Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: bourbon (24) amazing (20) great (19) Bourbon (15) delicious (14) service (13) North (13) menu (12) drinks (12) Louisville (12)
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  • 5/5 Farran C. 2 years ago on Google
    This place was amazing in every aspect! The atmosphere was so cool with the bourbon barrel booths. The service was phenomenal, one of the best I’ve ever experienced. We sat at the bar and the bartender, Brody was so friendly, knowledgeable and attentive. Now onto the food- we ordered a lot off the menu so that we could sample it all. The Gumbo was great, the potato salad was really good, creamy and a little tangy. The catfish nuggets have the best flavor breading. And the potatoes were crunchy on the outside and really creamy on the inside. Surprisingly the my friend and I both agreed the best thing we ordered was the wedge salad! It was fresh, flavorful and had an amazing green goddess dressing. For drinks we did the paper airplane it was delicious, and we were intrigued by the big red slushy drink it was like desert in a cup. If you’re at all contemplating eating here, go! You won’t be disappointed.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tommie H. 5 months ago on Google • 14 reviews
    Made an unplanned stop here before flying out of Louisville. I was extremely pleased with the food and service. Great bourbon selection at great prices. Gumbo with potato salad was excellent; I'll stop by again during my next stay in Louisville.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joel S. 2 years ago on Google
    Great Cajun food in the Shelby Park/Germantown neighborhood. Had Boudin Balls and Red Beans and Rice; both were amazing. Really great bourbon list and New Orleans themed cocktail menu.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sue S. 6 months ago on Google
    Delicious food and amazing cocktails! Service was excellent. The place is small but decor/vibe is well done, comfortable and innovative. Recommend reservations especially if you want to sit in barrel booths.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Keith 9 months ago on Google • 358 reviews
    One of my all time favorites! We were greeted by a very friendly and personable manager at our server was excellent. I cannot say enough about the setting of this establishment. Absolutely stunning! The selection of Bourbons is unbelievably amazing. Our drinks were excellent and somehow or food was even better! It is a small establishment also, reservations are encouraged if not required. We will be back again when we are in the area! Cheers!

  • 5/5 Roman M. 1 year ago on Google
    I heard many good things about this restaurant but delayed my visit for some reason. Boy, do I regret that. Everything was amazing and delicious. The atmosphere is modernt but yet has a rustic feel. We were seated by the owner who gave us a quick history of his concept. We appreciated the background and it set us up for our meal. I had the BEST Catfish I have ever had. The Frozen Bourbon Coffee was INSANE & My Shrimp and Grits? Perfection! The complimentary boiled peanuts (which I've never had) only enhanced the meal. Our sever was attentive and very personable. Can't wait to go back.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David D. 2 years ago on Google
    An absolute win for my first visit to North of Bourbon! Attentive staff, drowning in great varieties of the brown juice and all done sitting inside a giant Bourbon cask booth!?! Yeah, this place is a real winner...and you need to go to there! 😎
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stuart M. 2 years ago on Google
    Everything was phenomenal! Wonderful atmosphere, service was great, drinks are delicious and that takes time as they are well prepared so don't be in a rush, savor the flavors. Catfish was flavorful and crumbled perfectly, wedge salad is delightful, simple but great!!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris S. 2 years ago on Google
    Went for an early lunch and sat at the bar since they don't accept reservations. Enjoyed everything we ordered but the highlights were the rouxed peas and the crab bucatini.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kristal J. 7 months ago on Google • 126 reviews
    The space is very inviting yet intimate. Food was nothing less of exceptional. Every dish my family ate was delicious. It kinda felt like we were some place else other than Louisville. Definitely coming back and becoming a regular. They got me hooked. Staff was very friendly and met the owner. He was very nice and wished us a Happy Anniversary. Waitress Jessica was very friendly and gave great recommendations on the menu. They even have vegan friendly options. 5 stars all around!!! This restaurant definitely brought the New Orleans taste to Louisville.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chelsea H. 4 months ago on Google • 27 reviews
    one of the best bars i’ve ever been to. such service. insane selection. beautiful cocktails. gorgeous space. go here. ask for phil, he’s the best. (probably reserve a table, according to phil, we just had drinks so the bar sufficed.)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paula S. 4 months ago on Google • 199 reviews
    We loved our first time at North of Bourbon. Our lunch was spot on. The Shrimp Poboy was truly authentic with a great baguette, crispy shrimp, dressed and delicious. The Smoked Chicken salad was very good and the Mac n Cheese hot and cheesy! The bartender was excellent and offering a special drink each day until Christmas. The favorites will find a spot on the next menu. To conclude; delicious food, great service, wonderful ambiance and a large selection of Bourbon. What more could you want?

  • 5/5 Catherine 2 years ago on Google
    You can walk in but there might be waiting time. I got in there early. Brody was wonderful bartender. He made those really good drinks. I did ordered foods and again they are amazing, full of flavors. I would love to come back again to try more drinks and foods. I just love the environment.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sam V. 2 years ago on Google
    Had my first date night with my Wife in a long time and can't say enough about our experience. Chelsey, our server, was incredible, Eric and Brad have cultivated a fantastic space, from the music to the lighting to the AWESOME booths...and the food, absolutely amazing (smothered catfish, and boudin balls are a must). Tons of bourbons, tons of complements, and tons of recommendations. Definitely check it out.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 eddie c. 1 year ago on Google
    This place has it all. Awesome food — they rotate the menu seasonally, but the blackened catfish nuggets, the boudin balls and the the crab fondue were outstanding. The selection of local bourbons and the menu of old fashioned cocktails also are incredible. Great spot with a cool ambiance. The bourbon barrel booth tables are a killer concept.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeremy Y. 1 year ago on Google
    North of Bourbon is way more than just a cocktail bar. The food was outstanding, with delicious shrimp, catfish, and more. The interior is dimly lit and intimate - reservations are a must unless you want to wait for a chance at the bar. The bourbon and cocktails options are, unsurprisingly, world class. Next time I'm in Louisville, I will definitely return.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Warren 2 years ago on Google
    We did the bourbon trail for my friend’s birthday and North of Bourbon was the best highlight of the trip. The whiskey collection is extensive and Daniel, one of the owners, greeted us and talked with us much of the night. The food was amazing and the staff was extremely friendly. We got to try some amazing food (shrimp & rice, ny strip, pork, gumbo, catfish nuggets) and bourbon, including some dusty unicorns at very good prices. Make sure you find this place on your next trip out here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anne B. 2 years ago on Google
    Super finding, good bourbon cocktails, delicious catfish nuggets and super jazzy music! Highly recommended
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ASHLEY O. 9 months ago on Google
    Went for brunch and it was amazing! From the cocktails to the food, we left full and satisfied. Love that they had a live jazz band as well. We were so full we decided to extend our stay another day lol! We started with the sausage kolaches, perfect balance of savory and sweet with the side of spiced cane syrup. For our entrées, I ordered breakfast fried rice and my husband has grillade and grits. My breakfast fried rice was soo good! But once I tried my husband's food, I wish I would've gotten it. It reminded me of my grandma's leftover roast beef over grits. And the cheese grits are perfection! You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael P. 11 months ago on Google
    Went here to celebrate a birthday and we were not disappointed. Some of the booths are like sitting inside a large bourbon cask. Our server was very personable and helpful, explaining the menu, and how much food we should order. Boiled peanuts were served like some places bring bread to the table. We got a variety of dishes. The standouts for me were the crab fondue and the grilled pork collar. The pork was cooked perfectly and paired well with the blueberry barbecue sauce. They had a variety of house versions of old fashioned and we enjoyed both we tried. The place was very intimate, I recommend reservations.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nacole N. 9 months ago on Google
    This place takes me straight to “The Quarters”…the food, drink & dessert was kissed by the Chef! I had the Peppered Catfish Nuggets…perfectly crispy & drizzled with a sweetened & tangy sauce w/a side of Dukes aioli. I enjoyed it with a side of Curry Coconut corn, sooooo delicious. Tried the watermelon salad it was refreshing. Now, for dessert, I had the Creole Cream Cheesecake & it was an absolute BANGERS! Topped with and warm sauce with hazelnuts…Soul was filled 💯 If you’re in or near the Louisville KY area…run don’t walk to NORTH OF BOURBON for a home cooked meal 💯🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sergen K. 3 months ago on Google • 33 reviews New
    Excellent food! The oysters, Chicken Gumbo, Crab, and cheesecake were delicious. There were too many bourbon options, including some from out of state. This is a perfect place for bourbon lovers. Service could be better. The server wasn't very attentive, and cocktails took about 20 minutes to be served.

  • 2/5 Barbara D. 2 months ago on Google • 4 reviews New
    We visited North of Bourbon on Saturday February 3rd. While the service was excellent, the food was not. I ordered their spicy catfish nuggets. It came with nothing, as all sides are priced singly. For $20.00 I had the nuggets . For a shareable plate of wedges,another $20. My son ordered their rice(another 20) in total the meal was 95. Was it worth it? Not at all!!! The nuggets were good, but not worth $20. The rice was plain and had no flavor . All in all, I will not be eating there again!!!!!

  • 5/5 Jessica B. 4 months ago on Google • 4 reviews
    I chose North of Bourbon for a birthday dinner with my partner. We were delighted by our intimate dining experience, inside a what looks like a bourbon barrel and under the holiday lights. The food far exceeded our expectations because they're so well known for the bars, extensive bourbon selection. The service was above and beyond. Bry, our server, was welcoming and attentive. They absolutely read.my notes within OpenTable where I mentioned we were celebrating a birthday and he loved bourbon. It was really special when, Eric, shared a pour from their private select russell reserve and its story. The Revellion Dinner has great options. The seafood bisque sold me on the first round. The wagyu steak was worth every penny of upcharge. When I looked back at the menu this morning it was however disappointing to learn they did skip the beer cheese hush puppy opener. Overall, we loved our welcoming, warm experience. They took time to make us feel like old friends. The food some of the best in the city, especially the boudin stuffed quail in its lovely cherry au jus. I’d love to visit again. I'd recommend it as a seasonal stop to grab a great drink at the bar, enjoy a night with friends or have an intimate dinner.

  • 5/5 Amy K. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful experience just as other reviews have said. Brody was our wonderful bartender/server but the entire staff was so nice on a VERY busy night. Food was excellent and the drinks were just as special. Great atmosphere!! Definitely try the boudin balls!!

  • 4/5 LM 2 years ago on Google
    LOVE this bar. The vibe was awesome. Love the early jazz music and the transition to hip hop as the night went on, and the drinks were great! Only issue we had was our server (with the long dark hair) was drunk while on the job, which she admitted when she greeted us, so she was all over the place. It gets crowded too, expect to wait for a table

  • 4/5 Michelle D. 10 months ago on Google
    The fish and grits and the beignets need to be tasted anytime you go to brunch here! When I come to Louisville I enjoy this place. Bypass the sweet tea (it’s a no for me) and bring a sweater, they seem to keep it pretty chill in there to counter the summer heat.

  • 5/5 Jin S. 11 months ago on Google
    Yesterday 5/20/23, was our (my wife and I) first time at this diner. Superb service and amazing food!! Thank you to the owner Daniel for keeping the kitchen open for us since it was packed when we got there and we wanted to have dinner as well as a couple drinks but had to wait for a table. He made sure to check on us as we waited as well as other guests that came in after us. Our server Ada was just amazing! She also recommended some places to check out since we are from out of town. Thank you for a great time!! 🙌🏽✨ We definitely would come visit again!! We had the Gumbo, catfish nuggets, Mac n cheese, and potato wedges! SO DELICIOUS!!

  • 5/5 Nick F. 10 months ago on Google
    North of Burbon feels like a well-kept secret that no one should be keeping to themselves! This place was EXACTLY what I was thinking of when I asked my friends to go to a place that embodied the whole bourbon tasting experience. Did not disappoint one bit! Offering a lavish array of bourbons and an equally impressive menu, it surely knows how to leave a mark on its visitors. During my recent visit with my wife and friends, we were treated to a culinary delight. The highlight of my meal was undoubtedly the burger - perfectly cooked, sumptuously seasoned, and even though it was a bit on the smaller side, the taste did not compromise. Each bite burst with flavors, assuring that size was not an obstacle to my enjoyment. Complementing the burger was a side of Mac and Cheese, which was nothing short of divine. The texture was creamy and comforting, yet not overly rich, crafted not with a typical cheese sauce, but with a medley of perfectly melted cheeses. It was a unique take that added a sophisticated touch to this classic comfort food. My wife, a fan of Southern cuisine, was overjoyed with her choice - a beef PoBoy. She shared that it was delicious and the pairing with her choice of bourbon rounded out the flavors brilliantly. Speaking of bourbon, the variety available at North on Bourbon is commendable. The flight that I selected featured an array of Blanton's and Maker's Mark - each with its own distinct profile that went hand in hand with our meal choices. The service was excellent, with a warm and welcoming staff that was attentive and knowledgeable. They guided us through the extensive bourbon selection and ensured our dining experience was smooth and enjoyable. The only thing holding back a perfect five-star rating is the slightly smaller portion of the burger, which although delicious, left me wanting a bit more. All in all, North on Bourbon combines a wide variety of quality bourbons with a delightful menu, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that bourbon enthusiasts and foodies will appreciate. With its warm atmosphere, knowledgeable service, and top-notch food, it's a place I would wholeheartedly recommend for anyone looking to enjoy a great meal amidst the charm of Louisville!

  • 5/5 Adam C. 11 months ago on Google
    I have had good food before. But hardly ever has a dining experience compared to the two times visited North of Bourbon. Having recently visited New Orleans, I can honestly say the food equals or exceeds the best of the food I had down there.The consistency from dish to dish was impeccable around execution. But more than anything was the sheer hospitality. Eric, Brad, Jigg and the rest of the team became more than just acquaintances, but real friends who helped us navigate our meal and our time in Louisville while creating memories to last for a long time. As my brother said, “it felt like I was eating at a friend’s house.” I said “two times” earlier, because we had to cancel our reservation at a prominent Louisville restaurant to come back once we ate here once. If you are looking for inventive food and drink, served with impeccable consistency, with an unmatched hospitality, you cannot do much better in Louisville or anywhere else than North of Bourbon.

  • 5/5 Erika C. 10 months ago on Google
    Absolutely amazing! Everything was great! From the service, the high quality drinks & the delicious food! The atmosphere is really cool too! The shrimp & grits was literally the BEST I've ever tasted with so much flavor! Even down to the little tomatoes on top, they bursted with flavor! If I'm back in this area again I'll be sure to stop here again!

  • 5/5 William L. 2 years ago on Google
    This place was amazing. Cocktails were delicious and the staff were some of the nicest people around. They kept checking on us throughout the whole night. HIGHLY recommend this place to anyone. Also, highly recommend the Upside Down Hamilton cocktail to anyone. Absolutely refreshing.

  • 5/5 Johanna H. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is incredible! Very cool ambiance, I would recommend making a reservation for dinner to sit in the bourbon barrel booths. Normally I’m not a bourbon cocktail aficionado but I tried the You’re a Daisy If You Do and my partner had Blame it on Lauren and we loved them both. The drink menu alone has us wanting to come back, and then there’s the food! Catfish nuggets, cheese grits and Shrimp Yakamein were so flavorful I found myself craving more even though we were stuffed from the generous portions. We will definitely back in soon! Great service and recommendations from the bartenders and staff.

  • 5/5 Stephen S. 1 year ago on Google
    We were visiting from Atlanta for the July 4th long weekend, and we were in search of amazing local places for cocktails. Well, let me tell you! Walking inside, we were greeted by a friendly hostess. The smell of amazing bourbon, along with the sound of jazz music permeated the air! This is a beautiful establishment, and what’s amazing is that this gem is in a beautiful old neighborhood. That, along with the amazing decor and oversized barrels as booths, well, it’s a total vibe! You can tell when cocktails are crafted with thoughtful ingredients and care- and North of Bourbon delivered! Easily better than anywhere we found on Whisky Row or downtown, and absolutely the best mixed drinks we had the entire trip. We did not eat - just had cocktails- but I’ve no doubt the food would be fabulous! It really ended our evening on a great note and I couldn’t recommend highly enough!

  • 5/5 Justin S. 1 year ago on Google
    Great spot. Amazing selection of bourbon, great food, well decorated. We tried the boudin balls and the raw oysters... both tasty. Built a custom flight of bourbon and they were all on the money. Great service and decor. Also ... try the iced coffee. Delicious!

  • 5/5 Ken S. 1 year ago on Google
    We had this place on our weekend itinerary for visiting Louisville. We loved it so much we came back a day later! Everything about this spot has been carefully and wonderfully planned. The small space is well designed and maximizes the interior without sacrificing quality. The staff is amazing and the owners are there to share their passion for low country food and crafted cocktails. The food is awesome and the drinks are as well. We'll be back again and again. This is my new go to place when I come up from Etown.

  • 5/5 Michael D. 2 years ago on Google
    North of Bourbon was fantastic. Food was excellent. Drinks and atmosphere were great. They could have more space at the front of the restaurant for people waiting to be seated—my gf and I had to keep dodging people coming in and out. And know that you can get a reservation with a party of 4 or more. The boudin balls, catfish nuggets, peas, and crab rice dressing were great. Definitely will come back (and bring friends to make a reservation).


Call +1 502-749-3305 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free of charge street parking
    • ✓️ Somewhat difficult to find a space
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Organic dishes
    • ✓️ Happy-hour food
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Takeaway

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