50 Best Bars in Louisville

“Definitely a 10/10 experience!“

“We’ve been dragging our feet about going to Decade for dinner. Why? Who knows, but that’s been a mistake. We had a fantastic dinner with friends and will definitely go back. The food was great. Cocktails were good, but a tad on the small side (so we had 2). As for the food, we started with (and shared) the mixed greens salad, stone fruit salad, and the arancini. Delicious all around! For dinner we each got something different, blue crab bucatini for me (outstanding), halibut (he loved the squid ink couscous), beef with pappardelle (raves, especially about the pasta), and the burger (loved). It gets loud in there b/c of the brick walls, but it’s a good vibe. We’ll be back!“

“Quaint, quiet, couple atmosphere nice drinks I will be back“

“Really nice bar with a great atmosphere.“

“We came from Alberta for guys trip and had planned on stopping in for a few bourbons and ended spending the evening there. Great bartender and great regulars , we felt we were there with friends. Scott Stout we will look you up when we return please give a shout out to the bartender we can’t remember his name ( had a few whiskies ) it was amazing evening definitely a 10 star review“

“As we all know, today I went to Planet of the Tapes. It was a cool summer day and my cousin and I tasked ourselves to find a record store that was open. We did and we went there, then left. That part had little to nothing to do with Planet of the Tapes. We also ate kebabs which is another meaningless fact but not for the bit where I spied a bidet in the bathroom when I went teetee. I too own a bidet and love it! I don’t know if planet of the tapes has a bidet, but what they do have is an excellent unique atmosphere, great tunes that are at the precise decibel of maximum listening pleasure, drinks that are the perfect mix of booze to mix ratio if you are into that sort of thing, and did I mention moon pies? I know what you’re thinking. Chris, there are moon pies at Publix. Why don’t we just drink there? I’ll tell you why…Publix doesn’t have excellent events going on frequently. Where the last time you got to watch a gore movie at Publix. Probably only once and you had to stream it on your tablet didn’t you….and I bet you watched it alone and everyone thought you were shoplifting. I don’t frequent this side of town but there used to be a big fun bar beside it called Jillian’s or something, I can’t remember, anyway ample parking so I don’t have to Uber because I can’t parallel park. Let me tell you something else. If you don’t go here and see what all the fuss is about I will tell everyone that you have the hots for your stepmom and secretly draw pictures of her gams all day then spray her perfume on them. PS I noticed one of the tags above says rooftop. Yes, they have a roof on top.“

“Mellwood Tavern is a treasure. Great food and drinks and the best staff in town. The fried chicken and sides they serve on Tuesdays and Thursdays are second to none. Live music is always great and they have the friendliest patrons you’ll find anywhere. It’s a really special place and we’re lucky to have them in the ‘Ville!“

“Excellent experience and creative cocktails!!!“

“Such a comfortable friendly place!“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Craftery: Sip, Create, Repeat. If Pinterest and happy hour had a baby, it would be The Craftery. 🎨🍸 This DIY dreamland is where you go to unleash your inner artist, sip on something strong, and leave with a project that’s both brag-worthy and totally custom. From paint to power tools, the vibe is very much "I made this—and also I’m fabulous." Whether you're here for a girls’ night, date night, solo creative moment, or private party, you’re guaranteed to have fun, laughs, and a cute new piece to show off. 💅🛠️ Owned by the ever-fabulous Kristy Miles Pearson, this spot is all about making creativity accessible and extra fun. The team is friendly, the drinks are flowing, and the playlist? Always a bop. 🎶 Final thoughts? The Craftery is the go-to for creative therapy—with a cocktail. Come thirsty, leave crafty, and bring your friends—because this is one experience you’ll want to do again and again. ✨🍹🎨“

“This is the first time my partner and I have been to Louisville and we decided to stop by Meta. If you too decide to stop by you'll be met with a warm and friendly atmosphere. The bartenders were so chill and willing to work with us to get our drinks just how we'd like them. Nataleigh and Khryss were super awesome and made my partner and I feel so welcome! Thank you guys so much for making our time in Louisville that much better! We hope to see you again next time we visit!“

“Dear staff, thank you very very much for your great hospitality: We enjoyed your generosity and kindness on 18 february 2025. Very good and fresh made food in a really nice corner! Best regards from Family KERN from Cologne, Rhineland/Germany!😃“

“Blueberry bbq wings are simply Devine. Anxious to try blueberry bbq thighs. Cole slaw tasty. New management making fantastic changes. Chef knows how to blend taste and textures to perfection.“

“Amazing beer selection, vibe and owners!“

“Fun place run by good people, Fantastic bartenders and a great atmosphere. Sunday Sinema is my pick to click !!!“

“Everyone is welcome great atmosphere and food“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Cheese & Vibes? Say Less. I walked into Cultured thinking I’d have a cute little cheese moment—and walked out a full-blown dairy enthusiast. 🧀✨ If you love great wine, perfectly curated cheese boards, and an atmosphere that makes you feel effortlessly cool, welcome to your new obsession. The selection?? Next level. Every cheese, every pairing, every sip of wine feels intentional, elevated, and just straight-up delicious. Like, I took one bite and immediately started questioning why I ever settled for basic grocery store cheese. (I’ve changed. I’m different now.) And the vibe?? Absolutely flawless. It’s giving "I’m sophisticated but also fun"—the kind of place where you could have a romantic date, a gossip-filled wine night, or just sit alone and pretend you’re the mysterious lead in an indie film. 🎭🍷 Final thoughts? Cultured isn’t just a wine & cheese shop—it’s a lifestyle. If you haven’t been yet, grab your people (or just yourself, no shame) and go treat your taste buds to something truly elite. 🧀🍷🔥“

“Fun trivia on Wednesday’s!“

“Had a fun time! Holiday drinks were a little pricey.

Have to mention the smell from across the street being extremely bad on the night we went. Not their fault of course but definitely stood out during our visit, doesn't affect my rating.“

“Great atmosphere, Great people, awesome live music.“

“A great gay bar in downtown Louisville. My first time here and I'd say I'd go back again if I had the time on this trip. Everyone was so friendly. There was no cover when I walked in on this night and it was a very busy night I was shocked about that as it was also pride in this area. I was told by multiple people to go here that were local and I would suggest going if you are in the area and looking for an friendly environment. The drinks were great and the bartenders knew exactly what to make. Dancers in the bar were all well put together and didn't look trashy at all. The music was on point and went perfectly with its vibe.“

“I've known the owner for well over a decade. It's a great place.“

“Friendly bartenders and delicious drinks (pictured is an espresso martini). There is a patio area in the back where they had bingo, but I did not get the chance to check that out. They offer live music and have outdoor seating, bar seating and large booths available as well. Cozy vibe and a great place to relax.“

“Typical dive bar/billiards hall vibe. Staff were very friendly and helpful. My only complaint is the pool tables don't work perfectly. Some of the balls would get stuck in the table and staff would have to come work their magic to release them.“

“Went here to see a show for my partners 21st birthday and the staff were absolutely amazing! Zach was incredibly friendly and helpful, and made a mean cocktail. Would recommend this place to anyone looking for great music and even better drinks!“

“Good vibes all around, friendly regulars, excellent bartenders, fantastic new outdoor area out back! I love the Nug!“

“We had a good time and met good people. Thank you!“

“Highly recommend! This place is so cute and fun, with amazing speciality drinks! :) karaoke is self serve which as I girl that came souly for the karaoke I love! ❤️ only tiny thing I will say is somebody should check that the music isn’t to loud at all times it was very hard to hear what your singing as the music over powers the microphone :/ but still like 10/10!“

“J. Grahams Cafe was superb. My mother loved it. The staff were helpful and friendly. We will definitely be back.“

“People are really friendly they make u feel at home, the atmosphere is amazing, and they always have great live music, Wednesdays are bingo nights and Thursdays they have open mike, hope to see u all there“

“Hands down one of the most unique eclectic literal gems of Louisville“

“The BEST boneless wings!! Try the Caribbean sauce, you won’t be disappointed. Love the atmosphere and outdoor space. Great place to go if you’re in Louisville!“

“Love this place! Amazing staff 😁“

“A huge thank you to The Galt House Hotel in Louisville for the wonderful hospitality during Nick Dittmeier’s stay. The location, service, and comfort were top-notch — a perfect home base for a hometown artist. We’re grateful for hotels that support touring musicians with style and care. 🎶🏨 #NickDittmeier #GaltHouseHotel #LouisvilleProud #TourLife #MusicianFriendly“

“Came to watch volleyball and got my socks knocked off by the goat curry. When I got out of my ca, I was immediately hit by a wall of delicious food smells. Last time I was here, I guess I was too late for food. Never again will I be too late for food. The goat was supremely tender and the curry was mild enough for most folks. I got this with the rice and beans + veggies. Definitely coming back for the food.“

“One of my favorite places to hang out. I always feel safe there. Great prices on drinks wonderful back patio.“

“I stopped in for a drink (hibiscus 75). Very nice atmosphere in the omni hotel. The bartender was really nice. The space is gorgeous, well decorated and spacious. You can dfinitely can have a conversation, even when its busy, based on how they spaced seating. Definitely worth a stop even if you aren't staying at the hotel.“

“We loooooove the Silver Dollar!! We're so happy that our favorite neighborhood restaurant has reopened. We are looking forward to trying all of their new menu items. My dog & I enjoy sitting out back on their cute patio & my son is addicted to the Chicken & Waffles. I'd highly recommend Silver Dollar to anyone who wants to refine their bourbon palate. We've been indulging in the $40 bourbon flight specials on Wednesdays. All the Silver Dollar bartenders are very demure, very mindful especially Jay! We loooooove Whiskey by the Drink“

“its a happening little joint , there are some good people that frequent the place , and i hear that the DJ is awesome lol.....“

“Dusty Fridays are always so much fun and the money goes to charity! I like going even when there isn't an event because there is a nice patio and areas inside to fit something for everyone! The bathroom has cool art work and is great for photos“

“Very great food and atmosphere with good music and people kinda like cheers everybody know your name type place“

“Heaven on earthquake. God bless Andy and his wonderful wife Marggie. ?“

“Absolutely amazing place to hang out and do karaoke. For starters it was very welcoming and drinks are reasonably priced. Lori the bartender is amazing and full spirited, the singers were freaking amazing and enjoyed every minute from walking in to leaving the establishment, talked to a couple of locals and they were super friendly. I was also honored to meet the owner Kenny who is probably one of the best DJ/owner duos I’ve seen in a very long time I definitely can’t wait to visit again it’s not too big nor too crowded but from what I was told it does get pretty crowded but it is definitely worth the drive. Keep up the great work guys and see you soon“

“Great place for awesome beer and great people. Also, there are some nearby food options including a pizza place next door(Twinspire) that delivers. For those of you looking for an NA option, they have a draft NA IPA that is top notch. Looks like they also have a stage for live music, check them out on social media for a schedule.“

“I enjoy the people in 100 Pipers they are really friendly and most of them love to get up and dance. The drinks are reasonable, security is around and they keep the bathrooms clean. Great music, need work on balancing the pool table. It's a very mature atmosphere.“

“mace Smith and the blacktop rodeo was awsome last night got people up dancing and having a great time they are a must see band.“

“Really fun location, close to lots of great spots!“

“I have only been to the bar area twice and it is a pleasant atmosphere with friendly staff“

“Well it has s relaxing atmosphere and it was fun because family and friends were there. Really enjoyed it. Good music too.“

“We went here for a bingo event and had an absolute blast! I wont lie, when we first walked in the vibe just seemed off. We weren't greeted by anyone and had no clue where to sit or how to order drinks or food. We finally asked one of the staff members and got it all figured out. The food was absolutely delicious and the staff was very friendly! The bingo event was so much fun and we won a bunch of really cool prizes! We will definitely be returning!“