Our history

‘Somewhere along the way, the Bristol transformed from trendsetter to mainstay. 

And yet, it can still surprise and delight.” –Louisville Courier-Journal

Bristol Bar & Grille is the home of the Green Chili Wontons, Louisville’s favorite guilty pleasure. 

Since 1977, Bristol has been a staple of the local dining scene. 

Today, with locations in Downtown Louisville and on the East End, we continue to serve as a neighborhood 

restaurant where friends, families, and colleagues gather to eat, drink, and connect.

Bristol Bar & Grille originally opened on Bardstown Road in 1977 and quickly became known for its fresh ideas and bold approach to dining. By the late 1980s, the restaurant was credited with helping launch Louisville’s contemporary food scene, according to a former Courier-Journal food editor.

“The beginning of contemporary food in Louisville is sometimes pegged to the opening of the Bristol Bar & Grille on Bardstown Road on Sept. 27, 1977… The Bristol’s innovations fairly revolutionized the town’s restaurant scene. The management put artichoke hearts in the salad and cracked peppercorns on the steak. It was one of the first restaurants to give atmosphere to a hamburger.”

Downtown Louisville

Our Downtown Louisville location was among the first restaurants to open in the historic West Main Street District, helping spark the area’s revitalization. Today it remains a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.

Our menu offers something for everyone. Guests return again and again for signature favorites like the Bristol Burger, our aged, charbroiled New York Strip, Pork Dijonnaise, and Theresa’s Sweet Chili Linguine—dishes that have become classics over the years.

We are proud to feature ingredients sourced from local farming partners across Kentucky and Indiana. These farmers and producers help us deliver fresh, high-quality ingredients throughout our menus.

East End

You can also visit our East End location, conveniently located off North Hurstbourne Parkway.

Our menu offers something for everyone. Guests enjoy signature selections like the Bristol Burger and our aged, charbroiled New York Strip steak, along with long-time guest favorites such as Pork Dijonnaise and Theresa’s Sweet Chili Linguine.

Across our menus, we proudly feature ingredients sourced from local farming partners throughout Kentucky and Indiana. These farmers and producers regularly supply fresh products grown, raised, and produced in the region.

Join us at our East End location for our award-winning Sunday brunch buffet, featuring made-to-order waffles, Weisenberger grits, fried chicken, and more.

Off-Premise Catering

Our off-premise catering kitchen is located at 1862 Mellwood Avenue.

Bring the Bristol classics to your next gathering. Many of our signature dishes are available for pickup, at-home parties, and special events.

To place an order or learn more, call 502-584-3663 or visit www.bristolcatering.com.

Our Master Sommelier Scott Harper crafted an extensive wine menu to pair with each dish. We employ more than two dozen Certified Bourbon Stewards who are on hand to answer any questions about our native spirit.