Unmissable Louisville Restaurants Right on the Water
When you find yourself in Louisville, Kentucky, your backyard can include the Ohio River! Restaurants along the water provide great views and tranquil settings, perfect for outdoor dining or peering out at the water from a beautiful window. Whether you are in the mood for seafood or something else entirely, we’ve found a few restaurants on the water that are total winners in our book.
KingFish
3021 River Rd, Louisville, KY 40207
(502) 895-0544
When you’re dining on the water, you should plan to try at least some seafood. And what better place than KingFish? This has been a longtime staple of Louisville with traditional fried fish on the menu. The patio offers unobstructed views of the water, though you can also choose to dine in the casual dining room. The restaurant is family-friendly, and there’s even a menu featuring popcorn shrimp and more for the kids.
Captains Quarters Riverside Grille
5700 Captains Quarters Rd, Prospect, KY 40059
(502) 228-1651
Captain’s Quarters is a classy spot where you can find some incredible views of the Ohio River. The multilevel terrace ensures that everyone gets a view. As for the food, it’s American fare ranging from shrimp & grits to smoked brisket. You’ll also find a Kentucky Hot Brown on the menu and trust us when we say it’s a must-try. Specialty cocktails will also keep you well-hydrated as you sit back and relax. Both inside or outside, but on a nice day, we recommend outdoor seating.
River House
3015 River Rd, Louisville, KY 40207
(502) 897-5000
The River House is a restaurant and raw bar with a rustic atmosphere. You’ll have the option of eating inside or on the riverside patio. You can explore elevated American fare that includes such favorites as the crab tower, po’boys, and slow-braised beef short rib. The bar offers a bit of everything including signature Old Fashioned and Manhattan cocktails as well as frozen and blended drinks. Be sure you save room for the bourbon and white chocolate bread pudding.
Levee Bourbon Lounge
3015 River Rd b, Louisville, KY 40207
(502) 482-5383
The Levee Bourbon Lounge is inside the River House, but we’ll tell you why it’s different. First of all, you’ll find that the space has high ceilings and its own vibe. Eat on the patio where you can enjoy views of the river along with firepits in the winter. There’s live music, and the lounge has its own menu. Enjoy bourbon-based cocktails along with small plates that will introduce you to some elevated southern flavors.
Hammerheads
921 Swan St, Louisville, KY 40204
(502) 365-1112
So, Hammerheads isn’t on the Ohio River, but it is on the South Fork Beargrass Creek, which means you’ll have a view of water as you dine. It’s a tiny but mighty location, especially as you explore some of their specialties. We highly recommend the duck-fat fries. Sit inside or outside, and you’ll be treated to some down-home service. There’s a large selection of beers on tap. Relax and see what they have on the menu. It’s casual and tastes like the classic southern food you’d expect.
Against the Grain Brewery & Smokehouse
401 E Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 515-0174
Technically, Against the Grain Brewery is a few blocks off from the water. However, once you’re done checking out the view, you can head to Louisville Slugger Field. The BBQ and beer served here will be well worth the walk. The interior is casual with a view of how the beer is made. The outside has picnic tables so that you can soak up all of the sights and sounds of Louisville. The beer menu is always changing, so you can try something new with each visit. And every Sunday, you can test out the brunch menu.
Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar
127 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 587-1626
You can count on a large selection of Southern classics when you dine at Doc Crow’s. The water provides a nice view, and many choose to walk down to the riverbank after a meal. You can explore roasted chicken, catfish, and some of the best raw oysters you’ll ever have. The location is old and spacious, offering character everywhere you look. The full bar offers a little of everything, but one glance at the menu will tell you that they love their bourbon. We love that they help to guide us toward the right one, too.
Swizzle Dinner & Drinks
140 N Fourth St 25th floor, Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 252-2500
Swizzle is definitely where you go if you want an incredible view of the Ohio River. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or not, the upscale location will have plenty to offer. The supper club-style venue offers steaks, salads, and even a carnivore platter. They feature a comprehensive wine and cocktail menu, and don’t forget to check out some of the featured cocktails of the season. Oh, and did we mention the floors revolve so that you get an ever-changing view?
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