Where to Eat Near the University of Louisville
Located in what’s known as the Central Business District, the University of Louisville is smack dab in the middle of downtown. This makes for not only a plethora of food options—with tons to choose from in terms of both cuisine and atmosphere—but also easy access with many establishments easily walkable from campus. So, whether you’re in town scouting out the college scene or returning for the fall semester, be sure to check out these delicious dining options we’ve found near the University of Louisville.
The Comfy Cow
339 W Cardinal Blvd, Louisville, KY 40208-1822
(502)-409-5090
When looking for an ideal place to start your culinary walk-about, we thought why not switch it up and have dessert first? The Comfy Cow is known as one of the best ice cream spots in the city. They offer originals like Bourbon Ball (Old Forester bourbon ice cream, homemade bourbon ball candy pieces and chocolate chips) and well-loved classics like Minty Chocolate Chippy. Set up around three pillars—the best ingredients, the home away from home and the local ice cream shop—you’ll be sure to find top-notch ice cream, atmosphere and service here.
Insomnia Cookies
1913 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40208-1814
(407)-512-9237
Still looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth? We have just the spot, Insomnia Cookies. Started in a dorm room, the franchise cookie machine is now one of the best-known late-night (or anytime) treats among college students nationwide. With a mantra of, “Life is short. Eat a cookie,” it’s no wonder the team of insomniacs serve up warm, gooey goodness like Double Chocolate Mint and Vegan Birthday Cake cookies anytime and anywhere. That’s right, walk in or order out and still enjoy the comfort of fresh baked cookies. Go ahead and treat yourself.
MT Fuji Japanese Cuisine
309 W Cardinal Blvd, Louisville, KY 40208
(502)-637-5887
If you’re looking for a budget-conscious taste of Japan, MT Fuji is your U of L restaurant of choice. Fresh, fast and flavorful dishes highlighting Japanese cuisine—from sushi to hibachi—are what make up the menu. And, sticking to the “classics” keeps the menu focused and tasty. Think California Rolls, Shrimp Tempura and Spicy Tuna, or Chicken and Steak Hibachi. Conveniently located on campus, this is a sure bet for an affordable quick bite that far surpasses “fast food.”
Buck’s Restaurant & Bar
425 W Ormsby Ave, Louisville, KY 40203
(502)-637-5284
Jumping to the fine-dinging scene, Buck’s is among the best in Louisville and is just over a mile from campus. Nestled in historic Old Louisville, Buck’s Restaurant & Bar was created to make special memories with its historic atmosphere that features mismatched fine China, twinkling candles, white lights and a continental menu. Celebrate graduation with a menu of Oysters Rockefeller and Fried Chicken Livers, followed by Roasted Beet and Mini Pear Salad or Tomato Blue Cheese Bisque. Seared Snapper, Beef Short Rib Wellington, and Prosciutto Wrapped Lamb are just a few of the menu highlights. Serving lunch and dinner, Buck’s is a meal to be remembered.
Old Louisville Tavern
1532 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40208
(502)-637-4200
Craving a good-old American Pub? Old Louisville Tavern is pouring pints, screening the big game, providing lively entertainment and offering up hand-made scratch bar food every day of the week. And, with a motto of “great food done right,” you know the kitchen won’t disappoint—even if the night’s karaoke lineup does. The Tavern offers a mouth-watering lineup of the American favorites, including the Knocker Burger, served in-house since 1933; ½-pound burger with lettuce, tomato, onions, pickle and mayo with choice of cheese. Some of our other favorites include the Spicy Chipotle Burger or Terrell’s Turkey Burger. Featuring daily drink specials, a large lineup of appetizers, sandwiches and entrees, and even a kid’s menu, Old Louisville Tavern is a U of L establishment for a reason.
Quills
802 E. Main St, Louisville, KY 40206
(502)-473-1431
Every University needs a good coffee shop, and Quills is just that for U of L students and professors, alike. Quills was founded in 2007 as a space to enjoy good coffee, conversation and creativity. Featuring coffees and teas of nearly all varieties, a few standouts include the Alchemist, a latte with mocha, cinnamon and cayenne, Chai Lattes, and their Mystic Coffee Soda. So, whether you need a morning or midday pick-me-up, or just an intimate meeting place for new friends, Quills is your neighborhood coffee shop.
El Molcajete
2932 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40208
(502) 638-0300
Often called the best Mexican food in Louisville, El Molcajete is only half a mile from U of L and offers fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine to Louisville locals. Fresh guacamole and pico pique are the way to start, leading to classics like Menudo and Fajitas and entrees including Carne Asada, Carnitas, Guisado de Res, Ceviche and a variety of tacos. Fair prices, a relaxed atmosphere and bold flavors are what keep students and staff regular patrons, and tourists lifetime fans.
J. Graham’s Cafe
335 W Broadway The Brown Hotel, Louisville, KY 40202
(502)-583-1234
Potentially saving the best for last, J. Graham’s has been the talk of Louisville for generations. It is the home of the “The Hot Brown,” a world-famous dish created here in 1926—consisting of an open-faced hot turkey sandwich with tomatoes, cheese and bacon—and still a favorite today. Serving up breakfast, lunch and brunch only, J. Graham’s features several other sandwiches salads and specialty cocktails, including the Bourbon Barbecued Pork Loin Sandwich, Toasted Brioche BLT, Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad, Mixed Berry Salad and The Ali’s Smash (knob creek bourbon, mint, lemon, pama liqueur). It also offers a gourmet lunch buffet, setting out chef specialty salads and antipastos, seasonal fruit, daily soups, fresh bread and daily entrée specials. Located in historic Brown Hotel, J. Graham’s is a midday delicacy not to be missed!
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