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Watch Hill Proper

4.4 (94 reviews)
Closed 4:00 pm - 12:00 am (Next day)
Updated 2 months ago

Watch Hill Proper Photos

Business Info

WATCH HILL PROPER ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Casual
Trendy
Romantic

Recommended Reviews - Watch Hill Proper

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Reviews With Photos

Bolognese
Kaley B.

The service was amazing and our waitress was very knowledgeable about the changing menu. We both got the bolognese and it was delicious! We started with the lobster hush puppy, it was delicious as well, but a little over priced for the small portion. Would definitely return

Wild boar shank
Gwendolyn W.

This place is awesome! They have the largest whiskey collection in Kentucky. The staff is super kind. The service is fantastic. We loved our drinks and food. I will be back!

Proper Old Fashioned
John D.

Our friends recently moved into Norton Commons and took us to Watch Hill Proper yesterday afternoon. We had a few cocktails and appetizers. I started with a Proper Old Fashioned and also had a Sazerac. Both were very good. My wife had the Smoke & Cider. She loved it. Great fall cocktail. Our friends had the Proper Manhattan. We enjoyed the homemade pimento cheese that was delivered to our table. For appetizers we had the Steak Tartare, a couple Lobster Hushpuppies and the Mussels in a white wine sauce, which was not on the menu but a special for the evening. One of our friends is gluten sensitive so they brought her some rice crackers so she could enjoy the appetizers with us. The bread that came out with the appetizers was great. The service was fantastic. The place is very nice and the bourbon selection is outstanding, and overwhelming. Over 2,400 bottles...insane!! Very nice place and great for a date night with friends. We also got to sample a couple of the Watch Hill Bourbons and took some bottles home with us.

Erin G.

When you pull into the neighborhood, you notice this is going to be something special. We made reservations for a large group of guys doing the bourbon trail and this place did not disappoint. Great service, followed by equally as amazing food. We ordered a bunch of food, but I had the steak tartare as an app for the table, which was great and I ordered Iberico Secreto. The preparation and presentation was awesome. Of course, you probably also come here for bourbon, which was unlike anything I have seen. Compared a 2024' GTS to Calumet 18 year, the Calumet was a clear winner. Lastly, we shared a desert comprised of the cheesecake and this wicked peanut butter and chocolate creme brulee of sorts. My god! This is a definite stop when in KY. Nice job guys.

Brussels, Potatoes, Steak
P S.

The interior decor is cute. Went on a Tuesday evening with live music but we were seated behind the wall and couldn't really enjoy the live music. The food menu is very limited and pricey!

Proper Picks flight
Laura D.

I think this may be my new favorite Boujie spot in the Louisville area. Ambiance, cocktails, food, service, and bourbon flights were all excellent. Our table got the Spicy tuna app, which was my favorite, a lobster hushpuppy, the pasta, a lobster roll, the scallop dish, and the half chicken. Everything was delicious and I'll be back!

Scallops
Emily R.

I'm so grateful this restaurant is so close, so I can go as many time as I want. It is an excellent spot to try a fun cocktail or have a gourmet meal. The chef never makes a bad meal, the staff are always over the top, and the atmosphere is exactly what you're looking for when you visit Kentucky. I appreciate the master distillers they bring in, I especially love their Thursday night football menus, and enjoy taking out of guests here for a true Kentucky experience. Cannot recommend enough.

Rated #1 Bourbon Bar within the entire USA.
Captain B.

As an international traveling food critic and unbeknownst to the staff, the following is what I experienced: + We had the pleasure of meeting the Manager, Chris directly on arrival. He has a very positive attitude and sets the example of excellence. + Superb service from David. He was energetic, down to earth, extremely efficient with impeccable situational awareness. + Very comfortable and impressive atmosphere. + Quality of food was exceptional high with nothing but the finest of meats, starch, and vegetables. If you are in the area and don't take the time to dine here, you missed out on a fine experience.

Mocktail
Jasmin B.

Ambiance was moody and great for a romantic night out. Came here for a birthday date and ordered the flight which was ready at the table upon arrival. Bar had a large selection of whiskey and great for any whiskey/bourbon lover. It is a little on the expensive side. Nestled in Norton Commons so parking may be an issue. Food was good. Waiter was knowledgeable. Would recommend for a special occasion.

View from our table

Went for our anniversary dinner and were blown away. Ambiance: Beautiful theming around bourbon. The best bourbon selection of any restaurant we have visited. Food: Ahi tartare, Iberico, bolognese were all incredible. Corn pudding was very good. Service: Excellent. They even comped us dessert when they found out it was our anniversary. If looking for a meal for special occasion in Louisville, can't recommend Watch Hill Proper enough. 5/5.

Menu June 2024
Kat N.

Came on a weekday and the restaurant was pretty full and bustling and a bit loud. The lighting reminded me of a traditional steakhouse and bar. I made a reservation on Open Table and they do charge a $64 deposit (it was just me eating alone). Service was really good but it took a long time for the main entree came to come out. The appetizer came out really fast but then I waited 23 minutes for the entree. There was nothing to munch on or anything. Amuse bouche - small piece of bread with cheese spread. A bit salty and strong for an amuse bouche but I appreciate the presentation and bite of food. Torched king salmon - delicious. Fish is tender and was medium cooked because of the torching. Portion is small for the price. Duck breast - the duck was cooked perfectly and it was absolutely delicious. It paired well with the sweet syrup sauce and glaze and the prune jam. I did not like the goat cheese grits though. Oatmeal cookie ice cream This was good but it didn't have a big oatmeal cookie presence. It was more like oatmeal flavored vanilla ice cream. I would have rated 4 stars if it wasn't for the long wait between the appetizer and entree. The food is promising though.

Signature cocktail menu
Amanda F.

Bar review only- Stopped by for a pre dinner drink. We were seated at the bar immediately. We did not have a reservation. Staff were super friendly and kept asking us to stay and have dinner! The chef sent out a small complimentary bite- bread w pimiento cheese. Our bartender, Danny, was great. He explained the beverage menu to us and its organization. They have pages and pages of bourbon. We had a couple cocktails and enjoyed watching them go up the ladder to get specific orders taken care of. Apparently the chef used to be with bourbon bistro and on mellows before the chicken place took over. I bet the food is good. Prices were as expected. Parking is along the street. Ambiance - kinda dark inside. Very cool date night spot. A little noisy. Would like to return for dinner sometime.

Black cod- a delicious and light option
Emalee B.

Service, food and drink was great, prices are on the high side but this is high end dining so I would say these are the prices I expect for this type of restaurant. I've read plenty of reviews complaining about portion sizes but I would argue the portion sizes are perfect. We're so used to having 3x as much food on our plate than we really need. I left feeling perfectly full and satisfied and I would return to this restaurant! It feels fancy and relaxing all at the same time. Great experience.

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Josh H.

Thank you Ron! We always enjoy your visits and appreciate you!

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2 years ago

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Josh H.

Thank you for the review Kat! I hope you will try us again soon!

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Josh H.

Thank you Jordan for the kind review and perspective. Cheers!

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Josh H.

We are glad you came to visit and thank you for the review!

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1 year ago

Dinner, service, and cocktails were amazing and impeccable. Thoughtful preparation and meticulous execution!

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Ask the Community - Watch Hill Proper

Do you have a happy hour with food choices?

Currently our Improper (happy) hour runs on weekdays from 4-5pm. We have a smash burger on the menu and drink specials.

I see lovely pictures of food options and what looks to be a beautiful bar, but do not see table seating for a dining experience beyond tables in front of couches. What dining seating is available if any?

Hi Rene, we have mostly table seating available as well as some lounge seating. More table seating than lounge seating actually. The lounge seating is more picturesque though! Please come on in there are plenty of tables for a dining experience!

Does the restaurant have gluten free options?

Absolutely, they do. Just make your severe aware. They will accommodate you.

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The Wine Room - Membership board

The Wine Room

5.0(2 reviews)
8.8 miThe Avenue, Crescent Hill

They're finally open!!!!!!!! And they do not disappoint! This place has transformed completely and…read moreallllll the glitter may be gone but it is as glamorous as ever! They really have outdone themselves in renovations! It's just so beautiful and photos are great but seeing it in person will show you what I mean. The staff is beautiful and they handled my questions perfectly. Coming from everywhere to relocate here so it's great to meet other transplants in this city! One of my favorite parts of moving here has been discovering new places that are local and finding out they came here from somewhere else too lol! The massive selection of wine and drinks is not only impressive- it's important to know they have work so hard on curating every aspect of this place. Only using art created by local artists that is for sale and will change every 6-8 weeks! So if you see it... you know you want it- get it before someone else snatches it up for themselves!!! The space is so elegant and showcases such diversity throughout! It's so unique and yet flows together seamlessly... just like our unique city and community. I really feel they embraced and embodied this wholeheartedly. Yeah keep Louisville weird- and upscale lol. Perfection. They only use local haunts we all love and eat at! Red hog, blue dog bakery and more. This place is super sick and such a special treat! I really hope everyone shows up and enjoys this place and gives them a big beautiful welcome they are so deserving of. Louisville this is a great place for dates, get togethers, and wine....down & relax at! Literally inside and outside this is just drop dead beautiful!! Cannot wait to return! Chefs kiss hit em five times!

The Wine Room is a great place to meet and mingle. It has great service, a selection of wines and…read morelight plates. Yesterday I was there for a book club meeting of Alliance Francaise Louisville. I had a delicious fig salad: goat cheese, black walnuts, figs and figs. This was paired with a glass of rose. Also, I had a full bodied glass of pinot noir. Finally, I bought a bottle of wine to take home. The wine room is a great place to spend a few hours.

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The Wine Room - View to outside patio and garden seating

View to outside patio and garden seating

The Wine Room - Entrance

Entrance

The Wine Room - Wine bar of wine kitchen

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Wine bar of wine kitchen

Madeline's Nibbles & Wine - Breakfast

Madeline's Nibbles & Wine

4.7(33 reviews)
11.4 mi
Wheelchair accessible
Outdoor seating

Yes, please! Cozy atmosphere, excellent service and cheerful dining room entree selection…read morecrowdsourcing. Hearty portions and deep tastes. Can't wait to return!

Without a doubt, this is one of the best meals I've had in a long time. This charming spot offers a…read morespacious patio in the back, perfect for lively gatherings, and a cozy, intimate front patio great for people-watching. Inside you will find a warm and inviting atmosphere with nods to the charming Victorian architecture of Northern KY. My server, Katelynn, was incredibly sweet and attentive, taking time to walk me through the menu and highlight awesome daily specials they have throughout the week. The food...Chef, you are an all-star. The simplest details were nailed. For example, my po'boy had the perfect crispy bread exterior (thanks to Madeline's choosing Blue Dog Bakery bread--smart), but the warm sauce, a mojo rojo, leaked into the airy pollow dough at the center of the baguette and softened it slightly, soaking up all the delicious flavor. The sandwich was a perfect balance of spice from the sausage, tartness from the mayo, and the acidic-bitter contrast of the pickled red cabbage and fennel. I started with the mushroom dip. Again, Chef, it was absolutely wonderful. It had that comforting, creamy texture we all want in a dip but elevated with rich, fragrant mushroom goodness. Perfectly baked with breadcrumbs on top, adding that perfect crunch to dance with the texture of the dip and baguette. Then (I know, this is crazy, but I was genuinely over-excited) I tried the breakfast burrito with bacon. The potatoes had just the write texture, beautifully juxtaposed with the crunch of high-quality bacon--fatty and cripsy--perfectly cooked. The chipotle mayo on top added the a great smokiness and slight heat. Two of my dishes came with simple chopped romaine as a side salad. Looks totally unassuming, but the house-made parmesan dressing was so delicious. And I think this salad perfectly sums up the food here... sounds simple enough, yet wonderfully done. Totally approachable food prepared by someone who clearly knows flavor and has most likely traveled or at least been influenced by global flavors. Are you still reading? I know this is a lot--so go there immediately! But I am going to wrap this up: I also loved my cocktails. Their peach nectar bellini with cava as a wonderful balance of dry and sweet. The tequila, strawberry, jalapeno and cava cocktail was so refreshing with a little bite from the jalapenos. Both entirely my kind of drinks. I love this place and cannot wait to come back. I hope to lose many a sunny day on their patio. Oh, and here are the weekly specials my server mentioned: Tuesday Prix Fixe Wednesday $25 Bottles of Wine Thursday Oyster Night Enjoy!

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Madeline's Nibbles & Wine - Back Patio

Back Patio

Madeline's Nibbles & Wine - Mushroom cream dip with Blue Dog, sliced baguette

Mushroom cream dip with Blue Dog, sliced baguette

Madeline's Nibbles & Wine - Strawberry tequila, jalapeño cava cocktail

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Strawberry tequila, jalapeño cava cocktail

Blondie & Jim’s Bistro - Famous table markers

Blondie & Jim’s Bistro

4.5(106 reviews)
0.5 mi
$$

We found this lovely restaurant because we attended a Yelp event here. We perused their menu while…read moreattending the event and knew that we were going to have to come back and try their brunch. The service was impeccable. They even remembered us from the event. The owner stopped by our table to say hello. She is such a ray of sunshine! The food was delicious. I enjoyed everything i had. The jerk chicken sandwich, pasta salad, and the grits. I sampled my husband's meal as well. He got the sweet potato waffles. We were thinking that the sweet potato would be infused in the waffle, but we were surprised to find the sweet potato toppings on top of the waffle. It was so scrumptious. We can't wait to go back and try some other items on the menu.

While getting to sample a few light bites at Blondie & Jim's, my husband and I ordered more items…read moreto have dinner at this local restaurant. We had the privilege of meeting Blondie and talking to her about some of the menu items. She was fun and lovely. My two favorites - the chicken salad croissant and pimento cheese with candied bacon and pepper jelly. My husband loved the buffalo cauliflower; however, I found it to be too spicy and one piece was enough. We also grabbed the cornbread appetizer, which wasn't a standout. The menu is full of brunch items served on the weekend. I'm ready to come back to enjoy the chicken and waffles, plus Jim's biscuits and gravy. While there I also sampled the red beans and rice (yum) and cornbread salad (double yum). Several lunch and dinner items plus cocktails and drinks. Everyone in your group should find it easy to find a choice. The decor is bright and fun. Service was top notch. Parking is easy. Come support and enjoy Norton Commons!

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Blondie & Jim’s Bistro - Back menu with brunch served on Saturday and Sundays from 10AM-3PM

Back menu with brunch served on Saturday and Sundays from 10AM-3PM

Blondie & Jim’s Bistro - Front menu

Front menu

Blondie & Jim’s Bistro - Earth juices 100% no sugar no additives no preservatives is it

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Earth juices 100% no sugar no additives no preservatives is it

LouVino Douglass Hills - Steak and Frites

LouVino Douglass Hills

4.2(497 reviews)
6.3 mi
$$

2/13/26. LouVino Our server, Mackenzie F was…read moreEXCELLENT! What a great experience we had. She met us at our table, brought waters and started explaining items to us. She was very patient! I had so many questions about the menu items. She did a great job and we were finally ready to order. I'm glad she didn't give up on us. We chose an appetizer-SPINACH & ARTICHOKE DIP with Pita Chips. Oh My! They were heavenly and fresh out of the oven. For our entrees my husband chose the CHICKEN & WAFFLES. The chicken was a breaded patty atop the Waffles and had a rather large mound of honey butter on top and a ramekin of warm maple syrup. I chose the SMASH BURGER that comes with two 1/3 pound angus beef patties, brie, smoked bacon, apple butter, bibb lettuce, and red onion on a toasted brioche bun. It's topped with apple butter. Let me tell you, it was delicious!! I shared a Caesar Salad for my side. It was very large and we were starting to fill up, but it was great. It had parmesan crisps on it. Mackenzie did a great job bringing out dishes at the proper time. We were really having a wonderful time. The ambiance in the restaurant tonight was kind of quiet. There were couples and galentine groups. We had a great time. Then we decided that the "Special Dessert" that Mackenzie mentioned earlier tonight really looked good. They were BEIGNETS, something different from most restaurants and that we just had to try it. Oh was it Yummy. 4 BEIGNETS, sprinkled with sugar and had a swirl of chocolate inside and a little ramekin of vanilla sauce to dip the beignets in. It was YUMMY! It was an amazing night and Mackenzie took some pictures of us together. She was precious! Robyn

First things first the food was incredible. I went for the Valentine's Day four course special and…read moretruly every course was a delight. The burrata was so well balanced with the accompanying tomato, the tuna was so juicy and well seared, and the lemon sorbet had me dreaming of lemons for hours after. The food is genuinely worth the price point! If you care though, the restaurant is VERY plain. There is very little personality in the decor, and aside from some unconventional chairs and a tile floor by the bar, nothing really sticks out as pleasing to the eye. I chose this restaurant for Valentine's Day to have a romantic, intimate atmosphere, and the vibe was giving summer camp lunch. The floor plan is very open and super grey, with plain wood tables. Even the servers were in very casual clothing. Any other night this would have been fine, but for Valentine's Day, I wish I had picked something more romantic. Overall I really enjoyed the food here and will for sure be back, just not for any special occasions.

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LouVino Douglass Hills
LouVino Douglass Hills - Chorizo burrito (front) Fried Chicken Tacos (back)

Chorizo burrito (front) Fried Chicken Tacos (back)

LouVino Douglass Hills - Exterior

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Exterior

Watch Hill Proper - cocktailbars - Updated May 2026

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