4 Food and Drink Spots in Louisville

From the iconic and long-standing tradition of the Brown Hotel’s Hot Brown to an immersive cocktail sampling experience, enjoy the great food and drink offerings found in this Kentucky city.

The Hot Brown is a quintessential Kentucky dish, and its roots in the Bluegrass State date back to the 1920s. During that time, people would gather at the Brown Hotel for weekly dinner dances, and one night, to satiate hungry guests, hotel chef Fred Schmidt decided to mix things up a bit. He created the Hot Brown (thick-slices of turkey atop Texas toast and piled high with bacon, tomato and a cheesy sauce baked to bubbling), a warm, comforting meal that is still served at the hotel today. Though this sandwich has proven itself as a classic, it’s just one of the remarkable food stops found in the city of Louisville.

The Ideal Bartender Experience

Man bartending at The Ideal Bartender Experience in Louisville, Kentucky (photo by Crystal Ludwick Photo)

Explore the life and legacy of Tom Bullock, the first Black American to write and publish a cocktail recipe book, at this interactive re-enactment experience in Louisville, Kentucky.

Nami Modern Korean Steakhouse

Plate of Korean pork ribs at NAMI Modern Korean Steakhouse in Louisville, Kentucky (photo by Sara Babcock)

Dig into new takes on classic Korean dishes at this Louisville, Kentucky, spot from James Beard Award nominee and “Top Chef” alum Edward Lee. 

The Last Refuge

The Last Refuge in Louisville, Kentucky (photo courtesy of The Last Refuge)

Have a drink at the Louisville, Kentucky, restaurant and bar that showcases Bob Dylan’s whiskey brand in a beautifully appointed former church.

The Brown Hotel’s Hot Brown

The Hot Brown at The Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky (photo by Chris Witzke)

This deceptively simple creation has become a staple of Kentucky cuisine, and it was created at this hotel in Louisville where you can still order it today

Story: Gracie Metz
Issue: Weekend Guides