If you are looking for an enchanting escape from the ordinary, look no further than Buck’s Restaurant & Bar, tucked away in the heart of Old Louisville inside the historic Mayflower Building. Since opening in 1992, Buck's has earned a reputation as “Louisville’s Best Kept Romantic Secret,” offering guests what can only be described as an “Elegant Step Back in Time Dining” experience.

From the moment you enter, the atmosphere transports you to another era. Buck himself designed the space as a “moon garden,” filling it with white blooms of Stargazer Lilies that glimmer against deep green walls, candlelit tables, and the soothing sounds of live piano music each evening. Central to the ambience is the nightly presence of live piano music—soft, elegant, intimate. Patrons frequently mention how the piano player enhances the evening without overwhelming conversation.

The artfully mismatched China adds a personal touch, giving every table its own charm and character. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, a milestone, or simply a night out, Buck's makes every moment special. 

The menu, crafted by Chef Matthew Klein, is a love letter to fine continental cuisine with a proud Kentucky influence. Start your evening with Oysters Rockefeller—rich and elegant over a bed of spinach ouzo béchamel—or the Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp, a perfect harmony of savory and sweet with apple curry chutney and pineapple salsa. The Roasted Beet and Mini Pear Salad, with aged gorgonzola and candied pecans, is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, elevated by a spiced peach vinaigrette.

When it comes to entrées, Buck offers a range of unforgettable dishes. The crispy fried cod—served over jasmine rice with sautéed bell peppers, red onions, and a spicy-sweet Thai chili sauce—is a standout. For steak lovers, the cast–iron–seared filet, topped with aged gorgonzola and finished with demi-glace, delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience. And for something truly decadent, try the Prosciutto Wrapped Lamb Rack, perfectly seared with rosemary, and served alongside shrimp, saffron mashed potatoes, and asparagus—a stunning combination of flavor and finesse.

No meal at Buck’s is complete without their award-winning Mocha Dacquoise—a heavenly creation of mocha buttercream and Chantilly rum crème layered between baked almond meringue, dusted with powdered sugar, and drizzled with chocolate. It is the perfect finale to a truly memorable meal.

Buck’s also offers a robust Urban Bourbon Trail selection, boasting over 50 bourbons behind the bar, making it a must-visit for bourbon enthusiasts. Open for lunch Monday through Friday (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.), Buck’s also serves one of Louisville’s best burgers. Dinner service runs Monday through Thursday (5–9 p.m.) and Friday and Saturday (5–10 p.m.), with the restaurant closed on Sundays.

Whether you are planning a romantic dinner, a special celebration, or a private event, Buck's offers several elegant dining spaces and personalized service. Contact their vivacious General Manager, Kris Littrell, to arrange anything from rehearsal dinners to business meetings. Bucks also provides catering throughout the Louisville area, bringing their refined cuisine directly to your event.

For an evening filled with charm, sophistication, and unforgettable flavor, Buck’s Restaurant & Bar is a Louisville gem that truly shines.

Menu & Variety: *****

Food Quality: *****

Plating: *****

Value for Money: ****

Consistency: *****

Service: *****

Accessibility: ****

Family Friendly: ****

Ambiance: *****

Cleanliness: *****