One neighborhood’s momentum - not Cancelled
Restaurants and shops in Louisville that couldn’t swing the 10+ week shutdown continue to close their doors, and there will almost certainly be more to come through the rest of the year. We have seen few openings however, which have gone all but unnoticed and provide hope for the entire city - a city whose local businesses were thriving just three months ago. As for now, an opening of any kind is news - Thornton’s could open next to a KFC and Mayor Fischer would be there with bells on to cut the ribbon. In spite of the pandemic, J-Town became home to Barcelona Bistro Bar, a Spanish restaurant opened earlier this month on Taylorsville Rd. Hammerheads opened up their second location, this time in Douglas Loop (albeit replacing Migo Tacos) adding a visible presence compared to their hidden neighborhood gem in Germantown.
Overall, it’s encouraging how the city has propped itself up. One neighborhood need not any propping up, though.
Continuing its furious pace through ~unprecedented~ times, Nulu remains the coveted spot for all retailers and restaurants looking to do business with Louisvillians and out-of-towners. The list of new places to open on Main, Market, and Jefferson this summer is stacked.
Construction continues on the Nulu Marketplace and West 6th brewery on Market Street
Nulu Marketplace
A newly renovated row of buildings are becoming a mixed-use facility that combines several longstanding structures on the 800 block of Market Street. Nulu Marketplace looks to be completed sooner than later despite missing its early 2020 opening goal. The marketplace has kept most of the details under wraps, but West 6th Nulu is a guarantee, as the Lexington-based brewery is already sporting some prominent signage. West 6th will be operating the first location outside its hometown as an experiential brewery and taproom. The plans feature a food hall representing different local restaurants, much like Logan St Market and many other collaborative dining/shopping concepts that have been popping up across US cities. The marketplace will add retail space to what has quickly become Louisville’s go-to shopping neighborhood, and will firmly anchor the east end of Market Street. We’re excited for this one.
LouABull relocating from E Main St in Butchertown to Nulu
LouABull
An LGBTQA+ owned gift shop is relocating from its Main St Butchertown location to a much more visible storefront on Market St, subbing in for long time art gallery, Swanson Contemporary. LouABull is known for having quirky gifts, tee shirts, pride gear, and fun pop culture items.
The bright red lettering against the bright yellow stucco on Market St. is up, soon to be open for business in Nulu
La Bodeguita De Mima
Whatever the Ole` Restaurant Group touches, turns to success. If El Taco Luchador, Guaca Mole Cocina, Steak & Bourbon, or (the new) Joe’s Older Than Dirt sound familiar, you know what Ole` is capable of. The details on this one are exciting. La Bodeguita will likely join the ranks of Garage Bar and Mayan Cafe as Nulu mainstays for locals and tourists alike. (Kevin Gibson provides the detes here)
Other Nulu additions include Noraebar Kareoke, Hancock House Hotel, Mamili Boutique, and soon to come ChurchKey entertainment and restaurant.