You may think you know Louisville: lots of bourbon and pimento cheese, plenty of mint juleps, and the home of Colonel Sanders, right? But a visit to this thriving all-American city reveals a food scene that has evolved and modernized, with chefs like Edward Lee and Sara Bradley combining the city and region’s storied heritage with new, often globally inspired flavors.

The Flavor & The Menu team were eager to check in on Derby City’s thriving culinary scene, seeking out the concepts and dishes that are “wowing” locals and visitors alike. On this flavor-scouting trip, we experienced everything from a Scandinavian slider bar to a cocktail counter hidden at the back of a plant shop that strives to go beyond bourbon.