Bardstown Road is iconic for many reasons, one of the most notable is its location within the Highlands. Niche, the market leader in connecting families with schools and neighborhoods, rated the Highlands as one of the best places to live in Louisville. Stating in the review, “The Highlands provides delicious tastes for everyone…shops and spots engross its residents and visitors.” This description alone should pique our interest as Assumption students. We want to share some great affordable restaurants you could try out for an after-school snack, date night, or late-start Wednesday.
#1: Shirley Mae’s Café
If you’re feeling soul food, Shirley Mae’s is the place to go. For the past 30 years, this café has been producing some of Louisville’s best BBQ and soul. All the southern gals love Shirley Mae’s! One of the best things about this restaurant, located at 802 S. Clay Street, has to be its signature dish of fried chicken with 2 sides for $11! The ‘a la carte’ menu holds even more delicious sides. And if you’re a fan of cornbread, be prepared, because Ms. Shirley Mae will serve you the best Cornbread in the city. Shirley Mae’s Café is perfect for date night or a family outing.
*Cash-only institution
Make note of its hours:
11 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday
11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday
Closed Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
#2: Sarang
Being well-known for its Asian cuisine, especially Korean dishes, Sarang is a quant stop for those exploring the wonders of Bardstown Road. With delicious items like bibimbap and kimbap, Sarang has a variety of delectable but affordable Korean dishes. If you are someone just branching out from chicken nuggets and microwave ramen, the simple but strong favors of Sarang are sure to reel you in. Located off Eastern Parkway, hidden on the bottom floor on the Schuster Building, this restaurant will have you ordering takeout on your next night in. Our favorite has to be their $6.50 Ramyun! We love big portions with small prices. They sure do bring a taste of Korea to Louisville!
Closed on Tuesdays
11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Everyday
#3 Stevens Deli
Having some classic deli food options available, Stevens Deli is a comfortable place for having some lunch. Having a diverse selection of sandwiches varying from meats, cheeses, toppings, and temperature, Stevens has something for everybody! On the menu as well, there is a list of different soups and salads available—if you’re not feeling the sandwiches that are offered. Stevens is affordable, never going above $20, and is located within the same building as Dittos Grill down Bardstown Road. If you’re looking for a perfect option for lunch, then Stevens is the way to go!
Tues-Sat: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
#4 Eat-a-Pita
Calling all Mamma Mia fans! This Mediterranean style restaurant is located off Bardstown Road. With gyros, Zeus fries and pita, the popular Greek restaurant has excellent food and an even better environment. Along with the comfortable seating, games are stock piled on shelves for customers to play as they wait for food. The experience is fun, and the low prices are even better. Our go-to will always be the $5 Zeus Fries. Nothing sounds better than cheese, fries and liquid gold. Sitting on Bardstown across the street from Woodbourne Ave, Eat-A-Pita is accessible and a short walk from our home AHS. Eat-a-pita is a must-try on this list.
Mon-Wed 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Thurs-Sun 10:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
#5. I Love Tacos
In the mood for some classic Tacos or queso and chips but El Nopal or Taco Bell is too far, or too expensive? I Love Tacos is located on Bardstown Road near Eastern Parkway and has the best options for you. They’ve got a selection of tacos and burritos, queso and dips and tons of other options. Their prices have a good range of $5 to $11. If you’re looking for some classic Mexican style foods for dinner, or even a quick lunch, this is the place for you!
Sun-Thurs: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Fri-Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.