Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Portland

23 restaurants available nearby

1. Swizzle

4.5

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 30 times today

Swizzle, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Louisville, is a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts. Celebrated for its "sexy, swanky" ambiance and panoramic river views, Swizzle elevates the cocktail bar experience. Guests rave about the "retro tone" of the drink menu, which features meticulously crafted classic cocktails and seasonal specialties. The Swizzle Big Bar area is a social hotspot, offering enticing happy hour specials and delightful bar bites. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the drinks, like the "spot on" smoky Old Fashioned and the refreshing Sting Like a Bee. With such endorsements and its superb setting, Swizzle is a must-visit for an authentic and memorable cocktail experience in Louisville.

2. Proof on Main

4.5

Awesome(3738)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 22 times today

The ingredients in our menus reflect the region’s sustainable farmers and producers with a soulful and honest approach showcasing the bounty of the Ohio River Valley. Housed in five historic buildings in downtown Louisville, Proof on Main is part of 21c Museum Hotels, the award-winning boutique hotel and restaurant group. The dining room is one of the most striking public spaces in the city, with rotating, contemporary art exhibitions by local and internationally-acclaimed artists alike.

A photo of Lobby Bar & Grill at the Brown Hotel restaurant

3. Lobby Bar & Grill at the Brown Hotel

4.6

Exceptional(1080)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 4 times today

Come enjoy the historic lobby of The Brown Hotel in our Lobby Bar and Grill. Contemporary cuisine meets historic opulence at The Brown Hotel’s spectacularly beautiful, and classic lobby setting. A popular spot for the next generation of Louisville merrymakers, this glamorous, gilded space balances its history with modern touches and sophisticated tastes. Our menu includes a mix of classic and contemporary dishes, but our signature Hot Brown is rated as Kentucky's most popular dish. Enjoy our Hot Brown, and other signature items with a classic Old Fashion. Our bar features well-crafted cocktails and an highly rated bourbon menu. Finish your experience with Louisville's original dessert, the Derby pie. Reservations are for the Lobby Bar and Grill.

4. J Graham's Cafe

4.7

Exceptional(1220)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 7 times today

J. Graham's is the home of the legendary Hot Brown and offers guests bistro-style, casual dining in the hotel and features the freshest local produce and highlights Kentucky products. Serving breakfast and lunch, the Café offers guests a contemporary a la carte menu throughout the week and a delectable brunch buffet on the weekends. Non-smoking. Parking: Self Parking in the connected, city garage. Valet parking by the Brown Hotel staff.

5. Varanese

4.7

Exceptional(4609)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Frankfort Ave - Crescent Hill

Booked 13 times today

Varanese, nestled on Frankfort Ave in Louisville's vibrant Crescent Hill, is celebrated for its exceptional Steak cuisine. This gem offers an eclectic menu that shines with its signature steak dishes, expertly crafted to satisfy the most discerning palates. Diners consistently rave about the quality and flavor of the steak, describing it as "always good" and highlighting it as a standout. One glowing review shares that "the flat iron steak was excellent," underscoring the culinary prowess that Varanese brings to its steak offerings. With its commitment to fresh ingredients and creative flair, Varanese not only promises but delivers an extraordinary dining experience where the steak is not just a meal but a memorable event. The inviting atmosphere, complete with live music and a modern American ambiance, makes each visit uniquely delightful.

A photo of Bristol Bar & Grille - Downtown restaurant

6. Bristol Bar & Grille - Downtown

4.3

Awesome(1008)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 12 times today

At the heart of Downtown Louisville, Bristol Bar & Grille is a true gem for wine enthusiasts. With Master Sommelier Scott Harper at the helm, the wine menu is meticulously crafted to complement each dish perfectly, elevating the dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident as it sources many ingredients from local farmers, ensuring that each glass pairs beautifully with fresh and flavorful dishes. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one stating, "We went and took advantage of the 1/2 price bottle of wine night. Wine was good and so was our food." Bristol Bar & Grille isn't just a restaurant; it's a sophisticated journey through exquisite tastes and fine wines, making it a standout destination in Louisville's vibrant culinary scene.

7. The Fat Lamb

4.6

Exceptional(1238)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Highlands - Bardstown Rd / Taylorsville Rd

Booked 9 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Highlands of Louisville, The Fat Lamb stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful Mediterranean twist. Lauded for its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, this restaurant, under the stewardship of Chef Dallas McGarity, presents a menu that sings with creativity and flavor. Diners rave about dishes like the "mouth melting" short rib and the "succulent" scallops, emphasizing the skillful fusion of Southern charm with Mediterranean zest. The atmosphere is described as "cozy and welcoming," perfect for any dining occasion. With glowing reviews like "one of the best meals since moving from Dallas to Knoxville," and accolades such as being a 2024 semifinalist for a James Beard Award, The Fat Lamb is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience in Louisville.

A photo of Wild Swann Restaurant restaurant

8. Wild Swann Restaurant

4.4

Awesome(144)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • West Louisville

Booked 5 times today

Experience the allure of the Prohibition era with a modern twist at Wild Swann Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in the historic Grady Hotel in West Louisville. Renowned for its speakeasy ambiance, Wild Swann offers an intimate setting that ensures a night of elegance and exclusivity. Patrons rave about the "best Old Fashioned" they've ever had and the speakeasy's "super fancy" vibe, making it a standout destination for those seeking a touch of the past. The menu features delightful dishes like Wagyu bacon sliders and a variety of expertly mixed classic cocktails, ensuring every visit is both flavorful and memorable. Whether it's a quiet dinner, a romantic night out, or a special celebration, Wild Swann promises an experience that's as exciting as it is authentic. Don't miss this "wonderful underground spot" in Louisville for a taste of true speakeasy culture.

A photo of Brendon's Catch 23 restaurant

9. Brendon's Catch 23

4.8

Exceptional(3114)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Louisville

Booked 5 times today

Brendon's Catch 23 in Downtown Louisville is a culinary gem, particularly celebrated for its Steakhouse offerings. Known for delivering not only the freshest seafood but also prime steaks, this restaurant guarantees a top-quality dining experience. Guests rave about the "perfectly prepared" steaks and the ambiance that complements every meal. With glowing testimonials such as, "the king crab jar was very good and the steak was perfect med rare," it's clear that Brendon's Catch 23 masters the art of steak preparation. Their commitment to quality and service makes every visit memorable, with patrons often noting the exceptional service that makes each dining experience feel special and personalized. Whether you're a local or visiting Louisville, Brendon's Catch 23 promises a steakhouse experience that's both authentic and unforgettable.

10. Le Moo

4.6

Exceptional(5699)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Highlands - Bardstown Rd / Taylorsville Rd

Booked 41 times today

Le Moo in Louisville’s trendy Highlands neighborhood is a standout gem among Contemporary American eateries. Celebrated on Food Network’s list as one of the top 25 steakhouses in America, Le Moo offers a distinctive dining experience with its unique Vintage Louis Vuitton booth and an impressive array of steaks, including a Tomahawk Ribeye that's a must-try. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food and service, with one guest proclaiming, "Le Moo never disappoints... If you are in the mood for the best steak you've ever had... Le Moo is the place to go." Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a luxurious brunch, Le Moo promises an extraordinary culinary journey with dishes that are "akin to a religious experience."

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Suevip
Central Kentucky •19 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Varanese never disappoints. One of my favs!!! The music is just an added bonus
More info
VaranesePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Frankfort Ave - Crescent Hill
•
4.7
J
Joelvip
Central Kentucky •29 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
A first class experience in the historic Brown Hotel. The food was excellent all the way from the Burger to the sea scallops. The service was great and very responsive to our needs. We had a wonderful dining experience and would go back again.
More info
Lobby Bar & Grill at the Brown HotelPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Louisville
•
4.6
D
Dana
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
What a WOW view from one of the rotating dining rooms! We thoroughly enjoyed splurging for our anniversary dinner at Swizzle. The calamari appetizer was excellent, as was the wedge salad which they kindly split for us. And basket of warm bread - yum! My husband now lists their Tomahawk Pork Chop in his top ten - super tender, perfectly cooked. I had the scallops - also perfectly cooked with the grits, peas, and fried onions accompaniments - wonderful. Considering it was a super busy night at the restaurant, we felt very well taken care of by the wait staff. Also, if you aren't staying at the hotel or Ubering, use the restaurant valet for $10.00. A great deal for parking, and our car was waiting for us at the curb when we were done with dinner.
More info
SwizzlePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Louisville
•
4.5
J
Joshua
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined on 19 Nov 2024
What a menu! Make sure to start with the amuse bouche, the mini arancini was perfect. The mushrooms appetizer is unlike any I've had; warm, cold, crispy, umami, tangy, creamy. The trout was warm and briney but offset by a beautiful char on the skin. Fantastic dining experience, exceptional vibes. Can't wait to come back next time I'm in Lousiville.
More info
Proof on MainPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Louisville
•
4.5
A
Ashley
Caribbean •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 11 Nov 2024
This was our first time to come to J Graham’s. We came for brunch. We both had the Petite Brown. The serving size was way more than we would have expected, so we couldn’t eat all of our food. But the food was delicious and our server was the sweetest. We would definitely recommend to others!
More info
J Graham's CafePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown Louisville
•
4.7

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23 restaurants available nearby

1. Swizzle

2. Proof on Main

3. Lobby Bar & Grill at the Brown Hotel

4. J Graham's Cafe

5. Varanese

6. Bristol Bar & Grille - Downtown

7. The Fat Lamb

8. Wild Swann Restaurant

9. Brendon's Catch 23

10. Le Moo

See what locals rave about

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