In recent years, Louisville has gone from having the reputation as a “hidden gem” on the dining and entertainment scene to being duly recognized as one of the best cities in the U.S. for unique restaurants and bars. Of course, the spotlight shines brightest on Kentucky’s biggest city during Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve week.

Here are some restaurant and bar options to consider during the week leading up to Derby 152. If you’re going to the Derby but not the Longines Kentucky Oaks, you may be in luck toward getting a Derby Eve reservation at establishments that are usually sold out because the Kentucky Oaks post time has been moved to 8:40 p.m. ET in order for the race to be shown nationwide in prime time. 

Red Hog Artisan Meat

Courtesy of Red Hog

This butcher shop and restaurant on Frankfort Avenue, one of Louisville’s two “restaurant rows,” uses locally sourced meats and vegetables and has an excellent lunch and Happy Hour in addition to dinner, plus a relaxing outdoor section.

Franny’s Seafood

Courtesy of Franny's/Facebook

This joint is located in yet another food and drink hub, Louisville’s hip Butchertown neighborhood. It’s very close to Four Pegs Smokehouse, and does for oysters and fried shrimp what that place does for wings. Open for lunch and dinner.

Perso 

Courtesy of Perso/Facebook

This buzzy restaurant about a half-mile from Franny’s is getting raves for its cuisine and ambience, featuring a seasonal rotating menu, house-made cheeses and breads, and craft cocktails. Chef Emil David worked in Rome, Milan, New York City, and Aspen, Colo., among other places before coming to Derby City. He also is the chef at Ciao, a good Italian spot in the Highlands.

Joe’s Older Than Dirt

Courtesy of Joe's/Facebook

It’s a Louisville institution, and a post-Derby party place for many – including Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott, who headed to Joe’s after both of his previous Kentucky Derby wins with family. Joe’s first opened in 1937 and was a northeast suburban Louisville institution for decades, only to close in 2015. The space was briefly replaced by a good barbecue spot listed in an earlier ABR guide – but to the delight of thousands, Joe’s reopened in 2018. Good food, plenty of beer, live music, and a come one, come all vibe. It will be packed Saturday night, possibly with the Motts in attendance.