If you've been following our blog and social media for any amount of time, you know we love to share about great eats and local restaurants in our home city of Louisville, KY. As much as we love sharing about our industry and all things trucks, occasionally we take a break to share about another love of ours- great eats! In the past we sat down for an interview with the owner of Varanese and River House to learn about the history and inspirations for the restaurants. We also attended a beer dinner at La Chasse and had the opportunity to interview the owner as well. 

We are located in an amazing city with great eats and drinks. Louisville was named the #10 best foodie city by Travel and Liesure and the #1 food city in the world by National Geographic. If you are not from here, or have never made a visit to Louisville, it's safe to say you need to plan a trip! Come stop in and visit our shop, and then go experience some of the amazing dining our city has to offer. No matter what you like, our city has something for you! That leads us into our biggest reason why we love the Louisville food scene.

There is something for everyone. 

No matter what your preference, there is something for you. Whether you're a vegetarian, meat-lover, or somewhere in between, Louisville is equipped with all of your dining needs. For a new-timer to the 502, it is best to first pick the neighborhood you want to visit and then following with their most popular spots to grub. Louisville prides itself on having the most diverse, authentic, and accessible dining options in the state. 

Choosing the best restaurants in Louisville's most popular neighborhoods

St. Matthews

Although it is known for its extensive shopping, St. Matthews also includes some of the most easily-accessible restaurants for visitors to the city. Some of our favorite spots to check out are Waylon's Feed and Firewater, Drake's, and Molly Malone's. 

The Highlands

This eclectic area of the Ville is home to hip, local restaurants, bars, and shops. Our top three picks to visit for a taste of Louisville's most unique dining is Dragon King's Daughter, El Taco Lunchador, and Holy Grale. La Chasse is also one of our favorites in The Highlands (read our interview with La Chasse owner Issac Fox). For our vegan eaters, Morels Cafe is the place to be!

Downtown Louisville

In the heart of the city you can find 4th Street Entertainment, the University of Louisville, and a slew of local food hotspots. A few places that stick out to us as must-haves when you're visiting downtown Louisville are Mussel & Burger Bar, Porch Kitchen & Bar, 8UP Elevated Drinkery & Kitchen, a classy, rooftop restaurant and bar with a big-city feel, and Eddie Merlot's for upscale dining.

Nulu East Market District 

This trendy area is full local eateries that any newcomer or veteran resident of Louisville needs to check out. Some of our favorite eateries in the area are Feast BBQ, for meat-lovers who want authentic barbaque, Grind Burger for some of the best burgers you'll ever eat, and Garage Bar for an outdoor ambiance. Rye on Market and Decca are also great places for a nice dinner, with great cocktails, meals, and atmospheres. 

Old Louisville 

This central district in Louisville has a historic feel that encompasses a large area of the city. Three restaurant you don't want to miss are 610 Magnolia, Buck's Restaurant, and Quills Coffee for a great coffee and delicious baked goods. 

Prospect

Located just outside of the city, Prospect is a community neighboring the Ohio River. Lots of seafood options are available in this area such as Captain's Quarters Riverside Grille, Cunningham's Creekside, and The Blackstone Grille. 

 Clifton/Crescent Hill

The neighborhoods of Clifton and Crescent Hill have more of a residential essence, making them perfect places for family dining, including The Silver Dollar, Blue Dog Bakery and Cafe, and Mesh Louisville. Varanese is also in this neighborhood, and one of our all-time favorites (read our interview with Varanese's owner). Another favorite near this area is River House, located right on the river with great views and even better food.

The "Towns"

Germantown: Hammerhead's, Jack Fry's, The Post, and Monnik Beer Company

Butchertown: Bistro 1860 and Butchertown Grocery, a historic-style eatery 

Middletown: Brasserie Provence, Louvino Restaurant and Wine Bar, Havana Rumba, and Double Dogs 

Jeffersontown: Recbar, 3rd Turn Brewing, and Mac's Dough House, a speciality pizza shop 

Whether you're in town for a business meeting, a tour of the University of Louisville, a concert or sporting event, or just to explore the city, Louisville has great food options for any craving. From the outskirts to downtown, there is an exceptional restaurant, bistro, or cafe right around every corner of the city. The next time you make a trip to Louisville, be sure to check us out at Louisville Switching for any yard truck needs you have on your way to some of the best eats in the Commonwealth.