North of Bourbon
About This Spot
Stepping into North of Bourbon feels like discovering a well-kept secret nestled comfortably in the heart of Louisville’s north end. There’s a gentle hum of conversation beneath the soft clink of glassware, a rhythm that invites you to settle in and savor the moment without rush. This spot strikes a unique balance—a quietly stylish cocktail bar with the warmth and ease of a beloved neighborhood haunt.
The atmosphere leans into Southern charm with a modern twist, where exposed brick and wooden accents create an inviting backdrop for gatherings both intimate and lively. Whether you’re easing in for a carefully crafted whiskey flight or sharing plates that draw from bold, familiar flavors reimagined, the pace here encourages lingering, connection, and thoughtful indulgence.
At North of Bourbon, the menu feels like a conversation—each cocktail and plate made with a sense of history and heart. From oysters complimenting the sparkle of champagne to inventive spins on classics like the Old Fashioned or Sazerac, every sip and bite hints at both tradition and adventure. The food, ranging from hearty shrimp and grits to playful catfish nuggets and boiled peanuts, encourages sharing and discovery, echoing the convivial spirit that fills the room.
What stands out beyond the menu is the genuine care woven into the experience. Staff know their craft and the stories behind the drinks, making recommendations that feel personal rather than rehearsed. The familiar faces behind the bar and servers who move attentively through the space create a quiet sense of belonging, whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply pausing to enjoy good company and well-made cocktails.
In all, North of Bourbon offers more than just a meal or drink—it extends an invitation to explore Louisville’s flavors and stories in a setting that is both comfortable and spirited, a place that feels like it could become your own neighborhood’s best-kept secret.
What’s Available Here
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Fast service
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Great cocktails
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Great dessert
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Serves local specialty
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Wheelchair-accessible toilet
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Alcohol
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Beer
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Cocktails
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Happy-hour food
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Organic dishes
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Small plates
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Spirits
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Vegan options
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Vegetarian options
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Wine
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Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Bar on site
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Toilet
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Wi-Fi
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Wi-Fi
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Cosy
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Quiet
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Romantic
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Trendy
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Upmarket
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Tourists
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Brunch reservations recommended
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Dinner reservations recommended
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Free of charge street parking
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Dogs allowed outside
Location & Hours
| Monday | Closed | |
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM | |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM | |
| Friday | 11:30 AM - 12:00 AM | |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday | 11:30 AM - 12:00 AM | |
| Sunday | Closed |
Len Curry 27 Dec 2025
What an incredible experience at North of Bourbon! We were in town for a friend’s birthday and couldn’t have picked a better spot. The service was outstanding—friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable—and the drinks were expertly crafted, perfectly complementing the meal. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, and every single one was exceptional. The Oysters & Champagne were fresh, bright, and beautifully presented—a perfect start to the evening. The Pork Boudin Balls were rich and flavorful, with the creole mustard aioli and spicy pickles adding the ideal balance of heat and tang. The Hams of the South platter was a true highlight, showcasing an incredible variety of regional country hams—Dakota, Newsoms, Edward, Broadbent, and Benton’s—each paired perfectly with the red eye aioli, pepper jelly, and house pickles. The Peppered Catfish Nuggets were a fun and delicious surprise—crispy, tender, and elevated by the house tiger sauce and creole aioli. The Fried Chicken Gumbo was comfort food perfection—deep, rich chocolate roux, tender chicken, and the perfect amount of spice and okra. The Beef Yakamein was another standout—tender chuck roast, hearty broth, and a soft egg that tied it all together. Rounding things out, the Potato Wedges with Duke’s Mayo and the Collard Greens were the ultimate Southern sides—simple, flavorful, and beautifully executed. Everything we tried was packed with flavor and crafted with care. The atmosphere was lively yet intimate, making it the perfect place to celebrate or just enjoy an exceptional meal. Highly recommend North of Bourbon
Isabella Taylor 22 Dec 2025
BEST MEAL EVER! Seriously, I like to think I’m a pretty experienced diner, I came here with two other people and they both agreed some of the best bites ever! Service was great, we got soooo much food and no crumbs left behind. Host was amazing, server Frankie was great, drinks were poppin, we were sitting at the table already planning our next trip in, we had the catfish, ceviche, pork boudin balls, crab rice dressing, seafood scampi, and gumbo, putting duck in gumbo you know it’s gonna be amazing, I can’t wait to come back and have the cornbread dessert while they’ve still got it. My mouth is watering writing this, just go there. Thank me later.
Randi Ragan 14 Dec 2025
We bring our providers here for lunch, the location works for us and it’s one of the only nice sit down restaurants in the area, a little speak easy style place to eat or drink. They have giant bourbon barrels to sit in. Pretty cool little spot. We always have great service and have never had a dish we didn’t enjoy!
Justin K 17 Nov 2025
First time to Louisville. We had to book this place 2 weeks in advance. I feel like this is more of an avant garde style of Southern food. I really enjoyed the many selections of whiskey flights. Duck gumbo was definitely “different” than the usual Southern gumbo you would get. The jalapeño poppers were delicious. So were the catfish nuggets.
Olivia Yang 27 Oct 2025
My partner and I had an incredible experience at North of Bourbon and will certainly be returning for this week’s specials! Our bartender/waiter Jack was incredibly well-informed and warm, even giving us recommendations for bourbon & activities around the city. We began with a fantastic espresso martini drink made with Wild Turkey Bourbon and the crispiest pork boudin balls. We were so impressed by the delightful texture and flavor of the pork balls. We followed with my personal favorite, the juicy & delicious catfish nuggets, which Jack had recommended. They are flown in from Louisiana and incredibly fresh and juicy. Next was the perfectly grilled hamachi collar (my partner’s favorite) and finally, the aromatic seafood couvillion. We enjoyed 4 incredible sweet potato calas as a dessert, that were at once simple, homey, comforting, and absolutely delicious. The experience was a cultural masterclass, and Jack was gracious enough to discuss the restaurant’s culinary choices. We live in NYC and were blown away by the hospitality, warmth, and absolute culinary skill of this establishment! Thank you Jack and the NoB team! We recommend wholeheartedly!
David B 18 Oct 2025
Amazing food, cocktails, and service! I tried as many dishes as I could, and every single one was absolutely delicious. The décor is also unique and adds to the whole experience.
Dawn di Lorenzo 14 Oct 2025
Absolutely PHENOMENAL! We could move from GA to Louisville just to eat here regularly! Order the Peppered catfish bites for sure. Yet anything you order is perfect! Cocktails included. Service wonderful and what a cool interior! Boiled Cajun peanuts as a treat while you wait!