March 15th – March 21st
Welcome back to The Louisville Plug.
This week, we are leaning into Louisville legends. We’re celebrating the 100th birthday of our city’s most iconic sandwich, heading to Frankfort Avenue for the most authentic St. Paddy’s party in the state, and getting a head start on Derby fashion.
Plus, we’ve got a major Insider Perk this week to help you save on local world class food tours.
Inside this issue:
🎂 The Local Rec: A "Reader’s Choice" centennial celebration at The Brown Hotel.
⚜️ What’s Happening in Lou: St. Paddy’s at The Rover, Zoo breakfast, and the official Derby Hat Show.
💸 Insider Perks: An exclusive 10% discount on Louisville Food Tours.
🎂 The Local Rec
A Louisville local’s food rec, every week.
This week’s rec comes from: A Louisville Plug Reader!
I have to give a shout out to a Louisville Plug reader who slid into my DMs this week with a reminder I couldn't ignore. They pointed out that 2026 is officially the 100th Anniversary of the Hot Brown, and if there was ever a week to celebrate a local icon, this is it. We love to hear reader’s feedback and recommendations so please keep them coming!
Their Rec: J. Graham’s Café (Inside The Brown Hotel)
Why they love it:
Born in 1926 at The Brown Hotel to feed late night visitors, this open faced turkey and bacon classic is the undisputed heavyweight champion of Louisville comfort food. If you haven't sat in the historic dining room to have one in its signature white ceramic skillet, you’re missing out on a century of flavor.
Insider Tips:
Lunch over Dinner: Hit J. Graham’s Café for a more casual lunch vibe. It's the exact same legendary recipe as the formal lobby bar but a little easier on the wallet and the wait time.
The Pairing: In honor of 1926, pair it with an Ale-8 (which also launched that same year). It’s the ultimate Louisville 'Time Capsule' meal.
Thanks again to the reader who informed me about the 100 year anniversary! Let me know if you get out and get a Hot Brown this week!
⚜️ What’s Happening in Lou?
3 events worth your time each week.
🗓️ March 17th from 11am - 9pm
📍 The Irish Rover
💸 $10 Cover
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on with a lively outdoor tent party featuring live entertainment throughout the day including performances by Cloigheann, Mrs. Doyle, the McClanahan Dancers, and Rashers.
Entry is $10 per person (cash only), and guests under 21 must be accompanied by a parent. The celebration is outdoor only, with tables available inside and outside the heated tent on a first-come, first serve basis.
Food and drinks can be ordered at the bar and picked up when ready, while beer, sodas, water, T-shirts, and brown soda bread will also be sold at an outdoor beer truck (cash only).
🗓️ March 21st @ 9am
📍 The Louisville Zoo
💸 $40 per person
Wake up with some of your favorite animals in this program that brings a special look into how our animals start the day. Tickets include a hot breakfast featuring a waffle bar (Belgian waffles, assorted toppings, sausage links, fresh brewed coffee, orange juice and water), parking and admission for the day at the Zoo.
This is the best time to see the animals because you get an up close look at their morning routines before the general public crowds arrive. It's a low key favorite for locals who want to see the zoo without the noise.
You can find ticket information → HERE
🗓️ March 22nd - 10am to 1:30pm
📍 Kentucky Derby Museum
💸 $75 per adult ticket
It’s never too early to start thinking about the first Saturday in May. This is the official kickoff to Derby fashion season.
They host a massive brunch followed by a runway show featuring the latest couture hat designs. Even if you aren't buying, it’s the best place to meet local milliners and get inspiration for your own Derby look. Tickets usually include a glass of bubbly, cheers to that!
💸 Insider Perks
Exclusive weekly deals only for Louisville Plug readers.
10% OFF Louisville Food Tours with our code!
Whether you’ve lived here for twenty years or twenty minutes, there is always a secret corner of the Louisville food scene left to discover. Louisville Food Tours isn't just about grabbing a bite; it’s an award winning deep dive into the stories, ghosts, and flavors that built the 502.
From the "Secrets of NuLu" (their flagship tour that always sells out) to the spooky "Phantoms of Prohibition" cocktail tour, these guided walks are the ultimate way to eat like a local legend. You’ll hit 5-6 iconic spots, sip on curated bourbon or cocktails, and learn the unfiltered history of our favorite neighborhoods.
The Deal: Because you’re a Louisville Plug reader, you can snag an exclusive 10% discount on any tour booking. It’s the perfect excuse for a unique date night, a fun way to show off the city to out of towners, or just a Saturday spent eating your way through the Highlands.
Your Code: LOUISVILLEPLUG10
How to use: Enter the code at checkout when booking your spot on Louisvillefoodtours.com
15% off all in store purchases @ Art Eatables
This deal will continue to run through St. Patrick’s Day! Just mention The Louisville Plug during any in store checkout and enjoy an exclusive discount!
🔁 Share This Newsletter
Know someone in Louisville still figuring out what to do?
Forward this email to them! it helps the newsletter grow and we greatly appreciate it!
Have a fantastic week!
— The Louisville Plug