35 Best Southern Restaurants in Louisville

The Wine Studio Southern
621 W Magnolia Ave, Louisville

“Dined here in early July. The food is to die for (especially a curry-style dish on the menu when we visited), the service is excellent (and not too hurried), and the ambiance is charming. The bread is also out of this world. The wine pairings also nicely complement the food, and the desserts are definitely worth having (especially the drunken banana cake). It is one of the nicest special occasion restaurants in Louisville. One caveat of interest to certain diners is the restaurants lax policy on pets. When we dined there, another table came in with a small dog. It wasn't a service or support dog because the diners kept passing it around the table, and even that table's server petted it. The dog's presence didn't bother us (it was well-behaved and quiet), but I could see some diners not enjoying dinner with a dog at the next table.“

5 Superb2 Reviews
2

Sway

Sway Southern • $$
320 W Jefferson St, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Sway Signature Old Fashioned and Just Peachy
Fried Chicken Half Order
Southern Fried Chicken
Spicy Shrimp and Grits
Fried Green Tomatoes
Spicy Shrimp & Grits
Salmon and Avocado
Black Forest Cake
Breakfast Buffet
Mashed Potatoes

“Really enjoyed our visits at the bar here. Mike was an excellent bar tender, and went above and beyond. He also has a great personality, and we really enjoyed talking to him! Bourbon selection was excellent, and Mike went the extra time to make our bourbon sipping very enjoyable. Our light bites were decent, though not anything to write home about. I would continue to come back for the atmosphere, bar selection, and for Mike!“

3.3 Good59 Reviews
Hammerheads Southern • $$
921 Swan St, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Pulled Pork with Spring Mix Tomato and Homemade Barbecue Sauce
Crab Cake with Spring Mix Tomato and Jalapeno-Sage Aioli
French Fries Basket of French Fries
Crispy Soft Shell Crab Sandwich
Prime Beef Brisket Sandwich
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
Smoked Chicken Wings
St Louis Spare Ribs
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Mac & Cheese Balls

“Awesome food and service. Worth the trip.“

4.6 Superb135 Reviews
CASK Southern Kitchen & Bar Southern • $
9980 Linn Station Rd, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Sarah's Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried Green Tomato blt
Banana Creme Brulee
Chicken and Waffles
Pulled Pork Nachos
Blackened Salmon
Shrimp and Grits
Pimento Cheese
Banana Pudding
Mac and Cheese

“First off kuddos to the Chef!! We had an absolutely phenomenal dining experience. The staff was amazing and so attentive. Special thank you to Ashley the owner, your energy was amazing and you were so inspirational and motivating to your team. Thank you for seating us at the chef's table it was a one-of-a-kind experience! I wish you and the team nothing but success in the future you guys were all amazing!! GD“

4.4 Superb217 Reviews
Southern Hospitality Southern • $
3402 W Broadway #2824, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

1cinnamon Brown Sugar French Toast
Bacon Egg and Cheese Sandwich
Chicken Tender Sandwich
Fried Bologna Sandwich
Double Cheeseburger
Lemon Butter Shrimp
Chicken Wings
Turkey Burger
Wings Options
Turkey Bacon

“I’m actually afraid to tell how special this place is! Because I’m selfish like that. But I’ll share. I have never had a negative experience here! Food great , service great, environment great!“

4.8 Superb59 Reviews
Wild Swann Restaurant Southern • $$
601 W Main St, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Flourless Chocolate Cake
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Cheese Platter
Bread Pudding
Caesar Salad
Beef Burger
Flatbread

“We were looking for a good variety to choose from and Wild Swan provided that. We enjoyed the Mahi Mahi and sliders, along with a fabulous old fashioned. It was a little tricky to find, we didn't see anything telling us it was in the Grady Hotel. Would definitely return to try other menu options!“

4.4 Superb142 Reviews
610 Magnolia Southern
610 W Magnolia Ave, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Butternut Squash Agnolotti
Barbecued Hamachi Collar
Bourbon Afficianado
Drunken Banana Cake
Bourbon Aficionado
Seared Scallops
Crème Caramel
Cheese Plate
Duck Breast
Rack of Lamb

“We had a memorable meal on our anniversary. Food, wine, service, and ambience were top-notch“

4.5 Superb80 Reviews
Joella's Hot Chicken - St Matthews Southern • $
3400 Frankfort Ave, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Lil' Chicks Tender Two Sides
Creamy Mac and Cheese
Big Wings & Waffles
Parm Garlic Fries
Chicken Sandwich
Grilled Chicken
Chicken Waffles
Tenders Sides
Fried Tenders
Fried Pickles

“best place to eat chicken however you want it.“

4.3 Superb115 Reviews
Merle's Whiskey Kitchen Southern • $
122 W Main St, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Parmesan Garlic Fries Shareable
Candied Bourbon Maple Bacon
Cornbread and Mac N Cheese
Lip Smack N Mac & Cheese
Mary Lou's KY Cornbread
Pork Tacos De Carnitas
Nashville Hot Chicken
Dunked Cuban Sandwich
Green Chili Pork Taco
Chicken and Waffles

“I highly recommend this place. Best food we had i. The week we spent in Louisville. The Merle’s Melt was fabulous as were the garlic Parmesan fries and candied maple bacon.“

4.2 Good258 Reviews
Big Bad Breakfast - Brownsboro Crossing Breakfast • $
5050 Norton Healthcare Blvd, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Pecan Cluster Pancakes with Summer Sausage
Fried Oyster Scramble Hangtown Style
Huevos Rancheros Grit Bowl
Big Bad Breakfast Skillet
Cathead Chicken Biscuit
Mother of All Biscuits
Big Bad Breakfast Plate
Little Bad Breakfast
Low Country Skillet
Chicken and Waffles

“Have been wanting to try this place for a while and today my boyfriend surprised me for a brunch date. Everything tasted so good. I had the French toast and bacon and it was delicious. My boyfriend had the biscuits and gravy and he said besides my biscuits and gravy it was one of the best he has had. Can’t wait to come back and try more options. Maybe get there for the early bird drink specials.“

4.7 Superb571 Reviews
Joella's Hot Chicken - Middletown Southern • $
13401 Shelbyville Rd #101, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Tendies with Fries and Macaroni and Cheese
Lil' Chicks Wing Two Sides
Classic Chicken Sandwich
Hot Chicken and Waffles
Garlic Parmesan Fries
Hot Box- 420 Tenders
Lil' Chick Tender
Kale Crunch Salad
Chicken Fingers
Grilled Tenders

“Phenomenal experience as always“

4.2 Good120 Reviews
Biscuit Belly - Nulu Breakfast • $
900 E Main St #101, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Short Stack Pancakes with Whipped Maple Berries and Two Pieces of Bacon Add Nutella 2
Hot Brown Biscuits and Gravy
Fried Green Tomatoes
Loaded Breakfast Tots
Gravy Dine in: Yes
Gravy - Your Choice
Fire in Your Belly
Naked Hash Browns
Bonuts Vegetarian
Pancake Corndogs

“Highly recommend!! Quick and friendly service. Food was FANTASTIC! I had the Smokehouse & my husband had the Belly Board. We will definitely be back!“

4.7 Superb334 Reviews
Sam's smoke house Southern • $
3400 W Market St, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Homemade Burgers and Fries 6 99
Chitterling Dinner
Fried Chicken
Ribs and Tips
Rib Tips
Wedges

“I was leaving from a friend's birthday celebration when I decided to stop in. I've passed by this corner for years, but I've never stopped in. My friend didn't have any food at his gathering, so I thought I would stop and check this place out.The lone woman came to the window and waited on me and one other woman (they seemed to know each other), she was polite, but I could tell she was tired. I order the "6-piece wings" special "with wedges and a roll" - and when there weren't wings ready, she was nice enough to substitute a thigh in there for me. I also got a 12 oz can of Diet Pepsi. The portion was good, and everything was hot and fresh. The wings were crispy and delicious, and though I'm not usually a fan of wedges, I enjoyed these potatoes.The only thing I take issue with was that the other workers who are employed by this business are apparently too lazy to show up to the job; that's why the one woman who was there (hat's off to you, sis! Keep up the good work!) appeared to be so tired. Perhaps the owner of this business will see the wisdom of replacing them with people who want to work! I don't live in the Louisville's West End, but I may pay another visit next time I'm in the area.“

4 Good21 Reviews
The Village Anchor Southern • $$$
11507 Park Rd, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Fried Derby Pie with Salted Carmel Ice Cream
Mom's Hot Banana Pudding Meringue
Kevin's Meatloaf Burger
Fried Goat Cheese Salad
Fried Green Tomatoes
Myra's Fried Chicken
Red Velvet Pancakes
Green Chili Wontons
Bob's Big Breakfast
Sweet Potato Fries

“We had a wonderful birthday celebration for my dearest friend! The Village Anchor staff was very accommodating. I felt like they wanted our celebration to be just as perfect as we did and made it happen! Great environment, food, drink and service! Thank you!“

4 Good432 Reviews
The Fat Lamb Modern Kitchen & Bar Cocktail Bar • $$$
2011 Grinstead Dr, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Midnight in Paris with Pureed White Peach Juice Elderberry Syrup and Small Batch Kentucky Vodka
Frondosa Farms Mushroom & Braised Short Rib Risotto
Spicy Fried Chicken with Butter Beans and Greens
Moroccan Chickpea Stew & Creamy Polenta
Soy & Ginger Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Garlic & Herb Marinated Lamb Chops
Frenched Pork Chop Saltimbocca
Roasted Five Spice Duck Breast
Monk Fish with Creamy Polenta
Pickled Beet & Baby Spinach

“Me and my girlfriend went here on a Friday night it was exceptional. some of the best food we've both had in our entire lives I had the lamb chops my girlfriend she had the duck it was phenomenal. fairly expensive, but you definitely get what you pay for here. My only caveat was it was a little too loud for us to talk without raising our voice due to it being busy .“

4.6 Superb275 Reviews
The Eagle Louisville Chicken • $$
1314 Bardstown Rd, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Sweet Potato Crock with Toasted Mini Marshmallows
Mac and Cheese and 1 2 Fried Chicken
Seasoned French Fries with Aioli
Carolina Braised Pork Sandwich
Fried Chicken blt Sandwich
Horseradish Mashed Potatoes
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Sweet Potato Casserole
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Fried Chicken Dinner

“Fantastic service, great atmosphere and delicious food, there are many options on the menu. Jackson was our server for a large party at the Oxmoor location and was phenomenal! He absolutely deserves five stars for his attentive service.“

4.5 Superb478 Reviews
Bourbons Bistro American • $$$
2255 Frankfort Ave, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Bourbon's Bourbon Bread Pudding
Garlic and Goat Cheese Spread
Whistling Pig Bourbon Flight
Southern Salmon Cakes
Fig Salad with Salmon
Goat Cheese Appetizer
Spicy Fried Oysters
Mushroom Ravioli
Shrimp and Grits
Bourbons Burger

“Large selection of bourbons and have few options for flights and great cocktails. As far as food is considered they have small but focused menu one for each variety to satisfy the craving of the day. Portion is decent.

Vegetarian options: Some dishes they can make in veg variant but this is more for experience bourbon after office hr is a relaxed ambience.“

4.6 Superb215 Reviews
River House Restaurant and Raw Bar Seafood • $$$
3015 River Rd b, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Chilled 1 2 lb Lobster Stuffed with Gulf Shrimp Bay Scallops and Lump Crab
Chocolate-Peanut Butter Lava Cake with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Bourbon and White Chocolate Bread Pudding
Fried Brussels Sprouts and Country Ham
Crispy Grouper Cheeks and Gulf Shrimp
Seared Diver Scallops with Succotash
House Cured Local Charcuterie Board
Chocolate Peanut Butter Lava Cake
Blackened Rare Hawaiian Ahi Tuna
Raw Oysters on the Half Shell

“It was the best restaurant I have been to in America. The atmosphere is amazing and so is the service. The food, don’t get me started about it. It was amazing. So amazing in fact I could eat here every day. Our waitresses, Allena and Octavia, were amazing.“

4.4 Superb839 Reviews
Biscuit Belly - St. Matthews Breakfast • $
3723 Lexington Rd, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Go Goetta Biscuits and Gravy
Bonuts Pancake Sausage Links
Brisket Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuit Belly Pickles
Loaded Breakfast Tots
Fried Green Tomatoes
The Rockwell Supreme
Fire in Your Belly
Naked Hash Browns
Pancake Corndogs

“Stopped in this morning and if you want a biscuit like your South Carolina grandmother made This is Your Place Honestly one of the Best biscuits I’ve had since I was a little boy knee high to my grandma. Excellent food, very friendly and helpful folks Just an Outstanding visit, We Will be Back,“

4.5 Superb170 Reviews
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken Chicken Shop • $
117 S Hurstbourne Pkwy, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Half Chicken with Slaw and Mac and Cheese
Chicken Tenders Macaroni and Cheese Fries
2 Breast 1 Wing Baked Beans & Coleslaw
Chicken Tenders Fried Okra Greens
Chicken and Baked Beans and OCRA
Baked Beans and Mac and Cheese
Chocolate Chess Pie Slice
Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried Pickle Spears
2 Piece Dark Plate

“We have never been to Gus’s before and let me just say I’m Glad we did .. For starters in a time where service most places is so so at best now a days we had the pleasure of getting the best server in Alexis/Alexus from time we stepped in the establishment she had a smile and help us through everything she even got us the last sweet potato pie I have t had service like this in so long it was such a breath of fresh air we just hope every time we make the trip we catch our favorite server !! S/n for those with picky children like me our little one did not leave a crumb on his plate ! Best experience! You should visit definitely hope you get our server“

4.4 Superb196 Reviews
Louie's Hot Chicken & Barbecue Barbecue • $
4222 Poplar Level Rd, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Hot Chicken Sandwich with Fries
Pulled Pork Sandwich Platter
Extra Hot Chicken Tenders
Hot Chicken Sandwich Only
Smoked Wings Combo Brisket
Seasoned French Fries
Red Skin Potato Salad
Beef Brisket Sandwich
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Brisket by the Pound

“Amazing customer service!“

4.5 Superb122 Reviews
Big Bad Breakfast Barret Ave. Southern • $
984 Barret Ave, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Huevos Rancheros Grit Bowl
'Cathead' Chicken Biscuit
Big Bad Breakfast Skillet
Big Bad Biscuit Sandwich
Pecan Cluster Shortstack
Cathead Chicken Biscuit
Big Bad Breakfast Plate
French Toast Breakfast
Little Bad Breakfast
Chicken and Waffles

“Have been wanting to try this place for a while and today my boyfriend surprised me for a brunch date. Everything tasted so good. I had the French toast and bacon and it was delicious. My boyfriend had the biscuits and gravy and he said besides my biscuits and gravy it was one of the best he has had. Can’t wait to come back and try more options. Maybe get there for the early bird drink specials.“

4.3 Superb317 Reviews
Franco's Restaurant & Catering Soul Food • $
3300 Dixie Hwy #5014, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken and Mac and Cheese and Greens
Cornbread Pudding with Cinnamon
Mac and Cheese Mash Potatoes
Smothered Pork Chop Dinner
Fried Catfish Dinner
Smothered Pork Chops
Strawberry Shortcake
Fried Chicken Dinner
Rib and Sour Kraut
Dressing and Gravy

“Home away from home.. I can't find a dish in their menus, that I have not liked. They can cook like no other!!

Parking: Parking to the front door, and around the bui

Kid-friendliness: Home like vibe.. Totally.“

4.4 Superb117 Reviews
Momma's Mustard, Pickles & BBQ - St Matthews Barbecue • $
102 Bauer Ave, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Donut Bread Pudding a La Mode
Smoked Brisket by the Pound
Pulled Chicken by the Pound
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Mac & Cheese Potato Salad
Half Chicken w 2 Sides
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Momma's Fried Pickles
Spicy Fried Pickles
1 2 Rack Beef Ribs

“The fried pickles were the highlight. Bartenders were fun and friendly. Plenty of selection.

The burnt ends were ok, but not amazing. All the other guys had grilled cheese sandwiches with various meats. Everyone left pleasantly stuffed“

4.3 Superb180 Reviews
The Silver Dollar Bar • $$
1761 Frankfort Ave, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Fried Dill Pickles
Brisket Sandwich
Chicken & Waffles
Shrimp and Grits
Catfish Dinner
Fried Okra V
Potato Fries
Texas Chili
Vegetarian
Sandwiches

“Great experience! The manager and staff were the best taking care of our group from The United States of Bourbon and Angels Envy! Thank you!!“

4.4 Superb101 Reviews
Cottage Inn American • $
570 Eastern Pkwy, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Homemade Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
White Cottage Inn Fried Chicken
North Atlantic Cod Fried Fish
Fantastic Fried Chicken
Fried Chicken &Taters
Fried Green Tomatoes
Country Fried Steak
Turkey and Dressing
Fried Chicken Club
Blackberry Cobbler

“Lack of beer.“

4.3 Superb176 Reviews
The Eagle Oxmoor Chicken • $
7900 Shelbyville Rd g25, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Homemade Biscuits with Blackberry Jam and Honey Butter
Horseradish Mashed Potatoes with Herbed Chicken Gravy
Sweet Potato Crock with Toasted Mini Marshmallows
Spoonbread Sweet Potato Casserole
Carolina Braised Pork Sandwich
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Half Fried Chicken
Spicy Chicken Dip
Fried Chicken blt
Shrimp & Grits

“We went to The Eagle for happy hour and had a great time. My fiance LOVED the half-off spicy chicken dip, and I really enjoyed the $3.50 hush puppies. Our server, WILL, was wonderful!

Where there is a will, there is a 5-star way ;)“

4.3 Superb145 Reviews
Eggs Over Frankfort Southern • $
2712 Frankfort Ave, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Half Order Biscuit & Gravy
Toast and Homemade Jam
Everything Breakfast
Biscuits and Gravy
Breakfast Potatoes
Breakfast Burrito
Country Benedict
Biscuits & Gravy
Eggs Florentine
Breakfast Tacos

“My first visit and it was wonderful. Great choice on menu and felt like home. Was crowded but seats available inside even at almost noon on a Sunday. Service was fast and servers were super friendly . Cannot wait to go back for brunch again.“

4.3 Superb108 Reviews
Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen American • $
3521 Outer Loop, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Cheddar's Legendary Monster Cookie
Fall-Off-The-Plate Baby Back Ribs
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Cheddar's Coconut Shrimp
Honey Butter Croissants
Cheddar's Cheese Fries
Wisconsin Cheese Bites
Cheddar's Trio Sampler
Monte Cristo Sandwich
Country Fried Chicken

“I don’t know why everyone just doesn’t eat here, they have lunch specials for $14 max. I’m getting fish and chips and a bud light for $13. If it wasn’t for Kyle Busch would have never come here, and I’ll never pass coming here up again.

Straight up great food, the staff is so nice and very tentative.

10/10 experience every time.“

4.2 Good233 Reviews
Big Hopp's Southern Eatery Soul Food • $
2913 Dixie Hwy, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Barbarous Ribs Collard Greens Mac and Cheese and Cornbread
Beef Roast & Sweet Potato & Mac and Cheese
Southern Greens with Smoked Turkey
Catfish Pinto Beans and Cornbread
Baked Chicken and Dressing
Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
Sweet Potato Casserole
Fried Green Tomatoes
Country Fried Steak
Extra Cornbread

“Visiting from Ohio. Food was beyond&ABSOLUTY amazing. Staff was very friendly. Greeted with conversation and smiles. Will definitely be going back when i return again ! !“

4.4 Superb58 Reviews
Chicken Salad Chick Chicken • $
12009 Shelbyville Rd, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Plain Chicken Salad on Croissants
Chicken Salad and Broccoli Slaw
Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad
Chicken Salad Sandwich
Spicy Pimento Cheese
Chicken Salad Scoop
Loaded Potato Soup
Chicken Sandwich
Broccoli Salad
Freebie Cookie

“I had never been here before but it was highly recommended to me when looking for a main dish for a baby shower. The ease for ordering and pickup was great and everyone enjoyed the mini croissants and the variety of salads I picked out. The Broccoli salad was a huge hit!!! Beth Gruner“

4.2 Good93 Reviews
Nic & Norman's Louisville Bar & Grill • $$
108 W Washington St, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza
Burger & Sweet Potatoes Fries
Brisket Nachos w Fried Okra
Coca-Cola Braised Pork Shank
Classic Burger and Fries
Shrimp and Grits Burger
Brisket Mac and Cheese
Fried Chicken Pot Pie
Whiskey Citrus Salmon
Pimento Bacon Burger

“It's a very chill place where you and friends and even family can be the adult drinks are superb, I had the meatloaf it was very delicious and the mash potatoes with gravy you must try very nice atmosphere and I definitely will be back and it's cost effective staff was very welcoming and the waiter was very pleasant“

4.1 Good302 Reviews
MARY'S TAQUERIA Mexican • $
4801 Outer Loop, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Taco
4.6 Superb7 Reviews
Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken Chicken • $
5059 Poplar Level Rd, Louisville

Customers` Favorites

3 PC Breast Strip Combo
Breast and Wings Combo
Chicken Gizzard Meal
Breast Substitution
Corn on the Cob
Chicken Fingers
Large Cole Slaw
Potato Wedges
Fried Chicken
Potato Salad

“what has happened to the third street valley station location? quality tonight was definitely not good“

4 Good54 Reviews
Delrey’s Soulfood American • $
4104 Murphy Ln, Louisville

“Finally got to try the food yesterday! The owner is very friendly. The food was amazing! I got a variety to try. Chicken wings, big fried pork chop, tender ribs, Mac and cheese, yams and potato wedges. I will definitely be back!!“

3 Average2 Reviews