• Vietnam Kitchen
    This cherished South End eatery is still a place you go to make discoveries. Recommended: the Vietnamese pancake appetizer and the beef marinated with lime juice as well as anything over rice vermicelli. Don’t neglect the list of traditional Vietnamese dishes at the back of the menu.
    363-7535
    vietnamkitchen.net
    $$ | South Louisville | Vietnamese
  • Derby Cafe
    Located at the world’s most famous racetrack and named for the fastest two minutes in sports, this Derby Museum restaurant serves up traditional Kentucky fare with a lighter spin. Try the Kentucky Hot Brown.
    634-0858
    derbycafe.com
    $ | South Louisville | Cafes
  • Annie Cafe
    Annie’s place is fast becoming a favorite in the Vietnamese community for authentic, high-quality food. Try the popular pho or vegetable tofu with steamed rice.
    363-4847
    anniecafe.com
    $ | South Louisville | Vietnamese
  • Santa Fe Grill
    Authentic Mexican cuisine, popular with the Latino community around Churchill Downs. Try the fajitas, steak rio, or enchilada dinner.
    634-3722
    $ | South Louisville | Mexican/Southwestern
  • Cardinal Hall of Fame Cafe
    Food and great Cardinal memories come together at this restaurant near Freedom Hall devoted to U of L sports. Each booth has its own small TV. Specialties include baby-back ribs and fresh salmon, as well as the “Walk of Fame” salad.
    635-8686
    halloffamecafes.com
    $$$ | South Louisville | Bar-and-Grills
  • Wagner’s Pharmacy
    A Churchill Downs area classic, this old-fashioned restaurant serves up burgers, soups, sandwiches and daily entrée specials to hungry track-goers. The biscuits and gravy breakfast is a Derby week ritual.
    375-3800
    wagnerspharmacy.com
    $ | South Louisville | Homestyle
  • Thornberry's Delicatessen and Pie Shop
    This south end institution has satisfied cravings for more than 50 years. Stop in and grab a slice or a whole pie from their long list.
    367-8394
    thornberryspieshop.com
    $ | South Louisville | Bakery/Desserts