Proof On Main
702 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States+1 502-217-6360
About This Place
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Louisville, Kentucky, Proof On Main brilliantly blends its identity as an American restaurant, art museum, and bar to create a uniquely immersive dining experience. Located at 702 W Main St, this exceptional venue is not just a place to eat, but a cultural hub where meticulously crafted cuisine meets thought-provoking contemporary art. Whether you’re stopping by for a delightful brunch, a sophisticated dinner, or a curated bourbon flight, Proof On Main promises an unforgettable sensory journey.
The culinary offerings are a celebration of bold, clean flavors and masterful techniques that make every bite vibrant. Signature dishes such as the Charred Octopus and Grilled Octopus showcase tender seafood kissed by smoky char, served with complementary elements like arugula and smoky ricotta that elevate each mouthful. The Bison Burger and Fries stands out as a rich, savory delight, lauded by diners for its juicy, perfectly seasoned patty. Meanwhile, the Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread and Pimento Cheese present a comforting Southern twist, offering a satisfying balance of creamy and crunchy textures.
Brunch lovers will find themselves enchanted by options like the Crab Cake with Remoulade and Local Greens, a dish that combines fresh seafood with vibrant, zesty accompaniments, or the Proof Chef Salad, which balances smoky bacon and Tillamook cheddar beneath a luscious Green Goddess dressing. Every dish promises to engage your palate with thoughtful layering of flavors—from the bright acidity of pickled blueberries in the Burnt Carrot Salad to the rich umami notes found in the Flat Iron Carpaccio with aged cheddar. Pastry selections, such as the Dark Chocolate & Cherry Scone and a variety of fresh breads, gently envelope guests with warmth and a touch of sweetness to start the day.
The atmosphere here is as radiant as the food, with a bright, airy dining space that is both modern and inviting. The seamless integration of art from the adjacent contemporary gallery allows guests to feast their eyes just as much as their taste buds. Customers repeatedly praise the service experience—friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable staff like Juan and bartender CC ensure every visit feels personalized and special, keenly curating your food and drink choices.
When it comes to libations, Proof On Main’s bar truly shines with an extensive and carefully selected bourbon collection, alongside expertly crafted cocktails like the Manhattan and house-specific classics. Whiskey enthusiasts rave about the custom bourbon flights, praising the bartenders for their expertise and storytelling that perfectly enhances each sip. Whether you crave a smooth Bloody Mary at brunch or a refreshing Sangria in the evening, this spot effortlessly complements its menu with a drink offering that excites and satisfies.
Proof On Main is far more than a restaurant; it’s a vibrant Louisville landmark that fuses robust American flavors, impeccable service, and contemporary art into a compelling experience. From melt-in-your-mouth swordfish to smoky mushroom appetizers and a bustling, clean bar filled with natural light, it’s a destination that continues to delight diners and art lovers alike. Each visit leaves you not just satisfied, but inspired to return for more.
Service options
Kerbside pickup Takeaway Dine-inHighlights
Fast service Great beer selection Great cocktails Great coffee Great dessert Great wine list Serves local specialtyPopular for
Lunch Dinner Solo diningAccessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Healthy options Late-night food Private dining room Small plates Spirits Vegetarian options WineDining options
Brunch Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating Table serviceAmenities
Bar on site Toilet Wi-Fi Wi-FiAtmosphere
Cosy Romantic Trendy UpmarketCrowd
Groups LGBTQ+ friendly Locals Tourists Transgender safe spacePlanning
Brunch reservations recommended Dinner reservations recommended Accepts reservationsPayments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cardsChildren
High chairs Kids' menuParking
Free of charge street parking Paid parking lot Paid street parkingMap & Directions
Visitor Reviews
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Peach Fuzz
1 month agoWe were thrilled with our experience at Proof on Main. Our server was absolutely delightful, and we greatly enjoyed the thought-provoking art both in the restaurant and in the attached gallery. We had the mussels and the starter with mini martinis which were both delightful.
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TG Fitch (VA Renaissance Man)
2 month agoAwesome stop for a custom whiskey flight. I hit the jackpot with expert bartender CC, who took my request for a custom whiskey flight as a challenge and knocked it out of the park with three choices setup in the perfect order. She knew the story behind each one and quickly looked up some additional details on her phone when she wasn't sure. The bar is clean and spacious and full of light. Whiskies are arranged by family for easy identification. She described a "Black Manhattan" that sounded delicious, but I'll have to try that next time. Proof on Main makes the perfect place to treat your taste buds while waiting for a distillery tour. Slainte!
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JC Nelson
3 month agoAbsolutely fantastic! The food was delicious, the service was exceptional, the atmosphere was bright and fun. And a really good bourbon list. Bison burger was top-notch.
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Kurt Backer
3 month agoOur server Juan was amazing! Friendly, attentive and knowledgeable about the food and drink menu. The filet and swordfish was melt in your mouth tender. We will be coming back!
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Jim C
4 month agoThe service was excellent. The food was very good but perhaps not quite as excellent as hoped. It was a very cool space. We really enjoyed the filet and the pasta carbonara. The mushroom appetizer was also quite tasty. The alcohol list was extremely extensive with more than a hundred options. We had some good beers, and a cocktail specific to the restaurant, as well as a glass of wine.
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Erica Meza
4 month agoProof on Main is more than just a restaurant.. it is an exceptional experience that left our entire party thoroughly impressed. Seamlessly integrated within the 21c Museum Hotel, the atmosphere is sophisticated and dynamic. The rotating contemporary art, the strikingly decorative wallpaper, and the perfectly ambient lighting transform the space from a mere dining room into a highly unique gallery. The service provided was truly top-tier. Our server was exceptionally knowledgeable about the seasonal menu and the cocktail program. They did not simply take an order, they actively curated our meal. They clearly described the dishes and offered genuine, helpful recommendations, resulting in an evening that felt effortlessly catered and deeply cared for. The kitchen’s commitment to regional, seasonal ingredients was evident in every plate. To start, the Amuse Bouche, featuring a delicate Herb Arancini with parmesan crema and chive, was a delightful introduction. Paired with the crisp, refreshing 2 oz House Cucumber Vodka Martini Aperitivo, it set a sophisticated tone. We then enjoyed the Grilled Caesar Salad, a creative version of the classic that included tender Brussels Sprouts and a savory cacio de roma element. The highlight of the evening was the pasta course, the Paccheri. This dish, which featured a rich yet surprisingly light green bolognese sauce and creamy buttermilk ricotta, was complex, comforting, and flawlessly executed. Our main courses were equally impressive. The Bison Burger, a gourmet comfort food option, was perfectly dressed with smoked Gouda, garlic aioli, and a savory bacon jam. My husband’s Ribeye was cooked with precise execution, demonstrating the quality of the cut. My daughter happily enjoyed her simple but perfect noodles with garlic butter. The bar program at Proof on Main is as well regarded as its art. My hubby’s Dirty Martini was made flawlessly, but the more distinctive cocktail was the house special, the Sweet Pea. This drink was a revelation: fresh, balanced, and unique. My brother-in-law's recommendation was absolutely correct. Proof on Main is a true dining destination, excelling in cuisine, atmosphere, and service. We will absolutely be adding it to our list for future return visits.
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April Gardiner (Nacho-Kat)
4 month agoProof on Main came highly recommended by locals, and as travelers seeking a fine dining experience in Louisville, we were intrigued. The venue itself is undeniably unique, with a captivating red and Native American-inspired decor, creating a cool, low-lit ambiance. Our server was prompt and helpful, guiding us towards some fantastic appetizers. The beef tartare? Absolutely phenomenal – hands down the best I've ever had. Similarly, the Brussels sprouts were a revelation. I wish I had just ordered a few more appetizers and sides. For my main, I opted for the roasted chicken. While it was good, it didn't quite reach the heights of the appetizers. Compared to other fine dining chicken dishes I've had, it was a bit underwhelming. The red Cabernet selection was limited (only two options), but the white wine list seemed more extensive. A quirky highlight was the restaurant's connection to the hotel. A walk to the restrooms took us through a mini-museum of eclectic art, and even the bathroom mirrors featured a digital eye display – a truly unforgettable touch! Overall, our group was very pleased with the experience. If we return, we'll definitely focus on the appetizers and sides, as they were the true stars of the meal. Proof on Main offers a unique and memorable dining experience, just stick to the small plates!
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