The 18 Best Restaurants in Louisville, Kentucky | Eater

"Chef Noam Bilitzer, originally from Israel, began bringing Eastern Mediterranean flavors to Derby City through pop-ups at Wiltshire on Market. After the longtime Louisville restaurant closed its doors, Bilitzer took over the cozy space, opening Meesh Meesh in 2023 and earning a James Beard nomination for Best Chef Southeast this year. The menu boasts flavors from Palestine, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, and other cultures, including shawarma-spiced chicken thighs, harissa grilled shrimp, and herbaceous falafel. Don’t miss the hummus with schug, crudites, and herb tehina, and finish your dinner with some Turkish coffee and warm chocolate babka. Know before you go: It’s best to plan ahead, as reservations book up quickly." - Lennie Omalza