to a show downtown? Chow down first at Marketplace. The elegant decor, whether at the circular bar, in the serene dining room, or any of the three outdoor spaces will get you in the mood, and the seasonal Italian-influenced southern cuisine will get you to the curtain well-fed indeed. $$ L D pf MELBA'S CULINARY CANVAS 430 W. Jefferson St.,6537000. This eclectic downtown restaurant and bakery casts a wide culinary net. For lunch opt for sandwiches, ramen bowls or tacos, pasta dishes or meatloaf. Take home artistic candies, including cute marzipan animals, cakes or artisanal chocolates. $$$ B Br L p MELTING POT 2045 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 491-4762. If you have pleasant memories of fondue parties of the ’70s, The Melting Pot is for you. If you can melt it and dip things in it, it’s probably on the menu. $$$ D p MESH 3612 Brownsboro Rd., 632-4421. The lush modern building and the casual/elegant menu have made a strong presence in the neighborhood. The cosmopolitan menu includes kung pao calamari, beet salad, Amish chicken and mushroom strudel, all served in an atmosphere of “contemporary elegance and comfort.” $$$ Br L D pf NAPA RIVER GRILL 1211 Herr Ln., 423-5822. An eclectic mix of California-inspired fusion dishes served in a clean, crisp, informally classy atmosphere have made Napa a long-time favorite. Chef Seth Butkus’s lunch offerings range from smoked salmon wontons to Vietnamese salad.

The lovely patio makes for lazy summer dining on baked goat cheese, vegetable pad Thai or smoked pork shank. $$$ Br L D pf ONE THIRTY THREE 133 W. Liberty St., 888-1515. The downtown space that once was Coyote Corner, and more recently Griff’s has been revived by the owners of Parlour in Jeffersonville and Crescent Hill. One Thirty Three is a bourbon-centric bar, with an upscale bar menu. $$$ Br LDp PROOF ON MAIN 702 W. Main St. (21c Hotel), 217-6360.

Executive Chef Jonathan Searle has kept the bison burger

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

RED = Advertiser

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and the charred octopus, favorites from Proof’s start, even as he has put his own stamp on the menu with dishes such as chicken fried pork cheeks, hearth-roasted spaghetti squash and extensive charcuterie choices. The bar remains one of the hippest in town. $$$ B Br L D pf

TVs, but the food is several notches above the norm of sports bars. Try Chef Ming Pu’s charred broccoli soup, brown butter sage gnocchi or cauliflower steak. A full bar and signature cocktails, and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. $$ Br D pf

RICKY B'S CLUB CAFÉ 2901 Brownsboro Rd., 333-0110.

This vaguely Moorish-style building that has housed several restaurants over the years is now a supper club run by the well-known pianist Rick Bartlett. His “world fusion” eclectic menu includes short ribs, fettuccine Alfredo, sea bass, “mystical” fries and Bartlett’s signature Bouncin' Back Burger. Bartlett, along with others, will entertain diners. $$$ D p

ALEX&NDER 1121 E. Washington St., 561-0267. Dallas McGarity, owner of The Fat Lamb and Portage House, oversees the menu at the rooftop bar at Copper & Kings Distillery. Dinner is Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, and brunch and dinner Saturday and Sunday. McGarity’s menu is, in his own words, “elegantly simple without being intimidating, and that can complement the outstanding drinks served in Alex&nder.” $$ Br D pf

RIVER HOUSE RESTAURANT & RAW BAR 3015 River Rd., 897-5000. John Varanese’s river-side restaurant complex is getting more complex as he begins renovations on the upper floor to create new dining and party spaces.

The elegant reimagining of the former boat dealership building befits the always interesting seafood dishes inspired by Nawlins and Charleston, where Varanese began his career. There’s an extensive raw bar, too, and dockside service for boaters. $$$$ Br L D pf

ANOOSH BISTRO 4864 Brownsboro Rd., 690-6585.

Anoosh Shariat’s elegant Brownsboro Center space has an eclectic lunch and dinner menu that includes trout provençal, coconut curry tofu, grilled romaine salad, and house-made pastas and risottos. $$ L D p

SWAY 320 W. Jefferson St. (Hyatt Regency), 581-1234. The handsome dining room on the entry level of the hotel has a bar that opens to Fourth Street in good weather and a menu based on the “Southern Way,” from whence comes the name Sway. The fried chicken, cooked to order, quickly became a signature dish. $$$$ D pf THE AINSWORTH 3929 Shelbyville Rd., 690-6153. The owners of Sullivan’s in St. Matthews have bought into the Ainsworth chain, a high-concept sports bar redecorated with upscale rustic décor: barn wood walls, leather booths and televisions set in antique picture frames. The fancierthan-usual bar food menu includes a notorious mac & cheese burger and gold-foil dusted chicken wings. $$$ Br D pf UPTOWN CAFÉ 1624 Bardstown Rd., 458-4212. After announcing its closure due to the disruptions of the pandemic, the Uptown, which has anchored the Bardstown Rd. restaurant row for 35 years, plans to reopen this spring. New owners Tom and Lisa Drexler will keep the same management and culinary staff, so fans of Uptown's black bean cakes, shrimp bisque, chicken in puff pastry, basa fish tacos, jagerschnitzel or the chocolate ganache tore need not despair. $$$ L D pf VARANESE 2106 Frankfort Ave., 899-9904. Chef John Varanese’s signature restaurant (he has River House and Levee too) has a slate-backed interior waterfall and a folding front wall that opens in good weather. The lively, international seasonal menu is buttressed by frequent special wine, whiskey or beer dinners. Live jazz, contemporary art and urban style complete the mood. $$$ D pf VOLARE 2300 Frankfort Ave., 894-4446. (See review under European/Italian.)

WALKER’S EXCHANGE 140 N. Fourth St. (Galt House Hotel), 272-1834. The Galt House’s Kentucky-style brasserie, located in the West Tower, is styled after a 19thcentury restaurant of the same name. The menu juxtaposes familiar French and American dishes — including classic Southern-style comforts like short rib hand pies and shrimp po-boys. $$$$ B Br L D p WILTSHIRE ON MARKET 636 E. Market St., 589-5224.

Understated elegance and creative dishes from Chef Rory O’Connell characterize this NuLu restaurant. The finely crafted small plates menu changes weekly to showcase the best seasonal ingredients. Start with the weekly charcuterie board or cheese plate, followed by a seasonal flatbread or salad, and perhaps a pasta dish. Open Thur.Sun. only. Reservations suggested. $$ D pf

502 BAR & BISTRO 10401 Meeting Pl., 742-4772. This sleek, contemporary spot in Norton Commons, has lots of

44 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

BOARD AND YOU BISTRO & WINE BAR 434 Pearl St., New Albany IN, 913-4109. Look for handcrafted cocktails, charcuterie boards with meats and cheeses from around the world, entrées, small plates, salads, soups and house-made desserts such as blueberry pie bar, mascarpone cheesecake and a pots de creme flight. $$$$ B L D pf BOURBONS BISTRO 2255 Frankfort Ave., 894-8838.

Located in an historic Clifton building, Bourbons Bistro stocks a selection of more than 130 bourbons, including a barrel selection program. Chef Jereme McFarland’s bourbon-inspired, seasonally-influenced menu recently has featured tuna poke tacos, cacio e pepe pasta and bourbon bread pudding. $$$ D pf BRIDGE & BARREL 700 W. Riverside Dr., Jeffersonville IN, 206-7170. Bridge & Barrel, offering upscale Southern comfort foods like fried green tomatoes, black-eyed pea hummus, smoked pork shoulder sandwiches, fried chicken and catfish platters. Enjoy it all with sweeping views of the Ohio River and the Louisville skyline. $$ L D pf BRIX WINE BAR 12418 La Grange Rd., 243-1120. The use of an obscure wine term (it’s pronounced “bricks” and refers to the sugar content of ripe grapes at harvest) hints that the proprietors of this wine bar know their vino.

Interesting wines and a short bistro-style menu make it a welcome suburban alternative. $$ D p BUTCHERTOWN GROCERY 1076 E. Washington St., 742-8315. Bobby Benjamin’s restaurant offers housemade pasta and charcuterie, a chef’s table near the kitchen, and dishes such as whole rotisserie chicken and the Grocery steak, a bone-in, 55-day dry-aged ribeye served with black truffle béarnaise. An upstairs entertainment space, Lola, has intimate seating and its own kitchen for late-night noshing. $$$ Br L D p CUVÉE WINE TABLE 3598 Springhurst Blvd., 242-5200.

Scott Harper and others from the Bristol Bar & Grille organization have made this wine bar and café in the East End a fine stop for after work. Drop in to explore Master Sommelier Harper’s adventurous wine list with tasting pours and small plates of charcuterie, cheeses, salads and snacks from the kitchen. Look for regular casual classes organized on various wine themes. $$ L D pf DITTO’S GRILL 1114 Bardstown Rd., 581-9129. This informal Highlands space masks the work of classically trained owner-chefs Dominic Serratore and Frank Yang.

Don’t overlook Serratore’s “gourmet casual” menu of New England crab cakes, fanciful salads and Sunday brunch egg dishes. $$ L D pf EGGS OVER FRANKFORT 2712 Frankfort Ave., 7094452. Husband and wife team Jackson and Cortney Nave have creatively refurbished this Crescent Hill space into a “very traditional” breakfast spot. Its menu includes omelets, eggs Benedict, waffles and oatmeal, as well as salads and sandwiches for lunch. $ B Br L

FACES BAR/BISTRO 1604 Bardstown Rd., 742-6403.

Restaurateur Eric Morris (Hull & High Water, Gospel Bird) takes over the space most recently occupied by Stout Burgers & Beer for his newest effort, a neighborhood bar with a sophisticated bar food menu. Choose from smoked tuna dip or yucca fries, pastrami panini or honey dipped chicken sandwich, or Thai curry spaghetti squash. $$$ D p GARAGE BAR 700 E. Market St., 749-7100. Housed in a former service station in NuLu, Garage Bar serves up draft and bottled craft beers, Bourbons, seasonal cocktails and wine, pizzas from a wood-fired brick oven and Southern specialties, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.

The ham flight is not to be missed. $$$ D pf HAMMERHEADS 921 Swan St., 365-1112, 2222 Dundee Rd., 452-9385. Hammerheads, one of the hippest of Germantown’s restaurants, now has a second location in the Highlands where Migos used to be, also run by Hammerheads owners Adam Burress and Chase Murcino.

Both locations serve BBQ beef brisket, pork and lamb ribs, roasted duck sandwiches and soft shell crab tacos. $ D HOLY GRALE 1034 Bardstown Rd., 459-9939. There are a lot of places to quaff craft beers in town, but Holy Grale’s frequently changing draft selection is among the most esoteric. Couple that with the seasonally adapted menu of small plates and the oddity of being housed in a renovated church and you have a unique dining and drinking experience. $$ L D LA CHANDELEUR 304 W. Woodlawn Ave., 547-9722.

This crepes purveyor began as a food truck, but has now found a permanent home in Beechmont. The menu has expanded to include up to 25 items, including the popular vegetarian black bean burger crêpe and an avocado crepe with poached eggs and red pepper jam. $$ B Br L LOU LOU FOOD + DRINK 106 Sears Ave, 893-7776.

Jared Matthews, who also operates Equus and Jack’s Lounge, continues the Café Lou Lou tradition of Nawlinsstyle Cajun food, but Chef Christian Garay has added other casual fare including pizza, pastas and calzones. $$ Br L D p LOUVINO 1606 Bardstown Rd., 365-1921, 11400 Main St., 742-1456. Steve Ritchie, former CEO at Papa John’s Pizza, has taken over this popular wine bar and small plates restaurant. He is keeping on Executive Chef Tavis Rockwell and his staff, so fans will still be able to enjoy the seasonal shareable small plates menu and clever organization of the wine list. A myriad of wines by the glass are available fresh from their wine-dispensing cruvinet system. $$ Br D pf MERLE’S WHISKEY KITCHEN 122 W. Main St., 2908888. Tony Palombino’s popular Whiskey Row food and music spot across from the KFC Yum! Center offers live music on a regular basis and a menu that emphasizes tacos and Southern fried chicken. Sides offered include sweet potato casserole, long-cooked green beans and a candied bacon appetizer. 100 bourbons are currently on offer, including handpicked private barrels from Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, Wild Turkey and others. $ L D pf NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES 400 S. Second St., (Omni Hotel), 313-6664. This casual eating option in the Omni hotel serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers relaxed indoor and outdoor dining. Enter from the hotel or street. $$$ B L D pf NOOSH NOSH 4816 Brownsboro Ctr., 205-2888. Anoosh Shariat’s family-style eatery is close by his upscale Bistro in Brownsboro Center. Here, a rustic stone oven in an open kitchen offers “homey, comfort food.” Chef Peng Looi, of Asiatique and August Moon, cooks three nights a week. $$$ B Br L D pf NOUVELLE BAR & BOTTLE 214 S. Clay St., 631-9428.

This French-style wine bar sells 40+ wines by the glass (in 3-, 6- or 9-ounce pours) and 200 to 300 wines by the bottle, focusing on affordable, interesting wines. A

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selection of beers, ciders, classic cocktails, bourbons and scotches also are available to accompany cheese and charcuterie boards, along with desserts. $ L D pf OFF THE RAILS TASTING ROOM AND WINE DEPOT 2118 Bruce Ave., 822-0738. Enjoy three favorite adult beverages at this Buechel winery – wine, craft brews, and bourbon. The wines made by owners Kenny and Denise Jewell include a Cabernet and Reisling, and several fruit blends. The beers and Bourbons are from all over Kentucky. $$ Br D pf OSTRA 1758 Frankfort Ave., 915-0160. After a brief hiatus, this tidy, hip Clifton café is open again under Christopher deRome, one of the original owners. Oysters are still a mainstay, but focus has shifted to items like duck grilled cheese and 100% house-ground ribeye with smoked cheddar. $$ D pf

the ambience is a British pub. The hearty upscale comfort food-style menu is served lunch and dinner with weekend brunch. A short, well-selected wine list and ambitious beer list with more than 50 craft and import choices accompany 55 Bourbons to boot. $$$ Br L D pf WILTSHIRE AT THE SPEED 2035 S. Third St., 634-2976.

Susan Hershberg and her team led by Chef Reed Johnson bring “artfully inspired, creative and seasonal” breakfast and luncheon fare to the Speed Museum. Open at 10 a.m. for pastries, croissants, coffee and tea, lunch is served until 3 p.m. with soups, salads, sandwiches and entrees such as buckwheat noodle salad with seared salmon. A grab-and-go counter is open until 5 p.m. And now a limited dinner menu is served Fridays when the museum is open until 8 p.m. $$ B Br L pf

P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO 9120 Shelbyville Rd., 327-7707. This Arizona-based, Chinese-themed restaurant offers a loud, happy scene with Chinese-style dishes. To its credit, everything is prepared well and service is consistently fine. $$$ L D pf

HOOKED ON FRANKFORT 3202 Frankfort Ave., 6909835. The owners of Frankfort Ave Beer Depot now operate this fish house two doors away. The menu features fried fish sandwiches, fish tacos, baskets of shrimp or oysters or frog legs. Clam/conch chowder and seafood gumbo, too, or mac and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches for those who can’t do fish. $$ L D p

THE CHAMPAGNERY AT ARCHITYPE GALLERY 1764 Frankfort Ave., 896-8050. This Clifton business hosts art shows and now also has a full bar with a focus on more than 120 Champagnes and sparkling wines plus a menu of light bites – oysters, caviar, charcuterie, cheeses, fruit and desserts. $$$ D p

HUNGRY PELICAN 5412 Bardstown Rd., 239-7145. The sole remaining representative of a quite popular chain still keeps up the tradition. The cooks and servers are oldtimers who understand the intricacies of getting perfectly fried seafood to customers in timely fashion. Generouslyfilled rolled oysters, too. $$ L D pf

THE FAT LAMB 2011 Grinstead Dr., 409-7499. The first of Chef/owner Dallas McGarity’s dining properties, this comfortable, classy Highlands bistro serves lunch and dinner, focusing on small plates such as onion and chive hushpuppies, lamb meatballs, curry-seared salmon, tandoori-seared scallops and ricotta ghnocchi with truffled mushroom cream. $$ L D pf

JOE’S CRAB SHACK 131 River Rd., 568-1171. The setting on the edge of Riverfront Park is bright, noisy and fun, with a wraparound deck providing a panoramic river view. $$ L D pf KINGFISH RESTAURANT 3021 Upper River Rd., 8950544, 601 W. Riverside Dr., Jeffersonville IN, 2843474. Fried fish in a family dining setting has made Kingfish a popular favorite for many years. Aficionados of rolled oysters and frog legs can find both here, as well as a large selection of fried and broiled seafood, as dinners and sandwiches. Both locations boast river views. $$ L D pf

THE HUB LOUISVILLE 2235 Frankfort Ave., 777-1505.

Clifton has taken to this sprawling modern restaurant, cocktail bar and adult rec center with gusto. The Southern-inspired small plates menu and its specials board of rotating entrees pleases multiple tastes. The bar boasts a big rum and tequila selection, with alcoholic floats a specialty. The lively patio is packed in good weather. $$ D pf

VILLAGE ANCHOR PUB & ROOST 11507 Park Rd., 7081850. In the heart of Anchorage is this two-level Eurovillage inspired concept. On the upper level, a French bistro with an outdoor terrace. Downstairs at The Sea Hag 46 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

THE FISH HOUSE 1310 Winter Ave., 568-2993. Louisville is as overflowing as a well-stocked lake with fishsandwich houses, and The Fish House is right up there with the best. Crisp breading laced with black pepper is the signature of Green River fried fish from Western Kentucky. And on weekends the space morphs into Café Beignet, serving hearty breakfasts and New Orleans-style beignets. $ Br L D pf

HILL STREET FISH FRY 111 E. Hill St., 636-3474. This Old Louisville tradition is small and easy to miss, but it’s worth the effort to find. Its oversized fried whitefish sandwich is the flagship dish, but a varied menu is also available. $ L D f

SOMEWHERE LOUISVILLE 1135 Bardstown Rd., 5526942. Now you can dine and have some cocktails, and then slide right next door to Nowhere for late-night fun and games. The Southern-inspired menu includes beer cheese and pretzels, smoked wings, buttermilk fried chicken and 3 varieties of flatbreads. $$ D pf

THE SILVER DOLLAR 1761 Frankfort Ave., 259-9540. In this Clifton honky tonk bar and restaurant, the music, all on vinyl, is the “Bakersfield sound” — a fusion of Mexicali and American roots music. The southern country-style menu with sophisticated nuances has happy fans crowding in mosty nights. Choose from more than 80 Kentucky Bourbons, ryes, tequila and mescal, but no “foreign whiskey” like Scotch. $$ Br L D pf

CUNNINGHAM’S CREEKSIDE 6301 Upper River Rd., 228-3625. One of the longest-lived restaurants in the city, Cunningham’s has had several incarnations since 1870, and now pulls in old timers and new fans at its Harrod’s Creek location. There you can find fine fish sandwiches and pub grub, and absorb some of the nostalgia associated with this long-time favorite. $ Br L D pf

THE FISHERY 3624 Lexington Rd., 895-1188. This friedfish eatery has been popular in the St. Matthews neighborhood since 1983. The Fishery remains justly popular for its quick, sizzling hot and affordable fish and seafood meals. $ L D f

SIDEBAR AT WHISKEY ROW 129 N. Second St., 3841600. On the west side of Whiskey Row, above Troll Pub under the Bridge, Sidebar focuses on burgers, Bourbon and beer, a potentially boffo combo for those going to or coming from the Yum! Center across the street. The emphasis is on craft cocktails served alongside a short but bold selection of sandwiches, appetizers and desserts. $$ L D p

THE PINE ROOM 6325 River Rd., 528-4422. Augusta Holland is behind the modern incarnation of this classic Prospect restaurant, in the space that most recently was Cast Iron Steakhouse. Start with, perhaps, the chicken liver lettuce wraps, or sweet potato falafel. Then go for the blackened pork chop or the grain bowl. The buttermilk fried chicken is a dining favorite. $$$ Br D pf

to eat fish, you’ll likely enjoy Catfish Haven, a simple, down-home eatery in Southwestern Jefferson County.

Seafood is the specialty. Fishermen will enjoy their payto-fish lake. $$ L D f

BONEFISH GRILL 657 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 412-4666.

This franchise concept from the Florida-based Outback Steakhouse chain offers impressive seafood in a comfortable setting. Add Bonefish to your short list of suburban chain eateries that do the job right. $$$ D p CADILLACS CHICKEN AND FISH 7105 Fegenbush Ln., 287-3437. This family-operated food truck has found a permanent space, where you can find catfish, codfish plates, chicken tenders and fish tacos, with simple sides of fries, coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, onion rings and hushpuppies. $$ L D p CAPTAIN’S QUARTERS RIVERSIDE GRILLE 5700 Captain’s Quarters Rd., 228-1651. One of the city’s most attractive eateries for atmosphere, Captain’s Quarters matches the beautiful setting with quality bistro-style fare that won’t disappoint. Summer or winter, it’s a delightful place to dine. $$ Br L D pf CATFISH HAVEN PAY LAKE & RESTAURANT 7208 Whipple Rd., 937-7658. If you like to fish, or if you like

MIKE LINNIG’S 9308 Cane Run Rd., 937-9888. This popular riverside restaurant has been dishing up tasty fried fish and seafood at family prices since 1925. There’s indoor seating and a bar, but the picnic grove with its giant shade trees makes Linnig’s a special place in season.

Out of season — Nov. to Jan. — the family shutters the place and takes a nice vacation. $ L D f MILLION'S CRAB 4600 Shelbyville Rd., 365-2665, 12951 Shelbyville Rd., 742-2485. Both locations of this casual counter-service restaurant offer Cajun seafood boils, side dishes, bulgogi and pulled pork sliders, mac and cheese, fried shrimp and alligator bites. Half and full pound seafood-in-a-bag choices include clams or mussels, crawfish, shrimp. scallops, snow crab legs or lobster tails. $$ L D p MITCHELL’S FISH MARKET 4031 Summit Plaza Dr., 412-1818. The decor of this upscale eatery evokes the feeling of a large fish market, with an open kitchen that offers views of chefs at work. Quality seafood and service have made Mitchell’s a popular destination. $$$ L D pf

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PASSTIME FISH HOUSE 10801 Locust Rd., 267-4633. If you are looking for an honest fish sandwich and a cold beer, with no frills, this Jeffersontown tavern is just the ticket. Belly up, place your order, and be sure to have cash — no credit cards accepted here. $$ L D f PIER 17 CAJUN SEAFOOD 1975 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 409-9857. The former Jason’s Deli building on the Jeffersontown side of Hurstbourne is the area’s first introduction to the Vietnamese-Cajun fusion concept of Asian-spiced seafood boils which has been rolling northward from the Texas-Louisiana coast. $$$ L D pf RED LOBSTER 4639 Outer Loop, 964-9647, 986 Breckenridge Ln., 899-3334, 951 E. Lewis and Clark Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 285-0444. Consistent quality and moderate prices have maintained this seafood chain’s popularity in the casual dining category since its founding more than fifty years ago. Periodic promotions please repeat customers and draw new folks into the fold. $$$ L D pf RUMORS RESTAURANT & RAW BAR 12339 Shelbyville Rd., 245-0366. Visualize Hooter’s without the scantilyclad waitresses, and you’ve drawn a bead on Rumor’s, the original Louisville home of the bucket-of-oysters and impressive raw bar. $$ L D pf SAM'S SEAFOOD & GRILL 4918 Poplar Level Rd., 9666940. The choices here include jack salmon, frog legs, grouper and red snapper, as well as catfish, tilapia and shrimp. The fish-averse can fill up on chicken wings or gizzards or a range of meat-filled sandwiches. $$ L D SEA FRESH SEAFOOD 8129 Bardstown Rd., 409-5005.

This Fern Creek neighborhood restaurant is hooking fans lured by its cooked-to-order fish, shrimp, catfish, oysters, grilled salmon and chicken. The fried green tomatoes starter merits special mention. $$ L D SHARK’S SEAFOOD 3099 Breckenridge Ln., 450-5775.

Several types of crunchy-breaded fried fish - white fish,

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shrimp, catfish, salmon - to choose from, as well as wings and side dishes like fried mushrooms and fried okra. $ L D THREE BROTHERS 2001 Seventh Street Rd., 409-7447.

The menu of this Algonquin neighborhood fish house includes Chicago-style fried perch, cod, salmon and catfish, the best seller. $ L D VILLE CHICKEN AND SEAFOOD 4322 Poplar Level Rd., 919-8994. The name certainly reveals the focus of this well-kept little neighborhood spot that has re-worked an old Arby’s building. There are crawfish and crab legs, too, corn on the cob and very commendable real Southern sweet tea. $$ L D

BOB'S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE 400 S. Second St., (Omni Hotel), 313-6664. The signature restaurant located off the lobby in the Omni Hotel offers refined service and a decor focused on American thoroughbred racing. A steak menu offers seven prime selections, from ribeye to filet to 28-oz. porterhouse. Seafood, too (crab cakes, scampi, lobster tails), and sumptuous desserts. $$$$ D p BRAZEIROS CHURRASCARIA 450 S. Fourth St. (Fourth Street Live) 290-8220. This Knoxville-based company’s first satellite location has been a downtown hit. A churrascaria works like this: You choose drinks, visit the salad bar and await visits from “gaucho chefs” who bring yard-long skewers of grilled meats (beef, lamb, sausage) to your table for slicing — as much as you wish — along with side dishes. $$$$ L D pf BROOKLYN & THE BUTCHER 148 E. Market St., New Albany IN. 590-2646. Ian Hall of The Exchange Pub + Kitchen opened this steakhouse in a renovated historic hotel with lots of cool touches: black and white tiles on floor and walls, an open kitchen and a vintage bar counter

from an old local Woolworth’s store. The bar program emphasizes bourbon, Scotch and craft beers. The menu includes fresh seafood, small plates and lots of beef — New York strip, bone-in ribeye, flat iron steaks — all as locally sourced as possible. $$$ D pf CAST IRON STEAKHOUSE 1207 E. Market St., Jeffersonville IN, 590-2298. Buck’s owner Curtis Rader also operates this riverside eatery where the kitchen cooks steaks and sides in cast iron pans at moderate prices. The ambience is upscale with “no peanuts on the floor, antlers on the wall or country music,” Rader promises. $$$ D pf CATTLEMAN’S ROADHOUSE 2001 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 384-7623, 139 Historical Trail, 543-3574, 3500 St. Joseph Rd., New Albany, 725-7166. These local outlets of the small regional chain offer mid-priced beef choices and starters such as fried pickle chips and jalapeño poppers, grilled chicken, salmon, and plenty of sandwiches. $$$ L D pf DEL FRISCO’S 101 Whittington Pkwy., 897-7077. Over a year after having its roof collapse, this long-time St. Matthews steakhouse has resumed operation at the former location of Z's Oyster Bar & Steakhouse. The high-end menu offers steaks, a variety of surf ’n’ turf selections, seafood and, of course, its famous spinach dish, green phunque. $$$$ D pf JACK BINION’S STEAKHOUSE Caesar’s Southern Indiana, Elizabeth IN, 866-676-7463. After you hit it big at the tables, Binion’s has everything a high roller craves.

Start with oysters Rockefeller or shrimp cocktail, French onion soup or crab bisque. Then, choose Chilean sea bass, lobster tail, rack of lamb or a choice of prime steak, including Wagyu tenderloin. $$$$ D p JEFF RUBY’S STEAKHOUSE 325 W. Main St., 584-0102.

This Cincinnati restaurateur has made an impact in Louisville with his outstanding steaks, glittery bar, urban

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vibe and top-notch service. The rooms have Churchill Downs themes. The steaks take the rail with seafood and sushi coming up fast on the outside. $$$$ L D p LE MOO 2300 Lexington Rd., 458-8888. Kevin Grangier of Village Anchor & Pub in Anchorage has re-imagined the space that was for decades KT’s, creating a new interior design he calls “Paris brothel meets vintage warehouse,” a lively and amusing space with lots of steel, neon and velvet, a large bar, and an outdoor patio. The Euroeclectic menu has an emphasis on steaks, of course, but the drag-themed brunch has gained many fans. $$ Br L D pf LOGAN’S ROADHOUSE 970 E. Lewis & Clark Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 288-9789, 1540 Alliant Ave., 266-6009., 5229 Dixie Hwy., 448-0577. With more than 100 properties in 17 states, this Nashville-based chain parlays peanut shells on the floor and steaks on the table into a popular formula. $$ L D p

icing. Try the House Punch or choose from over 100 bourbons, including a reserve list. $$$ L D pf STONEY RIVER LEGENDARY STEAK 3900 Summit Plaza Dr., 429-8944. Stoney River in the Springhurst shopping center is one of the chain’s first properties outside its Georgia home. It draws big crowds with its memorable steaks and trimmings, with extra points for friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere. $$$$ Br D p TEXAS ROADHOUSE 757 E. Lewis & Clark Pkwy. (Green Tree Mall), Clarksville IN, 280-1103, 4406 Dixie Hwy., 448-0705, 3322 Outer Loop, 962-7600, 13321 Shelbyville Rd., 253-0085, 5055 Shelbyville Rd., 8975005. The spirit of the West sets the theme for this popular steak house. Salads, vegetables and breads with hearty side dishes round out your meal options. This is family-style dining, with no tray sliding — service at your table. $$ L D p

LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE 2535 Hurstbourne Gem Ln., 671-5350, 9700 Von Allmen Ct., 326-7500, 1210 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 284-5800, 4813 Outer Loop, 969-9790. Oversize steaks and a “big sky” western theme are the draw at this chain eatery, although most of its properties are east of the Mississippi. $$ L D p

DOWN ONE BOURBON BAR & RESTAURANT 321 W. Main St., 566-3258. Situated down one flight below street level, this cool, shaded watering hole stocks 150-plus Bourbons, local craft beer and serves wines by the glass.

Well-priced bar food like biscuit sandwiches, tacos and Frito Pie make for a quick, satisfying lunch. Bluegrass music several times a week too. $$ L D pf

FOUR PEGS BEER LOUNGE 1053 Goss Ave., 634-1447.

Twelve craft beers on tap and a 30 bottle beer list bring in the fans, who also appreciate the award-winning veggie burger and other well-priced pub grub such as a chicken and waffle sandwich and an estimable burger with fried green tomatoes and beer sauce. $ D f

MORTON’S 626 W. Main St., 584-0421. This belowground temple to the red meat gods is elegant and masculine, full of wood paneling, brass rails and leather booths. Louisville reveres its home-grown restaurants but has welcomed this Chicago-based chain with open mouths. $$$$ D p

GALAXIE 732 E. Market St., 690-6595. The guys behind RYE just down the street now have the Green Building space for a bar dedicated to moderately priced drinks ($7 cocktails are what they are shooting for) and a bar menu of “international-inspired street food,” which was described as “easy to take with you,” so you can nosh as you imbibe. $$ L D pf

OUTBACK STEAK HOUSE 4621 Shelbyville Rd., 8954329, 6520 Signature Dr., 964-8383, 9498 Brownsboro Rd., 426-4329, 8101 Bardstown Rd., 231-2399, 1420 Park Place, Clarksville IN, 283-4329. The name suggests Australia, and so does the shtick at this popular national chain, but the food is pretty much familiar American, and the fare goes beyond just steak to take in chicken, seafood and pasta. $$$ D p

GRALEHAUS 1001 Baxter Ave., 454-7075. In the house behind the Holy Grale is Gralehaus, a café and deli. Its breakfast and lunch menu includes biscuit and duck gravy, crepes, and a coffee bar, with house-made sodas, shrubs and kombucha. Also beers on tap and in the cooler. $$ B Br L f

PAT’S STEAK HOUSE 2437 Brownsboro Rd., 896-9234. A local favorite for more than 60 years and as traditional as a steakhouse gets. Pat Francis, like his father before him, cuts the meats himself. Its combination of quality beef and hospitality rank it among the best steakhouses in town. $$$$ D pf

H. M. FRANK'S AN O'SHEA'S PUBLIC HOUSE 355 Spring St., Jeffersonville IN, 913-1174. Upon gutting the interior and re-building the facade of this 1880’s-era building, the original identity of H.M. Frank’s Dry Goods store was uncovered, a discovery that has given this O’Shea’s outpost its name. The bar is made from repurposed barn wood, there’s an event space upstairs, and upscale bar food is created by Chef John Knightly. $$ L D pf

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE 6100 Dutchman’s Ln., 479-0026. The long-standing Louisville location of this New Orleans-based international chain is perched atop the 16-floor Kaden Tower. Ruth’s Chris serves excellent steaks, chops and seafood in an atmosphere of elegance that will make you feel pampered, at a price to match. $$$$ D p

21ST AMENDMENT TAVERN 1481 S. Shelby St., 6547221. The former Club 21 has been restored and reimagined as a Schitzelburg neighborhood bar with a food menu that is both Kentucky-centric and a nod to longmissing German-American food. In addition to a selection of burgers, look for the baloney burger, a Neighborhood Nosh meat board with braunschweiger and pickled eggs and other retro bar favorites. $$ L D pf

STEAK & BOURBON 1321 Herr Ln., 708-2196. Ole Restaurant Group has branched out with this affordablypriced premium steakhouse. In addition to the signature 24 oz. cowboy cut Angus ribeye (aged a minimum of 30 days) the menu offers pan-roasted chicken, grilled Verlasso salmon, steak & cheese hand pies, Marylandstyle crab cakes and carrot cake with bourbon caramel

CORNER 102 W. Main St., 583-1888. Corner is the bar and restaurant attached to the chic, contemporary Aloft Hotel downtown. The emphasis here is on the bar, with a wine and cocktail menu longer and more creative than the food side. Still, there are solid bar munchies, from dips and deviled eggs to sandwiches, salads and tacos. $$ B D pf

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DOC'S BOURBON ROOM 129 W. Main St., 742-2449.

Doc Crow’s has taken over the space next door to create what they say is “the nation's biggest whiskey bar.” It carries thousands of Bourbons and other whiskeys, served as flights, tastes, pours and cocktails. Menu items include beef tartare, lamb flatbread, fingerling poutine and freshbaked pretzels. A coffee bar is open early in the morning. $$$ D p

EXCHANGE PUB + KITCHEN 118 W. Main St., New Albany IN, 948-6501. Owner Ian Hall has made his gastropub in a sumptuously renovated historic building such a fun place to sit and sample the eclectic bistro-style menu that he has had to expand his dining room and patio. Wash things down with something from its substantial beer, wine and cocktails list that even includes house-made ginger ale. $$ L D pf

MATT WINN STEAKHOUSE 700 Central Ave. (Churchill Downs) 636-4888. Churchill Downs’ Executive Chef David Danielson, with Chef Jeff Daley at his side, oversees this classic premium steakhouse on Millionaire’s Row. This new restaurant, named for Col. Matt Winn, one of the most influential figures in the history of thoroughbred racing, is open all year long, not just during the racing meets, serving prime beef with a choice of sauces, rack of lamb and seafood. $$$$ D pf

REPEAL OAK-FIRED STEAKHOUSE 101 W. Main St. (Hotel Distil), 716-7372. The main restaurant at the new Hotel Distil on Whiskey Row fires the steaks over used bourbon barrel staves. If steak isn’t your dish, check out the sole meunière, the truffled spaghetti, the well-stocked raw bar, or grab a blue crab omelet at lunch. As you might expect, the spirits list is deep. $$$$ B Br L D p

DISTRICT 6 3930 Shelbyville Rd., 873-5561. Named after the veteran restaurant owners’, the Thai family’s, native district in Saigon, District 6 features traditional Vietnamese cuisine based on their mother Nga’s recipes, updated with modern influences. Look for items like the bone-in short rib pho, spicy fried hot wings, beef lettuce wraps, red curry chicken and Vietnamese spicy street corn, as well as noodle bowls — and whole crispy fried fish. $$ L D p

THE HALL ON WASHINGTON 111 W. Main St., 3841600. Inspired by the conviviality of German beer halls, this Whiskey Row spot serves a menu featuring small plates of sausages, charcuterie, cheeses and pickled vegetables, plus beef, lamb, chicken and seafood entrées.

The full bar has dozens of rotating draft beers and ciders, canned and bottled beers. $$ L D p THE MANHATTAN PROJECT 2101 Frankfort Ave., 7498925. This upscale gastropub has expanded, with a main room now looking out on the lively Cifton streetscape.

The new menu includes short rib sliders, chicken and waffles and four kinds of fries. Mac ’n’ cheese has its own menu section listing almost a dozen possible adds ons— from bacon to crab to pork cheek to grilled chicken. TMP has become popular for its brunch, tacos & trivia

B = Breakfast Br = Brunch L = Lunch D = Dinner

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Tuesdays, and the original space in the rear is a great sports watching or special party venue. $$ Br L D pf THE STANDARD PLATE & POUR 207 E. Main St., New Albany IN, 590-1055. The renovated building that until recently housed Gospel Bird is now The Standard.

Owners Beau Kerley and Tim Smith characterized their new business as a “pub with elevated food.” Look for Chef Smith’s tried and true favorites – steak and eggs, tomato soup en croute – as well as house-made pork rinds, cheese fritters and beer cheese and pretzels. $$$ Br L D pf WORLD OF BEER 9850 Von Allmen Ct., 690-4280. This Florida-based chain serves a wide variety of craft beers and sports a tavern menu that is a few notches above the usual bar food: wings and sandwiches, sure, but also chimichurri meatballs, ahi tuna poke and chipotle BBQ chicken flatbread. Its giant pretzel and beer cheese is a great shared nibbler. $$ L D pf

80/20 @ KAELIN’S 1801 Newburg Rd., 200-8020. Burgers are back at the birthplace of the cheeseburger. Chef Matt Staggs's “rustic regional” menu offers 7 burgers and 7 entrées at this complete renovation of the classic Kaelin’s space. There’s a malt shop serving fountain drinks and house-made ice cream on one side, and a family-friendly restaurant and bar on the other. Seating on the spacious patio/porch, and upstairs is a large private room for parties and meetings. $$ L D pf BUFFALO WILD WINGS 4600 Shelbyville Rd., 899-7732, 9134 Taylorsville Rd., 499-2356, 10206 Westport Rd., 394-9596, 12901 Shelbyville Rd., 254-9464, 1112 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 283-9464, 4917 Outer Loop, 964-5803. As much a sports bar as a restaurant, this national franchise chain offers tasty snack-type fare, including the chain’s trademark Buffalo chicken wings. $$ L D pf BUNZ RESTAURANT 969 1/2 Baxter Ave., 632-1132. This little Highlands made-to-order gourmet hamburger shop concocts quality burgers with a range of standard and oddball toppings. $ L D f BURGERIM 3733 Lexington Rd., 901-1101. This fastgrowing California-based chain offers burgers made with beef, salmon, lamb, chicken and falafel. Chicken wings and milkshakes too. $$ L D f THE CHICKEN HOUSE 7180 Hwy. 111, Sellersburg IN, 246-9485. The parking lot of this white frame building in rural Indiana is packed on weekend nights as families from throughout the area wait on delectable fried chicken.

This is the very heart of American comfort food, including green beans, dumplings, and mashed potatoes. $$ L D CHICKEN KING 639 E. Broadway, 589-5464. Spicy, crunchy and sizzling hot fried chicken is the primary draw on a short, affordable menu. $ L D CHICKEN SALAD CHICK 1520 Veterans Pky., Jeffersonville IN, 504-2360. The name says it all: here you can find a baker’s dozen styles of chicken salad, as a scoop or a sandwich, plus pimento cheese sandwiches, soups and salads. $$ L D f CLUCKERS WINGS 4308 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 944-8100, 100 W. Riverside Dr., Jeffersonville IN, 590-3662. At this growing chain, you can get your wings doused in an array of sauces, from honey barbecue to spicy garlic barbecue to sweet Thai chili to inferno — a habanero-based sauce that has a legit name. Also breaded and grilled tenders, chicken sandwiches, appetizers and salads. $ L D pf CULVER’S 4630 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 671-2001, 1555 Veterans Pkwy., Jeffersonville IN, 913-0810, 11801 Interchange Dr., 618-0838. When the signature item is called a “ButterBurger” and frozen custard tops the dessert menu, you know you’re not in for diet fare. Quality fast food and friendly service make this chain popular. $ L D f

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

RED = Advertiser

DADDY RICH’S 617 W. Oak St., 290-9110. The kitchen incubator Chef Space gave birth to this new Old Louisville soul food spot. Owner Rodrick Martin named it after his late grandfather, who inspired him. The limited cooked to order menu includes chicken wraps, mini-waffles and ten wing flavors.

DIXIE CHICKEN 1785 W. Oak St., 690-2748, 3947 Dixie Hwy., 448-2102. A growing fried chicken spot that serves up honest fried chicken and good, standard sides at reasonable prices. $$ L D DIZZY WHIZZ DRIVE-IN 217 W. St. Catherine St., 5833828. This neighborhood eatery, an institution that goes back more than 70 years, hasn’t changed much. It opens early, stays open late and offers good value for what you’d expect. $ L D f DOUBLE FLAME BURGER 5408 Valley Station Rd., 4500118. At this South End spot, you can build your own flame-grilled burgers, or opt for other sandwiches – pulled pork grilled chicken, grilled cheese or fried baloney. $ L FAMILY TIES 1030 Cecil Ave., 907-6548. This West End convenience store also has a vibrant carryout business offering a family-friendly menu of burgers, wings, rib tips, hot dogs and brats. $ B L D FIVE GUYS BURGERS & FRIES 2221 State Street, New Albany IN, 944-9958, 4116 Summit Plaza Dr., 426-1702, 4226 Shelbyville Rd., 891-8848, 4917 Outer Loop, 8223702, 13303 Shelbyville Rd., 244-1027. Based in Virginia, this burger chain invokes the early days of fast food with freshly-grilled burgers, big smoky kosher dogs, enough condiments to satisfy any craving, fresh-cut fries and a cheery rock’n’roll sensibility. $ L D GET IT ON A BUN AT BOOTY’S 822 State St., New Albany IN, 292-3800. Another successful food truck finds a permanent home. Booty’s made their name with the Booty Dog, Booty Burger and chili but the menu now ranges from jerk chicken to pulled pork on brioche to a meatloaf cupcake.$ L D GRIND BURGER KITCHEN 829 E. Market St., 851-7333.

Owners Liz and Jesse Huot are firmly established now in NuLu, giving them much-needed parking, as well as a full bar. In addition to their signature burgers, the Huots have a chopped chicken sandwich, an “adult” grilled cheese made with Brie and Gruyere and a couple of salad choices. $$ L D f HOME RUN BURGERS & FRIES 2723 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 409-7004, 12949 Shelbyville Rd., 384-8403, 303 W. Cardinal Blvd., 708-1818. Burgers, dogs and fries with a baseball theme highlight these suburban spots, and more than 20 toppings offer you a fielder’s choice of options to dress your burger. $ L D f HOOTERS 4120 Dutchmans Ln., 895-7100, 4948 Dixie Hwy., 449-4194, 7701 Preston Hwy., 968-1606, 700 W. Riverside Dr., Jeffersonville IN, 218-9485, 941 E. Lewis & Clark Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 284-9464. Hooter’s may draw crowds with its long-standing reputation as a party scene, but you’ll stay for the food, an appetizing selection of soups, salads, seafood and, of course, wings. $ L D pf INDI’S RESTAURANT 1033 W. Broadway, 589-7985, 3820 W. Market St., 778-9099, 2901 Fern Valley Rd., 969-7993, 5009 S. Third St., 363-2535, 2970 Tenth St., Jeffersonville IN, 288-8980, 4590 Dixie Hwy., 447-4856, 4419 Cane Run Rd., 448-1109, 4901 Poplar Level Rd., 969-5352. Grown from a tiny West End takeout spot to a mini-chain, Indi’s vends a variety of affordable soul food and barbecue specialties to take out or eat in. $ L D JAGGERS RESTAURANT 6464 Dutchmans Ln., 2429311. The Texas Roadhouse folks are trying out a new concept. This fast-food restaurant offers chicken sandwiches, burgers, shakes and salads. $$ L D f JOELLA’S HOT CHICKEN 3400 Frankfort Ave., 8952235, 13401 Shelbyville Rd., 254-1111, 1225 Veterans Pkwy, Clarksville IN, 913-7555. You can find Nashvillestyle hot chicken – medium, hot and hotter – at all three www.foodanddine.com Spring 2021 49

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locations. House-made sides local craft beers and wine and fresh-squeezed lemonade as well. $$ L D pf KING’S FRIED CHICKEN 1302 Dixie Hwy., 776-3013 $ L D MUSSEL & BURGER BAR 9200 Taylorsville Rd., 3844834, 113 S. Seventh St., 749-6451. The unusual combination in the name sparks immediate interest; the consistently excellent offerings of both shellfish and meat patties keeps satisfied customers coming back. Choose from six different sauces for the mussels, and 12 clever twists on burgers. The downtown venue has an expanded menu and a handsome outdoor courtyard. L D pf OLLIE’S TROLLEY 978 S. Third St., 583-5214. A little piece of fast-food history remains in Old Louisville. It’s one of the nation’s few surviving trolleys of the Louisvillebased chain that spread across the nation in the ’70s.

Oversize burgers with a spicy, homemade flavor are just as good as ever. $ L OSKAR'S SLIDER BAR 3799 Poplar Level Rd., 395-9010.

Jesse and Liz Huot (Grind Burger Kitchen) expand on their burger concept with a new slider bar. Oskar’s (the name inspired by the Huots’ son, Oskar) offers over a dozen slider choices – chicken, fried fish and pork belly in addition to the expected ground beef mini-burgers.

Fries and salads, too. $$ L D p RAILBIRDS HOT CHICKEN 4520 Poplar Level Rd., (Derby City Gaming), 961-7600. Grab some wings or jumbo tenders at your choice of heat level or other nonspicy chicken dishes and sides like fries and slaws before you head back to the games. $ L D RAISING CANE’S 10490 Westport Rd., 425-4040, 6811 Bardstown Rd., 654-7737, 5212 Dixie Hwy., 742-9035, 1250 Bardstown Rd., 822-1188, 1905 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 409-9441. A national chain with a single core product — chicken fingers. Six locations in town now, all offering simple and straightforward fried chicken finger combos and sandwiches with slaw and fries on the side. $ LDf RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS 9870 Von Allmen Ct., 339-8616, 5000 Shelbyville Rd., 899-9001, 1354 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 948-9895. This Seattlebased chain serves up its well-regarded “gourmet burgers” and trimmings in two East End locations and S. Indiana.

Despite a full bar, it reportedly attracts hordes of happy youngsters. $$ L D pf RED TOP GOURMET HOT DOGS 1127 Logan St., 6402032. The journey from street cart to food truck to storefront is complete. Ryan Cohee's all beef, nitrate- and preservative-free hotdogs can be found now in Shelby Park. Bison and Waygu beef choices, as well as vegan/ vegetarian-friendly dogs. Columbus-style sauerkraut balls, too. $ L D pf ROOSTERS 7405 Preston Hwy., 964-9464, 4420 Dixie Hwy., 384-0330, 1601 Greentree Blvd., Clarksville IN, 590-3391, 10430 Shelbyville Rd., 883-1990, 5338 Bardstown Rd., 618-1128, 3601 Springhurst Blvd., 7082798. With a wide footprint in Ohio, this Columbusbased wings-and-brews chain is now spreading its franchise reach across Indiana, West Virginia and Kentucky. Its six local properties have gained popularity for a lively sports bar setting and oversize wings. $ L D pf

SMASHBURGER 9409 Shelbyville Rd., 326-4141, 312 S. Fourth St., 583-1500, 600 Terminal Dr. (Louisville Airport) 363-2526. A growing chain located mostly in the West and the South now has three Kentucky locations serving made-to-order Angus beef burgers, and is looking to open more area locations. $ L D f STEAK ‘N SHAKE 4545 Outer Loop, 966-3109, 980 E. Lewis & Clark Pkwy., Clarksville IN., 285-1154. One of the oldest fast-food chains in the U.S., Steak ‘n Shake traces its ancestry to an Illinois roadside stand in 1934. It now boasts 400 outlets in 19 states but still sticks to the basics: quality steak burgers and hand-dipped shakes served, if you dine in, on real china. $ B L D THE CHICKEN BOX 5905 Terry Rd., 618-0430. This Pleasure Ridge Park restaurant offers six flavors of wings, all cooked to order: buffalo, extra hot, bbq, lemon pepper, hot garlic Parmesan and lemon pepper hot. The waffle biscuit has impressed fans. $ L D f THE CHILLBURGER 500 LaFollette Station Dr., Floyds Knobs IN, 728-8283; 1225 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 725-9157. These two Southern Indiana burger places tout freshly-ground USDA Choice beef, fresh-cut fries and milk shakes and sundaes from hormone-free dairy.

Chicken and fish sandwiches, too. $ L D f THE EAGLE 1314 Bardstown Rd., 498-8420. This small Cincinnati-based chain serving fried chicken, five-cheese macaroni, house-made biscuits and other comfort food, has established itself firmly in the Highlands restaurant row. The three-season patio is a great place to enjoy the beer list. $ L D pf

ATLANTIC NO. 5 605 W. Main St., 883-3398. Owners Mary Wheatley and Rebecca Johnson offer fresh takes on breakfast and lunch in this sharp Main St. renovation. Eat in or take away hearty biscuits, ham slider breakfast sandwiches, bagels or house-made granola. At lunch choose simple grilled cheese or specialty sandwiches. $ B Br L pf ATRIUM CAFÉ 9940 Corporate Campus Dr. (Embassy Suites), 426-9191. An eclectic bistro atmosphere in the heart of the hotel. Specials run from their popular crab cakes and array of pasta dishes to a Reuben sandwich or fruit pie. $$ B D p BLUE DOG BAKERY AND CAFÉ 2868 Frankfort Ave., 899-9800. Tables are always at a premium at this popular Crescent Hill breakfast and lunch spot. And its artisanal bakery continues to produce hearty European-style breads that have set a gold standard on restaurant tables and in better grocery stores around town. $$ B L D f BLUE HORSE CAFÉ 830 Phillips Ln. (Crown Plaza Hotel), 367-2251. $$$ L D p BOOMER’S CAFÉ 722 W. Main St., 585-4356. Named after the owner’s dear, departed beagle, Boomer’s is a popular, low-key downtown deli in the heart of the museum district. Sandwiches, burger and fries, homemade chocolate cookies, and good coffee. $ L

THE WING ZONE 905 Hess Ln., 636-2445, 3038 Hunsinger Ln., 618-0106. Wing Zone, with locations scattered across the eastern U.S., excels with jumbo wings in 25 flavors, including traditional Buffalo-style wings that range from Tame to Nuclear Habanero. Burgers, fried shrimp and sides as well. $ L D f

BORSALINO CAFÉ & DELI 3825 Bardstown Rd., 8075325. This Buechel store is somewhere between a coffee shop, a fancy bakery and a deli. You can stop in for your morning coffee and sweet bun to go, buy a cake for dessert or take away a stuffed pita for lunch. $ B L D f

W.W. COUSINS RESTAURANT 900 Dupont Rd. 8979684, 4913 Dixie Hwy. After 30+ years of offering buildyour-own burgers on substantial house-baked buns and a huge condiment bar, this popular burger place has finally opened a second location, in a revamped Steak ’n’ Shake building. $ L D

CAFÉ 157 157 E. Main St., 548-9114. This little café downtown serves breakfast and lunch daily except Wednesdays, dinner on Thursday through Saturday, and Sunday brunch. The menu skews to Southern comfort foods, all fresh and scratch-made, including corned beef cured in-house. The owner ran Old Bridge Inn B&B, for many years. $$ B Br L D p

WEEK-END BURGERS 5600 National Tpke., 994-8215.

Another food truck business has gone off the wheels.

Week-End Burgers boast their “burgers are the way burgers used to be made years, years ago, good, tasty & messy).” Philly sandwiches, too, and sides and desserts. $ LDf WHISKEY DRY 412 S. Fourth St. (Fourth Street Live!) 7497933. Ed Lee expands his local empire to Fourth Street Live! with this casual burger and whiskey bar. The menu features a suggested whiskey pairing for each burger from among the 200 whiskeys from America, Ireland, Japan and elsewhere. $$ L D pf WINGSTOP 4812 Dixie Hwy., 409-6000, 2007 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 491-7171. This Texas-based chain with 500 restaurants nationally, now reaches into Louisville.

Their specialty? Wings of course, and you can get them 9 different ways. $$ L D p ZAXBY’S (8 Locations) There are now 9 outlets in Louisville and Southern Indiana. The casual dining chain cutens its menu with a lot of “z’s”: zappetizers, zalads, platterz, wingz and fingerz - that sort of thing. $ L D

ROYALS HOT CHICKEN 736 E. Market St., 919-7068, 10305 Taylorsville Rd, 749-2013, 10310 Shelbyville Rd., 242-7200. Ryan Rogers first pressure-fries his chicken, then, in the Nashville style, blankets it with a paste of oil and spices delivering mild to “Gonzo” heat. If you’re not in the mood for bird, salads and even Southern-fried tofu are on the menu. $$L D f

ALLEY CAT CAFÉ 11804 Shelbyville Rd., 245-6544. This suburban Alley Cat is a cozy and bright little place, and the lunch-only menu is affordable and appealing. $ L f

SIX FORKS BURGER CO. 1039 Ash St., 565-9750. This popular Germantown spot has moved to larger digs in Schnitzelburg. In addition to burgers you can find hot dogs, Polish sausage, not-your-ordinary grilled cheese and several vegetable side dishes.$ L D p

ANGIE’S CAFE 2781 Jefferson Centre Way, Jeffersonville IN, 920-0831. Angie’s cooks up a solid breakfast menu – eggs, omelets, breakfast sandwiches, pancakes – and creates hearty hot and cold sandwiches for lunch, at pleasantly retro prices. $ B L

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AROMA CAFÉ & BAR Caesar’s Southern Indiana, Elizabeth IN, 866-676-7463. Grab a bite before hitting the casino. Sandwiches, salads, sides, cold beverages and coffee will fuel you for a night of entertainment. $$$ B L Dp

CAFÉ 223 223 Pearl St., Jeffersonville IN, 285-1877. Carol and Steve Stembro, owners of Jeffersonville's Market Street Inn, have renovated a house near the Big Four Bridge, to provide sustenance for cross-river walkers and J’ville regulars, who will find baked goods and breakfast items in the morning, and paninis, salads, soups and hot and cold beverages for lunch. $ B L f CAFÉ 360 1582 Bardstown Rd., 473-8694. Highlands diners enjoy an eclectic and international menu at this friendly corner place, with Southern fried catfish and Indian lamb biryani in immediate juxtaposition. You can get it all, diner-style, just about 24/7. $ B L D pf CAFFE CLASSICO 2144 Frankfort Ave., 895-0076. At first a coffee bar, but over the years the classy space at Clifton and Frankfort has matured into an elegant bistro serving an eclectic menu — salmon croquettes with wasabi aioli, empanadas, an international array of salads, panini, bocadillos and pizzas. A stylish place for lunch or supper. $$ B L D f CHEDDAR BOX CAFÉ 12121 Shelbyville Rd., 245-2622. An attractive — and busy — Middletown lunch spot where owner Michelle Bartholmew serves popular salads, sandwiches and soups, as well as hot entrées such as lasagna and Brie and cranberry-stuffed chicken. Pick up some frozen appetizers for your next cocktail party. $ L D f CHRISTI'S CAFÉ 12810 Dixie Hwy., 937-3110. This family-operated restaurant in Valley Station serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, all the dishes you know you want: omelets, hotcakes, wings, chili, bean soup, giant burgers, open-faced roast beef with mashed potatoes and liver and onions. $ B L D

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CHRISTMAS MORNING CAFÉ 2359 Frankfort Ave., 6147409. This festive Christmas-themed café serves breakfast, brunch and lunch items year round. If you like holiday whimsy with your brunch, try the "Rudolph's fresh berry crepes,” Grandma Klaus biscuits and gravy or "Pere Noel” French toast. $ B Br L f CITY CAFÉ 222 Eastern Pkwy., 852-5739. Chef Jim Henry, a long-time star in the city’s culinary firmament, brings his cooking skills and insistence on fresh, quality ingredients to these simple, but excellent, spots for lunch. $ L CORNER CAFÉ 9307 New Lagrange Rd., 426-8119. This family-owned and operated, classier-than-the-averagestrip mall place has quietly turned out delicious menus for better than 30 years. The Frederick family serves an eclectic menu (blackened tenderloin, Andouille-stuffed chicken, garlic-basil chicken pizza) and dishes like the Irish pork have won prizes at local charity contests. $$$ L D pf CRAVE CAFÉ & CATERING 2250 Frankfort Ave., 8961488. Experienced caterers and chefs offer casual quality café fare in this comfortable frame house in Clifton. Three variations on chicken salad are available, 8 different green salads, 8 hot sandwiches (many with cute names: The Big Dirty, The Guido). Vegetarian choices and cheesecake or cookies, too. $$ L D CUP OF JOY 2507 Bank St., 919-9074. This coffee shop and café, located in a former bar, is a project of Haven Ministries and run mostly by volunteers. According to founder Esther Lyon, the food is “homemade, down-home cooking … biscuits and gravy, homemade potato soup, chicken and dumplings, turnovers, pastries.” Nothing on the menu tops $5. $ B L DERBY CAFÉ EXPRESS 704 Central Ave. (Kentucky Derby Museum), 637-1111. You can get both grab-and-go eats, and made-to-order breakfast and lunch items before or after your visit to the Derby Museum. At breakfast, choose from hot and cold breakfast items, fresh pastries and kolache. The lunch menu offers deli-style sandwiches, paninis, soups, salads, Derby Pie (of course) and Benedictine. There is also a full bar. $ B L pf

style alternative to the upscale English Grill, with choice of menu service or buffet dining. $$ B L pf JW CAFÉ & BAKERY 2301 Terra Crossing Blvd., 9075248. The bakery part of this East End spot offers scones and cupcakes and other expected bakery treats. The café part has a variety of lunch items, including Korean specialties. The smoked salmon salad has won fans quickly. $ B L f KAYROUZ CAFÉ 3801 Willis Ave., 896-2630. Tucked in among St. Matthews sidestreets is one of the best sandwich places in Louisville. The tuna salad, Portobello mushroom Reuben, fish, chicken and hamburger — all are innovative and all come with some of the best fries in town. $ L D f ORANGE CLOVER KITCHEN & MORE 590 Missouri Ave., Jeffersonville IN, 282-1005. Find quick breakfast and lunch items here, such as the Orange Clover muffin: poppy seed and blood orange flavors with a blood orange drizzle, as well as a cupcake version with cranberries. Two soup specials offered every day out of a recipe rotation of 75 possibilities

RAMSI’S CAFÉ ON THE WORLD 1293 Bardstown Rd., 451-0700, 10639 Meeting St. The beating bohemian heart of the Highlands (and now at a second location in Norton Commons). Ramsi Kamar brings a wonderfully eclectic spirit to the environment and to his menu, where you can find Cuban, Jamaican, Greek, and Middle Eastern dishes at moderate prices. A weekend brunch and late-night hours add to the draw. $$ L D pf RED HOG 2622 Frankfort Ave., 384-0795. Kit Garrett and Bob Hancock, owners of Blue Dog Bakery, now also have this butcher shop and café offering artisan cured meats in Crescent Hill. Pasture-raised pork, beef, bison, lamb and poultry are available. The café serves small plates and pizzas fired from their wood-burning oven. The bar offers craft cocktails and 12 beer taps. $$ L D pf RIOT CAFE 574 S. Fourth St., 709-5654. Olivia Griffin has taken over the Craft(s) Gallery & Mercantile space adjacent to her Tiki Bar to provide a safe space for progressive conversation and refreshment. Part bodega, part cafe and bar, and part art gallery, Griffin sets aside a percentage of sales to fund a loan program for people of color to start or grow a food or beverage business.

PURE BLENDZ 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market), 6408668. This kiosk at the Logan Street Market offers pure, unprocessed foods in the form of superfood smoothie bowls, avocado toast, kombucha, lemonade tea fogs and more. $ L D f

SHADY LANE CAFÉ 4806 Brownsboro Center, 893-5118.

This perennially popular little East End eatery, long a goto choice for breakfast and lunch, now provides dinner on Friday nights too. $ Br L D f

PURRFECT DAY CAT CAFÉ 1741 Bardstown Rd., 9165051. One room is a wine bar with snacks and small bites provided by local bakeries. The other room, by reservation, is a Cat Room, populated by cats needing homes, provided by the Humane Society. Bring in a drink, and play and cuddle with kitties — and maybe take one home. $ B L D p

SHAHAR CAFÉ 1511 Bardstown Rd., 653-7083. Anselmo’s Italian gives way to this eclectic eatery whose owners have devised a menu of Euro-Asian entrees and snacks. The wide-ranging menu includes beef kabobs, Russian piroshki, samosas and poutine. Weekend entrée specials may include plov (a central Asian rice and meat dish), shashlik (similar to shish kebab), pelmeni (Russian dumplings) and borscht. $ B Br L D

QUEUE CAFÉ 220 W. Main St. (LG&E Building), 5830273. $ B L f

STARLIGHT CAFÉ 19816 Huber Rd., Starlight IN, 9239813. This café in the Winery building at Huber Farm

THE EARLY EDITION 149 Spring St., Jeffersonville IN, 590-1280. Behind Dos Gringos, owners Beau Kerley and Tim Smith are operating what they call “a greasy spoon with a touch of Mexican taste.” It’s a breakfast diner serving until 11:30 am, when Dos Gringos starts its lunch service. $ B FARM TO FORK CAFÉ 2425 Portland Ave., 365-3276.

Farm to Fork, for many years a premier catering company known for its Southern favorites made from scratch from regionally-sourced ingredients, has moved its operations to a former Portland firehouse and has opened a café serving breakfast and lunch. The seasonal menu includes grits, biscuits, soup, salads and sandwiches. $ B L p FULL STOP FILLING STATION 1132 E. St. Catherine St., 260-8046. This former car repair shop is now a grab and go coffee shop and deli, offering locally-sourced food, coffee and a few grocery items, a limited to-go beer section and some beers on tap. Café open until 5; kitchen closes at 2 p.m. $ B L p HIGHLAND MORNING 1416 Bardstown Rd., 365-3900, 111 St. Matthews Ave., 883-0203. You can order breakfast anytime at both locations, with an eclectic menu that also encompasses brunch, burgers, soul food, Southern dishes and vegetarian fare as well. $ B L D HOT BOX EATERY 438 W. Market St., 822-3995. Try their fresh soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps and daily specials.

Menu choices include a Brie and salami wrap, Indonesian chicken peanut satay, pork schnitzel, a turkey club wrap and a gyro — in other words, an appealingly diverse selection. $ L J. GRAHAM’S CAFÉ & BAR 335 W. Broadway (The Brown Hotel), 583-1234. The home of the legendary “Hot Brown” sandwich, J. Graham’s offers a more casual bistro-

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

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provides light lunch items such as seasonal soups, Rueben sandwiches, a turkey club, chicken salad or artisan flatbread pizza. Dine inside in the dining room or outside on the patio that overlooks the 550-acre farm. Huber wines and cocktails made from spirits distilled on the premises available too. $$ L D pf THE CAFÉ 711 Brent St., 589-9191. The transition is complete. The Café is now across the street from its original Paristown location, in a newly renovated, airy space, part of the Paristown Pointe development. The menu, with its complement of hearty breakfast and lunch dishes, remains the same. $$ B Br L D pf THE CHEDDAR BOX 3909 Chenoweth Sq., 893-2324.

Since 1975 this St. Matthews tradition has delighted ladies who lunch, hungry students who munch, and just about everyone else with their sandwiches, pasta salads and tasty desserts. It caters parties with almost 50 choices of appetizers, party sandwiches, dips, cheese rings and crostini. $ L f THE CHEDDAR BOX TOO 109 Chenoweth Ln., 8961133. Cheddar Box owner Nancy Tarrant has extended her presence with a café just across the parking lot. Look for the same tasty salads, soups and desserts that have made her take-away business so popular. $ B L THE SILLY AXE CAFÉ 2216 Dundee Rd., 290-7197. A completely gluten-free restaurant. Most recently home to Diorio’s Pizza, Silly Axe (a play on celiac disease) has a deli counter and a selection of pre-made items for takeaway. The menu offers meat, vegan and vegetarian choices, daily quesadillas and five house sandwiches. $$ L D pf THE STARVING ARTIST CAFÉ & DELI 8034 New Lagrange Rd., 412-1599. $ L THE TABLE 1800 Portland Ave., 708-2505. This West End non-profit, social entrepreneurship experiment serves locally-grown, fresh food and operates under a pay-whatyou-can model. Pay suggested prices if you can, or if not, contribute your time. Or donate more to “pay it forward.”

The menu offers soups, salads, sandwiches and sides. $ L D TOP HAT CAFÉ 1300 Muhammad Ali Blvd., 583-8822.

Located inside the Old Walnut Plaza, this neighborhood coffee shop and breakfast and lunch café, named after an historic West End nightclub, is a project of the Louisville Central Community Center, in its effort to connect the Russell neighborhood to its past and to encourage fellowship and neighborhood networking.$ B L D VIC’S CAFÉ 1839 E. Market St., New Albany IN, 944-4338. $LD WAYCOOL CAFÉ 120 W. Broadway, 582-2241. Wayside Christian Mission trains people here in its community reentry program in restaurant service and management.

Breakfasts for under $5; a lunch buffet is $8 for unlimited trips. A dinner menu too. It’s a do-gooder place that serves good food. $ L D WILD EGGS 3985 Dutchmans Ln., 893-8005, 1311 Herr Ln., 618-2866, 153 S. English Station Rd., 618-3449, 121 S. Floyd St., 690-5925, 1450 Veterans Pkwy., Jeffersonville IN 913-4735. Specialty omelets, the everything muffin, spicy egg salad sandwiches — these dishes and more have made Wild Eggs a wildly popular breakfast and lunch spot. Prized seats at weekend brunch can now be found at this growing mini-chain’s fifth outlet. $ B Br L p WILTSHIRE PANTRY BAKERY AND CAFÉ 901 Barret Ave., 581-8561, 6301 Moonseed St., 581-8560. Caterer/ restaurateur Susan Hershberg’s popular bakery and café operation, a welcome stop for those wanting artisanal breads, scones and croissants, now serves full breakfasts (Tuscan egg sandwich, breakfast grain bowl, frittata, smoked salmon plate) as well as sandwiches and paninis, side salads and more from the cafe. $ B L ZEGGZ AMAZING EGGS 11615 Shelbyville Rd., 8821650. This quick-service breakfast and lunch spot offers

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five house omelets (plus the chance to build your own), three variations on eggs Benedict, as well as biscuits and gravy, croque madames, waffles and pancakes. Luncheon fare includes a B.A.L.T (the ‘a’ is for avocado), salads and soups. $$ B Br L pf

AGAVE & RYE EPIC TACOS 426 Baxter Ave., 873-5111, 324 E. Main St., New Albany IN, 993-8226. This Covington-based chain has added a second area store in southern Indiana. Offerings include tacos, bourbon, arcade games and 70+ tequilas. The Rooster taco contains crispy chicken, mac & cheese and hot sauce. The Bang Bang is a vegetarian dish, with crispy cauliflower, corn fritters, queso and spicy carrots. $$ L D p f A NICE RESTAURANT 3129 Blackiston Mill Rd., New Albany IN, 945-4321, 404 Lafollette Station, Floyds Knobs IN, 923-7770. A Nice Restaurant, billed as “New Albany’s Finer Diner,” is, well, nice enough to have branched out to three locations. All specialize in simple, down-home breakfast and lunch at affordable prices. $ B L APPLEBEE’S 4717 Dixie Hwy., 448-1399, 10006 Will Way, 231-1661, 4535 Outer Loop, 969-1228, 771 E. Lewis and Clark Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 283-3594.. This cheery national chain features an eclectic assortment of salads, steaks, ribs, poultry and pasta as well as full bar service. It’s as consistent as a cookie cutter, but competent execution makes it a good bargain for those whose tastes run to mainstream American cuisine. $$ L D p ASPEN CREEK RESTAURANT 8000 Bardstown Rd., 2392200, 302 Bullitt Ln., 425-0077. A lodge-style restaurant that invokes the rustic feel of the Rockies, and offers a menu of pastas, burgers, and poultry at prices that aren’t mountain high. $$ L D p BISCUIT BELLY 900 E. Main St., 409-5729, 3723 Lexington Rd., 690-2945, 818 W. Kenwood Dr. (Colonial Gardens) 384-4545. Chad and Lauren Coulter, of LouVino fame, own this breakfast- and lunch-oriented eatery. You’ll find over-sized biscuit sandwiches filled with chicken, country ham or brisket; oatmeal, hash and Nutella toast, as well as an adult beverage program that includes beers and coffee-inflected cocktails. There’s nonalcoholic coffee, too, and eggs however you like them. $$ B Br L pf BLIND SQUIRREL 592 N. English Station Rd., 384-6761.

This American-style restaurant is part of the King Louis Sports complex. The 400-seat, two-story dining facility boasts outdoor seating overlooking the sand volleyball courts, 27 TVs inside, a performance venue, a cigar humidor and outdoor smoking lounge. Chef Chris Goss serves up his take on American family standards: burgers, sandwiches, pizza and so on. $$ L D pf BOOMTOWN 110 E. Main St., New Albany IN, 590-1314.

A third restaurant takes over the former home of the legendary South Side Inn, Boomtown focuses on affordable classic dishes: several burgers, including a wild game option, steak dinner with two sides and pork chops. $$ L D pf

BROOKE & BILLY’S BITES, BOURBONS & BREWS 751 Vine St., 583-9165. The restored 19th-century building in Paristown has a secluded patio and revamped dining room in a cool, out-of-the-way but on-the-way-up neighborhood. The menu offers an extensive selection of sandwiches and small bites, entrée salads and main dishes like lemon red snapper and six-layer lasagna. $$$ L D pf CHAMPIONS GRILLE 505 Marriott Dr. (Radisson Hotel), Clarksville IN, 283-4411. Known by locals for its Saturday night buffet of New York strip, ribeye and prime rib. Salads, sandwiches, soups and a kid-friendly menu round out the selection. $$ B Br L D p CHEDDAR’S SCRATCH KITCHEN 10403 Westport Rd., 339-5400, 3521 Outer Loop, 966-3345, 1385 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 280-9660. This popular Dallasbased chain draws big, hungry crowds with its large bar and familiar “casual to upscale American” fare. $ L D pf CHILI’S 421 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 425-6800, 3623 Bardstown Rd., 301-8888, 11600 Antonia Way, 301-8181, 9720 Von Allmen Ct., 301-8880, 3007 Poplar Level Rd., 638-5202, 940 E. Lewis & Clark Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 670-3000. More than just a place to chow down on baby back ribs, this national chain has a wide selection including fajitas, burgers, sandwiches and veggies. $$ L D CORELIFE EATERY 1225 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 670-5680, 9365 Viking Center Dr., 709-7131. This Syracuse-based franchise offers vegetable and grains bowls, bone and vegetable broth, and grass-fed steak, chicken and tofu power plates. $$ L D DENNY’S 4030 Dutchmans Ln., 896-2669, 434 Eastern Pkwy., 636-2538. What better place for travelers to get breakfast than Denny’s? This venerable chain knows its customers, pleasing them with familiar diner food in big portions. The late-night scene in this 24-hour refuge for the hungry makes for colorful fun. $$ B Br L D DOUBLE DOGS 13307 Shelbyville Rd., 244-4430. Double Dogs, a Bowling Green, Ky.-based chain with four locations, has its first Louisville-area restaurant in Middletown. Double Dogs describes itself as “a family friendly restaurant with a sports atmosphere,” serving a variety of appetizers, sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers and pizza. $ L D pf EAT YOUR BOURBON MARKETPLACE 2708 Frankfort Ave., 618-0939. Owner Matt Jamie extends his Crescent Hill Bourbon Barrel Foods concept with this grab-and-go prepared foods store that uses recipes from Jamie’s "Eat Your Bourbon" cookbook: charcuterie boards, sandwiches and other prepared foods from Chef-inResidence Michael Crouch and Butchertown Grocery Bakery. $$ B Br L D p FIRST WATCH 201 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 384-6075, 960 Breckenridge Ln., 618-1955, 1205 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN., 575-3447, 2225 Taylorsville Rd., 4447744, 12913 Shelbyville Rd., 233-0770. This Floridabased chain offers both traditional breakfast fare (fried eggs, sausage), proprietary specials, like French toast Monte Cristo (made with ham, turkey and Swiss cheese), crepes with plenty of fillings and healthful dishes like egg white omelets and cranberry nut oatmeal. Soups, salads and a big choice of sandwiches for lunch. $ B L

BOUJIE BISCUIT 1813 Frankfort Ave., 269-8426. This tiny Clifton space advertises, “Scratch-made comfort food on a handcrafted buttermilk biscuit.” The menu is mostly sandwiches, served on oversized biscuits—ham and three-cheese biscuit, chicken pot pie biscuit and three different burger biscuits. Every sandwich is served in a cardboard to-go box, which most diners find they need. $$ B L f

GAME 2295 Lexington Rd., 618-1712. Though under new ownership, the specialties here remain the same: sliders, meatballs and burgers made from ground exotic meats.

Start with bone marrow or fried frog legs, try some wild boar chorizo sliders, or build your own burger from kangaroo, venison or alpaca, with bun choices ranging from brioche to pretzel to Kaiser roll. $$ D f

BRICK HOUSE TAVERN + TAP 871 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 326-3182. Brick House, a Houston-based chain, has upgraded its image with an increased focus on food.

Serving brunch, lunch and dinner, with a half-dozen local beers on tap, and an unusual menu of beer cocktails. $$ L D pf

GANDER, AN AMERICAN GRILL 111 S. English Station Rd., 915-8484. Chris and Anne Mike, of Goose Creek Diner, have opened Gander, An American Grill, serving steaks, burgers, pasta and sandwiches — "a little bit of everything that makes America what it is," according to Mike. $$$ Br L D pf GATSBY’S ON FOURTH 500 S. Fourth St. (Seelbach

B = Breakfast Br = Brunch L = Lunch D = Dinner

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Hilton Hotel), 585-3200. The casual dining space on the first floor of the Seelbach reflects its connection of the hotel to F. Scott Fitzgerald. There are two breakfast buffets, American and Continental, as well as a la carte choices from the griddle or from a “Healthy Sunrise” menu. $$ B L p GREEN DISTRICT SALADS 126 Breckinridge Ln., 4095293, 225 S. Fifth St., 822-3055, 13301 Shelbyville Rd. There are three locations now of this quick-service restaurant focusing on build-your-own chopped salads (or you can order from a menu). Lunch diners can opt for soups and wraps too. $$ L D HARROD’S CREEK TAVERN 6313 River Rd., 919-8812.

Commuters trundling home to the suburbs can mingle with Prospect residents, river rats and parched kayakers docking out back on Harrod’s Creek. Look for an expanded bar food menu, brown bag lunches to go and late-night food service. $ L D pf INTERNATIONAL HOUSE OF PANCAKES 1220 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 285-1772, 1401 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 618-2250. IHOP fans can choose to go out to the East End or across the river to satisfy their jones for the national chain’s inimitable food. $ B L D JOE'S OLDER THAN DIRT 8131 New Lagrange Rd., 4347470. The Lyndon landmark has returned to its old spot, replacing Red Barn Kitchen, which had replaced Joe’s.

The bar is rebuilt and another stuffed moose has been found. But Olé Restaurant Group remains a partner, providing the food: smoked wings, brisket chili, cheese fritters, a mac and cheese burger and a daily lunch plate, all at prices that will appeal to Joe’s original fan base. $$ L D pf KAREM’S 9424 Norton Commons Blvd., 327-5646.

Karem’s Grill & Pub, one of the first restaurants to open in the village-like Norton Commons, carries the look and feel of a neighborhood watering hole inside and out. The test of a restaurant, though, is the food, and Karem’s is excellent. $$ L D

MAPLE STREET BISCUIT COMPANY 1004 Bardstown Rd., 384-8022. This growing Florida-based breakfast chain has taken over the too-long-empty Yang Kee Noodle space in the Highlands. The menu features fresh biscuit dishes, from-scratch sausage and shiitake gravies and homemade jams and jellies. Waffles, grits and oatmeal, too. $$ B Br L f MORNING FORK 1722 Frankfort Ave., 830-9500. A new concept from Geoffrey Heyde, owner of Fork & Barrel Restaurant, takes over the space long held by North End Café. The focus is breakfast, brunch, and lunch: Short rib eggs Benedict, crepes, cornmeal pancakes in the morning; soup, salads, sandwiches and hearty entrées at lunch. $$ B Br L pf MOYA'S AMERICAN KITCHEN 10000 Linn Station Rd., 496-6692. This "good old American comfort food" restaurant in Jeffersontown offers fare such as jalapeño hushpuppies, fried green tomatoes, grilled cheese and tomato soup, smothered pork chop, chopped steak, meatloaf and fried catfish.$$ L D pf NAÏVE 1001 E. Washington St., 749-7856. This Butchertown vegetarian restaurant has been catering for some months in preparation for its opening as a sit-down restaurant. Its dishes include savory rice bowls, burritos, frittatas and quiches, savory toasts, salads and sandwiches. $$ D pf NOODLES & COMPANY 1225 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 632-0102, 4302 Summit Plaza Dr., 791-9015, 319 Cardinal Blvd., 632-2846. This Colorado-based fastcasual chain offers an eclectic noodle array: Asian style (pad Thai, Bangkok curry), pastas (Tuscan fresca, penne rossa) — or select from a lineup of savory sandwiches and salads.. $ L D f O’CHARLEY’S 1901 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 491-8372, 962 Breckenridge Ln., 899-9430, 4404 Dixie Hwy., 4479203. O’Charley’s, Inc. could serve well as the picture in

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

RED = Advertiser

the dictionary next to “American casual dining.” The Nashville-based chain operates 206 properties in 16 states in the Southeast and Midwest, serving a straightforward steak-and-seafood menu with the motto PORTAGE HOUSE 117 E. Riverside Dr., Jeffersonville IN, (812) 913-4250. Dallas McGarity has changed the focus of his cozy riverfront casual restaurant to upscale bar food and sandwiches. Even simple things still have the McGarity touch: Sriracha chicken wings with cucumber yogurt sauce, Greek meatloaf & smashed potatoes with spinach and feta. The cornmeal-coated catfish sandwich is served on buttered toast, and the black bean burger comes on a brioche bun. $$$ L D pf RAFFERTY’S OF LOUISVILLE 988 Breckenridge Ln., 897-3900. This full-service, casual dining establishment has a hearty menu. Specialties like Red Alfredo Pasta showcase the gourmet offerings along with some of the largest and most SAM’S FOOD & SPIRITS 702 Highlander Point Dr., Floyds Knobs IN, 923-2323. Fans of Sam Anderson’s steaks, chicken, pizza and pasta know it is well worth the trip up into the Knobs above New Albany to enjoy the conviviality of his restaurant, and his always satisfying take on classic American steak, sandwiches and seafood. $$ L D p SHONEY’S 6511 Signature Dr., 969-8904. For nearly 50 years, Shoney’s restaurants have been one of America’s top choices for fast roadside dining, and happily they’ve kept up with the times. $ B L D SKYLINE CHILI 1266 Bardstown Rd., 473-1234, 340 Whittington Pkwy., 429-5773, 4024 Dutchmans Ln., 721-0093, 3505 Grant Line Rd., New Albany IN, 7257176. Louisville’s outposts of a famous Cincinnati chili restaurant, these casual eateries offer the regional favorite (really it’s Greek spaghetti sauce, but keep it quiet) and other fast-food dishes. $ L D SUPERCHEFS 1702 Bardstown Rd., 409-8103. The funky comic book-themed decor in Darnell Ferguson’s Highlands restaurant celebrates super heroes during breakfast and lunch, and super villains at dinner. His menu reflects his super-sized sensibilities: the SuperChefs Omelet, the Pancake Platter, and a seafood pizza with a petite lobster tail on top. $$ B Br L pf TGI FRIDAY’S 416 S. Fourth St. (Fourth Street Live), 5853577. The original place to loosen the tie and congregate after the whistle blows. TGIF carries on its party atmosphere tradition with American bistro dining and libations. The bill of fare ranges from baskets of appetizers on up to contemporary entrées. $$ L D pf TOAST ON MARKET 620 E. Market St., 569-4099, 141 E. Market St., New Albany IN, 941-8582. On both sides of the river this breakfast and lunch favorite has gained a loyal following and tremendous word-of-mouth. Be prepared to wait for tables for weekend brunches. $ B Br L pf TUCKER’S 2441 State St., New Albany IN, 944-9999.

Tucker’s gives you a little bit of everything with a downto-earth flair, offering burgers, ribs, steaks, a variety of appetizers and pastas. $ L D p TWIG & LEAF RESTAURANT 2122 Bardstown Rd., 4518944. A popular Highlands hangout, the “Twig” is probably at its best for breakfast — whether you’re enjoying it while venturing out on a leisurely Sunday morning or heading home very late on a Saturday night.

It’s a place to grab a quick, filling bite and doesn’t pretend to be more. $ B L D f

8TH STREET PIZZA 411 E. Spring St., New Albany IN, 725-0004. This “boutique, pay-it-forward pizza shop and ministry” serves New York style pizza with a “pay what you can afford” concept. Pay the full suggested price, pay

what you can afford to pay, or pay the full amount of the suggested meal price plus a little extra to "pay it forward”. $LDf ANGILO’S PIZZA 1725 Berry Blvd., 367-0580. The local favorite is the steak hoagie, dripping with pizza sauce, pickles and onions. Angilo’s also offers a wide selection of hot pizza pies and cold beer. $$ L D ANNIE’S PIZZA 2520 Portland Ave., 776-6400, 4771 Cane Run Rd., 449-4444. Annie’s has made-to-order pizza and a variety of stacked sandwiches such as the Big Daddy Strom with beef, Italian sausage, onions and banana peppers. $$ L D ARNI’S PIZZA 1208 State St., New Albany IN, 945-1149, 3700 Paoli Pike, Floyds Knobs IN, 923-9805. A favorite Hoosier pizza and sandwich stop. Insist on getting the Deluxe. $$ L D ARNO’S PIZZA 3912 Bardstown Rd., 384-8131.$$ L D BEARNO’S PIZZA (14 locations) What began as a simple, family-run pizzeria near Bowman Field has morphed into a local chain with, at last count, 14 locations. $$ L D f BLAZE FAST-FIRE’D PIZZA 4600 Shelbyville Rd., 8957800, 13317 Shelbyville Rd., 822-3677, 4055 Summit Plaza Dr., 915-8731, 1225 Veterans Pkwy., Clarsville IN, 406-4347. At this California-based pizza franchise you customize your own pie from a lineup of meat and vegetable toppings, cheeses and several sauces. The pie bakes in just 2 minutes in a flaming hearth oven. There are ready-to-order signature pies also for those who can’t make up their minds. $$ L D p f BONNIE & CLYDE’S PIZZA 7611 Dixie Hwy., 935-5540.

It may look like a dive that hasn’t been renovated in ages, the service can be surly at times, and you have to pay in cash, but devoted fans of its thin-crust pizzas and hoagies keep coming back and talk it up with their friends. $$ L D f BOOMBOZZ PIZZA · WATCH BAR 1448 Bardstown Rd., 458-8889, 1315 Herr Ln., 394-0000, 1450 Veterans Pkwy., Jeffersonville IN, (812) 913-4171, 1890 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 491-4111. After two decades of success with his gourmet pizza stores, Tony Palombino is reimagining his brand and retooling both the decor and the menus at all of his locations. That reimagining includes audio/video enhancements, a new company logo and slogan (“Crafted for You”), an expanded wine and cocktail list and a dedicated takeout entrance. New menu items include jumbo tater tots stuffed with bacon and cheddar cheese, a cauliflower crust pizza, seasonal pizzas and game day specials. $$ L D pf BORROMEO’S PIZZA & ITALIAN 9417 Smyrna Pkwy., 968-7743. Serving up old-school thin-crust pizzas to chowhounds south of the Gene Snyder. $$ L D pf CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN 7900 Shelbyville Rd. (Oxmoor Center), 425-5125. California pizza became a trend when famous chefs gave this simple Italian fare a multi-ethnic spin with non-traditional Pacific Rim toppings. CPK successfully translates this trend for the mass market. $$ L D pf CHARLESTOWN PIZZA COMPANY 850 Main St., Charlestown IN, 256-2699. This welcoming venue on Charlestown’s town square, a short trip upriver from Jeffersonville, is run by folks who learned their pizza and beer at New Albanian Brewing Company. That’s a fine pedigree, and it shows in impressive quality. $$ L D CHEF'S CUT PIZZERIA 9901 LaGrange Rd., 265-1320.

This reasonably priced Lyndon pizza place has sandwiches too, from chili dogs to turkey clubs, and pasta dishes. $ L D p CHUBBY RAY’S 3910 Ruckriegel Pkwy., 267-1188. This family restaurant has grown from a small mostly carry-out spot to a large (400 seat) Jeffersontown institution. The menu offerings have expanded as well. In addition to signature pizzas, you can find quesadillas and rooster

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wings, burgers and subs, calzones, pasta and salads. $$ L D pf COALS ARTISAN PIZZA 3730 Frankfort Ave., 742-8200, 11615 Shelbyville Rd., 253-0106, 600 Terminal Dr. (Louisville Airport). Middletown and airport travelers now partake in what St. Matthews diners have enjoyed for a few years–excellent pizzas made in coal-fired ovens burning at 800 degrees F, crisping the crust in 4 minutes and “leoparding” it with black spots. Toppings are fresh and regionally-sourced. $$ L D pf DANNY MAC’S PASTA & PIZZA 1836 Mellwood Ave., 890-6331. Dan McMahon sells generously-topped pizzas at the walk-up venue in the courtyard of the Mellwood Arts Center. The choices are mostly traditional with outliers like Hawaiian and Kentucky Hot Brown. His butter-drenched garlic breadsticks, aka “Cracksticks,” are a fan favorite. McMahon’s pizzas can also be found at Tim Tam Tavern. $$ L D DEENO'S PIZZA & WINGS 9100 Dixie Hwy., 653-7814.

This ambitious little family-run place rolls and shapes house-made dough to order, and bakes, then air-fries wings before tossing them in one of 11 sauce coatings.

The weekend buffet offers pizza, wings and a taco bar. $$ Df DERBY CITY PIZZA 5603 Greenwood Rd., 933-7373, 2500 Crittenden Dr., 384-4777, 10619 Manslick Rd., 742-3940, 2331 Brownsboro Rd., 290-0677, 9910 Linn Station Rd., 384-8733. It is always nice when a business’s name is self-explanatory. But the menu offers burgers and wings, too, along with toasted subs and pasta dishes. The Brownsboro Road location is carry-out only. $$ L D pf DIORIO’S PIZZA & PUB 310 Wallace Ave., 618-3424, 917 Baxter Ave., 614-8424. Residents in St. Matthews and in the Highlands can savor pizza by the slice, as well as by the mammoth 30-inch pie. Also grilled sandwiches, salads, wings, queso sticks, and a good selection of domestic and import beers. $$ L D pf

EMMY SQUARED PIZZA 825 E. Market St., 785-5800.

This Detroit-style pizza chain joins a growing list of properties in the Nulu Marketplace, anchored by West Sixth Brewing. The square pizzas here share the menu with burgers, including the double-stack "Le Big Matt.” $$$ L D pf FAT JIMMY’S 12216 Shelbyville Rd., 244-2500. This friendly neighborhood nook offers a cold mug of beer and a hot slice of pizza, along with sub sandwiches, pasta dishes and salads.

HIDEOUT PIZZARIA 5620 Barrett Ln., 742-3145. This family-friendly sports bar has 12-foot TV screens, pool and cornhole, arcade games and live music, in addition to pizzas, burgers, spaghetti and an array of sandwiches. $$$ LD

HOG FATHER PIZZA 1301 Story Ave., 409-6180. This family-friendly pizza place (which also serves starters like pork rinds and wings, sandwiches and salads) come to the old Hall’s Cafeteria building in Butchertown and emphasizes pork belly, ham and sausage toppings for deep dish and thin crust pies. $$$ L D HOMETOWN PIZZA 4041 Preston Hwy., 363-4880, 9601 Newbridge Rd., 409-6276, 12607 Taylorsville Rd., 7428700, 11804 Shelbyville Rd., 245-4555. The four local outlets of this chain offer pasta dishes, hoagies and stromboli as well as pies like the one-of-a-kind Bacon Cheeseburger pizza. The Preston Highway location opened an adjacent craft brewery; the beers brewed there are available in all Hometown locations. $$ L D p IROQUOIS PIZZA 6614 Manslick Rd., 363-3211. $$ L D JAKE & ELWOOD’S 2230 Frankfort Ave., 690-2167. The main draw to this Clifton spot is Chicago-style deep dish pizzas, but Jake and Elwood’s menu includes hot dogs and sausages, Italian beef sandwiches, wings, chili, fries and salads. $$ L D p JET’S PIZZA 101 S. Hubbards Ln., 895-4655, 3624 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 491-1700, 235 Blankenbaker Pkwy., 54 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

244-4440, 6523 Bardstown Rd., 239-0000, 2500 Bardstown Rd., 458-5387, 10494 Westport Rd., 4261181. Now with seven Louisville outlets, this Detroitbased chain offers sit-down service and carry-out. The menu features eight crust flavors and some gourmet pizza options such as a BLT and chicken parmesan. $$ L D f LEGACY PIZZA & BAKERY 1001 Vincennes St., New Albany, IN, (812) 725-0021. This sincere little pizza joint sells New York-style pizzas, calzones, strombolis and breadsticks. $$ L D LITTLE CAESARS PIZZA (10 Locations) This pizzeria chain lost market share in the ’90s, but business analysts say the company known for its two-for-one “pizza pizza” deal has turned things around with a renewed commitment to quality and service. $$ L D LUIGI’S PIZZERIA 712 W. Main St., 589-0005. New York City-style pizza, a treat that you’ll find on just about every street corner there, has been making inroads in River City, but Luigi’s was one of the first to offer in its authentic form here. $$ L f MA ZERELLAS 949 S. Indiana Ave., Sellersburg IN, 2469517. A pleasant family-run-for-family-fun establishment.

Pizza, pasta, salads and subs served for lunch and dinner seven days a week. $$ L D MAC'S @ MILE WIDE 636 Barret Ave. (inside Mile Wide Beer Co.), 409-8139. Beneath the silos at Mile Wide Brewery, Mac’s offers a concise menu of personal-size pizzas with clever names, also salads and appetizers that pairs well with Mile Wide’s tap list. There’s even a Nutella dessert pizza. $$ L D p MARCO’S PIZZA 2011 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 941-1144. A rapidly growing (300+) pizza chain from Toledo, Ohio, adds to the choices of takeout pies in New Albany. Ironically, its CEO lives in Louisville and commutes to Toledo. $$ L D MIMO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZERIA 2708 Paoli Pike, New Albany IN, 945-7711. People move to the Knobs for its bucolic setting, but locals still crave their pizza fix. Mimo’s provides that with daily specials, such as Buffalo pizza, calzones, heroes, wraps or salads. Mangia, mangia! $$ L D p MOZZA PI 12102 Lagrange Rd., 890-4832. Tom Edwards began MozzaPi several years ago as one of the first food trucks in Louisville. At his Anchorage pizza place he drafts artisanal pies from flour he mills himself. He makes bread too, and gives courses in artisanal baking. $$$ L D pf MR. GATTI’S 703 E. Lewis & Clark Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 283-5005, 10035 Dixie Hwy., 632-2504, 4200 Outer Loop, 964-0933. This Austin-based chain was one of the first national pizzerias to reach Louisville in the 1970s, and quality ingredients — plus Gattiland playgrounds for the kids — have made its crisp, thin-crust pizzas a popular draw. $$ L D NEW ALBANIAN BREWING CO. 3312 Plaza Dr., New Albany IN, 944-2577. Touting “the best pizza in Southern Indiana” is quite a boast, but pizza only tells half of this tasty story. NABC combines the fine pies of Sportstime Pizza with the pub formerly known as Rich O’s. The remarkable beer list, with more than 100 selections from around the world — plus locally brewed craft beers — has won international awards. $$ L D OLD SCHOOL NY PIZZA 12907 Factory Ln., 882-1776, 10600 Meeting St., 882-3000. You want Sicilian-style pizza, just like they make in Brooklyn? Now you can get it in these two Eastern suburbs locations. Top it with vegetables supplied by local farmers, or tie into a calzone and finish with gelato. $$ L D pf ORIGINAL IMPELLIZZERI’S 1381 Bardstown Rd., 4542711, 4933 Brownsboro Rd., 425-9080, 805 Blankenbaker Pkwy., 653-7243. Impellizzeri’s massive pies, loved for a generation, are the draw but there is also a full menu of Italian-inspired meals including hoagie sandwiches and pasta dishes at all three locations. $$$$ L D pf

PAPA MURPHY’S PIZZA (8 Locations) There are eight locations for this take-and-bake pizza purveyor scattered around town. $$ L D PARLOUR 131 W. Chestnut St., Jeffersonville IN, 9147400, 2636 Frankfort Ave., 895-9400, 225 State St., New Albany IN, 920-6400. This pizza and beer purveyor first opened at the foot of the Big Four Bridge, then took over the Craft House space on Frankfort Ave., and now has its third location in New Albany. All locations have 40+ beers on tap and serve New York-style pies. $$ L D pf PIZZA DONISI 1396 S. Second St., 213-0488. Old Louisville hipsters have long needed a nearby pizza joint.

Now they have it and it’s owned by Danny Fitzgerald, impresario behind Mag Bar. Get it by the slice or in whole artisan pies, along with appetizers, fried ravioli and more. $$ L D f PIZZA KING 3825 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 9454405, 1701 E. 10th St., Jeffersonville IN, 282-8286. The pizza is baked in a sturdy, stone oven and hand-tossed with thinner crust where the ingredients go all the way to the edge. We heartily recommend the barbecue pizza. $$ LD PIZZA LUPO 1540 Frankfort Ave., 409-8440. Max Balliet, the owner of Holy Molé taco truck, now also has Lupo, a casual Italian restaurant where he bakes up pizzas on a fire-engine-red wood-fired oven. Along with pizza, Lupo offers a variety of handmade pastas in a restored 19th century Butchertown building. $$ D pf PIZZA PLACE 2931 Richland Ave., 458-9700. $$ L D pf

PIZZAVILLE 2901 Goose Creek Rd., 754-3001. The owner of this suburban shop once was a pizza scientist, overseeing corporate pizza dough varieties. Now he sells his own versions of New York-style hand-tossed and Detroit deep dish pizzas at this former Bussman’s Bakery location near Westport Rd. $$ L D PRIMO'S PIZZERIA 2043 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 7497072. Based on a recent visit, this new spot is off to a great start. There are no conveyor belts here. Well-trained pizza makers give each pie individual attention, the toppings and accents (like fresh basil) are fine quality, and the assortment of crusts — wheat, thin, rising, deep dish, cauliflower, broccoli — is first rate. The lunch special, ten bucks for a big fresh salad with a generous personal pizza is a steal. $$ L D f SAL’S PIZZA & WINGS 812 Lyndon Ln., 365-4700. In addition to generously-topped pizzas, you can find panini, subs, burgers, and fried fish at this inviting spot in a Lyndon strip mall. $$ L D pf SHERRILLI'S PIZZA PARLOR 496 N. Indiana Ave., Sellersburg IN, 246-3346. $$ L D f SICILIAN PIZZA & PASTA 629 S. Fourth St., 589-8686, 8133 Bardstown Rd., 491-3663. Ready for takeout or eatin, both the downtown storefront and its suburban sister site offer good, standard pizza and other familiar ItalianAmerican dishes. $$ L D pf SPINELLI’S PIZZERIA 614 Baxter Ave., 568-5665, 4005 Shelbyville Rd., 895-0755. This locally-owned pizzeria, widely known for their Philly Cheesesteaks and massive slices of pizza has added a third location. All are open until 5 am nightly Wednesday through Saturday. $ L D THE CORNER 4111 Murphy Ln., 426-8340. $$ L D THE GRAIN HAUS 41 W. First St., New Albany IN, (470) 588-2337. Part of Floyd County Brewing, the separate building across the court yard boasts a wood-fired pizza oven and a rotating list of guest beers. $$ D pf THE POST 1045 Goss Ave., 635-2020. Germantown has long needed a classic New York-style pizza joint, and this spot, in a former VFW post, has provided it. Pizza is available by slice or whole pie, mostly classic tomato sauced varieties, but a few oddities, like the chicken dinner pizza with Buffalo-based sauce, chicken, cheddar, onion and ranch drizzle. Calzones, subs and salads, too.$$ D p

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TONY IMPELLIZZERI’S 5170 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 949-3000. The long-time Louisville pizzamaker moves across the river to fill the cravings of Hoosiers. $$$ D TOPP'T HANDCRAFTED PIZZA 373 Professional Court, New Albany IN, 725-8891. This Elizabethtown-based fast-casual pizza and salad concept serves fast-fired (in an 800-degree oven), handcrafted pizzas and made-to-order chopped salads. The thin crust dough is made onsite daily in original, wheat and gluten-free versions. One price regardless of the number of toppings. $$ L D f UNION 15 5205 New Cut Rd. (Colonial Gardens), 6537494. The name of this pizza and tap house refers to Kentucky joining the Union as the 15th state. The menu includes Chicago thin crust pizza, wings and sandwiches.

The bar has more than 50 beers, wines and bourbon on tap. $$ L D pf WICK’S PIZZA PARLOR 975 Baxter Ave., 458-1828, 3348 Hikes Ln., 907-5542. Wick’s wins popularity with a welcoming mix of good pizza, a quality beer list and a friendly neighborhood feel at both of its eateries. The pies are straightforward, made with ample toppings. “The Big Wick” is a favorite. $$ L D pf ZA’S PIZZA 1573 Bardstown Rd., 454-4544. $$ L D

AMERICAN SMOKEHOUSE STADIUM 5580 Hwy. 62, Jeffersonville IN, 282-6700. This Southern Indiana BBQ joint does the usual stuff – brisket, pulled pork and chicken. But also look for the smoked prime rib, burnt ends, smoked lamb gyros or fried tofu. $ L D p BABIE BAC'Z GOOD GRILL 8533 Terry Rd., 619-1873.

This far South End family-owned barbecue restaurant smokes up baby back ribs and rib tips, half chickens and

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wings and several sandwiches, including the Bacz Attack, which combines ham, bacon and pork. $$ L D BABY MAE'S 1817 Graybrook Ln., New Albany IN, 9147040. Barbecue and soul food in the old Mom & Pop’s Cone Corner building. Baby Mae’s reasonably priced menu includes everyone’s comfort foods: ribs, pulled pork, smoked turkey, mac and cheese, home fries and the “grandaddy of chili dogs.” $ L D BIG BEN’S BBQ 600 Quartermaster Center, Jeffersonville IN, 284-4453. This family run BBQ joint is now at the Quartermaster Center, smoking up a storm and impressing locals who recommend Johnnie’s Smokin Ribs, Joecille’s Backbone (brisket tips), Big Ben’s shredded pork sandwich and Alvin’s Wild-Side shredded chicken sandwich. $$ L D f BOOTLEG BARBECUE COMPANY 9704 Bardstown Rd., 239-2722. Bootleg Barbecue offers a touch of rusticity and a good helping of country hospitality, as it dishes out hearty portions of well-prepared and affordable smoked meats and fixin’s. It’s one of the few places in Louisville where you can get Western Kentucky-style mutton barbecue. $ L D f CARR'S BBQ AND MARKET 3700 Paoli Pike, Floyds Knobs IN, 728-8106. This Floyds Knobs restaurant uses locally-sourced meats in its pulled pork, brisket, smoked turkey breast, chili and ribs. Choose sandwiches, plates with sides, or order by the pound. $$ L D f CHECK'S BBQ & BLUES 14049 Shelbyville Rd., 2446868. The owners of Germantown’s Checks Café have opened this BBQ joint in Middletown, featuring live blues bands on weekends. Some Check’s Café standards (chicken livers, fried pork chops), along with ribs, pulled pork and brisket, as sandwiches and full dinners comprise the menu. $ L D p CITY BARBEQUE 329 Whittington Pkwy., 996-8003. This Ohio-based BBQ chain specializes in brisket, but doesn’t

neglect pulled pork (served with slaw on top) and St. Louis ribs. It also smokes turkey breast, chicken and sausage. $$ L Dpf FAMOUS DAVE’S BAR-B-QUE 8605 Citadel Way, 4932812. This franchise chain operation maderby cityderbuyy be based in the twin cities, but it looks like a Georgia gas station with its exuberant, if tongue-in-cheek faux country decor. The important thing, though, is the food, and Dave’s excels with genuine, hickory-smoked barbecue. $$ L D pf FDKY BBQ 9606 Taylorsville Rd., 785-4273. The logo shows that “FD” stands for Fire Department — after all, those guys know all about smokin’. Eat dinner in or order a couple of pounds of pulled pork, marinated pulled chicken, brisket or smoked sausage, firehouse chili or Res Q stew and all the required side dishes to go. Ribs on Wednesdays and Friday calls for fried fish. $$ L D f FEAST BBQ 909 E. Market St., 749-9900, 10318 Taylorsville Rd., 749-6534. Owner Ryan Rogers brings a modernist sensibility to the art of barbecue to both NuLu and Jeffersontown. He has formulas for brining times and uses a high-tech smoker to keep the temps low and the smoke from overwhelming the meats. $ B L D pf FRANKFORT AVENUE BEER DEPOT 3204 Frankfort Ave., 895-3223. A neighborhood bar that welcomes all comers with some of the most notable ’cue in town. The burgoo and the baked beans rank as some of the best in the city and the pulled pork by the pound is value worth taking home. And where else can you play miniature golf while waiting for the smoker to finish? $ L D pf GALLEY AT GOODWOOD 636 E. Main St., 584-2739.

Goodwood Brewing’s downtown production facility and comfortable taproom now offers a menu designed to pair with its liquid fare. Start with bowls of chili or burgoo, grab some wings or tacos, or one of the smoked meat sandwiches. $$ L D

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GUY FIERI'S SMOKEHOUSE 434 S. Fourth St. (Fourth Street Live!), 919-7299. The latest creation of the Food TV’s bad boy chef caused some serious musing about the meaning of “celebrity” chefs to local eating. But see the hoopla for yourself, and try some of the fried chicken brined in pickle juice, brisket with pomegranate, sorghum-glazed pork chops or Triple Crown grilled cheese sandwich. $$ L D pf HARLEY’S HARDWOODZ BAR-B-Q 1703 CharlestownNew Albany Pk., Jeffersonville IN, 284-4490. Owner Frank Harley said “I found my calling, which is barbecue.”

He smokes up barbecue pork, chicken and brisket, marinated in Harley’s own barbecue sauce. A menu specialty: smoked chicken white chili. $ L D HOLY SMOKES BAR-B-QUE 7508 Preston Hwy., 9685657. The former Bootleg Bar-B-Q franchise on Preston Hwy. has become Holy Smokes Bar-B-Que. Owner Mark Weatherholt smokes his wings for three hours, his ribs and chicken for five, and his pork lingers overnight. He does brown sugar wings, too. $ L D JUCY’S SMOKEHOUSE BAR-B-QUE 7626 New Lagrange Rd., 241-5829. Jucy’s offers exceptionally good Texasstyle barbecue from a little wooden shack that looks just like a country BBQ joint should. Highly recommended. $$ L D f LOUIE’S HOT CHICKEN & BARBECUE 4222 Poplar Level Rd., 709-4274, 505 W. Broadway, 709-5275. The chicken here ranges through 4 levels of heat, the hottest using the notorious ghost pepper. BBQ choices include pulled pork and brisket and smoked wings. $ L D f M&M BBQ 1401 Bluegrass Ave., 996-0163. The Ekklesia Christian Life Ministries operates this BBQ joint that offers rib tips, meat loaf, an assortment of traditional sides, and keeps a limited schedule (Tuesday-Friday, 11:30-7). The food is popular enough that they sometimes sell out, so get there early. $$ L D f MACK BROS BBQ 2700 Rockford Ln., 384-4590. This family owned and operated restaurant serves ribs, rib tips, chicken and sides, including a fan favorite: cornbread salad. $$ L D MARK’S FEED STORE 11422 Shelbyville Rd., 244-0140, 1514 Bardstown Rd., 458-1570, 10316 Dixie Hwy., 9337707, 3827 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 285-1998, 6501 Bardstown Rd., 442-0808. Mark’s routinely takes local honors for its sauces, sandwiches and its meaty baby-back ribs. And don’t miss the smoked take-home turkeys at Thanksgiving. $$ L D pf MARK T'S SLAB HOUSE 4912 Preston Hwy., 962-1069.

That would be slabs of ribs, of course. A wonderfully direct name for a barbecue restaurant. Several drum-style smokers out front exude a savory cloud, attesting to the work being done inside those drums. $ L D MARTIN'S BAR-B-QUE JOINT 3408 Indian Lake Dr., 242-4666. Pretty famous in Tennessee, but Louisvillians can now savor the meats smoked in the open pit (the whole hogs take 24 hours). All dishes, meats, sides and even sauces are made in-house daily. For a different kind of treat, try the smoked turkey sandwich. $$ L D pf MISSION BBQ 4607 Shelbyville Rd., 206-3331, 1213 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 269-3860. The National Anthem is played every day at noon at this Baltimorebased chain, which makes a point of supporting soldiers, firefighters, police officers and other first responders.

Look for Texas-inspired brisket, smoked turkey, pulled chicken and pork, and even smoked salmon. There are also ribs, of course, sandwiches and scratch-made sides. $$ L D pf MOMMA’S MUSTARD PICKLES & BBQ 102 Bauer Ave., 938-6262, 119 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 290-7998. The St. Matthews spot garnered so many barbecue fans that a second outlet opened in the East End for the overflow.

Knot on your bib for Kansas City-style smoked pork and beef ribs (a house specialty), brisket, chicken, pulled pork

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and all the standard sides. Their wings are a contender for best in all the city. Momma's “2% for Louisville” program steadily donates 2% of earnings to local charities. $$ D f

of St. Matthews, offering another quick breakfast and lunch option. Choose from bagels and breakfast sandwiches, muffins, panini, salads and soups. $ B L f

PORKLAND BBQ 2519 St. Cecilia St., 890-5988. Created by the non-profit group, Love City, Porkland BBQ’s proceeds benefit community programs for youth and aspiring entrepreneurs. Look for pulled pork and pulled chicken sandwiches, fried fish, rib tips, side items and desserts. A Portland specialty, smoked bologna sandwiches, too. $ L D

BUTCHER’S BEST 9521 US Hwy. 42., 365-4650. This fully-staffed meat store in Prospect offers custom-cut beef, lamb, pork, bison, chicken and veal, plus a well-stocked deli and specialty foods, with skilled butcher Jimmy Mike at the helm. $ L D f

RIVER ROAD BBQ 3017 River Rd., 592-7065. Right next to the Water Tower, this little take-out-only place smokes brisket and pork: some days one sells out, on other days the other. Winter hours are 11-6 or until the meat runs out. Potato salad, slaw and drinks. Buy it by the sandwich or by the pound. $ L D RUBBIE’S SOUTHSIDE GRILL & BAR 6905 Southside Dr., 367-0007. This South End family knows how to do BBQ. It may be off the beaten path for some folks but here you’ll find a bounty of secret BBQ recipes. $ L D pf

CHICAGO STEAK & LEMONADE 9015 Galene Dr.,7421381. This local spot serves a variety of Philly cheese steaks, gyros, lemon-pepper fish dinners and wings. The lemonade comes in a passel of different flavor combos. $ LD COLD SMOKE BAGELS 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market), 309-4269. Four kinds every day, with a schmear of your choice. Bagels, sandwiches and the weekend brunch highlights latkes. $ B Br L f EV'S DELI 500 W. Jefferson St., 561-6259. A cozy downtown deli located in the Hilliard-Lyons building.

Open for breakfast and lunch, it offers a good selection of sandwiches, panini and wraps at budget prices. $ L

RUBBIN’ BUTTS BBQ 8007 Highway 311, Sellersburg IN, 748-7266. Up the road a ways you will find this “traditional” BBQ joint with some house specialties not so traditional: smoked deviled eggs, BBQ pork queso and their signature, the BBQ Pig-E-Chonga, a flour shell stuffed with baked beans, cheese, and pulled pork, then deep fried and smothered in queso and BBQ sauce. $ L D

FIREHOUSE SUBS 215 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 365-3473, 4905 Outer Loop, 749-4257. This national chain touts that they steam their meat and cheese sandwiches.

Specialty subs carry out the Firehouse theme and the kids meals include a little fire helmet. $ L D

SHACK IN THE BACK BBQ 406 Mt. Holly Rd., 363-3227.

This Fairdale institution since 2004 smokes and serves slow-smoked pulled pork, brisket, ribs and a dozen sides (including Nanny’s potato salad) from an 1896 log house.

Specialty is hickory-grilled steaks on Friday and Saturday nights. $ L D f

FRANK'S MEAT & PRODUCE 3342 Preston Hwy., 3633989. Frank’s has been around a long time, treating those in the know to piled-high deli sandwiches for prices so reasonable it might seem you stepped into a time warp.

There are steaks and chops and produce and other groceries, but it is best known for lunchtime service, where the long lines move fast, and the constant turnover ensures freshness of sandwiches and soups. $ L D

SMOKED ON SECOND 133 W. Liberty St., 888-1414. The restaurant moving into the former Griff’s space, joining the One Thirty Three bar, features typical Southern barbecue and sides and has a stage to host live music. $$ LDp SMOKEY BONES BBQ 2525 Hurstbourne Gem Ln., 4917570. This Stony Brook-area eatery combines a sportsbar with a barbecue concept. Its large and varied menu includes wings and burgers, steaks and pork chops, and several takes on mac ‘n’ cheese, as well as righteous ribs. $$ L D p SUMMA DAT 139 S. 44th St., 778-0085. $ L D THE SAUCE 638 Providence Way, Clarsville IN, 656-0941.

301 W. Market St., 690-4550. This space on the corner of 3rd and Market has had several identities over the years.

Now the bar section on the right is Deke’s Bar, and the dining room to the west is The Sauce, serving barbecue chicken, beef and pork, and smoked turkey legs. The casual ambience celebrates local sports, which is aprpropriate: owners’ Randy and Sheritha Towns’s son Daivd Johnson is a point guard for the University of Louisville. $$ L D pf TNT CHICAGO STYLE BBQ & CHICKEN 3400 W. Market St., 510-9310. $ L D

BARRY’S CHEESESTEAKS & MORE 1161 S. Second St., 618-2288, 2500 Bardstown Rd., 384-2430. Barry’s version of the classic Philly street food has been getting raves from self-anointed cheesesteak mavens, who approve of his meat, bread and the cheese sauce choices. $LD

GALAN'S MEAT MARKET & DELI 2801 W. Market St., 614-8514. This old-school butcher shop also offers piledhigh deli sandwiches and sides such as German potato salad or sour cream macaroni and cheese salad. Eat-in at the handful of small tables or take away. $$ B L D HARVEY’S CHEESE 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market), (512) 269-8127. Lots of cheeses to choose from over the counter. At lunch, grilled cheese sandwiches (as exotic as you want) and daily blackboard specials. Call ahead to reserve an artistically-arranged and tasty party tray of cheese, charcuterie and fruit. $$ L D f HONEYBAKED CAFÉ 4600 Shelbyville Rd., 895-6001, 6423 Bardstown Rd., 239-9292, 3602 Northgate Crt., New Albany IN, 941-9426. Before holidays, you go in and carry out huge spiral-sliced hams or turkey breasts or beef roasts for your own parties. In the off season, you sit down in the café and order generous, filling sandwiches made from those same meats, served on rolls or croissants, cold or with a hot cheese melt. Soup and salads too. And cookies. $ L D f JASON’S DELI 4600 Shelbyville Rd., 896-0150, 410 N. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 412-4101. Don’t look for a New York kosher-style deli at this Texas-based chain, but suburbanites are lining up at its multiple locations for oversize sandwiches, salads, wraps and more. $ L D f JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS AND SALADS 10266 Shelbyville Rd., 244-1991, 10519 Fischer Park Dr., 425-1025, 1983 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 384-1384. East Coast-style sub shop with local faves that include cheese, ham, prosciuttini, capicola, salami, pepperoni and fixings. $ L Df

BRIAN’S DELI 531 S. Fourth St., 561-0098. Between Chestnut Street and Muhammad Ali Boulevard, Brian’s services the downtown lunch crowd with soup, salads, sandwiches and snacks. $ B L

JIMMY JOHN’S SUB SHOP (11 Locations) This national sandwich-shop chain offers a wide selection of over stuffed subs that benefit from fresh quality ingredients.

But what sets them apart from the rest is their value — and they deliver. $ L D f

BRUEGGER’S BAGELS 119 Breckenridge Ln., 618-1158.

The bagel/sandwich chain has set up shop in the middle

LADY TRON’S 147 E. Market St., New Albany, IN 7259510. Owner Summer Seig has created an eclectic sci-fi

B = Breakfast Br = Brunch L = Lunch D = Dinner

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theme for her soup and sandwich diner. Outside is Lady Tron, a smiling robot with red hair and a yellow apron; inside, you can find seasonal soups and sandwiches. $ B LD LENNY’S SUB SHOP 3942 Taylorsville Rd., 454-7831.

Another semi-national chain, covering mostly the South and Midwest, brings a selection of familiar subs, sandwiches and salads to Louisville diners eager for more standardized semi-fast food. $ L D f LONNIE’S BEST TASTE OF CHICAGO 121 St. Matthews Ave., 895-2380. This appetizing operation offers genuine Chicago style hot dogs and a taste of Chicago atmosphere for a fair price. $ L D f LOTSA PASTA 3717 Lexington Rd., 896-6361. This familyowned pioneer in gourmet cheeses, oils, dips, hummus and, of course, pasta has been in operation for 37 years now. They are mainly an eclectic specialty-food store but fans stand three-deep at the sandwich counter every afternoon. And next door is a comfy café, to eat that deli sandwich, or get coffee and dessert. $ L D f MAIN EATERY 643 W. Main St., 589-7200. Smack dab in the middle of the Main Street historic district, this fashionable deli lures the savvy business midday crowd. $ L MANHATTAN GRILL 429 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd., 5610027. $ B L MCALISTER’S DELI (10 Locations) Emphasizing quality customer service, this delicatessen ladles up such soups as gumbo and chicken tortilla along with cutting board favorites. They have a special way with a tumbler of sweet iced tea. $ L D MORRIS DELI & CATERING 2228 Taylorsville Rd., 4581668. Many locals still know this small, popular Highlands deli as Karem Deeb’s after its longtime previous owner.

Mostly for takeout — it packs in a few crowded tables — it’s known for high-quality, hand-made deli fare. $ L

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PANERA BREAD CO. (9 Locations) Warm breads finishbaked on the premises make a tasty base for a variety of sandwiches. Soups, salads, coffee drinks and a free WiFi hotspot make Panera’s outlets popular gathering places. $ BLDf PARNELLI'S CHICAGO EATERY 3548 E. 10th St., Jeffersonville IN, 913-0025. If you crave Windy City classics like Vienna Beef hot dogs with neon relish or wet Italian beef sandwiches with giardiniera, head to the Jeff suburbs for Chicago specialites, incuding Greektown favorites like gyros and falafel. $ L D f PAUL’S FRUIT MARKET 3922 Chenoweth Sq., 896-8918, 4946 Brownsboro Rd., 426-5070, 12119 Shelbyville Rd., 253-0072, 3704 Taylorsville Rd., 456-4750. One of Louisville’s popular sources for produce, cheeses, deli items, and the like. Deli sandwiches and salads are available (takeout only). $ L D PAYNE STREET BAKEHOUSE 225 S. Spring St., 8958323. Nancy’s Bagel Grounds has remodeled the space that had been Willingers Beer Depot after moving from its longtime digs on Frankfort Ave. Despite the name change, you can still get bagels and cream cheese with your coffee or juices as well as a breakfast sandwich called The Willinger. $ B L PENN STATION (17 Locations). Billed as the East Coast Sub Headquarters, this sandwich kitchen does a brisk business here in the Louisville area. $ L D POTBELLY SANDWICH SHOP 302 S. Fourth St., 5401100, 4023 Summit Plaza Dr., 420-9616, 9018 Taylorsville Rd., 290-4820. This local outpost of the Chicago chain offers substantial sandwiches, salads and even breakfast sandwiches and oatmeal both to the downtown lunch crowd along Fourth St., and out at the Summit in the eastern suburbs. $ L D f QUIZNO’S SUBS 4212 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 981-7849. Toasted breads, a sandwich selection of meats,

veggies and fish are built to fight hunger. Fresh soups are available daily, from chili to chowder; so are salads and desserts. $ L f SCHLOTZSKY’S DELI 10531 Fischer Park Dr., 425-8447.

The original Schlotzsky’s offered just one kind of sandwich — “The Original” — when it opened its first eatery in Austin, Texas, in 1971. Now this national chain vends a full selection of deli-style fare, with one significant improvement on the traditional deli: the servers are invariably polite. $ B L D f SEEDS AND GREENS NATURAL MARKET & DELI 207 W. First St., New Albany IN, 944-3800. Browse among the organic vegetables and health foods, and stop by the deli for soups and salads, hot and cold sandwiches, vegan, vegetarian and omnivore preparations. $ L D SOUPY’S 3027 Hunsinger Ln., 451-5325. Back in 1987, Danny Bowling’s mother-in-law, Bette, started making pots of soup in a corner of Bowling's Meats & Deli, a family courtesy that led in 1995 to Soupy’s. Now it’s about 2 million cups of soup later, by Soupy’s estimate, all using Bette’s recipes, cooked up in small batches daily.

Salads, sandwiches (including veggie burgers) and sweets as well. $ L D STEVENS & STEVENS 1114 Bardstown Rd., 584-3354.

This authentic New York-style deli occupies the rear third of the Ditto’s space in the heart of the Highlands. Take out or eat in one of the booths, you’ll get piled-high pastrami, brisket and corned beef and you’ll love lox and a schmear on your bagel — even if you don’t know what a schmear is. $ L SUB STATION II 3101 Fern Valley Rd., 964-1075. The hardy No. 19, a six-meat-and-cheese super sub, keeps the store buzzing. An array of sandwiches, salad sides and desserts fill out an appetizing menu. $ L D SWEET PEACHES 1800 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd., 3560232. Breakfast, sandwiches and soups are what you will

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find at this West End spot. And don’t overlook fresh baked goodies like brownies and cookies or the chance to wash them down with peach-flavored sweet tea. This also is the location of the monthly Sweet Peaches Poetry Slam. $BLD THAT'S MY DOG 125 W. Chestnut St., Jeffersonville, IN, 725-8242. This hot dog and burger joint (with meatless sausages and salads too) joins the still-growing spate of businesses near the sunny side of the Big Four walking bridge. Choose from 30+ toppings as you go through the serving line. Enjoy beer and wine too on the dog-friendly patio seating. $ L D f THE BLOCK GOURMET DELI 14041 Shelbyville Rd., 785-4689. A husband and wife team with considerable experience in restaurants runs this Middletown deli. Fans report excellent thick sandwiches, fresh salads and homemade soups. Box lunches and catering also available. $$ L D THELMA’S DELI 140 N. Fourth St. (Galt House), 5895200. Located in the glassed-in walkway (conservatory) between the two hotel towers, Thelma’s provides breakfast items, coffee, sandwiches and snacks 24/7 for Galt House guests and anyone else who needs, say, a pizza at 3 a.m. $$ B L D TOONERVILLE DELI 1201 S. First St., 635-6960. Here you will find a full panoply of signature sandwiches (including breakfast sandwiches), soups and salads and beer on draft, or in bottles or cans. $$ L D pf VINAIGRETTE SALAD KITCHEN 203 N. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 205-9933. This Lexington-based modestly upscale salad restaurant offers locally sourced soups and salads and fresh lemonade. The menu includes the Bluegrass Blackberry salad; chicken taco and maki shrimp salads; and soups such as creamy tomato and sausage, kale and potato. Be sure to try one of three fresh lemonades on offer daily. $$ L D WHICH WICH? 9850 Von Allmen Ct., 290-3721, 221 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 708-2535, 13124 W. Hwy 42, 2280621, 3531 Grant Line Rd., New Albany IN, 920-0637.

The concept here is “create your own sandwich” and draws on 50 toppings choices including sauerkraut, roasted red peppers, crispy onion strings, and hummus.

The subs are the draw, but they also have wraps, gyros and now a variety of shakes. $$ B L D

BELLA’S DINER 4106 Taylor Blvd., 749-1771. $ L D BURGER BOY 1450 S. Brook, 635-7410. For a real slice of Louisville life, this weathered greasy spoon at the corner of Brook and Burnett is the real thing. Neighborhood denizens drink coffee and chow down on burgers and breakfast until the wee hours (the joint is open 24 hours).

If Louisville is home to a budding Charles Bukowski, there’s a good chance he’s sitting at their counter right now, recovering from last night’s excesses. $ B L D BURGER GIRL 3334 Frankfort Ave., 709-5454. Dan Borsch, who owns the Old Louisville Tavern, Toonerville Tavern and Burger Boy Diner, has expanded into Crescent Hill. Burger Girl, in the former Bluegrass Burgers space, is a 24-hour burger grill, the sister to long-time somnambulists’ favorite Burger Boy. $$ B L D f CHECK’S CAFÉ 1101 E. Burnett Ave., 637-9515. You can whiff a scent of Louisville history coming off the old walls of this quintessential Germantown saloon. The bar food here is about as good as bar food gets, and that’s not bad.

The open-faced roast beef sandwich, with mashed potatoes and brussels sprouts, is a F&D favorite. $ L D pf COTTAGE CAFÉ 11609 Main St., Middletown, 244-9497.

This nostalgic old house in the countryside offers a taste of Kentucky-style cookery in an array of lunch specials that range from homemade soups and sandwiches to the traditional Hot Brown. $ L 58 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

COTTAGE INN 570 Eastern Pkwy., 637-4325. Longtime neighborhood fixture Cottage Inn has a bright new look, and continues happily doling out the kind of excellent down-home food it has served since 1929. $ L D D. NALLEY’S 970 S. Third St., 618-2429. The nostalgia here is almost palpable. The interior has been upgraded, but changed as little as possible. The food offerings continue to be diner standards, like what was served when it first opened 50+ years ago. $ B L D DAVE & PEG’S COPPER KETTLE 276 Main Cross St., Charlestown IN, 256-4257. $ B L D EXECUTIVE BISTRO 1930 Bishop Ln. (Watterson Towers) 365-2848. This bright little spot provides grilled sandwiches, soups, salads and snacks to office workers in Watterson Towers. $ B L FOUR KINGS CAFÉ 4642 Jennings Ln., 968-2930. Steamtable service featuring spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna and chicken attract a hungry lunch crowd at this casual spot, and brunch specialties are just as popular. $ L D pf FRONTIER DINER 7299 Dixie Hwy., 742-2478. The name “diner” says it all, and this friendly neighborhood spot on Dixie Highway delivers just what you’d expect in downhome comfort fare. The word on the street, though, is simple: Go for the pancakes. They’re worth a special trip. $LD GASLIGHT DINER 10509 Watterson Trl., 694-2322. The owners of Mac’s Dough House did some research and decided that one more pizza place was more than J’town needed, so they have converted their space to a diner: all day breakfast, lunchtime specials and comfort food dinners to appeal to all ages. $$ B Br L D f GERALDINE’S KITCHEN 402 Wall St., Jeffersonville IN, 924-7707. Geraldine is the late mother of owner/chef Bob Hoyland; Geraldine’s Kitchen is a tribute to her sense of hospitality. Breakfast and lunch are served in an inviting, homey atmosphere. $ B L GOOSE CREEK DINER 2923 Goose Creek Rd., 339-8070.

Goose Creek Diner offers old-fashioned comfort food, as the name “diner” suggests, but transcendently adds a gourmet taste to the down-home eats. $ B Br L D LIL' WAGNERS 4520 Poplar Level Rd., (Derby City Gaming), 961-7600. A sit-down restaurant when you need a break from betting. Burgers and sandwiches (including fried bologna), starters like nachos, fried pickles and crab cakes, and soups and salads. Also a graband-go menu of wraps, sandwiches and desserts. $ L D LINDSAY'S KITCHEN 5300 Cane Run Rd., 384-4823.

Good ol' southern hospitality and home-made food are the draws at this modest place in the far southwest of the city. The menu includes chicken-fried steak, meatloaf and liver and onions. $ B L D METRO DINER 4901 Outer Loop, 357-0767. The first local outlet of this Florida-based chain features "classic comfort food with flair.” Harking back to the glory days of diners, Metro Diner offers breakfast, lunch and dinner menus all day long. Signature dish is fried chicken and waffles, with burgers, seafood and salads also available. $$ B L D O’DOLLYS 7800 Third St. Rd., 375-1690. Homestyle steam-table favorites, available from breakfast to dinner, not to mention full bar service that makes O’Dollys a Southwest Louisville destination. $ B L D p WAGNER’S PHARMACY 3113 S. Fourth St., 375-3800. A track-side institution that has as much history as the nearby Twin Spires of Churchill Downs. Soups, sandwiches, shakes and an early bird “trainer’s” breakfast can be enjoyed all year round. Racing history on the walls and servers who’ll call you “hon.” $ B L

ADA'S KITCHEN AND CATERING 214 W. Broadway, 561-3762. $ L

BIG MOMMA’S SOUL KITCHEN 4532 W. Broadway, 7729580. Big Momma’s may be the most hospitable place in the West End to get genuine soul food. A different main course is featured daily, all home-cooked food, including such goodies as baked chicken, smothered pork chops, meat loaf, catfish … and fried chicken every day. $ L D BOOK & BOURBON SOUTHERN KITCHEN 600 Terminal Dr. (Louisville Airport). This library-themed concept at this upscale, airport dining venue offers more than 100 bourbons, along with a classic craft cocktail list.

The food menu tweaks Southern comfort food with items such as fried green tomato Benedict and buttermilk fried chicken and waffles. $$ B L D p CASK SOUTHERN KITCHEN & BAR 9980 Linn Station Rd., 614-6499. The former SOU! Southern Kitchen & Bar has been reconceptualized as, as one customer called it, a “Bbq plus restaurant.” Gumbo, Brunswick stew, grit fritters and pulled pork nachos, dry rubbed oak-smoked ribs, smoked meatloaf sandwich (served hot or cold) and buttermilk Southern fried chicken sandwich are among the new items on the menu. $$$ D p DASHA BARBOUR’S SOUTHERN BISTRO 2217 Steier Ln., 882-2081, 1300 Muhammad Ali Blvd., 749-0094.

The Buechel location certainly gives the “bistro” concept a down-home Southern twist. Both locations serve familiar home-style fried chicken and fish, a vegetable plate with three sides choices, burgers, pork chop sandwich, and chicken wings. Sides include sweet potato casserole studded with pecans, fried corn on the cob and collard greens. $$ B L D FLO'S HOUSE OF SOUL 3400 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd., 966-2213. You order at the window and eat on the patio, which has heaters for cooler weather and TVs for watching big games. Owner Jason Hatcher tries to do good for his community, offering food rewards to kids with good report cards. Choices include burgers, chili dogs, Philly cheesesteaks, whiting and catfish sandwiches, nachos and ice cream. $$ Br D pf FORTY ACRES AND A MULE RESTAURANT 1800 Dixie Hwy., 776-5600. $ L D FRANCO’S RESTAURANT & CATERING 3300 Dixie Hwy., 448-8044. Long-time fans of Jay’s Cafeteria (including politicians and national entertainers) are no longer bereft. Jay’s former owners serve up Southern Soul food in Shively at family-friendly prices. Look for smothered pork chops, collard greens, fried chicken, fried catfish and fruit cobbler. $ L D

FRY DADDY’S 1991 Brownsboro Rd., 742-4596, 1270 S. Preston St. Here, you start with a plate of fries topped with Monterey Jack cheese. Then you can choose from 7 protein additions such as fried chicken, pulled pork, vegan chicken, snow crab and lobster. And then, you can choose from 12 sauces and other toppings before leave the building. $$ L D FUN FOOD KITCHEN & DELI 4106 Murphy Ln., 3292266. This East End strip mall soul food outlet has it all: jumbo chicken wings and tenders, pork ribs and rib tips, fish, sandwiches, home-cooked sides, peach cobbler and banana pudding. $ L D f LUCRETIA’S KITCHEN 1812 West Muhammad Ali Blvd.

(Chef Space), 294-8143. It’s Wing Wednesday, Rib Tip Thursday, Fried Fish Friday and Soul Food Sunday at this ambitious little startup operating in the business incubator in the near West End. $$ Br L D MAMA’S KITCHEN CARRYOUT 603 N. 26th St., 5655760. This little West End order-at-the-window place serves up sandwiches, snacks (with 1 side), dinners (with 2) – things like hot dogs, pulled pork and chicken, meatloaf, smothered pork chops and fried chicken and fish on Fridays. $ L D MATTIE'S KITCHEN 1018 S. 15th St., (St. Stephens Family Life Center), 544-8954. Open Wednesdays and Fridays for lunch and dinner, and Sundays for afterchurch dining. The flexible menu can list fried or baked

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chicken, pork chops, mac n’ cheese, spaghetti and meatballs, and on Fridays, catfish is a special. $ Br L PO-Z'S KITCHEN 6801 Dixie Hwy., 883-0073. Pleasure Ridge Park residents in need of chicken wings, fried fish and side dishes like fried cabbage, mixed greens and sweet baked beans can find them here. Desserts too, like banana pudding and honey bun cake. $$ L D p SCENE 501 W. Main St. Scene is the latest dining venture in the space at the Kentucky Center for the Arts that has seen a lot of things come and go. Open before shows for drinks and small plate dining served in the fast-casual style.

Flatbreads, burgers, pasta dishes, crab cakes; a small but good wine and beer selection and a full bar. $$ D p SHIRLEY MAE’S CAFÉ 802 Clay St., 589-5295. This Smoketown institution draws hungry locals as well as celebrities in town hungry for the soul food of their youth.

BBQ ribs and hot-water cornbread cooked in a cast iron skillets. Pig’s feet and chicken wings and collards, all seasoned with Shirley Mae Beard’s spice rack — salt and pepper. $ L D SOUL FOOD DINING 4900 Poplar Level Rd., 915-8239. A cafeteria-style restaurant that offers all that a soul food fan would want: BBQ chicken, meatloaf, ribs, pork chops (with or without gravy), catfish, buffalo, and whiting, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, greens, green beans, sweet potatoes and slaw. $$ L D SOUTHERN EXPRESS 418 W. Oak St., 963-1719. This well-known West End carryout spot has moved into a sitdown location in Old Louisville. There, classic soul food is served for eat-in or takeout and at rock-bottom prices.

Diners build their own meal at $1 per item. Choices vary daily, but look for fried chicken, cooked cabbage, fried whiting, pork roast, fried or smothered pork chops, mac and cheese and rib tips. $ L D f SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY 3402 W. Broadway, 8221474. A family sports bar that satisfies all ages with its

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

RED = Advertiser

homey atmosphere and its well-crafted familiar food like double cheeseburgers, fried chicken with hot water cornbread, catfish, wings and ribs. $ L D p SUE'S TOUCH OF COUNTRY 2605 Rockford Ln., 4505059. Sue’s provides Shively with the kind of “stick to your ribs” food you go to a country/family style restaurant for. Daily Specials, homemade desserts and breakfast served all day. $ B L D

THE BLACK JOCKEYS LOUNGE 630 S. Fourth St., 5870526. Most recently this downtown space was Encore on 4th. Now, in partnership with the Project to Protect African-American Turf History, Black Jockeys Lounge celebrates the history of Black jockeys. Waitstaff wear jockey-inspired uniforms and the menu features items the jockeys may have ordered themselves: chicken and waffles, jerk chicken, prime rib, fried catfish and bread pudding. $$ Br L p V-GRITS 1025 Barret Ave., 742-1714. Vegan food truck VGrits has settled down in the busy corner on the border of Germantown and the Highlands. Co-owner Kristina Addington defines her vegan menu as “southern comfort food, stick to your ribs, healthy junk food.” She has recently taken over False Idol Brewery, which shared the space, and rebranded it as Chimera Brewing Co. $$ L D pf VIBES RESTAURANT & ULTRA LOUNGE 1346 River Rd., 568-6691. This sleek, chic, eclectic music and food venue is in the former Relish building. Vibes serves bar bites such as burgers and sandwiches, appetizers, loaded hot dogs and entrees like wings, tenders, shrimp and fish at lunch, brunch and dinner. $$ Br L D p

CRAVINGS ALA CARTE 101 S. Fifth St. (National City Tower), 584-6846. This thrifty deli offers a variety of build-your-own sandwiches, a soup-and-salad bar and

specialty bars featuring baked potatoes and a monthly ethnic creation. $ L GOLDEN CORRAL 1402 Cedar St., Clarksville IN. 9137577. Now cafeteria style family dining at one price, all you can eat. Steaks are served beginning at 4 p.m. $ B L D

B.J.’S RESTAURANT & BREWHOUSE 7900 Shelbyville Rd.(Oxmoor Center), 326-3850. This Southern California chain arrived east of the Mississippi, including a large and imposing brewhouse at Oxmoor Center. A full range of made-in-Nevada craft beers is dispensed, along with upscale-casual pub grub. $$ L D p BARRELHOUSE ON MARKET 1005 W. Market St., Jeffersonville IN, 590-6373. Andrew and Michelle Collins renovated a down-to-the-heels dive bar into a spiffy, lively drinking establishment and music venue with a small, tasty menu: a slider assortment, buffalo and BBQ wings, pretzels and queso. $$ D pf BAXTER’S 942 BAR & GRILL 942 Baxter Ave., 409-9422.

Lively music offerings and excellent barbecue have made this Lower Highlands bar and grill a satisfying place to dine. The BBQ comes as pulled chicken, pork and brisket in sandwiches or full dinners. $ D pf BEEF O’BRADY’S 241 Blankenbaker Pkwy., 254-2322, 5628 Bardstown Rd., 239-2226, 3101 S. Second St., 637-3737, 11324 Preston Hwy., 969-5559, 105 LaFollette Ct., Floyds Knobs IN, 923-1316. If you think your basic sports pub is only suitable for guys guzzling beer, take another look: Beef O’Brady’s puts the “family” in “family sports pub,” offering a wholesome environment. $ L D f BIG AL’S BEERITAVILLE 1715 Mellwood Ave., 893-4487.

Good people, good food, cold beer: The sign out front

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says it all, and we might add “cool atmosphere” in praise of this small but friendly Butchertown oasis. $ L D pf

sandwiches and Tavern Specialties like grilled flat iron steak and southern-fried cod. $$ L D pf

BITTERS END 101 W. Main St. (Hotel Distil), 716-7373.

Hotel Distil’s rooftop bar provides signature cocktails and shareable small plates along with expansive views of downtown and the river. Oysters, steak tartare and soybraised short ribs are on the menu, as well as intriguing beverage options like a blueberry-sage sour and a raspberry-thyme Sidecar. $$$ L D pf

FALLS CITY TAPROOM 901 E. Liberty St., 257-7147. This historic brand that was first brewed in 1905 has been revived (2010) and re-imagined as a modern craft beer.

Now you can sip on their offerings at their new taproom and beer garden operating just east of downtown where Phoenix Hill and NuLu merge. Food is also offered tableside from the adjacent Bandido Taqueria Mexicana. $$ L D pf

BROWNIE’S THE SHED GRILLE & BAR 9900 Linn Station Rd., 326-9830, 826 W. Main St., New Albany IN, 920-0030. Restaurant owner and namesake Keith Brown used to host neighborhood gatherings in a shed at his home. Now he brings the same sociable concept to his two sports pubs, the area’s official homes for Cincinnati Bengals fans. $ L D pf BUBBA'S 33 4631 Medical Plaza Way, Clarksville IN, 2845933. The 12th location of the growing chain from the guys at Texas Roadhouse, Bubba’s is a family friendly sports bar with TVs galore and corn hole boards on the patio. The menu offers chicken with two types of bacon, chili-rubbed salmon, smoked chipotle wings, a spicy habanero burger and pizzas. $$ L D pf

FIRST STRING BAR AND GRILL 5921 New Cut Rd., 366-0049. This South End sports bar offers pizza, baked spaghetti, fried bologna sandwiches and Cajun dry rub chicken wings. $$ L D p

HILLTOP TAVERN 1800 Frankfort Ave., 742-2908. The Skelton brothers (John is an alum of Seviche) have settled in at this prime Clifton location. Their tavern fare is focused on barbecue, with pulled pork and beer-butt chicken specialties, along with hefty sandwiches (their meatloaf is a standout). $ D p

FLANAGAN’S ALE HOUSE 934 Baxter Ave., 585-3700.

Gourmet pizzas, hoagies, and an enormous beer selection draw Highlands folks to this cozy neighborhood pub. For a late night pizza (the kitchen’s open until 2 a.m.), it’s one of the best options in the city. $$ L D pf

HITCHING POST INN 7314 Fegenbush Ln., 239-4724. In addition to its full bar and beer garden, and lively conversation, the Hitching Post Inn offers an array of pub grub, including burgers, chicken tenders, and sandwiches. $ L D pf

GERSTLE’S PLACE 3801 Frankfort Ave., 742-8616. A popular St. Matthews neighborhood tavern since 1924.

Although dining is secondary to booze and sports here, the food goes well beyond mere pub grub. $ L D pf

HOOPS GRILL AND SPORTS BAR 6733 Strawberry Ln., 375-4667. The name says it all: sports, casual dining and good things to drink all find their natural meeting place at this friendly neighborhood spot that boasts 3 different steak sandwiches, along with pizza, burgers and chicken. $ L D pf

BUD’S TAVERN GOOD FOOD & BARBECUE 4014 Dixie Hwy., 384-9131, 9119 Galene Dr., 409-6066. This well-established Shively tavern has added a second location in Jeffersontown. It’s noted for excellent service and honest bar food that consistently receives high praise.

Signature dishes — “gently fried” grouper, burgers (including a Reuben burger), as well as burritos and barbecue — are now available at both locations. $ L D pf

GOLD BAR 1601 Story Ave., 749-0002. Taking over the space vacated by Butchertown Social, Gold Bar focuses on sustainable practices: drinks will be served with biodegradable straws and menus will primarily be on LCD screen displays. The food menu offers bar fare: burgers, wings and fries, along with multiple vegan and vegetarian menu options and rotating specials. $ D pf

BUNGALOW JOE’S BAR & GRILL 7813 Beulah Church Rd., 931-5637. A “family friendly sports bar and grill” in the Fern Creek area boasts 23 HDTVs including a 5- by 7foot HD projector for 3D football viewing, a game room for kids, and plenty of wings, shrimp, burgers and beer. $$ L D pf

GRANVILLE INN 1601 S. Third St., 636-2748. A longtime gathering place for U of L students, faculty and fans, this sturdy redbrick tavern just north of the university campus offers a good variety of bar munchies, sandwiches and simple grilled fare plus pizza. It’s perhaps best known, though, for the signature Granville Burger, widely reputed as one of the best burgers in town. $ L D p

BUTCHER BLOCK EATERY AT HIGH HORSE 1032 Story Ave., 690-5020. The High Horse Bar, which now occupies the home of the legendary Do Drop Inn, serves edibles from a food window dubbed Butcher Block Eatery. Allan Rosenberg, late of Butchertown Pizza Hall, supervises. His menu features crab tater tots, a pork belly grilled cheese, and tacos. Poutine, beer cheese and deviled eggs are on hand as well. $$ D p DIAMOND PUB & BILLIARDS 3814 Frankfort Ave., 8957513, 630 Barret Ave., 690-7040. St. Matthews’ newest restaurateur star, Jared Matthews, began his career here, revitalizing this neighborhood institution for a new generation. Both locations (the second at the old silos on the edge of downtown) are major music venues. The food is just what happy concert-goers look for: pizza, burgers, wings, beer cheese, sandwiches and wraps.$ L D pf DIAMOND STREET GRUB & HOPS 3920 Shelbyville Rd., 709-5113. Jared Matthews’ St. Matthews restaurant empire grows again with a cosmopolitan street food and craft beer restaurant that replaces the recently shuttered Mellow Mushroom pizzeria. Expect to find every street-style food one can think of: Thai wings, elotes, Philly cheesesteaks, a Chicago-style hot dog called The Wrigley and Korean meatballs among other items familiar and exotic. $$ L D pf DRAKE’S 3939 Shelbyville Rd., 614-7327, 3921 Summit Plaza Dr., 384-3921. Lexington-based Bluegrass Hospitality Group has two local outlets that offer twenty-four craft beers on tap to wash down the traditional pub grub of tacos, ribs and — these days — sushi. Family-friendly by day and a hoppin’ spot at night, with music videos and a DJ. $$ L D pf DUNDEE TAVERN 2224 Dundee Rd., 458-6637. After a few flips and changes, Dundee Tavern has found its soul again as a neighborhood bar. A lot of beer choices on draft and in bottles, and a comfort food menu that includes wings and fingers, fried pickles, chili, burgers and 60 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

HILLCREST TAVERN 3212 Frankfort Ave., 290-6917.

Dan Borsch, who runs several Old Louisville spots like Burger Boy Diner and Old Louisville Tavern, has expanded into Clifton with this renovation of a long-time neighborhood watering hole. The menu mirrors that of Old Louisville Tavern, with burgers, sandwiches, appetizers and a few entrée items. A vintage 100-year old bar will anchor the nostalgic ambiance. $$ L D pf

GREAT AMERICAN GRILL 2735 Crittenden Dr. (Hilton Garden Inn), 637-2424. Salads, burgers, pastas and sandwiches are available for the casual diner; main entrées include New York strip, filet of salmon and more. $ Br D pf HARRY’S TAPHOUSE & KITCHEN 130 W. Riverside Dr., Jeffersonville IN., 725-1111. Harry's, named after owner Tony Revak's son, takes over a riverfront patio (previously occupied by Flat 12 Bierwerks). Executive Chef Tyler Vogt’s southern Creole cuisine — cast iron chicken, frog legs, intercultural hybrids like a Creole catfish po’boy topped with kimchi aioli — is paired up with craft beer, Bourbon and great views. $$ L D pf HARBOR AND HOPS 3010 Gottbrath Pkwy., Jeffersonville IN, 748-2622. This expanding franchise operation offers local and regional craft beers, draught wines (served out of the barrel), hard ciders and kombucha. Let their cicerone lead you to beverage pairings with their familiar, hearty pub menu – lots of burgers, beer cheese soup, salads and sandwiches, and a limited entree selection. $$$ L D pf HELL OR HIGH WATER 112 W. Washington St., 5873057. The entrance is through Hello Curio, an ostensible arts and crafts gallery. Downstairs is the main bar in a two-story library with a mezzanine floor, looking out onto a small live entertainment area. Craft cocktails are bourbon-focused but not exclusively. There is a small bites menu, but drinks are the center of the “speakeasy” experience. $$ D p HIGHLANDS TAPROOM GRILL 1058 Bardstown Rd., 584-5222. Another nice choice for beer and bar food along the B’town Rd. corridor, but owner Tommy Clemons’ menu includes, but extends beyond, the usual beer cheese, chili and burgers. Look for the crabby patty or the French toast sausage. The pulled pork spring rolls are on their way to becoming legendary. $$ L D pf

INTERNATIONAL TAP HOUSE 637 E. Main St. The St. Louis-based chain has opened on the ground floor of the Main & Clay apartment building. Not a brewery, but a purveyor of hundreds of craft beers, ciders and a limited selection of wine. Patrons are invited to bring in food from neighboring businesses. $$ p f JOHN O’BRYAN’S TAVERN 4123 Flintlock Dr., 449-4940. $BLDf KERN’S KORNER 2600 Bardstown Rd., 456-9726. This family-owned tavern, a popular neighborhood pit stop since 1978, offers freshly made ham, chicken salad sandwiches and soups. The hamburgers, though, might be the best unpretentious burgers in town: freshly ground daily, always cooked perfectly, and served on a toasted bun. $ L D pf KHALIL’S 10966 Dixie Hwy., 632-2227. A family sports bar in Valley Station boasts plenty of TVs, including some tabletop TVs in booths. Menu presents the usual bar food suspects — salads, wings, burgers — but the burgers are on pretzel buns. $ L D p LOUISVILLE INTERNATIONAL PUB 5343 Mitscher Ave. 384-3952. A neighborhood bar with an international focus. Eclectic bar food options cover the globe with dinner and sandwich options like nachos, chili, falafel, poppers, burgers, kabobs, and shawarma.$ L D p MG'S PRIME TIME CAFÉ 7017 Global Dr., 333-0719. If you find yourself hungry on the far Southwest side of town, this café can satisfy with appetizers like jalapeño poppers or fried pickles, burgers built your way, or an range of sandwich options. $ L D pf NEIL & PATTY’S FIRESIDE BAR & GRILL 7611 IN 311, Sellersburg IN, 246-5456. A family owned and operated outpost up the road a piece, long known for their warm and welcoming, down-home atmosphere, has expanded their craft beer selection. The local cognoscenti know they can also find excellent pastas, steaks, seafood, and salads.

Homemade soups are created daily. Breakfast served until 2 p.m. $$ Br L D p NEW DIRECTION BAR & GRILL 2630 Chamberlain Ln., 243-8429. $ L D pf NIRVANA 1047 Bardstown Rd., 712-0813. Nirvana has become a Highlands entertainment destination with live shows most nights. Darnell Ferguson, of Super Chefs, has taken over the kitchen, so look for his takes on the eclectic menu: bang bang cauliflower, bougie fries, dog bone wings and the McNasty sandwich. $$ L D p OLD HICKORY INN 1038 Lydia St., 634-3011. John Murrow, long involved with Check’s Café, has re-opened

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this iconic Germantown bar, setting out to return the troubled property to its historic role as a quintessential neighborhood dive bar. $ L D p OLD LOUISVILLE TAVERN 1532 S. Fourth St., 4096281. It’s risen from the ashes, the interior gutted and redone, a new kitchen installed, but the menu is the same as before: top-flight bar grub made from scratch. An expanded beer program with 16 new taps includes a selection of local and craft beers. $$ L D pf O-LINE SPORTS GRILL 2813 N Hurstbourne Pkwy., 3846171. You can watch every game, every sport all year long, they claim. While you do, you can chow down a variety of bar food, such as the juicy Lucy cheese burger or nacho burger. The kids might like the mini-footballs, franks encased in pastry dough, fried and served with dipping sauces. $ L D p PEARL STREET TAPHOUSE 407 Pearl Street, Jeffersonville IN, 285-0890. Located in an historic home that was saved through a preservation grant, this pub has 24 taps with a heavy focus on local breweries, with regional and national choices as well. Food choices range from pizzas to bacon-wrapped dates to corned beef grilled cheese sandwiches. Everything is fresh and nothing is deep-fried. $ L D p f PINTS&UNION 114 E. Market St., New Albany IN., 9134647. Beer maven (and F&D contributor) Roger Baylor and partner Joe Phillips have renovated an old neighborhood bar, where the taps dispense familiar quality beers and ales, the bar crafts interesting cocktails and the bottled beer selection skews toward Belgian ales.

The small kitchen offers pub-inspired small plates with an Indian accent. $ L D p PORCH KITCHEN & BAR 280 W. Jefferson St. (Marriott), 671-4246. As part of the recent renovation of the Marriott, this all-day restaurant replaces Champions Sports Grill. The name reflects the intention of the new restaurant to be a homey, welcoming downtown spot.

Look for American-style comfort foods and a friendly bar.

B Br L D pf

and welcoming bar with a food truck — FoodShop at the rear. The menu rotates, but recently it included fried white fish, a pork jowl sandwich served on a pretzel bun, and mushroom tostadas. $ Br D pf TAVERN ON FOURTH 427 S. Fourth St. (Fourth Street Live), 588-8888. This spacious sports bar adds to the festivities at Fourth Street Live. You will find plenty of games, filling upscale bar food and lots of drink choices at the bar. $$ D pf THE BACK DOOR 1250 Bardstown Rd. (Mid City Mall), 451-0659. You need a bit of perseverance to track down this saloon on the back side of Mid-City Mall. When you do, you will find one of the city’s friendliest pubs, with a reputation for the best pour of drinks around. Limited bar fare, but don’t miss the chicken wings. $ D pf THE EARL 109 E. Market St., New Albany IN, 590-2611.

This bar offers craft cocktails and upscale bar food such as spicy pimento cheese with pretzel bread, cheese and charcuterie boards, and roasted cauliflower with bleu cheese. $$ D p THE GOAT 700 Landis Ridge Dr., 791-8325. Ohio-based LC Lifestyle Communities operates this small chain of unusually named upscale-casual restaurants. Enjoy Italian pizza rolls, stuffed potatoes, salads, “double-grind” burgers, wings, pizza, wraps and craft beer on the expansive deck or around the community pool, or join one of the competitive leagues in euchre, corn hole or volleyball. $$ L D pf THE LIBRARY 400 S. Second St., (Omni Hotel), 313-6664.

By day, the Library serves coffee, lattes and tea along with freshly baked pastries. By late afternoon, it morphs into a bourbon bar with locally inspired cocktails. $ B L p

THE PALM ROOM 1821 W. Jefferson St., 581-1251. The classic West End entertainment and dining spot is back, with a variety of special nights – Tuesday comedy, Thursday ladies’ night, Sunday brunch and jazz at night.

The menu focuses on wings, salads and dinner specials. $$ D p

RECBAR 10301 Taylorsville Rd., 509-3033, 336 Pearl St., New Albany IN, 670-5234. Family fun is the object here, with games galore: pool and ping-pong, skeeball, arcade games (for Nintendo, Sega Genesis, Super NES) and card and board games. A full bar and pub-style food, too. $$ L D pf

THE PEARL 1151 Goss Ave., 996-7552. The Pearl aims to be a classic neighborhood pub (not unlike Pauly’s, which it replaces). It also aims to be a spirits-focused hangout, with a bar menu limited to snacks like pickled eggs, country ham and cheese sandwiches and free popcorn or roasted nuts. In the works is a permanent food truck to be parked in the rear to expand food offerings. $$ L D pf

RIVER CITY DRAFTHOUSE 1574-1/2 Bardstown Rd., 690-5111. Another beer joint along the Bardstown Road corridor boasts more than 20 taps focused on independent, American, craft beer (in sample, half-pint and pint sizes) and several bottled options. Its limited (for now) bar menu has garnered early praise for its wings. $$ LDf

THE SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB 427 S. Fourth St. (Fourth Street Live), 568-1400. This Cordish-owned spot has four bars — including one that opens out onto the street — plenty of TVs to catch every game, and even a “stadium style sports media room.” Chow down with the usual burgers, sandwiches and wings. $$ L D pf

ROOTIE’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE 12205 Westport Rd., 365-4681. The first entry of the Buffalo-based chain to open in the area. Rootie’s angle is charcoal-grilled wings with a thick, hickory-smoked spicy sauce. $ L D pf SAINT’S 131 Breckinridge Ln., 891-8883. Almost like two restaurants in one, Saints features both a small, intimate, candle-lighted room and a larger, happily boisterous main room with the look and feel of a sports bar. $$ L D pf SCOOTER'S TRIPLE B’S 3840 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 749-3138. The three Bs are for burgers, beer, and ballgames. Choose from three kinds of buns and six meat fillings. The menu includes chicken, pizza and 1/4 pound hot dogs too. $$ L D f SERGIO’S WORLD BEERS 1605 Story Ave., 618-2337.

Despite minimal signage, Sergio’s Butchertown digs pull in his fans, who dig the quirky website, and the whole aura of haughty mystery. What you really need when you locate the place is a desire to explore Sergio’s world beer inventory, nearing 1000 different brews. $$ D SHOPBAR 950 Barret Ave., 709-4696. The former gas station has been converted into a small artisanal boutique

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

RED = Advertiser

THE WATER COMPANY 400 S. Second St., (Omni Hotel), 313-6664. There is a 3rd-floor rooftop pool at the new Omni Hotel, and this is the bar that goes with it, also offering seasonally-inspired light bites. $$ L D p f THIRSTY HOUND SPORTS BAR 7207 Fegenbush Ln., 919-7003. This Fern Creek hangout offer all that a sports fan could want: wings and ribs, nachos, potato skins, fried pickles, sandwiches, pork chops and steaks. $$ L D pf TIM TAM TAVERN 1022 Clarks Ln., 883-0101. Named for the 1958 Kentucky Derby winner, the Schnitzelburg/ Audubon neighborhood bar has a new look and a kitchen that serves bar staples like burgers, fried pickles and cheese curds plus pizza from Danny Mac’s Pizza. (Dan McMahon, owner of Danny Mac’s Pizza, is a partner.) $ L D pf TIN ROOF 3921 Shelbyville Rd., 895-1914. This Nashvillebased chain in the heart of St. Matthews has a split personality: a family-friendly vibe during the lunch hours; and a rockin’ juke joint at night with live music until 3 a.m. Its menu encompasses everything you expect from bar grub: deep-fried hot dogs, hot wings, quesadillas and salads for the ladies. $ L D pf

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TOASTY'S TAVERN 1258 S. Shelby St., 614-7094. An addition to the Germantown bar scene, Toasty’s addresses the needs of late night hungry imbibers with cheeseburgers and breakfast sandwiches, loaded fries, and a vegan hot dog. Signature cocktails include watermelon mint margarita and flavored daiquiris. $ D pf TROLL PUB UNDER THE BRIDGE 150 W. Washington St., 618-4829. On the downslope alongside the Clark Memorial Bridge, a large troll beckons the adventurous into a space excavated out of the lost space in the old whiskey warehouse. The renovation boasts lots of dark, brick-walled spaces, as well as a funky outdoor dining area in the lightwell. The menu offers stacked sandwiches, bison burgers and sweet potato tots, and ribeye steaks. $$ L D pf UNION RESTAURANT & GAMEYARD 115 W. Chestnut St., Jeffersonville IN, 590-1285. Those wanting more fun as well as some food after strolling across the Big Four bridge can find both here, near the bridge’s Indiana-side off-ramp. Burgers, of course, and brisket, pork belly and brined chicken breast sandwiches. After eating, play iceless curling, four-way volleyball, cornhole or pingpong. $$ L D pf ZANZABAR 2100 S. Preston St., 635-9227. An icon of the ’70s bar scene. The stylish tile front has been recreated anew, the arcade is stocked with vintage games and topflight live music plays late into the night. The chow several days a week is created by Yeon Hee Chung, owner of the former Charim Korean restaurant. $ L D pf

AGAINST THE GRAIN BREWERY 401 E. Main St., 5150174. Slugger Field once again has a beer-pub. The owners, veterans of the local brewing revival, have worked out an ambitious rotating beer selection and a smokehouse theme for the kitchen, with an emphasis on seasonal dishes. $$ L D pf APOCALYPSE BREW WORKS 1612 Mellwood Ave., 7420090. Veteran home brewers Leah Dienes, Paul Grignon and Bill Krauth run this brewery in Butchertown, dedicated to fresh craft beer in a space that heats with solar, recycles and reuses materials and grains. Their taproom, dubbed The Fallout Shelter, serves up to 10 of their concoctions. $ f

ATRIUM BREWING 1154 Logan St., 690-3069. The Shelby Park neighborhood is definitely on the upswing: it now has a local brewery. Atrium’s first efforts include a hazy IPA, coffee stouts in collaboration with Bean on Goss Ave. and fruit-infused tart ales. Brick & Mortar food truck provides a beer-focused menu. $ L D pf BLUEGRASS BREWING COMPANY 300 W. Main St., 562-0007, 660 S. Fourth St., 551-5355. BBC has reopened its Theater Square outlet, right in front of the Kindred expansion, which displaced the former restaurant/beer pub. The Main St. location does the brewing, and upstairs boasts a Bourbon lounge. At both locations, the food is as good as the beer, and that says a lot. $$ L D pf DONUM DEI BREWERY 3211 Grant Line Rd., New Albany IN, 590-2478. Owner Rick Otey maintains that beer is a gift from god, hence the name of his craft brewery. The interior is starkly Scandinavian modern. A distilling permit has made it the area’s first “brewstillery.” $LDp FISTFUL OF ALE 2708 Paoli Pk., New Albany IN, 5570226. The bar attached to A Fistful of Tacos offers 20 or so taps of a wide variety of “strong-flavored” craft beers such as IPAs, stouts and porters, and unusual lagers. $$ D pf FLOYD COUNTY BREWING CO. 129 W. Main St., New Albany IN, (470) 588-2337. Walk in this new brewpub and you will find what looks like a medieval banquet hall, but scaled down to a Yorkshire public house. Brewer Jeff Coe’s repertoire includes Braun Jovi (Brown Ale), Hefe’ns 62 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

Gate Hefeweizen and Vlad’s India Pale Ale, which complement perfectly menu items like fish and chips and oversized turkey legs. $ L D GALLANT FOX BREWING 2132 Frankfort Ave., 8221988. Located in that odd Clifton intersection of Frankfort Ave., New Main St. and the railroad tracks, this brewery concocts things like blood orange blonde ale, Space Force IPA and mango-guava American pale ale. Ten guest taps feature regional brews. $$ D pf GORDON BIERSCH BREWERY RESTAURANT 400 S. Fourth St., 589-8935. The growing national brewery and restaurant chain has become an anchor at the corner location at 4th and Liberty, brewing their characteristic German-style bottom-fermented lagers, Hefeweizen, bocks, pilsners and Schwarzbiers. The large menu offers the usual pub-grub, but touted as fresh, seasonal and made on the premises. $$$ Br L D pf

TEN20 CRAFT BREWERY 1020 E. Washington St., 2906820. Butchertown now has its neighborhood brewery, located near the new soccer stadium. First offerings include Storyteller Hazy IPA, Woodland Gardens American Pale Ale, Stockyards Porter and 1834 Lager. $$ L D pf WEST SIXTH NULU 817 E. Market St., 234-4733. West Sixth Brewing's newest taproom project includes a taproom, brewery, private event space & open air courtyard in the NuLu Marketplace on Market Street. $ L D pf

DAVE & BUSTER'S 5000 Shelbyville Rd., (Mall St. Matthews), 963-0940. Fun galore with arcade, billiards, sports TVs, and a 16 page menu with surprising options for every special diet like flavorful lettuce wraps, the Impossible Burger and full entrees like steaks or salmon plus expected bar fare: nachos, sliders and wings.

Desserts, beers and festive cocktails of impressive size, too. $$ L D p

GRAVELY BREWING CO. 514 Baxter Ave., 822-3202.

Gravely offers 14 draft choices, all brewed and served on site. The brewery partners with Mayan Street Food, run

by The Mayan Café. Walk up to the truck and order snacks like guacamole, fried plantains, Mexican corn, salbutes or tacos. Brunch on Sunday is provided by Commonwealth Cure with items like pork hash, Scotch eggs, or pork sliders. Plus, a full brunch drink selection. $ L D pf

DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE 525 Marriott Dr., Clarksville IN, 288-8281. The play’s the thing at Derby Dinner, Louisville’s long-running entry in the dinnertheater sweepstakes. The expansive seasonal buffet offerings have fans returning show after show. $$$ L D p

GREAT FLOOD BREWING CO. 2120 Bardstown Rd, 2080882, 12717 Shelbyville Rd., 208-0882. The original Douglass Loop location is just a taproom, with no food service. The Middletown taproom occupies a former Wick’s Pizza complete with a kitchen that offers pizza and other pub fare made on site. $$ L D pf

HOWL AT THE MOON 434 S. Fourth St. (Fourth Street Live), 562-9400. What’ll they think of next? How about a nightclub featuring a “dueling” piano bar with two pianos and a sing-along concept? You’ll find this 4,000square-foot club at Fourth Street Live on the ground level. $ D pf

HOMETOWN BREWING CO. 4041 Preston Hwy., 3634880. Tom Brown, partner in the Hometown Pizza chain, and high school friend Mark Allgeier, owner of the nowclosed Cumberland Brewery, have opened this craft brewery in the space where Brown has stored his car collection, which inspire the names of his beers. His goal is to make craft beer more accessible in small towns out in the state, where Hometown Pizza has 18 scattered locations. $$$ L D pf

JOE HUBER FAMILY FARM & RESTAURANT 2421 Scottsville Rd., Starlight IN, 923-5255. A pleasant 20minute drive from downtown Louisville, Huber’s has built a solid reputation for simple farm fare that’s well-made, fresh and good. Some of the produce is grown on the premises in season. $$$ L D pf

MONNIK BEER CO. 1036 E. Burnett St., 742-6564, 415 Bank St., New Albany IN, 913-4259. This popular Germantown microbrewery has expanded across the river, taking over the space that once was New Albanian Brewing Co. The Euro-pub inspired menu includes three kinds of double-fried fries, pork and currant pie, and several burgers. Frequently changing guest taps join the house brews of Mild George and King George (British brown ales), His Dark Materials (stout) and Hauck’s American pilsner. $$ L D pf OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HOPS 300 Foundation Ct., New Albany IN. This brewery offers 12 taps (currently 8 house and 4 guest taps), as well as plenty of space for playing games like cornhole, darts, Jenga; pool, and video golf. If you work up an appetite, food trucks will tend your hunger on Friday and Saturday nights. $$ D PUBLIC HOUSE BY AGAINST THE GRAIN 1576 Bardstown Rd., 409-9866. After almost 20 years of fine craft brewing, Cumberland Brews founder Mark Allgeier has passed the taps over to the guys at Against the Grain, who have redubbed the popular Highlands space the Public House. All the taps serve ATG brews (to-go growlers are available). The menu features pub grub with a twist, including burgers, paninis, pimento cheese balls and French onion soup. Brunches promise to be destination weekend events. $$ Br L D pf RED YETI BREWING CO. 256 Spring St., Jeffersonville IN. 288-5788. This craft brewery has an ambitious kitchen touting food so fresh in concept, they have no freezer. The brisket sandwich comes with house-made chips, the pork ribs are braised in wheat ale, and desserts include funnel cake with chocolate dipping fondue and a beer float: vanilla ice cream in your choice of porter or stout. $$ L D pf

MAIN EVENT BAR & GRILL 12500 Sycamore Station Pl., 240-5555. This Dallas-based chain offers plenty of fun: bowling, laser tag, a high ropes course, billiards, video games — along with pizzas, sandwiches, full dinners and a full bar. $$ L D p MESA 216 Pearl St., New Albany IN, 725-7691. Mesa calls itself a “collaborative kitchen-classroom,” in which local established and aspiring chefs offer cooking demonstrations and food prep advice for a small audience, who will then eat what the chefs prepare before them. There is also a boutique selling high-end cookware and food products. $$ D p MY OLD KENTUCKY DINNER TRAIN 602 N. Third St., Bardstown KY, (502) 348-7300. Talk about a nostalgia trip: My Old Kentucky Dinner Train offers a four-course meal during a two-hour voyage along scenic Kentucky railroad tracks near Bardstown in vintage 1940s-era dining cars. Reservations are strongly recommended. $$$$ L D p OVRDRIVE GAMES 112 W. Jefferson St., 653-5853. Plenty of ways to have fun here: virtual reality car racing, ax throwing, rage rooms (where you can destroy TVs and home appliances), and immersive VR games. The food and beverages aren’t virtual though: made-to-order pizza, wings and appetizers, and a self-pour tap wall featuring 15 beers and 6 pre-mixed cocktail choices. $$ L D p PIN + PROOF 400 S. Second St., (Omni Hotel), 313-6664.

The Omni’s bar has a cool angle. There are four bowling lanes, as well as hors d’oeuvres to enjoy in the “the opulent and mysterious atmosphere." $ D p THE BARD’S TOWN 1801 Bardstown Rd., 749-5275. The second floor theater continues to be a top local venue for all sorts of theater, improv and silly/hilarious roasts of toys (Barbie), computer game characters (Mario) and years (2017). Downstairs, the menu offers Shakespeare-themed

B = Breakfast Br = Brunch L = Lunch D = Dinner

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items such as Sir Francis BBQ Bacon Burger and The Steakspeare. $$ D pf

AUGUST MOON 2269 Lexington Rd., 456-6569. Housed in a soaring, open space with a Zen master’s style, consistent commitment from the kitchen makes it a top spot for Asian fare. A lovely patio at the rear affords a pleasant al fresco dining experience. $$$ L D pf

ABYSSINIA 554 S. Fifth St., 384-8347. This downtown Ethiopian restaurant has gained many fans with its variety of hearty stews, known as “wots,” and interesting vegetarian choices, with large portions and reasonable prices. $ L D

CHEER KING STAR 231 S. Fifth St., 587-8686. Just what downtown needed — a Chinese buffet for quick lunches.

Mostly the familiar, a mix of Cantonese, Szechuan and Hunan choices for those who need a little spice to fire them up to get back to work. $ L D

BARAKA RESTAURANT 519 W. Oak St., 822-3046. This all-halal restaurant serves African, Asian and Indian dishes.

At the counter you pick a meat and choose an accompaniment of rice, bread or noodles. The fish curry with chapati and chicken saqaar with rice are good examples. Goat is often available for those who want to try something different. $ L D

CHINA 1 123 Breckinridge Ln., 897-6511. $ L D

FUNMI’S AFRICAN RESTAURANT 3028 Bardstown Rd., 454-5009. Funmi’s offers a range of dishes from North and Central African cultures. Sample goat in a soup or a thick stew. Try soya, a West African shish kebab with a spicy peanut rub or moin-moin, a savory bean cake or lablabi, a Tunisian chickpea soup. $$ L D IMANKA RESTAURANT 737 S. Eighth St., (International Mall) 210-7503. Somali immigrant entrepreneur Mohamed Abbi Abdalla and his family serve their native cuisine at the International Mall. Suggested dishes include chicken suqaar (a chicken stew-like dish) or goat seasoned with onions and green peppers. $$ L D QUEEN OF SHEBA 2804 Taylorsville Rd., 459-6301. This authentic Ethiopian restaurant offers a wide selection of intriguing dishes, including a variety of vegetarian selections as well as the traditional beef and chicken specialties. Ethiopian fare is made for sharing and eating with the fingers, but they’ll gladly make forks available for the finicky. $ L D SANAG II RESTAURANT 5312 S. Third St., 882-2210.

Iroquois Manor’s great selection of international dining choices expands again with the addition of this Somali eatery. Look for spiced rice dishes with goat meat, chicken sukhar, chapati with chopped chicken, and foo-foo with spinach, cabbage and carrots. $$ B L SENEGAMBIA AFRICAN RESTAURANT Bardstown Rd., 491-3152. $$ L D

4109

ZIBA’S BISTRO 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market), 7970633. The rich cuisine of his native Burkina Faso in Central West Africa is Chef Bapion Ziba’s main inspiration, but he brings elements of European and American flavors too. Tiguedigue chicken, cooked with vegetables in a peanut sauce, will be a signature dish. $$ LD

888 GREAT WALL 9464 Brownsboro Rd., 425-2811.

Strip mall Chinese food is an accurate description of what to expect here. Locals from the neighborhood have said good things about the garlic chicken and their crab Rangoon. $ L D

CHINA 1 8105 Lagrange Rd., 327-6863. $ L D CHINA BISTRO 234 W. Broadway, 583-8988. $ L D CHINA BUFFET 706 E. Lewis & Clark Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 288-8989. Chinese buffets are ubiquitous, but this one is squarely in the upper range. Regularly refreshed steam tables, attentively fried rice, and properly spicy General Tso’s Chicken raise it above the other places typical of the genre. $ L D CHINA CAFÉ 8625 Preston Hwy., 969-9222, 9246 Westport Rd., 425-1818. $ L D CHINA CASTLE 7420 Third Street Rd., 367-4272. $ L D CHINA CHEF 7813 Beulah Church Rd., 384-5322. Pretty standard Chinese choices can be found at this new store in the South End. Eat in or carry out. $ L D CHINA COAST 4952 Manslick Rd., 363-4259. $ L D CHINA DRAGON 8507 Terry Rd., 995-9897. The far southwest corner of the city can get its Chinese table hot food fix here. $ L D CHINA GARDEN 7309 Preston Hwy., 968-4672. A busy restaurant with the double pleasure of Chinese and American menu items. $ L D CHINA KING 3830 Ruckriegel Pkwy., 240-0500. $ L D CHINA STAR 291 N. Hubbards Ln., 896-1818. $ L D CHINA TASTE 135 Quartermaster Ct., Jeffersonville IN, 284-5580. $ L D CHINESE EXPRESS 3228 Crums Ln., 448-1360. $ L D CHONG GARDEN 10341 Dixie Hwy., 935-1628, 6445 Bardstown Rd., 231-0393. $ L D CHOPSTICKS HOUSE 2112 W. Broadway, 772-3231.

Fans of this somewhat funky Chinese place post positive notices about the quality of its food. No strange Asian dishes here, just familiar Chinese hot table fare that Americans recognize. $ L D CHUNG KING PALACE 110 E. Market St., 584-8880. $ L D DOUBLE DRAGON 1255 Goss Ave., 635-5656, 2600 W. Broadway, 778-2573. Every neighborhood seems to need a Chinese steam table outlet serving up Asian dishes familiar to Americans. Double Dragon does that job for its neighborhoods. $ L D DOUBLE DRAGON II 12480 LaGrange Rd., 241-7766, 6832 Bardstown Rd., 231-3973, 3135 S. Second St., 3676668, 5222 Dixie Hwy., 448-1988. $ L D

A TASTE OF CHINA 1167 S. Fourth St., 585-5582, 8105 Lagrange Rd., 327-6863. $ L D

DOUBLE DRAGON 9 9501 Taylorsville Rd., 2675353.$LD

ASIAN BUFFET 3813 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 945-1888. Competent cookery and careful management ensures food offerings here stay fresh and hot. The name remains the same, but service is now cafeteria style, not self-serve buffet, a change done with customer health in mind. $ L D

DRAGON CAFÉ 13206 W. U.S. Hwy. 42, 228-1885. This Prospect-area Chinese restaurants offers many familiar dishes. East End fans say the service is quick and the food above-average tasty. $ L D

ASIAN WOK 2235 Frankfort Ave., 822-3385. This panAsian spot offers a very large selection of Chinese & Japanese dishes in the stir-fried, hibachi-grilled and sushi categories. A lot of familiar things — Kung Pao chicken, pepper steak with onion, veggie fried rice, rainbow roll, hibachi steak, and so on. $$ L D

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

RED = Advertiser

DRAGON CITY 6413 Greenwood Rd., 935-6111. It used to be First Wok. It still is a strip mall Chinese-American place with a standard menu of crab Rangoon, fried rice, lo mein dishes, and a wide variety of stir-fries. $ L D

GREAT WALL 1977 Brownsboro Rd., 891-8881. This Clifton restaurant ranks high up in the fast-food Chinese pack. Offering steaming-hot, competently prepared and flavorful dishes. $ L D GREAT WOK 2502 Preston Hwy., 634-1918. Just about every shopping center in town has a fast-food Chinese spot, but this one stands out, generating a buzz of wordof-mouth publicity about its well-crafted Chinese dishes at a bargain-basement price. $ L D HAPPY CHINA 9106 Taylorsville Rd., 493-1001. $ L D HAPPY DRAGON 12613 Taylorsville Rd., 297-8788. You guessed it: a good, go-to standard pan-China family-style restaurant in Jeffersontown that’s always there when you’re tired of cooking dinner for the clan. $ L D HIBACHI BUFFET 5372 Dixie Hwy., 449-8688. This far South Louisville Asian buffet gets strong positives from locals who appreciate its cleanliness, its range of choices (including hibachi grilled meats to order and sushi) and a buffet bar that is kept freshly loaded. $ L D p HIBACHI SUSHI BUFFET 5729 Preston Hwy., 969-3788.

Capitalizing on two seemingly persistent trends in American dining, this hot table place offers standard Chinese buffet dishes, and standard sushi choices.

Cashew chicken, shrimp with garlic sauce, Dancing Dragon roll, spring and summer maki — it is all here. $$ LD HONG KONG FAST FOOD 5312 S. Third St., 367-8828.

One of the many international eateries in Iroquois Manor, this fast-food Chinese spot offers Cantonese standards hot and fast and inexpensively. Check out the daily specials for an occasional intriguing item. $ L D JADE PALACE 1109 Herr Ln., 425-9878. Jade Palace offers familiar Chinese food choices, as well as a long list of Chef’s Specials, with names in Chinese characters as well as English (a sure sign you are in for authentic Chinese fare). Dim sum is offered daily, but on weekends it is served from a traditional rolling cart. $$ Br L D p JASMINE 13823 English Villa Dr., 244-8896. Like many Chinese restaurants, Jasmine is in a strip mall, but this is not just another hot table stir fry joint. There is an American menu, but those in the know will ask for the 14-page Szechuan menu, featuring such interesting things as pig ear in sesame oil, hot and spicy intestines, spicy diced rabbit foot, frog legs, beef maw and tendon Szechuan style — one of the most popular choices, the manager said. $ L D p JASMINE ASIAN BISTRO 2420 Lime Kiln Ln., 618-3000.

The owners of Jasmine Essential Chinese on English Villa Dr. have gone more upscale with this bistro-style location.

Expect the same authentic Chengdu-style Sichuan cuisine (be adventurous!) and well-executed Americanized dishes, sushi and other offerings. $$ L D p JOY LUCK 1285 Bardstown Rd., 238-3070, 9850 Von Allmen Ct., 618-1601. This fine Asian restaurant across from Mid-City Mall has opened a suburhan site too. Both serve familiar Chinese dishes very well done, as well as authentic Taiwanese offerings. Duck dishes are cooked in three different styles — Cantonese, Taiwanese and Beijing. $$ L D pf JUJUBE AT LA QUE 1019 Bardstown Rd., 238-3981. La Que, the pan-Asian eatery on the conjunction of Bardstown and Baxter, has been sold, and now JujuBe at La Que has a rather standard Chinese take-out menu with a few of the original Thai/Vietnamese dishes rounding out the menu. $$ L D f

GOLDEN BUDDHA 8000 Preston Hwy., 968-7700. $ L D

JUMBO BUFFET 2731 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 495-0028.

Housed in a good-looking dining room, high on Chinatown-style glitz and glitter, Jumbo offers a standard all-you-can-eat Chinese buffet, with a larger-than-average selection of American dishes for those who want something less exotic. $$ L D

GOLDEN STAR CHINESE RESTAURANT 3458 Taylor Blvd., 368-1833. $ L D

L & J ASIAN CUISINE 6017 Timber Ridge Dr., 228-8399.

This Pan-Asian spot in the Kroger-anchored strip center at

EAST STAR BUFFET 161 Outer Loop, 368-2868. $$ L D

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Hwy. 42 near River Rd. offers a large familiar Chinese selection that also includes Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese dishes, and a good vegetarian selection. $$ L D f LING LING 10476 Shelbyville Rd., 245-2100. Modern and efficient in its East End shopping center location, Ling Ling is a cut above fast-food Chinese; better yet, it adds a few Vietnamese dishes to the bill of fare. $$ L D LIU’S GARDEN 11517 Shelbyville Rd., 244-9898. Small but charming, with white tablecloths and soft Chinese music, family-run Liu’s gains our approval with fresh, competent cookery and courteous, friendly service that makes you feel like you’re visiting a Chinese family at their home. $$ L D ONION RESTAURANT TEA HOUSE 4211 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 981-0188. Masterful Chinese and Japanese cuisine (including magnificent hotpots, donburi dishes, and wooden-bucket steamed rice) set this airy restaurant apart from the horde of other Asian spots. $ L Df ORIENTAL CAFÉ 3360 Hikes Ln., 451-0077. $ L D ORIENTAL HOUSE 4302 Shelbyville Rd., 897-1017.

New owners continue the tradition at this long-standing St. Matthews restaurant, featuring both traditional Chinese-American and now, authentic Cantonese, menus. $ L D p ORIENTAL STAR 4212 Bishop Ln., 452-9898. A long-time area favorite in this heavy traffic lunch area. This establishment is quite good with Lo Mein Noodles, and Sweet and Sour Chicken. $ L D PANDA EXPRESS 1075 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN 288-0774, 1232 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 326-8430, 13311 Shelbyville Rd., 489-3980, 10600 Westport Rd., 4251678. The Pentagon even has one of the 1500+ outlets of the nation’s largest Chinese fast food chains, and now we have four. Moderately priced chow such as orange chicken, Beijing beef, SweetFire chicken breast and honey walnut shrimp fill the menu. $ L D PEKING CITY EXPRESS 4000 Dutchmans Ln., 891-0388.

A lot of familiar items on the menu here, but those in the know ask for a Chinese menu, and order the dumplings or the xiao long bao (steam bun with meat filling). Dishes are handsomely presented, and servings are large. $$ L D QUICK WOK 801 W. Broadway, 584-6519. $ L D RED SUN CHINESE RESTAURANT 3437 Breckinridge Ln., 499-7788. $ L D RICE BOX 6810 Southside Dr., 380-2209. This typical Chinese hot table provides South End residents with the kind of Chinese food you would expect at budget prices. $LD SICHUAN GARDEN 9850 Linn Station Rd., 426-6767.

Another Asian restaurant that has stood the test of time, Sichuan Garden offers high-end Chinatown style and well-made dishes, plus a few Thai specialties to spice up the bill of fare. $ L D TEA STATION CHINESE BISTRO 9422 Norton Commons Blvd., 423-1202. This comfortable, sit-down Chinese restaurant has a large and eclectic menu, with lots of spicy dishes and daily double shot specials at the inviting bar. Now offering delivery to Norton Commons and adjacent suburbia. $$ L D p WEI WEI CHINESE EXPRESS 526 S. Fifth St., 889-0827. $LD YANG KEE NOODLE 13301 Shelbyville Rd., 245-9264.

This locally owned and operated colorful and stylish fastcasual restaurant offers an intriguing array of appealing noodle and rice dishes from all over Asia with fast-food efficiency and prices happily matched by sit-down restaurant quality and style. $ L D f YEN CHING 1850 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 491-3581. $ L D YOKI BUFFET 1700 Alliant Ave., 267-2277. A Chinese food-oriented buffet, with sushi as well, offers more

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options near the Jeffersontown Industrial Park along the Blankenbaker Rd. corridor. $$ L D

AJI SUSHI AND ASIAN CUISINE 5610 Outer Loop, 6181781. Okolona area residents can now get their sushi fix.

The extensive menu offerings include egg rolls, salads and soups, noodle, rice and curry dishes, and tempura, as well as a large variety of raw and cooked sushi preparations. $ L D p ARATA SUSHI 9207 U.S. 42, 409-4880. Arata is a dedicated sushi place, with only a few items that fall outside of the maki, nigri and sashimi offerings. The elegant modern interior, and the commitment to the freshest ingredients have been drawing in fans from beyond the East End. $$ L D p ASAHI JAPANESE 3701 Lexington Rd., 895-1130. This small room in St. Matthews houses a neighborhood sushi spot that also serves grilled dishes and tempura. $ L D

ASIANA SUSHI 6435 Bardstown Rd., 614-7244. This ambitious Asian restaurant in Fern Creek offers an extensive sushi selection, hibachi meals, various noodle choices and even a few Korean dishes such as bulgoki and bi bim bap. $$ L D p BENTO ASIAN KITCHEN + SUSHI 12951 Shelbyville Rd., 822-1202. Order from an assortment of teriyaki or fried bento boxes, rice or noodle bowls, poke bowls or sushi and sashimi at this ambitious Middletown newcomer. $$ L D pf DAISUKI SUSHI 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market), 434-2395. This sushi stop has joined the eclectic graband-go choices in Logan Street Market’s restaurant row. $ LDp DRAGON KING’S DAUGHTER 1126 Bardstown Rd., 6322444, 129 W. Market St., New Albany IN, 725-8600.

Owner Toki Masubuchi’s eclectic and somewhat funky menu builds on traditional Japanese ingredients with unexpected twists: pizza topped with sashimi, and tacos filled with avocado tempura. $ L D pf FUJI ASIAN BISTRO 6801 Dixie Hwy., 937-0488. $$LDp FUJI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 3576 Springhurst Blvd., 339-1978. Part of the fun of sitting at the sushi bar is that you get to watch the chef at work. Put in your order, then sit back and sip your tea while the artist creates edible delights. This suburban sushi bar does the job well. $$ L Dpf GINZA ASIAN BISTRO 9420 Shelbyville Rd., 749-8878. A one-stop Asian restaurant. Choose to eat from the Chinese, Japanese or Thai kitchen, or sidle up to the sushi bar for all manner of vegetarian or fish-focused rolls, or sushi combos that include miso soup and salad. A la carte sushi entrées too. $$ L D p HEART & SOY 1216 Bardstown Rd., 452-6678. To the left is Roots, a sit-down restaurant. To the right is Heart & Soy, serving vegetarian “street food,” and entertaining passers-by with a glass-walled tofu-making room. Stateof-the-art equipment from Taiwan transforms organic soy beans from Ohio into soy milk and then coagulates and presses it into tofu as you watch. $ L D HIKO A MON SUSHI BAR 1115 Herr Ln., 365-1651, 416 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd., 625-3090. Japanese-trained chef Norihiko Nakanashi brings his skills to this sushi bar and Japanese grill in Westport Village. In addition to fine dining at the bar or in traditional Japanese dining rooms, Hiko A Mon offers sushi-grade fish from a small fish market. A second location takes over the downtown space from the former Caviar. $$$ L D p JUNO 5406 Antle Dr., 409-7094. A wide-ranging menu of Japanese options make this an interesting destination on the southern edge of the Metro — just off Preston Highway on the far side of the Gene Snyder. Diners have plenty of sushi options, as well as hibachi dinners, yakisoba, udon and ramen noodle dishes, tonkatsu and tempura. $$ L D p

KANSAI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 1370 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 218-9538, 1850 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 618-1870. Traditional Japanese dishes and sushi are available here, but like most Japanese Steakhouses, choose the grill tables with their slice-and-dice Japanese chef show for maximum entertainment. $$$ L D p MASA JAPANESE 12336 Shelbyville Rd., 409-5040.

Middletown, too, joins in the sushi expansion. Open for lunch and dinner, the standard menu is bolstered by daily chef’s specials. Lunch specials include the Japadawg, a hot dog with Japanese toppings, a range of teriyaki choices and ramen noodles, Japanese style. $$ L D f MISAWA HIBACHI & SUSHI BAR 7931 Bardstown Rd., 290-1780 The hibachi grills here are not for show, just for grilling, which keeps prices lower than other Japanese steak houses. Rodeleo See, a sushi chef with almost two decades of experience runs the sushi bar. $$ L D p MT. FUJI 309 W. Cardinal Blvd., 637-5887. The quickeating strip on the north side of U of L’s campus needed a Japanese place to satisfy students’ sushi cravings. The menu also has tempura and Japanese noodles. $ L D p OISHII SUSHI 2810 Taylorsville Rd., 365-3474. This small, attractive and popular sushi spot serves all the popular maki and nigri near Bowman Field. $$ L D OSAKA SUSHI BAR 2039 Frankfort Ave., 894-9501, 426 W. Market St., 588-8899. This long-standing Clifton favorite also has a second location downtown, serving up sushi and other Japanese dishes in a bright and cheery environment to a loyal clientele. $$ L D POKEHANA 436 W. Market St., 996-7994. Poke, an increasingly popular Hawaiian raw fish salad, is given a fast-casual Asian fusion twist here in the space that had been Chop Chop Salads. Choose your combination of protein and vegetables and toppings such as ginger, jalapeno and seaweed salad. Also fried rice, bibimbab and noodle-bab, made with sweet potato noodles.$$ L RAMEN HOUSE 1250 Bardstown Rd. (Mid City Mall), 709-4374. Next to the Baxter Avenue Cinemas, Jonathan Ham, who formerly owned the popular Ramen Inochi, expanded his culinary range with a menu that includes traditional ramen, rice bowls, steamed buns and handmade gyoza. $$ D ROOTS 1216 Bardstown Rd., 452-6688. Veteran restaurateur Coco Tran looks to seduce the vegan/ vegetarian world of the Highlands with this crisp, elegant room. Eat at tables in the front, enjoy smoothies and tea at the bar, or snuggle down in a Japanese pit table in the back. Choose from an international selection of small plates. $ L D SAKE BLUE JAPANESE BISTRO 9326 Cedar Center Way, 708-1500. This Fern Creek restaurant brings the “fullservice” Japanese restaurant experience to the southeast part of Louisville Metro. Look for hibachi grill tables and a sushi bar, along with a traditional dining room and cocktail bar. $$ L D p SAKURA BLUE 4600 Shelbyville Rd., 897-3600. Located in elegant, upscale quarters in a St. Matthews shopping center, Sakura Blue ranks among the city’s top sushi bars. $$ L D SAMURAI 12905 Shelbyville Rd., 253-0036. Middletown gets some artistic sushi, as well as hibachi-grilled steak and seafood. Teppan-style (food cooked on an iron griddle) lunch and dinner entrees are a specialty. $$ L D p SAPPORO JAPANESE GRILL & SUSHI 1706 Bardstown Rd., 479-5550. The remodeled Highlands location has an expanded kitchen, new sushi bar and new fixtures, giving trendy, glitzy Sapporo new bona fides as one of the city’s top spots for sushi and Japanese fare. $$$ L D p SHOGUN JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE 9026 Taylorsville Rd., 499-5700, 4110 Hampton Lake Way, 394-0123.

Shogun’s decor is attractive, and quality food and service make it a pleasant dining destination. It’s unthreatening

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enough to appeal to those who find exotic cuisine “challenging,” but good enough to satisfy just about anyone who craves a Japanese dinner or a bite of sushi. $$$ L D p STAR SUSHI 2781 Jefferson Centre Way, Jeffersonville IN, 725-8444. Jeffersonville joins the sushi craze with its own source of yellowtail rolls, sashimi and nigiri, which is drawing fans for the freshness and flavor of its offerings, and its very fair price point. $$ L D SUSHI MASTER 9415 Norton Commons Blvd., 890-5157.

This traditional Japanese restaurant offers sashimi, classic sushi rolls, noodle dishes such as udon and cold soba and entrees such as teriyaki chicken, and grilled fish. A few Korean dishes such as bulgogi are on offer too. $$ L D pf TOGO SUSHI 700 Lyndon Ln., 883-0666. ToGo offers primarily drive-thru sushi-to-go, but it does have a fiveseat bar and three two-top tables inside. Owner Chet Gurun also owns Samurai Sushi & Hibachi in Middletown and is also part owner of Oishii Sushi near Bowman Field.

If sushi isn’t your thing, there are items like fried oysters, fried calamari and shrimp tempura, as well as some vegetarian options. $$ L D TOKYO JAPANESE RESTAURANT 2415 Lime Kiln Ln., 339-7171. It’s appealing, pleasant in atmosphere and friendly in service, and most important, this East End sushi bar serves excellent Japanese treats, prepared with care and flair from high-quality, impeccably fresh ingredients. $$ L D TOMO JAPANESE RESTAURANT 4317 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 941-0200. This Japanese hibachi steak house offers a good show of knife skills and tableside grilling, as well as sushi. Patrons seem to admire the oversize sushi rolls, the salads with ginger dressing, and the grilled chicken and scallops. $$ L D p TSUBAKI SUSHI & BAR 13823 English Villa Dr., 2448896. A new addition to Jasmine, many people’s favorite Chinese restaurant in town. Look for both raw and cooked two-piece nigiri and three-piece Sashimi, a variety of vegetable rolls and deep fried rolls, and special rolls almost beyond counting. $$ L D p

sweet and sour sauce). More familiar things like bulgogi and fried rice too. $$ L D KOREANA II 5009 Preston Hwy., 968-9686. One of the city’s few restaurants devoted entirely to authentic Korean fare, Koreana is worth a special trip for this ethnic cuisine that offers a hearty, spicy alternative to the more familiar Chinese. $$ L D p f LEE’S KOREAN RESTAURANT 1941 Bishop Ln., 4569714. This little spot has been a secret since the ’70s, and it just keeps on going. Walk into what looks like a diner in an office building, but push past the counter to the back room, where you’ll find generous heaps of really authentic Korean food for next to nothing. $$ L D RICE BOWL 3114 Grant Line Rd., New Albany IN, 5906786. Rice Bowl is another addition to the restaurant row area near the IUS campus. It serves Korean and Asian dishes. You will find clay pot bibimbap, chicken curry rice, several varieties of ramen. $$ L D SARANG 1908 Eastern Pkwy., 709-4282. The store on the Eastern Parkway side of the Schuster Building most recently was a Ce Fiori yogurt shop, but it now serves Korean food such as bibimbap, mandoo, ramen and dakkangjung. Bubble tea is back, too. $ L D

MAI’S THAI RESTAURANT 1411 E. Tenth St., Jeffersonville IN, 282-0198. With a broad range of well-prepared and authentic Thai dishes, Mai’s is the eatery to beat among the metro area’s Thai restaurants. For both authenticity and quality, it’s right up there with the top Thai places in New York, San Francisco and Seattle. $ L D SALA THAI 8125 Bardstown Rd., 231-1992. This entry on the growing list of Thai restaurants is gaining fans, partly because it is vegetarian- and vegan-friendly. $$ L D

SIMPLY THAI 323 Wallace Ave., 899-9670, 12003 Shelbyville Rd, 690-8344. Owner Mahn Saing and his wife, a classically trained Thai chef, are pleasing diners in St. Matthews and Middletown. Their menu of traditional Thai dishes, well-made sushi and a few upscale Thai-style “fusion” dinner items use many ingredients from their small home garden. $$ L D f TANTHAI RESTAURANT 4510 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 948-2012. It’s in a strip mall, but the folks who run TanThai create a distinctive atmosphere by hanging sheer white scrims that divvy the room up into serene little chambers. The menu of Thai specialties is small — just a dozen or so entrées — but nicely executed and beautifully presented. $ L D THAI CAFÉ 2226 Holiday Manor Center, 425-4815. You’ll find this small café tucked into a corner of the “Holiday Manor Walk.” Owner Chavantee Snow and her family offer a small but well-prepared selection of authentic Thai dishes at very reasonable prices. $ L D f THAI NOODLES 5800 Preston Hwy., 961-9018. The menu covers Thai standards like pad Thai and curries, with some interesting variations, including several duck items, such as Bangkok duck and pineapple curry duck. Noodle dishes range from flat and thin egg noodle to bean thread and rice noodle. $ L D TIME 4 THAI 2206 Frankfort Ave., 996-7899. The elegantly redone interior is matched by some unusually elegant Thai dishes, such as the volcano Cornish hen, a whole bird, marinated with Thai herbs and spicy chili sauce, which is flambéed at the table. All dishes are cooked to order, so choose your spice level. $$ L D p

ANNIE CAFE 308 W. Woodlawn Ave., 363-4847. Annie Cafe ranks not just as one of the better Vietnamese restaurants, but one the city’s best of any variety,

WILD GINGER SUSHI & FUSION 1700 Bardstown Rd., 384-9252. This Highlands sushi and Asian fusion spot has a sushi bar up front, and a pan-Asian menu in the back dining room. Entrees include standard Japanese entrées such as teriyuaki chicken, Japanese curry, and soba and udon noodle dishes. $$ L D p YAMATO JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE 345 New Albany Plaza, New Albany IN, 590-1380. A lot of Japanese food preparations are on the menu at this southern Indiana restaurant, located between State Street and Green Vallley Road. Offerings include: ramen bowls and bento boxes, yaki soba and sushi rolls, and steak, chicken or seafood hibachi grilled dishes. $$ L D

FRESH OUT THE BOX 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market), 303-3322. This food truck serving Asian fusion street food now has a stand in the Logan Street Market too, serving well-crafted tacos, rice and noodle bowls and Korean dishes. $$ L D GOGI 1055 KOREAN BBQ 1055 Bardstown Rd., 7474644. The old neighborhood theater that recently housed Buffalo Wild Wings has become home to a grill-yourown-bulgogi table-side Korean restaurant. The interior has been gutted and redone, and gas grills at the tables will allow for tableside grilling of meat to one’s own preference. $$$$ D p KIM & BAB 3012 Charlestown Crossing Way, New Albany IN, 725-9844. This little Korean restaurant is getting rave notices from locals who love the mandu (dumplings), japchae (a noodle dish), galbi (short ribs) and dakkangjung (fried marinated boneless chicken in a spicy

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particularly when value and price are taken into account.

Authentic Vietnamese food is made with care and served with pride. $ L D CAFÉ THUY VAN 5600 National Turnpike, 366-6959. A bit off the beaten track, this South End spot is true, authentic Vietnamese. Friendly service overcomes any language barrier, and prices are hard to beat. Don’t miss the banh mi, traditional Vietnamese sandwiches. $ L D CHIK'N & MI 1765 Mellwood Ave., 890-5731. A brief try at maintaining two locations has resulted in consolidation at the former Bistro 1860 location, which is serving the original Asian-inspired comfort foods — Laotian spiced fried chicken, hearty ramen noodle soups and an extensive selection of sake, craft beer and cocktails. $$ Br Dp EATZ VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT 974 Barret Ave., 7854550. Another newcomer to the string of shotgun houses along Barret that provide a lead-in to the Paris Pointe development. Pho and Bahn mi sandwiches, of course, but also other noodle dishes, a bento box and crispy tofu in chili sauce. $$ L D pf LEMONGRASS RESTAURANT 11606 Shelbyville Rd., 244-7110, 2956 Richland Ave., 614-7448. Lemongrass Café offers an appealing blend of Vietnamese, Thai and Chinese fare in a simple setting that transcends an obviously low budget with style and grace. $ L D NAMNAM CAFÉ 318 Wallace Ave., 891-8859. This small St. Matthews Vietnamese restaurant has gained many enthusiastic fans who flock there for the pho, the banh mi and other authentic Vietnamese dishes. $ L D f PHO BA LUU 1019 E. Main St., 384-6822. This Butchertown restaurant focuses on Vietnamese street food such as pho, the classic noodle soup, and banh mi sandwiches. The very cool repurposed space was once a welding shop; its large open spaces and high ceilings make for an elegant place to sip sweet iced coffee or munch on an Imperial roll or tuck into a rice or noodle bowl. Fast casual service at lunch; after happy hour the full bar and large patio have full service. $$ L D pf PHO CAFÉ 1704 Barstown Rd., 916-2129. Local restaurant veteran Tuan Phan, who worked at Asiatique for 18 years along with a stint at Dish on Market, is serving Vietnamese-style home cooking. There is pho, of course, the signature noodle soup, as well as other noodle and rice dishes, banh mi sandwiches and a small selection of stir-fries. $$ L D PHO PHI 4600 Shelbyville Rd., 290-3019. A Vietnamese restaurant joins the choices in Shelbyville Road Plaza, setting up shop in the former Home Run Burgers site.

Phos, of course, and Bahn mis, and rich Vietnamese coffee. $$ L D VIETNAM KITCHEN 5339 Mitscher Ave., 363-5154. This little South End storefront is well worth seeking out. The chef goes beyond the ordinary, preparing authentic Vietnamese dishes of unusual subtlety and flavor. We have yet to be disappointed with the quality of the food or service. $ L D

BOUDREAUX’S CAJUN COOKING 11816 Shelbyville Rd. Inside the tiny Boudreaux's New Orleans Style Sno-Balls shack in Middletown, you can now find take-out only New Orleans style spicy gumbo (lunch only). Eat on the patio, or take home to reheat for supper. $ L f J. GUMBO’S 8603 Citadel Way, 493-4720, 1616 Grinstead Dr., 873-5006, 2109 Frankfort Ave., 896-4046. Former jockey Billy Fox has come full circle with his chain of popular quick-service Cajun restaurants — his most recent outlet is in the little house near Bardstown Rd., where it all began. Among the hearty, affordable dishes that have made J. Gumbo’s a go-to spot is the drunken chicken, still a favorite. $ B L D f

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SEAFOOD LADY 3207 Fern Valley Rd., 907-5251. The lure here is fresh fish, shrimp and crab legs brought up from the Gulf Coast, prepared with Cajun spices, and served simply and relatively cheaply. $$ L D f SELENA’S AT WILLOW LAKE TAVERN 10609 LaGrange Rd., 245-9004. This Cajun/Creole place in a renovated Anchorage roadhouse continues to find fans. Shrimp or fish with Manale sauce is a tribute to Pascal Manale’s in New Orleans. $$ Br L D pf STORMING CRAB 1360 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 590-3773. Seafood boil combos are the draw here, served at market price and by the pound. Several flavors (crab house Cajun, garlic butter or plain) and spice levels to take home or dump on the paper-covered tables to eat as it should be eaten. Other seafood dishes available plus Cajun items, like gumbo and crawfish etoufée. $$$ L D TAYLOR'S CAJUN MEAT CO. 3306 Plaza Dr., New Albany IN, 725-0039. A few blocks down Grant Line Rd. from I-265, Taylor’s is a spic-and-span shop run by a family from Lafayette, LA. Daily plate lunches often sell out quickly. A great variety of fresh and frozen savory Cajun specialties (sausages, stuffed everything) are always available, as well as crawfish and shrimp pies, gumbo and étouffée, and special orders. This place is the real deal. $ L

CARIBBEAN CAFÉ 317 W. Woodlawn Ave., 434-7711.

The diverse Woodlawn neighborhood welcomes the area’s first Haitian restaurant. The boldly-painted exterior is decorated with cool Haitian folk art; the menu offers generous portions of jerk chicken, fried red snapper, goat, and hearty sides of rice, beans and plantains. $ L D CUBAN RESTAURANT AND BAKERY 5614 Preston Hwy., 919-7074. Among the range of Latin restaurants along Preston Hwy, this unassuming place has garnered many fans, for the satisfying Cuban food in the café, as well as for its baked goods. $ B L D EDEN & KISSI 3912 Bardstown Rd., 384-9102. Another addition to the growing ethnic food choices in Buechel, this Afro-Caribbean restaurant serves several kinds of jerk chicken, chicken curry, and peri-peri wings. Daily specials include Ivory Coast style jollof rice, and a shrimp burger. $$ L D EL SABOR DE CUBA 7200 Preston Hwy., 618-2181. The flavors of Cuba can be found here on an ambitious menu of appetizers (tamales, croquetas and tostones), pizzas (including those topped with tuna or shrimp), Cubano (and other) sandwiches, and chicken, beef, pork and seafood entrees. $ L D p GALAN’S MEAT MARKET & GRILLE 2300 W. Market St., 618-3191. Carlos Galan, who has made a mark with his butcher shop in Portland, has opened another enterprise, in a former bank. His family-oriented restaurant, which has a Cuban/Puerto Rican/Caribbean menu focus, also has a meat market on site. Order breakfast, lunch or dinner inside, or from the drivethrough. $ B L D f HABANA BLUES TAPAS RESTAURANT 320 Pearl St., New Albany IN, 944-9760. Owner Leo Lopez has rebooted his restaurant concept in a former bank (the safe is still there, behind the bar) and installed in the front of the restaurant is a recreation of the raft he built to emigrate from Castro’s Cuba when he was 18. Cubanstyle tapas on the menu, also a half-dozen bocaditos (sandwiches) and a few dinner dishes such as paella Valenciana and arroz con pollo. Live music most nights — tango, flamenco and salsa. $$ L D pf HAVANA BAKERY CAFÉ 5510 Fern Valley Rd., 509-3410.

This Cuban spot offers sweets and savories: tres leches cake, coquitos (coconut-caramel rolls) and flan; sandwiches or meat and fish combos (ropa vieja, albondigas, pechuga de pollo). $$ L D

HAVANA RUMBA 12003 Shelbyville Rd., 244-5375. A true taste of Old Havana can be found at this consistently busy Cuban restaurant. Bountiful servings of Cuban fare as good as any in Key West or Miami, not to mention a hopping mojito bar, have earned Havana Rumba a place on our short list of local favorites. $$ L D pf HAVANA RUMBA & TAPAS BAR 2210 Bardstown Rd., 749-4600. The Havana Rumba family brings Cuban food to the Douglass Loop, and adds a large selection of Spanish tapas as well. Fans have also spoken reverently of the mojitos and other cocktails in the stylish bar. $ L D pf LA BODEGUITA DE MIMA 725 E. Market St., 690-5016.

Adjacent to the AC Hotel in NuLu, this Cuban restaurant is the latest restaurant concept from Fernando Martinez and his Olé Restaurant group. Cigar lounge, rum bar, 1950s Havana décor and a menu of classics from family recipes, like Cuban tamal con Puerco, pan con bistec and some delectable desserts. $$ D pf MI SUEÑO 3425 Bardstown Rd., 709-4526. This honest little bodega and hot table restaurant serving Latin groceries and a variety of Cuban-centric Latin dishes was, as the name translates, the owner’s dream. $ B L D MOJITO IN HAVANA 3939 Shelbyville Rd., 897-1959.

Long-time Louisville favorite Havana Rumba has resurfaced with a new identity in the location previously occupied by Waylon’s Food & Firewater. The roomier location of this Cuban favorite offers diners a two-tier menu that brings together the best selections from both Mojitos Tapas Restaurant and Havana Rumba. Look for some new offerings, as well, including shrimp croquettes and a selection of flatbreads. $$ B Br L D pf NAILA’S CARIBBEAN 1370 Veterans Pkwy., Jeffersonville, IN 725-0399. This little place, tucked behind Storming Crab, serves island fare like jerk wings with plantain chips, as well as Indian-inspired items like curries, and when available Trini fried whole fish. $$ L D OPEN CARIBBEAN KITCHEN 4735 Poplar Lever Rd., 601-1332. Chef Space, the West End kitchen incubator, has fostered another interesting eatery. This one highlights the cuisines of Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Trinidad. Offerings include alluring options like sautéed conch ceviche, Rasta pasta, and island-style jerk chicken. $$ L D ROOF TOP GRILL 414 W. Oak St., 618-2287. This Jamaican restaurant serves the native cuisine of owner Courtney Johnson. Look for jerk chicken, curry with chicken, turkey, goat and rib tips, along with Kentucky favorites like fried catfish, barbecue and beef patties. $ L D

BISTRO LE RELAIS 2817 Taylorsville Rd. (Bowman Field), 451-9020. This art deco spot makes stylish use of an historic 1920s airport building to present elegant modern French cuisine. Owner Anthony Dike’s refocus of the restaurant around a bistro menu continues its popularity. $$$$ D pf BRASSERIE PROVENCE 150 N. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 8833153. This Provençal-style brasserie serves classical and Southern French specialties, the comfort food enjoyed by owner Guy Genoud in his childhood home of Cannes, France. Dine like the French do on fish and seafood, a variety of meat and fowl, a daily "plat du jour", French cheese and charcuterie, specialty cocktails, draft beer and a large selection of French wine. $$$ L D pf

GASTHAUS 4812 Brownsboro Center, 899-7177. Michael and Annemarie Greipel came here with their five kids in 1993, straight from North Rhine-Westphalia to St. Matthews. Tiny lights twinkle from strands of fake red

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geraniums. But the hearty German fare — schnitzels, sauerbraten and rouladen with red cabbage and dumplings — is the real thing. $$$ D f

IRISH ROVER 2319 Frankfort Ave., 899-3544. Owner Michael Reidy is the Irish rover, having come to the U.S. from County Clare in 1984. His saloon is as smooth as Guinness, as warm as fish and chips, as genuine as Scotch eggs. Serving classic Irish fare. $ Br L D pf MOLLY MALONE’S 933 Baxter Ave., 473-1222. Molly Malone’s, as authentically Irish as the Wearin’ o’ the Green, has anchored the dining scene in the Lower Highlands for many years. You’ll find fish and chips, corned beef and cabbage, bangers and mash and shepherd’s pie, along with Irish interpretations of American bar food like wings and pretzels and beer cheese.$$ L D pf MORE SHENANIGAN’S 4521 Bardstown Rd., 493-3585. $ L D pf O'CONNELL'S IRISH PUB 5520 Fern Valley Rd., 9640040. If you are in the mood for an Irish Car Bomb, this is the place. Guinness, too, karaoke nights and a satisfying selection of bar food. $ L D p O’SHEA’S TRADITIONAL IRISH PUB 956 Baxter Ave., 589-7373. The O’Shea family has been operating an Irish pub since the early 1900s. Today they have one of the most popular pubs on the entire Bardstown-Baxter corridor. Diners of all ages like its burgers, flat breads, sandwiches and fish and chips. When music fills the rooms, it’s great to be Irish, even if you’re not. $$ L D pf PATRICK O’SHEA’S 123 W. Main St., 708-2488. This downtown Irish bar was one of the first to open in the Whiskey Row complex. Crowds have been elbowing in for upscale Irish-inflected bar food and plenty of sports talk. $$ L D pf

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

RED = Advertiser

SHENANIGAN’S IRISH GRILL 1611 Norris Pl., 4543919. Not just a neighborhood tavern (although it’s a fine neighborhood tavern), Irish-accented Shenanigan’s goes an extra step with an estimable selection of memorable burgers. $ L D pf

when bar Vetti, an upscale casual Italian eatery, opened in the 800 Building. Now moved to a larger space in the AC Hotel in NuLu, bar Vetti continues to draw fans with the smashed meatball burger, the popular eggplant Parmesan sandwich, pastas and pizza. $$$$ L D pf

THE RAVEN 3900 Shelbyville Rd., 882-2222. The St. Matthews outpost of Molly Malone’s has been remodeled and rebranded to offer “an authentic, Irish cultural experience.” Gaelic legends and myths inspire the decor, and rugby, hurling and football (by which they mean soccer) are the sports that fans come watch while chowing down on shepherd’s pie and fish and chips. The extensive menu offers American food as well as Irish dishes. $$$ L D pf

BELLA ROMA AUTHENTIC ITALIAN RESTAURANT 134 E. Market St., New Albany IN, 725-9495. Bella Roma adds classic Italian-American choices in a pleasant environment in the midst of New Albany’s growing restaurant row. $$$ L D f

ADRIENNE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 129 W. Court Ave., Jeffersonville IN, 282-2665. A part of the dining renaissance on the sunny side of Louisville, Adrienne’s has been pleasing Indiana diners with home-style Italian dishes. The owners also operate Adrienne’s Bakery in Jeffersonville. $$ L D

CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL 617 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 412-2218. Not your ordinary suburban shoppingcenter franchise eatery. This place dramatically exceeds expectations. From warmed bread dishes with quality olive oil to first-rate Italian-American fare at reasonable prices. $$$ L D pf

AMICI´ 316 W. Ormsby Ave., 637-3167. Satisfying, traditional Tuscan dishes are served in this interesting Old Louisville building. Dine inside or on the romantic (and pet-friendly) patio on a lovely summer evening. The joke and pun-filled menu, updated by new owner Don Reinhardt, is fun to read, and his dishes have been winning raves. $$ D pf

CIAO 1201 Payne St., 690-3532. A crisp modern dining space with a menu that is a blend of familiar ItalianAmerican family cuisine and Northern Italian dishes.

Creative takes on Italian regional cuisine include salmon saltimbocca, roast chicken with lemon risotto and eggplant rollini. Unusual pizzas are topped with mushroom and truffle, shrimp scampi and butternut squash. Flavors of monkey bread, a popular appetizer, vary daily. $$ L D pf

ANGIO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1915 Blankenbaker Pkwy., 451-5454. This small eatery moved from its Buechel location to the East End, still attracting a friendly neighborhood crowd with hefty subs and quality pizzas, along with cold beer. $$ L D p BAR VETTI 727 E. Market St., 883-3331. The crew behind Feast BBQ and Royals Hot Chicken scored another win

BUCA DI BEPPO 2051 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 493-2426.

Buca di Beppo’s recipe has all the necessary ingredients: huge portions of excellent food served with flair and the Buca scene is fun, a conscious parody of the exuberant decor of family Italian-American restaurants of the 1950s. $$ L D p

COME BACK INN 909 Swan St., 627-1777. Come Back Inn looks pretty much like any other neighborhood saloon.

But unlike other neighborhood saloons, this houses a family Italian spot that wouldn’t be out of place in Chicago or Brooklyn. $$ L D p

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DIFABIO’S CASAPELA ITALIAN RESTAURANT 2311 Frankfort Ave., 891-0411. Reminiscent of a menu that harks back to the red-checked tablecloth and Chianti bottle era of Italian restaurants. Look for baked stuffed mushrooms and toasted ravioli, veal parmesan and chicken piccata, and your choice of pastas with your choice of sauce. $$ D f GRASSA GRAMMA 2210 Holiday Manor Ctr., 333-9595.

Kevin Grangier’s newest dining idea is his take on familiar Italian food, just like your robust Italian grandmother made, only better. There’s lasagne, of course, and spaghetti and meatballs, ravioli and gnocchi and several other pastas, but prime beef filet with Gorgonzola sauce, veal scallopini, whole roasted branzino, and pizza, too. $$$$ Br L D p MARTINI ITALIAN BISTRO 4021 Summit Plaza Dr. 3949797. Now locally owned, Martini’s continues to serve hearty, well-fashioned Italian entrées, pastas and pizzas, a comfortable approximation of a Tuscan trattoria. An open kitchen with wood-fired oven gives a peek at the culinary goings-on. $$$ Br L D pf MERCATO ITALIANO 10640 Meeting St., 690-3200. This Italian market and upscale casual restaurant in Norton Commons is under new ownership. Chef/owner Peter Pagano prepares lunch, brunch and dinner. Customers can buy cheeses, bread, charcuterie, sauces, packaged pastas and prepared meals for take-out in the market section. $$ Br L D p MILANTONI ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1600 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 742-8210. This East End restaurant serves up all you would want in a casual Italian eatery: mozzarella sticks and calamari; subs and Philly cheesesteaks; pizzas and calzones; and a dozen or so different pastas. $$ L D p OLD SPAGHETTI FACTORY 235 W. Market St., 5811070. One of the original ventures of this national firm.

Bright and noisy, it offers well-made if basic Italian family fare and dishes it out for surprisingly low prices. $$ L D p OLIVE GARDEN 1320 Hurstbourne Pkwy., 339-7190, 9730 Von Allmen Ct., 425-3607, 4805 Outer Loop, 9682978, 1230 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 218-8304.

The top property of the Darden chain, Olive Garden now operates more than 500 properties and bills itself as the leading Italian restaurant in the casual dining industry.

Hearty pastas of all shapes and sauces, appetizers and combo platters all carry the Italian theme. $$ L D p PORCINI 2730 Frankfort Ave., 894-8686. This anchor trattoria of the Crescent Hill dining scene has been serving up risotto, ossobuco and bistecca since 1992. Start with fried artichokes, a Roman specialty. Opt for the grilled Romaine salad, then the gnocchi with spicy sausage. The grilled veal chop is a fine choice, and finish with tiramisu. $$$ L D pf ROC RESTAURANT 1327 Bardstown Rd., 459-7878. New York City chef/restaurateur Rocco Cadolini has transformed a Highlands building into an elegant upscale restaurant, with a handsome pergola in the front garden.

The first floor has a large bar and casual dining, and upstairs sees a more formal white tablecloth space with several private dining rooms. Here you will find authentic Italian food, served with flair. Now open for lunch and the “disco brunches” are becoming legendary. $$$ D pf SARINO 1030 Goss Ave., 822-3777. Owners and brothers, Carmelo and Michael Gabriele, the next generation of the noted Gabriele family (owners of the highly revered Vincenzo’s), have taken over the short-lived Goss Ave. Pub space for their casual, authentic Italian restaurant that emphasizes fresh pasta and Neapolitan pizza, something Germantown had been lacking. The menu also features Sicilian street fare, Italian cheeses paired with charcuterie, and traditional entrees. $$ D p SILVIO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 104 Fairfax Ave., 8836369. Owned by one of the Melillo family, fondly remembered for their NuLu retaurant before NuLu 68 Spring 2021 www.foodanddine.com

became popular, this St. Matthews spot evokes the classic New Jersey style Italian restaurants of the “Big Night” era: baked pasta dishes, cheese-stuffed rice balls, pasta fagiole, and eggplant Parmesan. $$ L D p SPAGHETTI SHOP 4510 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 944-5400. Baked pasta dishes, subs, salads and appetizers are prepared while you wait. $ L D THE BLACK ITALIAN 2009 Highland Ave., 690-8914.

Unpretentious Italian home-cooking is the style at this Highlands spot. Choose from six pasta dishes, grilled meatballs and chicken wings, and sub sandwiches. $$$ LD TOWN 415 Spring St., Jeffersonville IN, 285-1777. The former Southern Indiana branch of the Come Back Inn has a new identity and a menu still focused on pasta dishes and pizzas with several new salads, sandwiches and a revamped appetizer selection. Other entrees include items like chicken piccata and Greek lamb pasta. $$ L D p TUSCANY ITALIAN RESTAURANT 165 Outer Loop, 363-0308. Adding an appetizing option to a stretch of the South End that hasn’t been over-served by restaurants, this good-sized storefront near New Cut Road boasts a Mexican chef who demonstrates an expert’s hand with hearty, red-sauced Italian-American fare at a price that’s right. $$ L D p VOLARE 2300 Frankfort Ave., 894-4446. Chef and coowner Josh Moore has revised his menu after an inspirational tour of Italy, and brings in fantastic whole fish for seafood specials on Fridays. His pasta extruder allows him to do things like squid ink fettuccine. Volare continues to be a top spot for suave Italian dining. Moore supplies his kitchen with vegetables he raises himself on his Taylorsville farm. $$$ D pf

BARCELONA BISTRO BAR 10415 Taylorsville Rd., 6146055. Jeffersontown gets a Spanish restaurant thanks to chef/owner Alba Clementson. Here she offers Catalanstyle spinach with caramelized onions, roasted cashews, cranberries, and peanuts; paella; Serrano ham croquettes; and albondigas (pork meatballs in almond sauce), among other dishes. $$$ Br D p MOJITO TAPAS RESTAURANT 2231 Holiday Manor Center, 425-0949. An offshoot of the popular St. Matthews Cuban restaurant Havana Rumba, Mojito quickly established its own identity as the East End spot for Spanish-inspired small plates with a global taste profile. Always crowded on weekends; no reservations, but call ahead to get high on the waiting list. $$ L D pf

APNA CAFÉ 11322 Maple Brook Dr., 690-7555. This Indian café attached to the neighboring grocery offers a colorful and aromatic assortment of curries and more. $$ LD BOMBAY GRILL 216 N. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 425-8892.

With its broad array of Indian regional specialties including the requisite lunch buffet, this spot in The Forum on Hurstbourne is winning praise for its aromatic flavors and bountiful portions. $$ L D f CHAMLING KITCHEN & BAR 2249 Hikes Ln., 4512500. Another entrepreneurial immigrant family has opened Louisvillians’ taste buds to more ethnic possibilities. In the former Empress of China space, the Rai family serves standard Chinese hot table dishes, but also adds Nepalese and Indian fare. $ L D p CLAY OVEN INDIAN RESTAURANT 12567 Shelbyville Rd., 254-4363. Northern Indian cuisine with a focus on the clay oven specialties of the region, including some Nepalese dishes, like goat curry and chicken mo-mo (a kind of chicken and dumplings dish). Also selections of

lamb dishes and, of course, a large vegetarian menu. $$ LD DAKSHIN SOUTH INDIAN RESTAURANT 4742 Bardstown Rd., 491-7412. This Indian restaurant has won many fans with its aromatic and spicy Southern Indian fare to the Buechel-Fern Creek neighborhood in the Eastland Shopping Center. $$ B L D p HONEST INDIAN 9008 Taylorsville Rd., 690-8355. From a street cart in Ahmedabad, in western India, this chain expanded to Thailand and now to the U.S. Its menu offers abundant offerings from a variety of regional Indian cuisines. Offerings include bhaji pav, rava dosa, uttapam, aloo mutter and various chaat. $$ L D KASHMIR INDIAN RESTAURANT 1277 Bardstown Rd., 473-8765. One of the city’s most popular Indian restaurants, Kashmir is casual, neither posh nor expensive, and it produces an extensive menu of seemingly authentic Indian fare. $$ L D f KATHMANDU KITCHEN AND BAR 3825 Bardstown Rd., 202-1481. Named for the capital city of Nepal, this crisp, modern place in Buechel serves Nepalese food (a sort-of fusion of Chinese and Indian cuisines). Expect dishes such as pakoras, biruanis and even chow mein, but also Nepali items such as pork sakuwo (spiced pork chunks cooked on skewers), fried mo-mo (a kind of dumpling with dipping sauce) and khasikomaasu ra bhata, an aromatic stew with curried accents. $$ L D pf SHALIMAR INDIAN RESTAURANT 1850 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 493-8899. Modern and sleek in appearance, modest in price, this restaurant has become the patriarch of local Indian restaurants. With a substantial lunch buffet and a full range of dinner items, it has built a loyal clientele. $$ L D SHREEJI INDIAN VEGETARIAN STREET FOOD 1986 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 890-4000. The extensive, completely vegetarian menu of this East End restaurant looks to the street food of India for dishes not often seen here: a variety of chaats, masala pav, hakka, dosa and even an aloo mutter sandwich, filled with a blend of potato, peas and a balance of savory spices. $$ L D SONAL'S KITCHEN 3741 Pamela Rae Dr., 408-5633. This East End Indian restaurant serves vegetarian and vegan dishes from all parts of the sub-continent, with emphasis on the dishes of South India. $$ L D TAJ PALACE 2929 Goose Creek Rd., 423-9692. Focused on Northern Indian cuisine, the menu offers a wide range of chicken, lamb, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Spiciness can be decided by the customer. Lunch buffet and dinner menu. $$ L D f TANDOORI FUSION 4600 Chamberlain Ln., 255-2590.

The former Zeggz's location has been quickly taken over by entrepreneur Purna Veer, who uses Indian vegetables grown on his Oldham County farm. Veer promises that his dishes will not be “watered down,” so be ready for uncommon spice levels. $$ B L D pf TIKKA HOUSE 3930 Chenoweth Sq., 749-4535. Tikka House has garnered positive notice for both its lunch buffet and a la carte dinner service. Diners have praised dishes such as lamb masala with roasted coconut, Tandoori wings, fish pakora, paneer chili, several daal preparations and saag paneer. $$ L D pf VINDHU BHOJANAM INDIAN 12412 Shelbyville Rd., 749-2212. Meat dishes are an afterthought at this mostly vegetarian restaurant serving dishes from both North and South India, which also has a substantial selection of vegan dishes. $ L D

4 SEASONS RESTAURANT 8402 Hudson Ln., 749-9969.

Fern Creek boasts the first Bulgarian restaurant in town.

The “Mediterranean” cuisine here ranges from the familiar (gyros and kebabs) to Bulgarian specialties kebapche

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(grilled meat), banitsa (stuffed bread) and shopska salad with tomatoes, cukes and salty cheese. $$ L D pf AL HAMRA HALAL BUFFET 1250 Bardstown Rd., 3844801. The first (that we know of) halal buffet restaurant has taken over the Asian Buffet at Mid City Mall. Over 50 choices will be on the buffet line, half cold (salads and other mezze) and half hot items. Familiar Near-Eastern foods such as kebabs, kofta and gyros will be available, but also dishes from other Muslim lands: samosas, masalas and lamb shank stew. $$ L D ALWATAN RESTAURANT 3713 Klondike Ln., 454-4406.

Classic Arabic dishes home-cooked by friendly people in a cozy environment. That’s the recipe that makes Al Watan a destination for lovers of fine Middle Eastern fare. $LD ALADDIN’S MEDITERRANEAN 37 Bank St., New Albany IN, 489-7969. After bringing a higher level of Middle Eastern cuisine to the still-growing dining scene in New Albany, Aladdin’s has moved to the cool new Underground Station complex. You will still find wellcrafted gyros, chicken shawarma, tabbouleh and hummus in their sleek new environs. Finish your meal with thick Turkish coffee. $ L D CASPIAN GRILL PERSIAN BISTRO 2716 Frankfort Ave., 290-6050. Middle Eastern food of an above-average quality. Kabobs and hummus, of course, but also shirazi salad with tomatoes, cucumbers and onions in a lemony dressing, and chicken stew with pomegranate and walnuts. $ L D CHARCOAL 2805 N. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 749-8888.

Chicken cooked over charcoal and served with garlic sauce is just one of the draws at this new Mediterranean restaurant. The menu also lists classics like falafel, chicken shawarma, hummus, baba ganoush, tahini salad — and baklava cheesecake. $$ L D f EAT A PITA 2286 Bardstown Rd., 473-7482. Enjoy Mediterranean-Middle Eastern favorites, as well as the addition of a few “American” sandwiches — on fresh pita, of course. $ L D FALAFEL OASIS 226 W. Broadway, 742-2030. The owner of Superior Market and Deli a few doors away has also opened this Middle Eastern restaurant, serving gyros, falafel, and other regional fare. $ L D

owners of the now-defunct Little Jerusalem. Gyros, hummus, falafel — what one would expect, but done with attention to details and a flair for flavor. $$ L D f PASHA'S MEDITERRANEAN 3904 Bardstown Rd., 4094532. You can find the usual Mediterranean fare here – falafel, baba ghanouj – but with influences of Jordanian recipes such as Kalaya, ground lamb cooked in tomatoes, and char-grilled lamb liver. Fans cite the value-sized portions. $$ L D f SAFIER MEDITERRANEAN DELI 641 S. Fourth St., 5851125. You can get standard American fare at this downtown quick-eats spot, but who’d do that when you can enjoy such appetizing Arabian delights as hummus, mutabal, falafels and the gyros-like (only better) shawarma beef-on-pita sandwich? $ L D f SAM’S GYRO 3123 S. Second St., 709-4292. This hummus and kebab joint, with its tasty food and friendly service, has moved out to the South End. The menu features everything you would expect from a typical Eastern Mediterranean menu: falafel, tabouli, gyros, baklava and spanakopita. $ L D SHIRAZ MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 2226 Holiday Manor Center, 426-9954, 201 N. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 426-3440, 3521 Poplar Level Rd., 632-2232, 4614 Chamberlain Ln., 919-9014, 1565 Bardstown Rd., 749-0385. From a tiny neighborhood storefront, Shiraz quickly grew out of its original location and expanded into a local mini-chain. In all its locations, Shiraz shines with authentic Persian (Iranian) cooking, such as char-grilled kebabs, fine pitas and lavash. $ L D f SIMPLE GREEK 3029 Poplar Level Rd., 384-0041. This national chain offers traditional Greek and Mediterranean dishes “with an interactive concept” — patrons build their own bowls, salads, pitas and Greek yogurt with a variety of proteins, toppings and sides. $$ L D f SYRIAN GRILL ABU ABDU 3325 Bardstown Rd., 7490071. This Middle Eastern restaurant, tucked away amid other businesses just past the Watterson, serves familiar Mediterranean dishes — kibbeh, shawarma, biryani — and also family size meals of mixed grill and the Syrian rice dish mansaf. $$ L D

THE FALAFEL HOUSE 1001 Bardstown Rd., 454-4407.

This small Highlands spot is strategically situated to offer quick and affordable sustenance along the BardstownBaxter entertainment strip. Look for the usual Middle Eastern fare in a casual, quick-service setting. $$ L D f

TAZIKI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ 13317 Shelbyville Rd., 244-6222, 106 Fairfax Ave., 212-5373. At these Alabamabased chain outlets the food is made fresh daily with vegan and gluten-free choices. The menu includes grilled chicken roll-ups, a grilled tilapia sandwich with dill-caper sauce, gyros, a grilled vegetable and rice plate, roasted potatoes and baklava, along with beer and wine. $$ L D pf

GRAPE LEAF 2217 Frankfort Ave., 897-1774. For those in the know, the Grape Leaf has long been a destination spot, well above the generic Middle Eastern eatery nich in both ambiance and quality of food. Prices remain affordable; the food and mood justify a special trip. $$ L Df

YAFA CAFÉ 612 S. Fifth St., 561-0222. This well-respected Middle Eastern lunch spot had gained a fanbase for its hummus, among other dishes, before it succumbed to the expansion of the Kindred development. Now it has reopened in a prime downtown restaurant lunch space that has seen a number of prior occupants. $$ L D f

JERUSALEM KITCHEN 4413 Saint Rita Dr., 614-6465.

Little Jerusalem Café has moved from the Iroquois Manor area and moderately rebranded itself. You can still find a range of Mediterranean dishes here, shawarma and fattoush, gyros and hummus and so on. $$ D f

ZOE’S KITCHEN 4126 Summit Plaza Dr., 329-8963. This chain has been growing throughout the South and Southwest, and now has two Louisville locations. An eclectic menu offers kabobs, hummus, quesadillas, rollups, pita sandwiches and chicken, tuna and shrimp salads. $ L D

LITTLE GREEK FRESH GRILL 4600 Shelbyville Rd., 6908348. This Arkansas-based chain is now serving dolmades and spanikopita, pita sandwiches and wraps, a variety of skewers and mousaka and pastitsio. $$ L D p MAIRA MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 1907 S. Fourth St., 963-5999. Owners of the popular Safier restaurant in Theater Square have opened this U of L location, serving Middle Eastern food such as shawarma, kebab, falafel, hummus, lentil soup and baklava. $ L D f MASALA GRILL 528 S. Fifth St., 562-0202. $ L MIRAGE MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT 4100 Preston Hwy., 363-7788. Preston Highway’s international restaurant row is enriched by this Middle Eastern eatery, run by the

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

RED = Advertiser

CARALI'S ROTISSERIE CHICKEN 9148 Taylorsville Rd., 618-0699, 211 S. Fifth St., 654-7131, 642 Baxter Ave., 12531 Shelbyville Rd., 618-2725. You will find Peruvianstyle rotisserie chicken and other South American dishes here: lomo (grilled marinated steak), chaufa rice and various salads and side dishes (such as stuffed avocado).

Sandwiches as well as full dinners, and take away half and full roasted chickens. $ L D p CUBA Y MAS 5700 Outer Loop, 290-1672. Folks living in Okolona and Highview now have a nearby source of

authentic Cuban dishes, such as the pargo frito (whole fried snapper) and the appetizer tamal cubano (the Cuban version of tamales). There’s a great selection of Latin soft drinks and tropical juices; try one of the tropical fruit "milkshakes." $$ L D p EL RINCONCITO 4806 Bardstown Rd., 742-9537. This Peruvian restaurant adds to the ethnic choices in Buechel.

The happy chicken logo touts the charcoal-grilled chicken, but the menu includes salchipapa (sausage and potatoes), lomo saltado (a beef stew), plantains and Peruvian green rice. $ L D EL SAZON DE ABUELA 8506 Preston Hwy., 290-0030.

The ethnic food choices along Preston Highway continue to expand with this Puerto Rican restaurant. Mofongo, – smashed plantains infused with garlic and seasonings – is a comfort food staple of PR cuisine made with shrimp, chicken, seafood, or veggies and broth. Breakfast dishes, burgers, and sandwiches are also on offer. $$ B L D f I LOVE TACOS 9909 Taylorsville Rd., 384-2154, 1534 Bardstown Rd., 742-4119. The second location of this locally-owned Mexican spot is in the former Panera Bread store in the Highlands. The menu’s focus extends beyond the expectations of the name with traditional Puerto Rican and Cuban dishes as well. $$ L D pf LA GUANAQUITA 4231 Taylor Blvd., 822-1343. This South End spot serves the dishes of Guatemala and Honduras: pupusas and baleadas and pescado frito (fried fish), served whole, head and tail on, garnished with lime wedges and avocado slices. $$ L D LA SUERTE 2116 Bardstown Rd., 883-1000. Owner Chris Seckman has transformed his Douglass Loop North End Café site into a Latin restaurant. Partner and Executive Chef Adrian Jimarez Neri offer dishes inspired by his mother and grandmother. The dinner menu includes pollo tostadas, shrimp a la parilla, pork posole and shrimp a la diabla. Brunch will offer molletes, migas, and jalapeño biscuits with chorizo gravy. $$$ Br D pf SABOR LATINO 1273 S. Brook St., 276-4954. A welcome addition to Old Louisville is this tiny restaurant serving a “Latin Culinary Mix,” as a sign advertises. The menu offers Cuban sandwiches, patatas bravas, burritos, quesadillas, carne asada, ropa vieja and pollo de vacaciones – a chicken stew. $$ L D f YUMMY POLLO 4222 Bishop Ln., 618-1400. You can get Peruvian-style charcoal roasted chicken here by the piece, half or whole bird. American-style side dishes include fried or mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, slaw and pasta salad. $ L

BANDIDO TAQUERIA MEXICANA 423 University Blvd., 996-7788, 905 E. Liberty St., 384-2527. These Mexican places, the first in a strip mall near U of L, the second next to Falls City Brewing in NuLu, serve California-style tacos, quesadillas, burritos, nachos and burrito bowls, with a choice of four salsas at the condiment bar. $$ L D f

BUBBAKOO’S BURRITOS 12919 Factory Ln., 384-0778 This East Coast fast-casual chain has opened here, with more area locations on the corporate radar. Lots of standard Mexican fare (tacos, quesadillas, nachos), along with wings and choice of six sauces. One house specialty is the Chiwawa, a stuffed rice ball, breaded and fried. $$ LD CAFÉ AROMA 2020 Brownsboro Rd., 618-3434. This little shop along the lower Brownsboro food corridor touts “a world of flavor with a Mexican flair.” It’s mostly Mexican and really mostly good, according to our friends in the neighborhood. Affordable, casual and filling. $ L D CANCÚN 808 Lyndon Ln., 883-1924, 9424 Shelbyville Rd., 742-3697. Now with two locations, Cancún offers familiar dishes, combination platters, and steak and seafood specialties like carne bandito and tostados de ceviche. $$ L D pf

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CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL 315 S. Fourth St., 5848606, 10333 Westport Rd., 526-5170, 1075 Bardstown Rd., 452-8990, 13303 Shelbyville Rd., 244-7173, 420 S. Hurstbourne Ln., 425-3017. Now with five Louisville locations, this increasingly popular Tex-Mex chain, with an emphasis on cooking with humanely-raised meat products, seems to have struck a chord with consumers. $LDf COCONUT BEACH TACOS & CERVEZA 2787 S. Floyd St., 634-2844. The menu here is anchored by bargainpriced tacos created to lure in U of L students from nearby (the place is across from Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium), as well as burritos, empanadas and tortas. Come the weekend, the huge space is converted into a bar and dance club. $ L D pf CON HUEVOS 2339 Frankfort Ave., 384-3027, 4938 US42, 384-3744, 400 S. Second St. (Omni Hotel). This popular Mexican breakfast and lunch spot with locations in Clifton and the Eastern suburbs has added a downtown outlet. Expect huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, breakfast-style enchiladas (with eggs, of course), frijoladas, churros and molletes. Tortas and tacos at lunch as well. $ B Br L

EL SOMBRERO 2784 Meijer Dr., Jeffersonville IN, 2850109. An Indianapolis restaurant group has taken over the old Bearno’s near Meijer in J’ville, and opened this “Americanized Mexican” restaurant. $ B L D pf EL TACO LOCO 5622 Preston Hwy., 225-7229. This unpretentious Mexican restaurant tries to be as authentic as it can, and has persuaded many fans with its efforts.

Inexpensive, freshly made tacos, quesadillas and other familiar Mexican dishes, served in value sizes. $ L D EL TACO LUCHADOR 938 Baxter Ave., 583-0440, 112 Meridian Ave., 709-5154, 9204 Taylorsville Rd., 7081675, 5205 New Cut Rd. (Colonial Gardens), 384-8457.

With the opening of the Colonial Gardens site and a store in J’town, Olé Restaurant Group now has five taquerias that all have diners lined up out the door. Familiar taco names — carnitas, carne asada — get clever riffs in the kitchen. Call it elevated Mexican street food. And do try the fantastic tortas. $ L D f EL TARASCO 5425 New Cut Rd., 368-5628, 110 Fairfax Ave., 895-8010. El Tarasco’s take on Mexican food appeals both to the area’s growing Latino population and Anglos who want to enjoy a South-of-the-Border culinary adventure without compromise. $ L D p

DOS GRINGOS 149 Spring St., Jeffersonville IN, 590-1280.

In the space that for many years was Ann’s by the River, the folks who operate the 812 Pizza Company in Georgetown and The Standard Plate & Pour in New Albany have opened a bright, colorful Mexican spot featuring traditional plates and a wide selection of margaritas and tequilas. $$ L D p

EL TORAZO 1850 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 491-7272. A family-oriented Mexican restaurant offers the expected menu items, as well as some more sophisticated dishes, such as 7 mares sopa, a soup with shrimp, scallops and octopus; banderillas, a colorful beef brochette; and chuleta sabrosa, a Durango-style grilled steak. $$ L D pf

EL CAPORAL 2209 Meadow Dr., 473-7840, 1909 Blankenbaker Pkwy., 266-9605. Louisville’s growing Mexican-American community has fostered a happy trend: excellent, authentic Mexican food. El Caporal bridges the gap between the Latino and Anglo communities. $ L D p

EL TORO CANTINA & GRILL 10602 Shelbyville Rd., 489-3839. One of the top Mexican restaurants in the metro, El Toro earns our recommendation for food, service and environment. Tex-Mex dishes are fine, but save room for the authentic Mexican seafood specialties. $ L D pf

EL COMAL TAQUERIA 9609 Dixie Hwy., 632-2053. As one might expect, the main focus here is on tacos, including party taco trays, but other choices include burritos, quesadillas and chilaquiles. $ L D p EL FRIJOL 1999 Brownsboro Rd., 742-9456. The corner space of the Clifton strip mall has been fully renovated, and the new owners present a lively, authentic Mexican menu, verified by the bustling array of Latino customers enjoying their meals.$$ B L D p EL MARIACHI 9901 La Grange Rd., 413-5770. Fans of this Mexican restaurant, situated between a bakery and an ethnic grocery, find much to rave about: tacos and burritos made with the bakery’s fresh tortillas, funky authentic fillings and quick, friendly service. $ B L D p EL MOLCAJETE 8106 Preston Hwy., 742-3485, 2932 S. Fourth St., 638-0300. You can get gringo-style tacos (with shredded lettuce, cheese & sour cream) at this south-end Mexican joint. But if you come here, why not eat like a native? Lash your pork, beef and chicken tacos with freshsqueezed lime juice and a heap of sliced radishes. Want to get truly authentic? Step up to beef tongue (lengua), intestine (tripas) or brain (sesos). $$ L D p EL MUNDO 2345 Frankfort Ave., 899-9930, 1767 Bardstown Rd., 384-5633. he crowded little Crescent Hill storefront, offering creative renditions of Mexican regional specialties that make most diners want to yell “Olé!”, now has a second outlet in the multi-level space in the Highlands that once was Asiatique. Both locations provide high-quality Mexican food and drink. $ L D pf EL NOPAL (22 Locations) These locally-owned restaurants have become a growing mini-chain, winning popularity on the basis of delicious and inexpensive Mexican fare in comfortable surroundings. $ L D pf EL RIO GRANDE 10001 Forest Green Blvd., 632-2403. A Mexican restaurant has taken over the expansive space that once was Limestone. Patrons report good experiences, with both the food and the service. $$ L D p

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FIESTA MEXICANA 4507 Bardstown Rd., 491-2922 $ L D p FIESTA TIME AMIGOS 8133 Bardstown Rd., 231-2444, 135 S. English Station Rd., 254-7755. These traditional Mexican restaurant’s locations serve the expected things, like fajitas and burritos. But there is also an extensive grill menu, with items such as steak tampiqueño (rib-eye steak with ranchero sauce), Chile Colorado and Los Amigos cheese steak. $ L D pf FIESTA TIME MEXICAN GRILL 11320 Maple Brook Dr., 425-9144. $ L D p FISTFUL OF TACOS 2708 Paoli Pk., New Albany IN, 5570226. This ambitious little taco joint in the Knobs offers five taco choices - The Good (chicken tinga, citrus slaw),The Bad (beef, pico de gallo), The Ugly (Bourbon pork, mango salsa), The Vegan (roasted sweet potato, black bean) and The Pesky (scallop ceviche, melon). $$ L Df FOKO 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market), (210) 7925858. Chef Paco Garcia fuses his two favorite cuisines, Mexican and Southern. The result is chicken with jalapeno gravy or tortas with collard greens, among others. $$ L D f GUACA MOLE 9921 Ormsby Station Rd., 365-4822. When Fernando Martinez returned to Louisville, he started his remarkable new restaurant blitz with this East End “creative Mexican” restaurant. As the name emphasizes, the menu explores different moles, and the creativity comes with modern twists on classic Mexican dishes. Fans quickly warmed to the food and the up-to-the-minute cocktail program designed by Martinez’s wife Christina. $$ Br L D p GUSTAVO’S MEXICAN GRILL 6051 Timber Ridge Dr., 434-7266, 10715 Meeting St., 690-7070. Gustavo’s offers “bold Mexican flavors.” Everything you would expect — fajitas, burritos, tacos — but also vegetarian options, house specialties like enchiladas verdes, chimichangas,

shrimp tacos and pollo feliz (grilled chicken with chorizo and pineapple). $$ L D pf ISRAEL’S DELICIAS DE MEXICO GOURMET 604 E. Spring St., New Albany IN, 725-9139. Israel Landon introduced Kentuckiana to his Mexican home-style cooking at La Rosita a few years ago. Now he is moving into the former Destinatins Booksellers space by the end of March. Look for street tacos and Mayan quesadillas and weekly specials highlighting cuisine from various regions of Mexico, including seafood dishes and new desserts. $ L D f LA BAMBA 1237 Bardstown Rd., 451-1418. The revamped and updated Highlands authentic fast food place still offers burritos as big as your head, and tacos, quesadillas and tortas too. $ L D LA CATRINA MEXICAN KITCHEN 202 E. Elm St., New Albany IN, 725-8264. The owners of Señor Iguanas restaurants have opened this Mexican party food and street food restaurant in the building that Dragon King’s Daughter moved out of. Look for naked and dressed tacos, soups, salads and shareable dishes and seasonal menu updates. $$ L D pf LA CHAPINLANDIA 1209 McCawley Rd., 384-7075. If those tiny hole-in-the-wall places are the best for real Mexican food, this little South End place will satisfy Okolona’s need for tacos and burritos. $ L D p LA LUPITA 827 Eastern Blvd., Clarksville IN, 285-0083.

Tucked away on the back side of a strip mall, this is a new spot for authentic Mexican food. The usual stuff but also panbazos, tlacoyos, tlayudas and aguachile, all explained and illustrated on the menu. $$ L D pf LA POPULAR 2521 Seventh St Rd., 636-3688.$LDp LA RIVIERA MAYA 8104 National Turnpike, 361-3566.

This South End Mexican restaurant is popular with local Latinos, which is always a good sign. Look for gorditas and carne asada, as well as familiar fare like enchiladas.

Word is that the horchata is rich and spiced just right. $ LDp LA ROSITA TAQUERIA 8730 Westport Rd., 618-4588, 5059 Preston Hwy., 618-2883. For those who crave genuine Mexican tacos, you want them convenient when the urge to scarf one down strikes. These little places will certainly satisfy those cravings. $ L D LA SIERRA RESTAURANT AND TAQUERIA 6501 Shepherdsville Rd., 969-7938. $ LA TORTA LOCA 5213 Preston Hwy., 966-3254. This simple, strip mall eatery has been around long enough to gain dedicated fans of their well-seasoned and fairly spicy versions of familiar Mexican dishes. Some of those fans recommend the agua de Jamaica (hibiscus).

LA TROPICANA 5215 Preston Hwy., 964-5957. This Latino grocery store has been selling a full range of fruits, vegetables, meats and grocery items for a while. Now there is a steam-table buffet with a wide range of lunch choices. It’s mostly take-away, but there’s also limited outdoor and indoor seating. $$ B L D f LAS CAZUELAS 4214 Bishop Ln., 614-8634. This unassuming strip mall eatery has amassed a dedicated local clientele with fast, friendly service, cold margaritas and well-prepared familiar Mexican fare. $$ L D pf LAS GORDITAS 4756 Bardstown Rd., 492-0112. As Louisville’s small, thriving Latino community grows, it’s now possible to enjoy an authentic Mexico City-style dining experience at this taco and gordita wagon that rolls up in the Eastland Shopping Center. Family owners and chefs Pat and Esperanza Costas and Ofelia Ortiz now also have a sit-down storefront just down the street. $ D f LAS MARGARITAS MEXICAN RESTAURANT 12220 Shelbyville Rd., 963-5503, 307 Central Ave., 690-8071.

The emphasis here is on the cuisine of the Gulf coast of Mexico. You will find the familiar (tacos, fajitas) and the slightly different — caldo de pollo (Mexican chicken

B = Breakfast Br = Brunch L = Lunch D = Dinner

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soup), mole poblano and salmon al ajillo (garlic salmon) and tlayollos, a variation on tamales. $$ L D p

location. In addition to their five signature burritos new items include tacos, tortas and chicharrones. $$ D

locally for more than a decade. Its happy return has been drawing remarkable crowds. $ L D

LIMÓN Y SAL 10000 Brownsboro Rd., 423-4604. This authentic Mexican kitchen offers suburbanites many choices: taquitos, bocadillos and dips to start, soups such as pozole and caldo de camarón (shrimp soup), tacos, tortas and combination dinners. $$ L D pf

NOCHE MEXICAN BBQ 1838 Bardstown Rd., 467-8015.

Inside a de-commissioned Lutheran Church, illuminated by the large stained glass windows in the sanctuary/dining room, you can find authentic Tex-Mex barbecue. Look for brisket and pulled pork smoked with Noche’s special spice blend, fajitas, flautas, green chili macaroni and cheese and grilled Mexican street corn. $$ D pf

TACOLICIOUS 111 W. Market St., New Albany, (812) 9247240. In the space that most recently was El Sinaloa Mexican Restaurant, this little taqueria strives for authenticity in its fresh preparations of Mexican street foods. $$ Br L D p

LOS AZTECAS 445 E. Market St., 561-8535, 1107 Herr Ln., 426-3994, 9207 U.S. Hwy. 42, 228-2450. Genuine Mexican cuisine has become a viable option in Louisville thanks to a growing immigrant community. Los Aztecas, one of the best, has moved its W. Main St. anchor store to E. Market, taking over the larger, spiffy space left by Wild Rita’s closing. It’s satellite locations are still bustling too. $ L D pf LUCKY BURRITO 2118 Bardstown Rd., 883-1000.

Christopher Seckman and partner Adrian Jimarez Neri morphed the Douglass Loop location of North End Café into the Modern Latin restaurant La Suerte. Now the team has added a new offering next door: Lucky Burrito is a quick-service place with hefty burritos, nicely-priced tacos, and plenty of interesting ingredients and an assortment of deftly-crafted tacos. $$ L D f LUNA'S MEXICAN ROTISSERIE 5213 Preston Hwy., 9628898. The owners came from Puebla, Mexico, but made a stop in Los Angeles before moving to Louisville and starting Luna’s Rotisserie. Their specialty is slow-cooked rotisserie chicken from the coast of Veracruz. There’s plenty more on the board, such as tamales, quesadillastarlights and menudo. On Saturdays & Sundays, pozole and cabo de camaron are added. $$ L D MANGO’S BAR & GRILL 4632 Hendrik Dr., 671-5291, 6201 Dutchmans Ln., 749-6651. This chain of MexicanAmerican restaurants serve a Latin lunch buffet seven days a week as well as a full dinner menu. You will find burritos, tacos and tamales, but also several steak dishes and Mexican-style desserts. $$ L D MAYAN CAFÉ 813 E. Market St., 566-0651. Chef Bruce Ucán arguably kicked off the restaurant renaissance along East Market Street, in the area now known as NuLu. His stylish bistro serves distinctive cuisine from Ucán’s native Yucatan Peninsula. $$ D pf MEXA TACOS 3701 Lexington Rd., 290-1334, 305 W. Market St., 822-3232. This fast-casual restaurant, now with a second location downtown, features a list of signature steak tacos customizable with house-made salsas, guacamole, peppers and other toppings, such as the special house queso made with poblano peppers. Owner Lorena Casas-Ostos is a steak taco purist, but she offers fish, shrimp and pork pastor too. $$ L D p MEXICO CITY TAQUERIA & RESTAURANT 3826 Hamburg Pk., Jeffersonville IN, 283-1072. This bright little Mexican place in a Jeffersonville strip mall offers the usual, and on weekends adds traditional Mexican soups like caldos de camarones, menudo and pozole. $ L D MI CASITA PARRILLA MEXICANA 520 S. Fourth St., 315-0666, 2060 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 890-3315.

Enthusiastic fans of the restaurant formerly known as Mi Cocina will find the same quick and efficient lunch service and dishes executed with skill at both locations, under the new name change. The margaritas at Happy Hour are notable, and the East End location has added Sunday hours. $$ L D pf MI TIERRA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 2400 Lime Kiln Ln., 742-9142, 2610 Chamberlain Ln., 384-3101. These two clean, well-lighted places in the East End serve up familiar Mexican food – fajitas, tacos, carne asada – in a friendly, efficient atmosphere that is drawing raves from its local fans. $ L D pf NEW WAVE BURRITOS 3311 Preston Hwy., 963-2727.

The late-night burrito delivery service that has been operating out of borrowed kitchen spaces since late 2014 has moved into its own space at the former Grind Burger

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining

RED = Advertiser

OLE FRIJOLE 5612 Bardstown Rd., 822-3388. After a bit of a hike out Bardstown Rd., you will find oversized margaritas, well-priced, nicely made familiar Mexican food, and a welcoming atmosphere. The customize-yourguacamole bar is a popular feature. $$ L D p PIÑA FIESTA REAL MEXICAN GRILL 7895 Dixie Hwy., 995-6775. Fans of Mexican food have another place to try, out along the wide, wide highway. You won’t find anything new here, but they say it will be real. $ L D p PUERTO VALLARTA 4214 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 945-3588, 125 Quartermaster Ct., Jeffersonville IN, 288-2022, 7814 Beulah Church Rd., 239-4646. $$ L D p QDOBA MEXICAN GRILL (17 locations). This chain operation extends from Louisville to Frankfort and Lexington. Fast-foodish in style, Qdoba edges out its competitors on variety and interesting salsas, plus sizable portions at a price you can afford. $ L D f RAMIRO’S CANTINA 2350 Frankfort Ave., 895-3333.

Ramiro Gandara’s Mexican restaurant in the heart of Crescent Hill’s restaurant row has his mom, Tina Ruton Escajeda, in control in the kitchen. Together they deliver some unique menu items, such as enchiladas verdes, lobster quesadilla, guacamole burger, and shrimp fajitas.

And don’t forget Tina’s specialty: scratch-made tamales.

Vegetarian choices too, and a full bar. $ L D pf RAMIRO’S CANTINA EXPRESS 253 Spring St., Jeffersonville IN, 924-7770. Long-time restaurateur Ramiro Gandara’s second restaurant, a quick-casual version of his Frankfort Ave. spot, is now serving in Jeffersonville. Order at the counter, grab and go, or sit down and enjoy. Ramiro features his favorites: burritos, chicken bowls, nachos, tortas and tacos. A full bar, too. $ L D pf SANTA FE GRILL 3000 S. Third St., 634-3722. This tiny eatery in a century-old South End storefront near Churchill Downs never fails to satisfy with genuine Mexican tacos and other simple fare at prices that will leave you plenty of change for an exacta bet at the races. $ LD SEÑOR IGUANA’S (3 locations) This local chain has gone upscale with re-designed crisp modern decor, wellprepared Mexican food, and plenty of it, in a casual, comfortable modern atmosphere. $ L D pf SOL AZTECAS 2427 Bardstown Rd., 459-7776. Founded

by Saul Garcia down on Main St.’s museum row, his restaurant has an extensive menu that satisfies those who want standard fare like tacos, fajitas and burritos, and also offers more sophisticated fare like salmon and shrimp, steak and several Mexican chicken preparations. $ L D pf TACO CHOZA 3922 Westport Rd., 409-5080. In the heart of St. Matthews, this locally-owned taqueria also makes burritos and quesadillas, pours craft beers, and offers daily margarita specials. $ L D pf TACO CITY LOUISVILLE 1283 Bardstown Rd., 409-9454.

Tucked in between the Time & Space bar and the Joy Luck restaurant, this new Mexican place — run by three Mexico natives — serves tacos on homemade corn tortillas, tortas, salads and burritos, using recipes straight from Mexico like the mole sauce by the owner’s grandma. $LDf TACO TICO 5925 Terry Rd., 449-9888. Founded in Wichita in 1962, the same year Taco Bell was born in Southern California, the Taco Tico chain had been gone

TAQUERIA DON JUAN 615 Eastern Blvd., Clarksville IN, 920-1238. This addition to Clarksville’s rich array of Mexican restaurants focuses on seafood: ceviche, oysters, seafood cocktails, and caldo de camarones. But it doesn’t neglect meats. Choose tacos filled with lengua or cabeza (tongue or meat pulled from the head) as well as more familiar fixings. $$ L D p TAQUERIA LA MEXICANA 6201 Preston Hwy., 969-4449.

The tacos are fine at this tiny storefront. This is seriously ethnic stuff, but Anglos are thoroughly welcome, the staff is bilingual, and they will happily provide a menu with all the English translations written in. $ L D

TINO'S TACOS 161 Outer Loop, 742-3030. An extensive menu here offers all the Mexican food choices Americans are familiar with including tortas, burritos, gorditas, quesadillas and fajitas. $ L D p VALLARTA MEXICAN SEAFOOD AND GRILL 9874 Linn Station Rd., 290-6268. This family-owned restaurant serves freshly cooked seafood dishes in the style of Mexico’s Pacific coast, as well as more familiar Mexican fare (tacos, fajitas, burritos). Fans enjoy the large portions. $ L D p VICTORIA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 2918 Hikes Ln., 709-5178. $ L D f YELLOW CACTUS 3620 Paoli Pk., Floyds Knobs IN, 9030313. A yellow neon cactus draws diners to this Indiana restaurant that offers standard Mexican cantina fare, as well as steak and chicken in both American and Mexican styles, and a few seafood dishes. $ L D p ZOMBIE TACO 100 W. Washington St. (Moxy Hotel), 7167377. This always-open walk-up taco window at the new Moxy Hotel features Taco Tuesdays specials on tacos and margaritas, a 3-taco survival box with a side of chips and salsa, and deep discounts for restaurant industry workers on Sundays and Mondays. $$ B L D pf

CHUY’S 104 Oxmoor Ct., 327-3033, 1440 Veterans Pkwy., Clarksville IN, 288-2489. The Austin, Texas “unchain,” has two area locations, offering a complimentary happy hour nacho “car bar” set in the back end of a 50s era auto, plenty of Elvis memorabilia, and a wall of chihuahua photos. Oh, and Tex-Mex food at reasonable prices. $$ L D pf MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL 2001 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 491-1800, 1001 Breckinridge Ln., 893-6637, 4652 Chamberlain Ln., 425-3330, 9310 Cedar Center Way, 614-7722. The food may be more fast-food MexicanAmerican than authentic South-of-the-Border fare, but it is freshly made from quality ingredients and comes in oversize portions, and that’s not a bad thing. $ L D SALSARITA’S FRESH CANTINA 285 N. Hubbards Ln., 897-5323, 12915 Shelbyville Rd., 365-1424. Another entry in the hot “Fresh Mexican” niche that features gigantic burritos made to order. Now with two locations, in St. Matthews and Middletown. $ L D f TUMBLEWEED TEX MEX GRILL & MARGARITA BAR (8 locations). Starting as a humble Mexican restaurant in New Albany, Tumbleweed grew to become an area favorite serving bold, southwest-inspired food such as burritos, spicy chile con queso, mesquite-grilled steaks, fish and chicken. The Margarita Bar offers two dozen tequila varieties and dozens of sweet and tangy margarita combinations. $ L D p

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ADRIENNE & CO. BAKERY CAFÉ 129 W. Court Ave., Jeffersonville IN, 282-2665. If you need something for your sweet tooth and won’t be denied, count yourself lucky if the craving strikes when you’re in the vicinity of this cozy Southern Indiana spot, with its good selection of homemade cakes and treats. $ f ANNIE MAY’S SWEETS CAFÉ 3110 Frankfort Ave., 3842667. The only gluten and nut-free bakery in the state caters to customers with dietary issues such as celiac disease and allergies. Cookies, brownies, cakes, pies, wedding cakes all made without wheat, dairy, eggs, soy or tree nuts. Arrive early, before the vegan and allergen-free oatmeal cream pie cookies sell out. $ BOUDREAUX’S NEW ORLEANS STYLE SNO-BALLS 11816 Shelbyville Rd., This little family run shop offers the garishly colored shaved ice treat with all sorts of syrup flavors and toppings. $ f BREADWORKS 3628 Brownsboro Rd., 893-3200, 2204 Dundee Rd., 452-1510. $ B BUTCHERTOWN GROCERY BAKERY 729 E. Main St., 742-8315. With its move from a cramped upstairs space on Washington Street to more spacious digs on Main, Butchertown Grocery’s bakery maven Barbara Turner now offers a wide range of pastries, breads, chocolates, cookies, sandwiches, soups and take-home dinners. Good Folks coffee provides fresh-squeezed juices and local kombuchas, coffee and espresso. $$ B Br L D p CELLAR DOOR CHOCOLATES 1201 Story Ave., 5612940. Erika Chavez-Graziano still makes her chocolate confections at her artsy shop in the Butchertown Market building on Story Avenue. $ CLIFTON DONUTS 2317 Brownsboro Rd., 749-6896. A family from Thailand produces very fresh donuts of all sorts daily to an appreciative crowd from the Clifton corridor. Fans favorably compare the offerings here to those at the chains, lauding freshness of product and friendliness of service. $ B COLD STONE CREAMERY 1013 Jefferson Commons Dr., Jeffersonville IN, 913-0034, 2015 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 499-7750, 976 Breckenridge Ln, 894-6292. The angle that distinguishes this ice cream chain is the long list of add-ons that fans can choose to have worked into their favorite flavor: bananas, berries, candies, cookies and nuts, to name a few. Ice cream cakes, smoothies and shakes too. $ THE COMFY COW 1301 Herr Ln., 425-4979, 2223 Frankfort Ave., 409-4616, 339 W. Cardinal Blvd., 4095090, 13301 Shelbyville Rd., 883-4128, 600 Terminal Dr. (Louisville Airport). Now fans of this “newfashioned” ice-cream parlor can find their favorite flavors popping up all over town. And, you can now find Comfy Cow products in Krogers ice cream section. $ f DALAT’S GATEAUX & BAKERY 6915 Southside Dr., 368-9280. It’s a French bakery, run by a Vietnamese family, which makes perfect sense. Order French pastry, cakes and cookies as well as Vietnamese specialties.

Savory choices, such as pork pate wrapped in choux pastry are also available. $ DAIRY KASTLE 575 Eastern Pkwy., 634-8990. A long-time seasonal favorite that has drawn celebrities (like Denny Crum and Rick Pitino) and is ever popular with Germantown folks craving cones, flurries, milkshakes, sundaes and chili dogs. Seasonal: March-November. $ f DINO’S BAKERY 4162 Bardstown Rd., 493-2396. Dino Ghazawi, whose family owned a bakery in his native Jordan, has renovated space in the Buechel Plaza Shopping Center, installed three ovens for baking pita, French and Italian bread and pies. Many of those are sold wholesale, but retail shoppers can get locally made fresh pita and other Middle Eastern groceries. $ B

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DUCK DONUTS 4600 Shelbyville Rd., 614-6657. This coastal North Carolina-based chain offers high concept donuts (S’mores donuts, maple-bacon donuts) and a create your own donut option. Or, try a breakfast sandwich built on a donut, if you dare. $ EHRLER'S ICE CREAM 201 E. Main St., 749-2236.

Louisville’s iconic ice cream shop returns after a long hiatus. Good, locally-made ice cream and nostalgia for the ice cream treats of childhood will be the main draws. $ f GELATO GILBERTO 9434 Norton Commons Blvd., 4237751. Justin and Kristin Gilbert so loved the gelato they ate as students in Italy that they returned there after graduating to study gelato making. Their popular store draws fans out to Norton Commons, though owners can often be found scooping cones and cups at special events. Their store menu includes pies and crepes as well. $

GEORGIA'S SWEET POTATO PIE CO. 1559 Bardstown Rd., 742-2852. If you watched Grace & Frankie, you know how versatile sweet potatoes can be. In addition to several variations on sweet potato pie, ice cream and cookies, you can find sweet potato-infused soy candles, room sprays and wax melts. $ L D GIGI’S CUPCAKES 1977 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy., 4994998. This Tennessee-based chain offers a changing selection of high-end cupcakes in designer flavors — Bailey’s Irish cream, apple spice, coconut snowball, and so on. $ GOLDEN GATE DONUTS 8605 Smyrna Pkwy., 883-0012.

This South End donut shop has garnered copious fans for their always freshly-made donuts and cream-filled Long Johns, French crullers, giant bear claws and apple fritters.

Savory breakfast sandwiches too. $ B L HEITZMAN TRADITIONAL BAKERY & DELI 9426 Shelbyville Rd., 426-7736. The Heitzman family has been baking in the Louisville area since your great-aunt was a girl ordering dinner rolls. Made fresh daily, the pies, cakes, cookies and specialty pastries provide tasty nostalgia for all who visit. $ B L D HI-FIVE DOUGHNUTS 1011 E. Main St., 409-5584.

Owners Annie Harlow and Leslie Wilson started with a food truck, and now are among the pioneer businesses in the Butcher Block on E. Main St. Customers can create their own with a choice of glazes and toppings or choose house favorites like Kentucky Fried Buttermilk Chicken Doughnut, Bourbon Caramel with Bacon, or Sugah Doughnut. $ B L HOMEMADE ICE CREAM & PIE KITCHEN 2525 Bardstown Rd., 459-8184, 3737 Lexington Rd., 8933303, 3521 Springhurst Commons Dr., 326-8990, 5606 Bardstown Rd., 239-3880, 3113 Blackiston Mill Rd., New Albany IN, 590-3580, 4810 Dixie Hwy., 409-6100. $ L D f HONEY CREME DONUT SHOP 514 Vincennes St., New Albany IN, 945-2150. Off the beaten track, this downhomey bakery in a plain white building offers a wide selection of doughnuts, fritters and Danish that keeps the shop’s fans coming back again and again. $ B JASMIN BAKERY 2201 Steier Ln., 458-0013. This “European-style” bakery offers an eclectic menu of Eastern Mediterranean fare, such as gyros and baklava, as well as breads. $ B L D f JEFF'S BAKERY 5420 IN-62, Jeffersonville IN, 283-3636, 4430 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 725-7170.

Donuts are the draw here at these two Southern Indiana bakeries. Jeff concocts 40 variations, some large enough to be shared with the whole office. The Jeffersonville location is open 24 hrs. $ B L D

KING DONUT 814 Eastern Pkwy., 742-9003. You’ll find a tasty selection of donuts, along with ice cream, breakfast sandwiches and smoothies at this friendly, brightly lit neighborhood favorite on the edge of Germantown. $ B LD

KING DONUTS 608 Lyndon Ln., 890-5293. Donuts, yes, but you can also choose muffins, breakfast sandwiches and sandwiches for lunch. Healthy juices as well as coffee. $ B L D

LA MAISON AUX CREPES 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market). Eight kinds of filled crepes, savory and sweet, and two kinds of waffles are available at this addition to the restaurant row at Logan Street Market. $$ B L D p LEANN'S HOME MADE CHEESECAKES 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market), 919-597-1625. Whole cheesecakes and cheesecake cupcakes can be found at this new grab-and-go food option at Logan Street Market. $$$ L D p LIÈGE & DAIRY ICE CREAM + WAFFLES 2212 Holiday Manor Ctr., 290-0065. Enjoy this shop’s locally roasted coffee and in-house crafted ice cream. Made with local honey, sorghum molasses, fruits, and non-GMO cream, Liège uses a process that creates a denser ice cream. $ L D LOUISVILLE CREAM 632 E. Market St., 882-1516. After three years as an off-the-radar caterer and pop-up seller of premium ice creams, Louisville Cream has settled down in NuLu. Co-founder Darryl Goodner offers eight standard flavors (including Camp Marshmallow, Brown Sugar Brie and Hot Fuzz, roasted peaches with charred jalapenos) and four flavors in rotation, as well as apple pies, bourbon chocolate pies and a third ever-changing pie. $ L D f LUEBERRY ACAI & SUPERFOODS 808 E. Market St., 742-0640. This café serves açai bowls topped with things like goji berries, banana, chia, strawberries and coconut.

Smoothies and other healthful options also available. $$ B LD MY FAVORITE MUFFIN 9800 Shelbyville Rd., 426-9645.

All the muffins are made right in the store, including such popular choices as the Cinnamon Crumb and the Turtle Muffin. $ B NO BAKED COOKIE DOUGH 805 Blankenbaker Pkwy., 708-2656. The eggless cookie dough is scooped into cones or cups, and toppings can be added. Like an ice cream shop — only….with cookie dough. $ L D NORD’S BAKERY 2118 S. Preston St., 634-0931. This oldschool, family-owned bakery on the edge of Germantown has a devoted following, drawn by divine Danish, donuts, and great coffee from the nearby Sunergos micro-roastery — and if you’re a sucker for over-the-top excess, try the caramel donut topped with — yes, it’s true — bacon. $ B NORTH LIME DONUTS 1228 S. Seventh St., 384-2320.

This Lexington-based bakery has renovated a 19thcentury factory building into a warm and inviting space to eat their made-on-premises donuts on the western edge of Old Louisville. Some of their unusual flavors: blueberry cheesecake, French toast and pumpkin cream cheese. $ B Lf PANCHITOS ICE CREAM 8112 Preston Hwy, 554-6222, 2245 Bardstown Rd., 554-4190. Lexington-based Panchito’s now has two outlets in Louisville, offering Mexican ice cream, popsicles (paletas), tacos, quesadillas and other Mexican snacks. The new Highlands outpost is in the former Bánh Mi Hero building. $ L D PEARL STREET TREATS 301 Pearl St., Jeffersonville IN. 288-8850. An invigorating walk across the Big Four Bridge will bring you down very close to this family-run frozen yogurt shop that also serves soup, chili, cookies, popcorn, and frozen dog treats. Novelty soda flavors in the cooler, but they will refill your water bottle for free. $ LD PLEHN’S BAKERY 3940 Shelbyville Rd., 896-4438. A neighborhood institution, this bakery is as busy as it is nostalgic. Enjoy the hometown soda fountain with ice cream while you wait for your hand-decorated birthday cake, breakfast rolls or colorful cookies to be boxed. $ B POLLY FREEZE 5242 IN-62, Georgetown IN, 945-6911.

The scenic drive out Highway 62 to this Southern Indiana

RED = Advertiser B = Breakfast Br = Brunch L = Lunch D = Dinner

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institution on hot summer nights has been a tradition since 1952. Soft serve ice cream in any variation (cones, sundaes, shakes, floats), a wide range of burgers, dogs, sandwiches and sides. Worth the trip. $ L D f RAWNAISSANCE DESSERTS 1759 Bardstown Rd., 4243638. Owner Barbora Shneydman offers “guilt-free” dessert concoctions, a variety of chocolate and fruit truffles, and cakes made with raw vegan ingredients.

Everything is free of sugar, grains, soy, dairy and eggs. $ LD SNOWHAT 3801 Poplar Level Rd., 742-6080. After a hot day at the zoo, stop by this New Orleans-style snoball shop for a cooling cone. Blueberry and strawberry flavors, and for the more adventurous: lavender lemonade, watermelon basil and jalapeño margarita. $ L D STEEL CITY POPS (833) 588-7677, 1021 Bardstown Rd., 117 St. Matthews Ave., 6301 Moonseed St, Prospect. This Alabama-based chain bills itself as a “gourmet healthy popsicle business,” with its cooling treats made from certified organic ingredients with no artificial flavors or colors. $ L D SUGAR AND SPICE DONUT SHOP 5613 Bardstown Rd., 231-1411. This Fern Creek bakery has loads of loyal fans, who often buy out their favorite donut by mid-morning.

Coffee to go too, of course, and even little half-pints of chocolate milk. $ B

COFFEE CROSSING (1-888-465-6067) 140 E. Main St., New Albany IN, 4212 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 410 Patrol Rd., Jeffersonville IN, 805 Talaina Pl., New Albany IN, 8105 Highway 311, Sellersburg, IN. All five locations please their Southern Indiana clientele with a full roster of coffee drinks, teas, cider and smoothies.$ B Lf DAY’S ESPRESSO AND COFFEE BAR 1420 Bardstown Rd., 456-1170. Dark and cozy, with an old-fashioned feeling, Day’s has everything you would expect in a college-neighborhood coffee shop except a college near by. $ f ENDLESS SUMMER PADDLE & COFFEE COMPANY 1301 Frankfort Ave., 203-1041. Located in the Waterside Apartments, this stand-up paddleboard livery also offers a coffee shop. Fresh juice, smoothies and snacks are available for paddlers, paddleboard students, and landlubbers. $ B L FANTE'S COFFEE 2501 Grinstead Dr., 454-0543. Owner Leo Fante has been in the coffee business most of his life, and has finally opened his own shop across the road from Cherokee Park. Fante imports his beans from small suppliers around the world, and roasts on premise. There is also a limited menu of sandwiches, soups and salads, and breakfast pastries. $ B L D pf FIX COFFEEHOUSE AND BAKERY 10616 Meeting St., 409-5066. Settle in with your laptop at this Norton Commons coffeehouse serving coffees, teas, pastries (including gluten free and vegan versions), and breakfast and lunch sandwiches.$ B f

SWEET STUFF BAKERY 323 E. Spring St., New Albany IN, 948-2507. This long-time southern Indiana homestyle bakery is noted for baked goods just like your grandmother made. Its specialty: painted sugar cookies, with designs in white chocolate that change with the seasons and holidays. Also custom cookie and cake designs. $ B

FLEUR DE TEA 10704 Meeting St.742-9561. Choose from a selection of tea varieties, pastries and bubble tea at this uber-cute Norton Commons tea shop. $ B L D

SWEET SURRENDER 1804 Frankfort Ave., 899-2008.

Sweet Surrender, with Jessica Haskell at the helm, has returned to its original Clifton neighborhood to provide elegant desserts. $$ f

FRESCO TEA BAR 216 Pearl St., New Albany IN, 7257691. Inside MESA, A Collaborative Kitchen, Fresco Tea Bar offers hot and iced drinks, bubble tea, tea lattes, wellness tea and coffee. $ B L

SWEETS BY MORGAN 533 Spring St., Jeffersonville IN. 725-0080. Owner Morgan Coomer is dedicated to scratch baking and using real butter in her icings. Expect the usual sweet bakery items like cookies and cupcakes, along with clever specialties. $ B L D

FUN TEA 1613 Bardstown Rd., 749-1376. Tea in many variations – pure tea, milk tea, tea lattes, and Taiwanese bubble tea – can be found here, along with slushies, smoothies and bubble puff cake. $ L D f

THE FUDGERY 416 S Fourth St.(Fourth Street Live), 4097484.$ THE FUNKY WAFFLE CO. 1410 Charlestown-New Albany Rd., 913-4705. Here sweet Belgian waffles can be eaten as meal or as dessert. The store also sells cheesecake, banana pudding, brownies and cupcakes - any of which can be added to the waffle as a topping. $ L D f WILLIAM’S BAKERY 1051 N. Clark Blvd., Clarksville IN, 284-2867. $ B

78 COFFEE SHOP 907 E Liberty St., 290-5046. This NuLu roastery and coffee shop, with connections to the SeattleSpokane coffee culture, takes its products seriously, as it carves out its nook in the burgeoning Louisville coffee scene. Located next to Falls City Brewery. $ ABOL CAFÉ 102 1/2 Cannons Ln., 384-9430. The coffee served in this St. Matthews shop is from Ethiopia, as are many of the dishes on the brunch menu, which includes checheba (Ethiopian flatbread served with scrambled egg or honey) and quanta firfir, a dried beef and tomato stew. $ B Br L f BEAN 1138 Goss Ave., 785-4079. $ B L BLACKBEARD ESPRESSO 718 W. Main St., 618-0004.

Former food truck Blackbeard Espresso now has a Main St. storefront, taking over for Mrs. Potters. Look for coffee, hot and cold teas, milkshakes and smoothies, which the truck’s limited generator couldn’t handle. Baked goods include muffins and scones for those who need a carb lift with their caffeine. $ B L

p = Full Bar f = Outdoor Dining e = Live Music

HEINE BROTHERS’ COFFEE (17 locations) Heine Bros. continues their dominance in the local brewing scene. The stores are always friendly and affordable, with good coffee roasted on the premises and a short list of pastries, desserts and panini sandwiches. $ f HIGHLAND COFFEE CO. 1140 Bardstown Rd., 451-4545.

Offering two ways to get wired, this cozy neighborhood coffee shop also functions as one of Louisville’s top Internet cafés, where you can enjoy a hot cappuccino while you surf the ’net in a WiFi hot spot. Funky Seattlestyle ambience is a plus. $ f HIGHVIEW ICE CREAM & COFFEE 7525 Outer Loop, 618-3809. This suburban oasis offers coffee and specialty coffee drinks made from Sunergos beans and serves locally-made Bernoulli Small Batch Ice Cream. $ BLDf

NTABA COFFEE HAUS 2407 Brownsboro Rd., 871-5082., 1860 Mellwood Ave., 749-0918. It is always fun to see former chain restaurant buildings repurposed. The onetime Pizza Hut in Clifton on Brownsboro Road is now a purveyor of African-sourced coffees and teas. A second loaction has been added in Mellwood Arts Center. $ B L PEARL STREET GAME & COFFEE HOUSE 405 Pearl St., Jeffersonville IN, 648-1663. The name says it all: you can play your favorite boards games from the extensive library of such while enjoying coffee drinks, fresh fruit smoothies, lavender lattes, and sandwiches. $ B L D f PLEASE & THANK YOU 800 E. Market St., 553-0113, 2341 Frankfort Ave., 432-8614, 9561 U.S. Hwy 42, 5449225. This small-batch bakery and coffeehouse offering quiches, panini, cookies, and a hip vibe. $ B L f PREGAME COFFEE 723 E. Market St., 645-0324. It’s a coffee shop. No, it’s a sports bar. Well, it is both. Stop in in the morning to talk about sports and order from a selection of coffee drinks, teas and beer and wine as well.

Or come back during game time and watch your games in a coffee house environment. $ B L D p QUILL’S COFFEE SHOP 930 Baxter Ave., 742-6129, 327 W. Cardinal Blvd., 690-5553, 137 E. Market St., New Albany IN, 590-3426, 802 E. Main St., 473-5379, 117 St. Matthews Ave., 242-8608. Fans of this local purveyor of excellent coffee and provider of amenable working spaces can find their caffeine fix and wi-fi hotspot at any of the four locations. $ pf RED HOT ROASTERS 1399 Lexington Rd., 569-0000.

Sondra Powell has closed her Butchertown Block sit down store and returned to purveying her excellent house-roasted coffee and refreshing coffee drinks from her drive-thru location in Irish Hill. $ f SAFAI COFFEE 1707 Bardstown Rd., 384-3555, 1001 Logan St. (Logan Street Market). This casual spot boasts the ambiance of a friendly old-fashioned book shop, with comfortable seating, house-made crepes, and coffee roasted at the Logan Street Market, where there is a second shop. $ B L f SANAG COFFEE 5324 S. Third St., 882-2210. The spicedup flavors of traditional Somali is the main attraction at this Somali coffee shop/community center. But you’ll also find a small selection of savory sambusas (meat pies) and sweet pastries. $ B L SISTER BEAN’S 5225 New Cut Rd., 364-0082. $ f STARBUCKS COFFEE (40+ locations) $ f STARLIGHT COFFEE CO. 3131 Grant Line Rd., New Albany IN, 542-1522, 101 Lafollette Station, Floyds Knobs IN, 923-1404, 7613 Old Hwy., 60, Sellersburg IN. For almost twenty years this staple of the Southern Indiana coffee culture has been roasting and serving its custom-blends to happy Hoosiers. Owner Jim Book has recently expanded north to Sellersburg, where he will move the company’s roasting and wholesale operations. $ f

KOLKIN COFFEE 2736 Charlestown Rd., New Albany IN, 599-8410. This family run caffeine dispensary on the north side of New Albany serves coffee from Sunergos roastery in a cheerful, inviting environment. $

SUNERGOS COFFEE 2122 S. Preston St., 634-1243, 306 W. Woodlawn Ave., 368-2820, 231 S. Fifth St., 5893222, 1647 Norris Pl., 919-9676. Matthew Huested and Brian Miller used to roast their own coffee beans as a hobby. Their friends said they did it so well, they should turn pro — the result is Sunergos Coffee. $

LOUISVILLE TEA COMPANY 9305 New LaGrange Rd., 365-2516. Teas of all sorts, pastries and cookies make for a perfect morning snack the English call “elevenses.” $BL

THE COFFEE ZONE 9601 Whipps Mill Rd., 708-1522.

North Carolinian transplant Craig Bishop has established a beachhead in Louisville. In addition to some good java, he features bakery items, such as pastries, and assorted sandwiches. $ f

MCQUIXOTE BOOKS & COFFEE 1512 Portland Ave., 509-9427. Located in the sprawling Tim Faulkner Gallery, itself a hipster arts hub, this bookstore also has a coffee shop-café that serves higher-end coffee and teas, a selection of sandwiches, pastries and house-made vegan ice cream. $ B L D

WILD DOG ROSE TEA BOUTIQUE 1570 Bardstown Rd., 996-7440. You can find all things New Age at this tea and book shop. In addition to dozens of teas, Wild Dog Rose stocks crystals, essential oils, books and baked goods such as scones, tea-infused truffles and muffins. Tea sold by the cup, or in bulk, and can be custom-blended to suit a customer’s preferences. $ B www.foodanddine.com Spring 2021 73

MAP INDEX

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MAP # DIRECTION DOWNTOWN 1 downtown louisville NEAR EAST 2 highlands – crescent hill NEAR EAST 3 st. matthews SOUTH EAST 4 hikes point – buechel

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MAP # DIRECTION EAST 5 hurstbourne – anchorage EAST 6 hurstbourne s. – jeffersontown NORTH EAST 7 indian hills – westport FAR NORTH EAST 8 westport rd. – gene snyder

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MAP # DIRECTION WEST 9 west louisville NORTH EAST 10 prospect SOUTH EAST 11 fern creek SOUTH WEST 12 shively – pleasure ridge

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91 91 92

MAP # DIRECTION SOUTH 13 old louisville – airport INDIANA 14 new albany – floyds knobs INDIANA 15 clarksville INDIANA 16 jeffersonville

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DOWNTOWN

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(NEAR EAST) HIGHLANDS – CRESCENT HILL – CLIFTON

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(NEAR EAST) ST. MATTHEWS

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(SOUTH EAST) HIKES POINT – BUECHEL

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(EAST) LYNDON – HURSTBOURNE – ANCHORAGE – MIDDLETOWN

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(EAST) HURSTBOURNE SOUTH – FOREST HILLS – JEFFERSONTOWN

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(FAR NORTH EAST) WESTPORT RD – GENE SNYDER

(NORTH EAST) INDIAN HILLS – WESTPORT

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(SOUTH EAST) FERN CREEK

(NORTH EAST) PROSPECT

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(WEST) WEST LOUISVILLE

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(SOUTH WEST) SHIVELY – PLEASURE RIDGE

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(SOUTH) OLD LOUISVILLE – AIRPORT

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(INDIANA) NEW ALBANY – FLOYDS KNOBS

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(INDIANA) JEFFERSONVILLE

(INDIANA) CLARKSVILLE

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