Taste, Tunes + Travel
Fresh Sounds + Hot Browns
SAVOR THE SOUNDS. TASTE THE TRADITION.
There are few things more authentically Kentucky than the soulful sounds of our homegrown music and the indulgent delight of a Hot Brown. That’s why we’ve paired these two icons into one unforgettable experience: Fresh Sounds + Hot Browns. This campaign showcases ten standout restaurants serving up the best classic and modern takes on the Hot Brown across Kentucky, all while celebrating the vibrant and evolving musical landscape of the Bluegrass State.
A Taste of Kentucky’s Culinary Heritage: The Hot Brown
Invented in 1926 at the legendary Brown Hotel in Louisville, the Hot Brown is a decadent, open-faced sandwich layered with roasted turkey, crispy bacon, tomatoes, and smothered in a rich Mornay sauce. What started as a late-night indulgence for ballroom dancers quickly became an essential part of Kentucky’s culinary identity. Today, chefs across the state continue to honor this tradition with both faithful recreations and creative new twists.
Explore ten must-visit spots offering the ultimate Hot Brown experience, from classic renditions to modern interpretations:
The Brown Hotel
(Louisville)
The birthplace of the original Hot Brown. A must-stop for anyone seeking the true classic.
THE VILLAGE ANCHOR
(ANCHORAGE)
Offers a unique twist with mushrooms and alternative sauces.
The Café (PARISTOWN)
A lighter, fresh take that stays true to the spirit of the dish.
Wallace Station Deli
(Versailles)
A rustic version, perfect after a day in horse country.
Ramsi’s Café on
the World (Louisville)
A global spin on the Hot Brown with bold, unique flavors.
Stella’s Kentucky Deli
(Lexington)
Focuses on farm-fresh ingredients and a modern flair.
Blue Horse Restaurant
(Louisville)
Elevates the dish with a rich cheddar sauce twist.
Dudley’s on Short
(Lexington)
A gourmet version served with elegance in downtown Lexington.
Pat’s Steakhouse
(Bardstown)
A quaint stop for a traditional Hot Brown after touring bourbon distilleries.
Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn
(Owensboro)
Known for BBQ, but their Hot Brown offers a unique, smoky take on the classic.
Fresh Sounds of Kentucky
Just like the Hot Brown, Kentucky’s music continues to evolve. From the fast-picking sounds of bluegrass to genre-defying hip hop, these artists represent the new wave of Kentucky’s sound.
A burst of
Sonic Variety
Homegrown Talent
Sturgill Simpson
A Grammy-winning alt-country star redefining Americana with psychedelic twists.
Jack Harlow
Louisville-based rapper, known for hits like “First Class,” bringing a new voice to hip hop.
Nappy Roots
Hip hop pioneers blending Southern sounds with socially conscious lyrics.
Tyler Childers
A folk and Americana artist whose storytelling captures the spirit of Appalachia.
Bryson Tiller
R&B singer and songwriter, acclaimed for his trap-soul sound.
Cage the Elephant
Grammy-winning rock band with roots in Bowling Green, known for their eclectic sound.
Digital Passport
Rewarding YourLove of Music
Track your travels along the Kentucky Music Trail with the free passport app. Simply visit participating sites to collect “check-ins”—the more milestones you reach, the more giveaways you could qualify for including concert tickets and VIP merch.