Louisville, Kentucky, is said to be the world’s bourbon capital, but it is also home to dozens of Black-owned restaurants and businesses that have been thriving for decades. From grilled delights, barbecue, and smoked meats to delicious desserts, soul food, and African cuisine, Louisville has it all. If you are heading that way soon, here are 10 Black-owned restaurants for travelers to check out the next time they’re in Louisville.
Barry’s Cheesesteaks
Owner Barry Washington is all about providing great food while also spreading the gospel of Jesus. The cheesesteak connoisseur led a difficult life prior to entering the culinary industry. He struggled with addiction and turned to a life of crime to support his habit. Years later, Barry turned his life around and opened his restaurant in Louisville. His cheesesteaks are rumored to be just as good as those in Philly, and he aims to share a lot of love with every bite. The restaurant also has vegetarian options to accommodate every type of Philly lover.
- Location: Valley Station
- Type of Cuisine: American
- Menu Spotlight: Big Barry Cheesesteak
- Before You Go: In 2023, Barry’s Cheesesteak opened a location inside the L&N Stadium for folks to eat well during every game.
Boujie Biscuit
Located at 1813 Frankfort Avenue, this casual breakfast and brunch spot makes some of Louisville’s best biscuit creations. Owner Cydni grew up in Brooklyn and was inspired by the melting pot of cultures she was raised around. No matter where she went or who she met, comfort food felt the same in every culture. So she decided to throw it on a made-from-scratch biscuit to share with everyone who entered Boujie Biscuit. Try special biscuits like the Jamaican curry biscuit or the maple bacon biscuit.
- Location: Owensboro
- Type of Cuisine: Southern
- Menu Spotlight: The Dirty Chicken
- Before You Go: Boujie Biscuit is also available for delivery for tourists in the Louisville area.
Kizito Cookies
Elizabeth Kizito came to the U.S. from Uganda in 1975. Once stateside, she started selling artwork her family would send her at local markets. Eventually, she found her love for baking, and the rest is history. In addition to her specially made cookies, she also bakes brownies, muffins, and biscotti. Kizito Cookies is a taste of African sweetness right in Louisville. The flavors are inspired by years of cuisine techniques Kizito brought with her from her homeland.
- Location: Louisville
- Type of Cuisine: Bakery
- Menu Spotlight: Pumpkin Raisin Cookie
- Before You Go: Travelers can also find Kizito Cookies in many retail stores in Louisville.
Mack Bros BBQ
This family-owned and operated BBQ spot cooks up dishes like ribs, chicken, and more. A fan favorite is their cornbread salad. However, there’s plenty more barbecue goodness to go around at Mack Bros. The restaurant prides itself on having juicy, tender meat that falls off the bone. Travelers can find this Black-owned restaurant in Louisville at 2700 Rockford Lane.
- Location: Louisville
- Type of Cuisine: Barbecue
- Menu Spotlight: Rib Tip Dinner
- Before You Go: Check out Mack Bros BBQ’s Facebook page for the most updated information on the restaurant and menu items.
Dasha Barbours Southern Bistro
If you’re in need of a soul food fix, Dasha Barbours Southern Bistro is your place. The restaurant serves elevated soul food with its own signature twist. Travelers will find all their southern favorites at Dasha Barbours in a relaxing atmosphere that drives people to visit each time they’re in town. Not only are they doing soul food the right way, but the chefs at Dasha Barbours also have many American dishes infused with a soulful flair.
- Location: Downtown Louisville
- Type of Cuisine: Southern
- Menu Spotlight: Fried Green Tomatoes
- Before You Go: Dasha Barbours has an incredible brunch menu on Friday and Saturday afternoons.
Blondie And Jim’s Bistro
Online reviewers have much to say about Blondie And Jim’s Bistro in Norton Commons. Travelers and guests love the ambiance and broad menu, which includes a little bit of everything. Menu items lean heavily toward American cuisine with a bit of soul food and Creole flair. The restaurant always has a special on the menu and invites guests to experience their spin on elevated soul food. Blondie And Jim’s is the epitome of Southern gourmet and a must-try when visiting Louisville.
- Location: Norton Commons
- Type of Cuisine: Bistro
- Menu Spotlight: Jim’s Southern Pot Roast
- Before You Go: Blondie’s & Jim’s Bistro has an all-day Happy Hour every Friday.
The House Of Marigold
The culinary vision of husband-and-wife duo Kris and Adrienne, The House of Marigold, is quite an experience. The restaurant is classy and elegant, with a sophisticated vibe and neatly curated menu. Travelers can enjoy their elevated brunch menu featuring Challah French Toast and Peaches And Cream Waffles, or grab a few small plates to share at the table. For dessert, The House of Marigold has you covered with a specialty pop tart, banana pudding, and so much more.
- Location: Louisville
- Type of Cuisine: American
- Menu Spotlight: Marigold Biscuits
- Before You Go: To ensure you get a table, make a reservation at the House of Marigold before your visit.
Cherry Pickin’ Juicery And Goods
If you’re looking for a smoothie or healthy food options while visiting Louisville, swing through Cherry Pickin’ Juicery & Goods. Not only do they have smoothies, but the restaurant is serving up delicious, fresh juices, acai bowls, and more. The owners went above and beyond to ensure consumers had access to high-quality, tasty juices that are more than just a basic beverage. The juice bar is the go-to place for healthy drinks and eats in Louisville.
- Location: Main Street
- Type of Cuisine: Juices, Smoothies, & Acai Bowls
- Menu Spotlight: Gold Medalist
- Before You Go: Cherry Pickin’ takes health to a new level by incorporating herbs and adaptogens into their beverage for even more wellness.
The Black Italian
Authentic Italian soul cuisine is exactly what guests can expect when they visit the Black Italian in Louisville. The Black-owned restaurant puts its own spin on Italian cuisine, merging elements from southern soul food with the Amalfi Coast’s finest. Another restaurant created by a husband-and-wife duo, the Black Italian is a real treat with a unique menu and recipes rooted in love. Travelers can expect a variety of pasta, sandwiches, and salads at this Black-owned eatery.
- Location: Louisville
- Type of Cuisine: Italian
- Menu Spotlight: Creamy Garlic Formaggio Pasta
- Before You Go: Be sure to check the restaurant website for adjusted hours of operation.
Georgia’s Sweet Potato Pie Co.
Georgia’s Sweet Potato Pie Co. is baking pies with purpose in Louisville. The company was created not only to share delicious baked goods but also to empower and serve the community. Travelers can grab a variety of sweet potato pies and baked goods at Georgia’s. However, the purchases help support the community, provide books for children in underserved communities, and add to their legacy of connecting people through desserts.
- Location: Bardstown Road
- Type of Cuisine: Desserts
- Menu Spotlight: Sweet Potato Pie Cheesecake
- Before You Go: Georgia’s is open Thursday through Sunday for travelers to grab delicious baked treats.
From the Kentucky Derby to being the home of Muhammad Ali, Louisville is a major piece of America’s history. Now, these Black-owned restaurants are adding more flavor to the city with special ingredients only the culture can provide.
