Taste the best
Discover Menu
MUSHROOM CAVATELLI
PROOF BISON BURGER
DARK CHOCOLATE & CHERRY SCONE
BLUEBERRY MUFFIN
Inside the Experience
Proof On Main
If you find yourself wandering the vibrant streets of Louisville, a culinary gem awaits at Proof On Main. Nestled within the eclectic 21c Museum Hotel, this restaurant transcends the ordinary, inviting diners into a realm where food and art coalesce harmoniously. From the moment you step in, the atmosphere captivates with striking contemporary art and a thoughtfully curated decor that provides a dynamic backdrop for your dining experience.
The essence of Proof On Main lies not just in its visual allure, but in its remarkable menu that proudly showcases the freshness of its ingredients. Guests rave about the bison burger, cooked to perfection according to personal preference, offering a flavor profile that truly reflects its quality. For those seeking something heartier, the filet and swordfish have been described as melt-in-your-mouth tender, leaving a lasting impression on even the most discerning palates.
For those who appreciate a thoughtfully crafted beverage, the bar boasts an impressive array of options, including custom whiskey flights expertly tailored by knowledgeable bartenders. A standout experience reported by a satisfied guest highlighted the depth of expertise in choosing selections that tell a story, underscoring the commitment to not just service but also education and passion for the craft.
The culinary journey at Proof On Main is further enhanced by dishes like the grilled Caesar salad and pasta sardi, each exhibiting unique twists that elevate both presentation and flavor. Diners savor the surprisingly sharp house-made ginger ale and tonic water, perfect for those seeking a refreshing, non-alcoholic option while enjoying a pre-theater dinner menu that features a careful selection of exquisite courses.
Service at Proof On Main consistently receives high praise. Attentive and friendly staff guide guests through the menu with enthusiasm and expertise, ensuring every need is met. As you not only savor delightful dishes but also immerse yourself in an ambiance that blends creativity and sophistication, it's clear why guests leave raving and inspired to return.
In a city known for its culinary offerings, Proof On Main stands out as a must-visit destination. Whether indulging in the delightful mussels, the mouthwatering beef tartare, or a selection from their extensive drinks list, each visit promises to deliver an exceptional experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Stories & Reviews
Guestbook
“ Visiting Louisville for the Derby and stopped in for lunch. The staff were very friendly. I had the ginger-ale and found it to be bubbly refreshing. Then had their bison burger. I like my meats blue or as rare as possible and it was cooked to perfection. And the flavor reflected its freshness. The only regret I have is also not trying the lobster benedict. ”
“ Awesome stop for a custom whiskey flight. I hit the jackpot with expert bartender CC, who took my request for a custom whiskey flight as a challenge and knocked it out of the park with three choices setup in the perfect order. She knew the story behind each one and quickly looked up some additional details on her phone when she wasn't sure. The bar is clean and spacious and full of light. Whiskies are arranged by family for easy identification. She described a "Black Manhattan" that sounded delicious, but I'll have to try that next time. Proof on Main makes the perfect place to treat your taste buds while waiting for a distillery tour. Slainte! ”
“ We were thrilled with our experience at Proof on Main. Our server was absolutely delightful, and we greatly enjoyed the thought-provoking art both in the restaurant and in the attached gallery. We had the mussels and the starter with mini martinis which were both delightful. ”
“ The Prix fixe pre-theater dinner menu was superb! From the amazing focaccia bread to start to the tiramisu to end. We had the house made ginger ale and tonic water which is so sharp and crisp and especially nice for those of us who don’t drink alcohol. The grilled Caesar salad had a nice depth of flavor that elevated it beyond your ordinary salad. I had the pasta sardi and my husband had the pork Milanese. The pork was tender and well cooked. Their house made pasta had a pleasing bite to it and the sauce was perfectly seasoned. But the tiramisu, oh boy, it was incredible and I’ll be thinking about that flavor profile for a while! We also had the olive oil cake and it was so moist and the soak on it was sublime. Our server was attentive and gave great suggestions. We definitely appreciated the manager stopping by at the end of the meal to make sure we had a great experience and yes! we did ”
“ Proof on Main is more than just a restaurant.. it is an exceptional experience that left our entire party thoroughly impressed. Seamlessly integrated within the 21c Museum Hotel, the atmosphere is sophisticated and dynamic. The rotating contemporary art, the strikingly decorative wallpaper, and the perfectly ambient lighting transform the space from a mere dining room into a highly unique gallery. The service provided was truly top-tier. Our server was exceptionally knowledgeable about the seasonal menu and the cocktail program. They did not simply take an order, they actively curated our meal. They clearly described the dishes and offered genuine, helpful recommendations, resulting in an evening that felt effortlessly catered and deeply cared for. The kitchen’s commitment to regional, seasonal ingredients was evident in every plate. To start, the Amuse Bouche, featuring a delicate Herb Arancini with parmesan crema and chive, was a delightful introduction. Paired with the crisp, refreshing 2 oz House Cucumber Vodka Martini Aperitivo, it set a sophisticated tone. We then enjoyed the Grilled Caesar Salad, a creative version of the classic that included tender Brussels Sprouts and a savory cacio de roma element. The highlight of the evening was the pasta course, the Paccheri. This dish, which featured a rich yet surprisingly light green bolognese sauce and creamy buttermilk ricotta, was complex, comforting, and flawlessly executed. Our main courses were equally impressive. The Bison Burger, a gourmet comfort food option, was perfectly dressed with smoked Gouda, garlic aioli, and a savory bacon jam. My husband’s Ribeye was cooked with precise execution, demonstrating the quality of the cut. My daughter happily enjoyed her simple but perfect noodles with garlic butter. The bar program at Proof on Main is as well regarded as its art. My hubby’s Dirty Martini was made flawlessly, but the more distinctive cocktail was the house special, the Sweet Pea. This drink was a revelation: fresh, balanced, and unique. My brother-in-law's recommendation was absolutely correct. Proof on Main is a true dining destination, excelling in cuisine, atmosphere, and service. We will absolutely be adding it to our list for future return visits. ”