Best Contemporary American Restaurants in East Market St - NuLu

23 restaurants available nearby

1. The Last Refuge

4.5

Awesome(64)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • West Louisville

Booked 5 times today

Step into The Last Refuge in West Louisville, Kentucky, and experience a bar and lounge atmosphere like no other. Housed in a historic church, this establishment boasts a breathtaking setting complete with original stained-glass windows and intricate woodwork from 1880. The bar is a true highlight, featuring an impressive 800-bottle whiskey portfolio that showcases Kentucky's rich bourbon heritage. Patrons rave about the "meticulously crafted cocktails" and the "Heaven's Door Bourbon," which add to the authentic experience. The outdoor patio and live music create a perfect backdrop for enjoying innovative drinks like the "Golden Clovis" and classics with a twist. Whether you're a bourbon aficionado or a cocktail enthusiast, The Last Refuge delivers an unforgettable experience with every sip.

2. Swizzle

4.5

Awesome(2111)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 30 times today

Swizzle, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Louisville, is a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts. Celebrated for its "sexy, swanky" ambiance and panoramic river views, Swizzle elevates the cocktail bar experience. Guests rave about the "retro tone" of the drink menu, which features meticulously crafted classic cocktails and seasonal specialties. The Swizzle Big Bar area is a social hotspot, offering enticing happy hour specials and delightful bar bites. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the drinks, like the "spot on" smoky Old Fashioned and the refreshing Sting Like a Bee. With such endorsements and its superb setting, Swizzle is a must-visit for an authentic and memorable cocktail experience in Louisville.

3. Proof on Main

4.5

Awesome(3738)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 22 times today

The ingredients in our menus reflect the region’s sustainable farmers and producers with a soulful and honest approach showcasing the bounty of the Ohio River Valley. Housed in five historic buildings in downtown Louisville, Proof on Main is part of 21c Museum Hotels, the award-winning boutique hotel and restaurant group. The dining room is one of the most striking public spaces in the city, with rotating, contemporary art exhibitions by local and internationally-acclaimed artists alike.

4. Varanese

4.7

Exceptional(4609)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Frankfort Ave - Crescent Hill

Booked 12 times today

Varanese, nestled on Frankfort Ave in Louisville's vibrant Crescent Hill, is celebrated for its exceptional Steak cuisine. This gem offers an eclectic menu that shines with its signature steak dishes, expertly crafted to satisfy the most discerning palates. Diners consistently rave about the quality and flavor of the steak, describing it as "always good" and highlighting it as a standout. One glowing review shares that "the flat iron steak was excellent," underscoring the culinary prowess that Varanese brings to its steak offerings. With its commitment to fresh ingredients and creative flair, Varanese not only promises but delivers an extraordinary dining experience where the steak is not just a meal but a memorable event. The inviting atmosphere, complete with live music and a modern American ambiance, makes each visit uniquely delightful.

A photo of Lobby Bar & Grill at the Brown Hotel restaurant

5. Lobby Bar & Grill at the Brown Hotel

4.6

Exceptional(1080)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 3 times today

Come enjoy the historic lobby of The Brown Hotel in our Lobby Bar and Grill. Contemporary cuisine meets historic opulence at The Brown Hotel’s spectacularly beautiful, and classic lobby setting. A popular spot for the next generation of Louisville merrymakers, this glamorous, gilded space balances its history with modern touches and sophisticated tastes. Our menu includes a mix of classic and contemporary dishes, but our signature Hot Brown is rated as Kentucky's most popular dish. Enjoy our Hot Brown, and other signature items with a classic Old Fashion. Our bar features well-crafted cocktails and an highly rated bourbon menu. Finish your experience with Louisville's original dessert, the Derby pie. Reservations are for the Lobby Bar and Grill.

6. J Graham's Cafe

4.7

Exceptional(1220)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 7 times today

J. Graham's is the home of the legendary Hot Brown and offers guests bistro-style, casual dining in the hotel and features the freshest local produce and highlights Kentucky products. Serving breakfast and lunch, the Café offers guests a contemporary a la carte menu throughout the week and a delectable brunch buffet on the weekends. Non-smoking. Parking: Self Parking in the connected, city garage. Valet parking by the Brown Hotel staff.

7. The Fat Lamb

4.6

Exceptional(1238)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Highlands - Bardstown Rd / Taylorsville Rd

Booked 9 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Highlands of Louisville, The Fat Lamb stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful Mediterranean twist. Lauded for its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, this restaurant, under the stewardship of Chef Dallas McGarity, presents a menu that sings with creativity and flavor. Diners rave about dishes like the "mouth melting" short rib and the "succulent" scallops, emphasizing the skillful fusion of Southern charm with Mediterranean zest. The atmosphere is described as "cozy and welcoming," perfect for any dining occasion. With glowing reviews like "one of the best meals since moving from Dallas to Knoxville," and accolades such as being a 2024 semifinalist for a James Beard Award, The Fat Lamb is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience in Louisville.

A photo of 211 Clover Lane Restaurant restaurant

8. 211 Clover Lane Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(1168)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • St Matthews

Booked 13 times today

Nestled in the vibrant St. Matthews neighborhood of Louisville, 211 Clover Lane Restaurant offers a quintessential American dining experience that is both intimate and exquisite. Celebrated for its use of the finest local ingredients and fresh seafood from both coasts, the restaurant provides a menu that changes weekly, ensuring each visit is uniquely delightful. Patrons rave about the "exceptional trout," calling it "the best in Louisville," and commend the "superb service" that enhances each dining experience. The charming French country decor and the idyllic patio setting make 211 Clover Lane a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic and high-quality American meal. This hidden gem is consistently praised for creating memorable moments, whether it's a quiet brunch or a special celebratory dinner.

A photo of Beyond the Sun Restaurant restaurant

9. Beyond the Sun Restaurant

4.1

Excellent(140)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Highlands - Bardstown Rd / Taylorsville Rd

Booked 14 times today

Discover the culinary delights of Beyond the Sun Restaurant, nestled in the vibrant Highlands area of Louisville. This dining gem offers a captivating menu that truly embodies the essence of Global, International cuisine. From succulent steaks and creamy fettuccine to fresh seafood and delightful bar food upstairs, every dish is crafted to perfection. Guests rave about the restaurant’s "amazing service" and the "delicious" food, highlighting the fusion of flavors that cater to every palate. Whether it's the live jazz atmosphere or the extensive selection of bourbon and tequila, Beyond the Sun promises a dining experience that is both "exceptional" and "totally worth visiting." Indulge in a world-class meal where the "food choices were plenty" and each visit feels like a special occasion.

A photo of River House Restaurant & Raw Bar restaurant

10. River House Restaurant & Raw Bar

4.7

Exceptional(7355)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 26 times today

River House Restaurant & Raw Bar in downtown Louisville is a beacon for those seeking top-notch Contemporary American cuisine with a Southern twist. Nestled along the scenic Ohio River, this establishment stands out for its fresh seafood and regional dishes, masterfully crafted by the visionary Chef John Varanese. Diners rave about the "outstanding" food, such as the Maker’s Mark Bourbon Barrel Smoked Salmon and Grilled Oysters on the Half Shell, which showcase the restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity. With its "charming home-like atmosphere" and a raw bar that boasts "the best seafood in Louisville," River House provides a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Guests consistently praise the attentive service and the "beautiful views," making it a must-visit destination for anyone craving a true taste of Contemporary American excellence.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Suevip
Central Kentucky •19 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Varanese never disappoints. One of my favs!!! The music is just an added bonus
More info
VaranesePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Frankfort Ave - Crescent Hill
•
4.7
J
Joelvip
Central Kentucky •29 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
A first class experience in the historic Brown Hotel. The food was excellent all the way from the Burger to the sea scallops. The service was great and very responsive to our needs. We had a wonderful dining experience and would go back again.
More info
Lobby Bar & Grill at the Brown HotelPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Louisville
•
4.6
T
Tomvip
San Francisco Bay Area •58 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Our first time there. The staff could not have been nicer. Pizza excellent...Drinks perfect. Highly recommend.
More info
The Last RefugePrice: Expensive• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service• West Louisville
•
4.5
D
Dana
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
What a WOW view from one of the rotating dining rooms! We thoroughly enjoyed splurging for our anniversary dinner at Swizzle. The calamari appetizer was excellent, as was the wedge salad which they kindly split for us. And basket of warm bread - yum! My husband now lists their Tomahawk Pork Chop in his top ten - super tender, perfectly cooked. I had the scallops - also perfectly cooked with the grits, peas, and fried onions accompaniments - wonderful. Considering it was a super busy night at the restaurant, we felt very well taken care of by the wait staff. Also, if you aren't staying at the hotel or Ubering, use the restaurant valet for $10.00. A great deal for parking, and our car was waiting for us at the curb when we were done with dinner.
More info
SwizzlePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Louisville
•
4.5
J
Joshua
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 19, 2024
What a menu! Make sure to start with the amuse bouche, the mini arancini was perfect. The mushrooms appetizer is unlike any I've had; warm, cold, crispy, umami, tangy, creamy. The trout was warm and briney but offset by a beautiful char on the skin. Fantastic dining experience, exceptional vibes. Can't wait to come back next time I'm in Lousiville.
More info
Proof on MainPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Louisville
•
4.5

Explore OpenTable

East Market St - NuLu

Contemporary american

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in East Market St - NuLu

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Accessibility

23 restaurants available nearby

1. The Last Refuge

2. Swizzle

3. Proof on Main

4. Varanese

5. Lobby Bar & Grill at the Brown Hotel

6. J Graham's Cafe

7. The Fat Lamb

8. 211 Clover Lane Restaurant

9. Beyond the Sun Restaurant

10. River House Restaurant & Raw Bar

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable