Yelp’s Top 25 Places to Eat is a list unlike any other “best of” out there. Sure, you’ll see your obvious local favorites on the list, but it’s also chock full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path joints like The Table tucked away in the Portland neighborhood. From fine dining to Korean taco food trucks — find them all in Yelp’s Top 25 Places to Eat in Louisville.
Did your favorite restaurant make it into the top 25? Let us know on Twitter and Instagram. Remember, we only know how good a spot is if you take the time to review it. So share your thoughts on Yelp, and maybe your favorites will be on next year’s list!
Topping this year’s best eats list is Yummy Pollo, a Peruvian-style charcoal chicken joint with southern flair and mouth-watering sides.
Pro tip: You’re going to want to make a note of these spots, so we made it easy for you. For great businesses at your fingertips, get the Top 25 to-go. Follow this collection on Yelp.
- Yummy Pollo (Watterson Park)
Cuisine: Peruvian / Latin American / American (New)
What they’re known for: Peruvian style charcoal fired rotisserie chicken, delicious side dishes, and very friendly service.
Yelpers say: “This is an outstanding place to eat. I am amazed how for about $10 you can get a whole small chicken with sides for lunch or dinner. It is so fresh and high quality that it ought to cost more, but they must be committed to affordability as well. I could eat this food everyday because it is also healthy.” – Joseph A.
2. The Charcoal Restaurant (Middletown)
Cuisine: Mediterranean
What they’re known for: The Charcoal Kitchen brings you an authentic Mediterranean
charcoal chicken served with a staple garlic sauce, many sides, refreshing beverages, as well as falafel and chicken shawarma.
Yelpers say: “One of the best seasoned shawarmas I’ve ever tasted. The rice or fries are an amazing pair. Rich in taste and spices. The Zu sauce is a must! If you enjoy a little kick with your food I highly recommend the Zu sauce.” – Joel V.
3. Copper & Kings Distillery (Butchertown)
Cuisine: American (New)
What they’re known for: The menu is driven by Kentucky, seasonally available fare, and being paired with their finely distilled American Brandy.
Yelpers say: “I was very impressed with the food and even more impressed with my drink. The hostess and bartender we more than helpful. We will definitely be back, this time with friends so that they can experience the wonderful staff and the tour along with the building and grounds.” – Mike K.
4. The Table (Portland)
Cuisine: American (Traditional) / American (New) / Sandwiches
What they’re known for: Everyone has a seat at The Table – a non-profit, social entrepreneurship that serves locally grown, fresh food and operates under a pay-what-you-can model. They value a place where everyone is welcome and provide creative payment solutions for all.
Yelpers say: “I’m not exaggerating when I say that this was one of the best meals I have EVER had. The staff was kind and welcoming beyond belief. The food was absolutely Incredible. And I love the purpose behind this place too. This is seriously the coolest restaurant. I’ll absolutely be back!” – Kailey M.
5. Alchemy Bakery & Store (Prospect)
Cuisine: Venezuelan
What they’re known for: This Venezuelan/Latin fusion e-commerce restaurant, food truck, and food store that serves delicious dishes, such as mouth-watering empanadas and delightful desserts.
Yelpers say: “I can’t seem to stop ordering the steak bowl – the black beans are cooked to perfection, with a really thick bean broth encasing them, and the steak itself is so tender and flavorful. Love to see this family business adapting and thriving.” – Yelp Elite Farrah D.
6. Maira Mediterranean Grill (Algonquin)
7. Mayan Cafe (Clifton Heights)
8. Mexico Lindo (Clarksville)
9. Con Huevos (Clifton Heights)
10. Kathmandu Kitchen & Bar (Buechel)
11. Taco Choza (Louisville)
12. McKinley’s Cafe (Shelbyville)
13. Cravings Byanca (Crestwood)
14. La Bodeguita de Mima (NuLu)
15. Louisville Cream (NuLu)
16. Panchitos Ice Cream (Highlands-Douglass)
17. Dairy Kastle (Schnitzelburg)
18. The Traveling Kitchen (Louisville)
19. JW Cafe & Bakery (Middletown)
20. Safai Coffee (Highlands)
21. Taco Luchador (Original Highlands)
22. Safier Mediterranean Deli (Downtown)
23. El Taco Loco (Preston)
24. District 6 (St. Matthews)
25. Old School NY Pizza (Middletown)
Methodology: This is an all-time list of the Top Places to Eat in the Louisville area according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the restaurant category on Yelp, then ranked those spots using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews. This list looked at businesses in and around the Louisville area. All businesses were marked open on Yelp as of July 1, 2022. When available, all businesses on this list have a passing health score as of July 1, 2022.
