In the heart of Louisville, NuLu (short for “New Louisville”) is a buzzing neighborhood known for its vibrant art scene, shops and the city’s best bars & restaurants. Whether just for a weekend or an extended stay, you’ll love being in one of Louisville’s most vibrant districts.
A vibrant local jazz & cocktail bar reborn inside Hotel Genevieve, Jimmy Can’t Dance brings back the magic of live, unfiltered jazz. With just 50 seats, a vintage vibe, and no mics or amps, it’s all about the music and the moment. Sip on a classic cocktail and enjoy one of the city’s most atmospheric nightspots. Ideal for jazz lovers and cocktail connoisseurs alike.
Located in the same building as The Duke, this cozy café has a retro vibe and sweet vinyl collection, home to what many call the best chocolate chip cookie in Kentucky. Pair it with a great cup of coffee and you’ve got the perfect way to start your day. Pro tip: ask them to warm up your cookie—it’s a game changer.
Tucked away in NuLu, Corridor Bar offers a cozy yet elevated drinking experience with Cuban cigar lounge charm and a top-tier cocktail menu. The oak-wrapped bar, warm lighting, and eclectic vibe make it the perfect nightcap spot. Expect great conversation, expertly crafted drinks, and a relaxed, welcoming energy that is the epitome of a NuLu neighborhood bar.
This casual fried chicken joint brings the heat with flavor-packed chicken in varying spice levels. Add crispy sides like mac & cheese or potato wedges, and you’ve got a comfort food experience worth the wait. Indoor and patio seating available.
Set in a renovated garage, Garage Bar serves up craft cocktails, local beers, and wood-fired eats in a laid-back, industrial setting. Its spacious patio and exposed brick interiors make it a go-to for casual drinks, dinner, or weekend hangouts. Seasonal specials and a vibrant crowd keep things interesting all year round.
Small-batch, big flavor—Louisville Cream is a modern ice cream shop crafting inventive flavors with locally sourced ingredients. With vegan and seasonal options, sundaes, and baked goods, it’s a sweet stop worth making (and repeating).
Serving some of Louisville’s most loved burgers, Grind combines high-quality ingredients with bold flavors and simple, well-executed sides (don’t skip the Brussels sprouts). It’s a must-visit for burger fans looking for casual vibes and serious flavor.
Step into Havana at this Cuban gem in NuLu. With vibrant décor, live music, and classic dishes like ropa vieja and Cuban sandwiches, La Bodeguita de Mima is a full cultural experience. Don’t miss the mojitos, salsa beats, and vintage charm—it’s a slice of Cuba in the heart of Louisville.
Bringing bold Southern flavors to brunch, Biscuit Belly is known for its legendary biscuit sandwiches, fresh ingredients, and welcoming hospitality. Located in a restored historic space, it’s the perfect spot to start your day with a hearty (and Instagram-worthy) breakfast in NuLu.
For cheese and wine lovers, Cultured is a dream. Build your perfect board with a selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and curated pairings. The sleek interior, helpful staff, and cozy vibe make it perfect for a date night or a chill evening with friends.
Smoky, savory, and satisfying—Feast BBQ delivers all the BBQ classics with serious flavor. From tender brisket to bourbon baked beans, this casual joint serves up southern staples in a no-fuss, laid-back space. Grab a tray and dig in.
Known for its globally inspired tacos and creative cocktails, Galaxie Bar is where casual eats meet nightlife energy. Enjoy a quick bite downstairs or head up to the dance floor for a DJ-fueled night out. Great for late-night cravings or pre-game fun.
Guaca Mole brings fresh takes on Mexican classics with a fun, colorful vibe. Tacos, mole, and coconut shrimp headline a vibrant menu, while the margaritas and guacamole steal the show. Spacious seating and upbeat energy make it ideal for groups.
A refreshingly different bar focused on craft seltzers, this spot offers both classic and seasonal flavors with a chill, modern vibe. Perfect for day drinking, relaxed hangs, or a post-brunch sip. You can even mix, match, and can your favorites to go.
A lively two-story restaurant with a basement speakeasy, Lou Lou blends New Orleans flavors with pizza, pasta, and live jazz. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail in the speakeasy or enjoying Cajun fare on the patio, Lou Lou brings the Big Easy to NuLu.
A low-key bourbon bar with vintage flair, Taj offers cozy vibes, great drinks, and a super friendly crowd. Hidden in plain sight, this NuLu favorite is a perfect mix of neighborhood charm and good conversation over a glass of bourbon or beer.
Shop, sip, and stroll through this vibrant mini village of local boutiques, cafes, and creative vendors. From handmade goods to indie food spots and outdoor hangouts, NuLu Marketplace is the heartbeat of the neighborhood’s artisan culture.
A charming wine bar focused on small producers and real wine for real people. With a rotating bottle list, tasty small plates, and a communal atmosphere, Nouvelle is ideal for date nights or casual hangs on their patio with a glass in hand.
Located in the NuLu Marketplace, Gertie’s offers a sophisticated whiskey experience in a circular bar layout with a moody speakeasy hidden downstairs. With 600+ whiskeys and vintage charm, it’s a top pick for cocktail enthusiasts and whiskey lovers.
Health-forward and fresh, Lueberry serves up acai bowls, smoothies, and salads packed with energy and flavor. Whether you’re plant-based or just need a light reset, it’s a vibrant stop for clean eats and feel-good vibes.
Elevated Italian fare meets laid-back vibes at Bar Vetti. Known for fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza, and seasonal small plates, it’s a great pick for everything from business lunches to intimate dinners. Don’t skip the cocktails or wine list.
At The Duke Hotel, we encourage you to live out your alter ego, to fully immerse yourself in an aspect of your personality that you haven’t yet explored, or another you are just discovering.