Louisville Progressive Dinner: A Culinary Journey Through Top Neighborhoods

Culinary, Louisville

Dec 23, 2024

A grill with dramatic flames and smoke rising from it.

A gourmet dish with intricate garnishes, elegantly presented on a slate.

A wooden tray holding a meat-based dish, surrounded by wedges of crispy potatoes.

When it comes to food, Louisville, Kentucky, is a treasure trove of unique flavors, rich culinary traditions, and vibrant dining scenes. What better way to explore it all than with a progressive dinner, moving from one exciting location to another? Whether you’re a local foodie or a visitor ready to explore, this guide will take you on a journey through some of Louisville’s best spots, each offering its own atmosphere and unforgettable tastes.

A barista preparing drinks at a bar.

Kick Off Your Evening with Flavor and Charm

Ease into your evening at

The Fat Lamb

, nestled in the Highlands neighborhood, a charming area known for its eclectic mix of shops, bars, and restaurants. The Fat Lamb offers a cozy, contemporary setting where you can ease into the night with an appetizer.

What to Order:

Start with the

Burrata Cheese Crostini

—a creamy and rich delight, paired with the

“Kentucky Mule”

cocktail, a bourbon-based twist on the classic Moscow Mule with ginger beer and lime, perfect for cutting through the richness of the cheese while keeping it light and refreshing.

A Taste of Spanish Influence

Make your way to

Paseo

, a lively spot that brings Spanish flair to the heart of Louisville. Located in the trendy NuLu neighborhood, Paseo combines a vibrant atmosphere with creative cuisine.

What to Order:

Enjoy the

Gambas al Ajillo

(garlic shrimp), served sizzling hot and packed with flavor. Pair it with the

“Paseo Paloma”

—a tequila-based cocktail with grapefruit and a touch of agave syrup, which complements the shrimp’s garlic and paprika notes with its tangy freshness.

A dish featuring a variety of seafood, beautifully garnished with fresh herbs.

Indulge in Bourbon-Inspired Dining

For an entrée that nods to Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, head over to

Copper & Kings

, an American brandy distillery that makes bourbon, as well as absinthe, with an exceptional rooftop bar and restaurant located in the Butchertown neighborhood. The industrial-chic ambiance offers a unique backdrop for a culinary adventure.

What to Order:

Try the

Brandy-Braised Short Ribs

—tender, succulent, and full of flavor. Pair this with the

“Brandy Old Fashioned,”

a classic cocktail that highlights Copper & Kings’ signature spirit, with hints of orange and cherry, enhancing the richness of the dish.

A glass of smoked cocktail.

Enjoy the Views with Waterfront Dining

Do you like a view with your entrée? If that’s the case, stop by the

River House

, an upscale riverfront restaurant that combines classic Southern flavors with fresh seafood. Enjoy beautiful views of the Ohio River as you savor your meal.

What to Order:

The

Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Smoked Salmon

is a must-try, offering a perfect balance of smoky and savory flavors. Pair it with the

“Bourbon Smash,”

a cocktail featuring fresh berries, mint, and a generous pour of local bourbon, providing a refreshing contrast to the salmon’s smoky taste.

End Your Night with Decadent Bourbon Desserts

Transition to dessert at

Varanese

, a sophisticated spot known for its New American cuisine and live jazz music. Located on Frankfort Avenue, it’s a perfect destination to unwind and indulge.

What to Order:

Delight in the

Bourbon Bread Pudding

, a Louisville staple, rich and warm with caramel and bourbon flavors. Pair it with the

“Varanese Signature Coffee,”

a dessert cocktail combining coffee liqueur, bourbon, and cream—a perfect ending to a memorable evening.

Or, cap off your evening at

80/20 Kaelin’s

, a spot that blends modern sensibilities with classic American diner vibes in St. Matthews. Known for its casual, fun atmosphere, it’s a delightful way to conclude your culinary tour.

What to Order:

Indulge in the

Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

—sweet, decadent, and distinctly Southern. Pair it with the

“Root Beer Old Fashioned”, which pays homage to the malt shop in-house

, and pairs perfectly with the pie’s rich, nutty flavors.

A box of bourbon truffles.

A large table with sets of drinking glasses, each containing samples of bourbon.

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Louisville Progressive Dinner: A Culinary Journey Through Top Neighborhoods