Big Bar

Bar · Cherokee Triangle

Big Bar

Bar · Cherokee Triangle

1

1202 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40204

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Highlights

A vibrant, cozy gay bar with whimsical decor, offering delicious drinks and a welcoming vibe—perfect for those late-night escapades.  

Featured in The Infatuation
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1202 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40204 Get directions

facebook.com
@bigbar_louisville

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1202 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40204 Get directions

+1 502 618 2237
facebook.com
@bigbar_louisville

$

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Last updated

Jul 11, 2025

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@infatuation

"The Alcove is home to one of the most overcrowded, bone-crushing patios in the city. That said, it’s also home to a fancy cocktail bar with drinks good enough to look past the fact that there are 50 people here on Instastory Live. If you’re able to get a seat inside Big Bar, do it. The bartenders will actually talk to you, and the small interior is far more low-key and intimate than the patio. Also, arrive as late as you can. Alcove clears out quickly after dinner, leaving the place to you and some late-night pie eaters, which is also probably you." - Brant Cox

Big Bar Review - Los Feliz - Los Angeles - The Infatuation
View Postcard for Big Bar

Matthew Rodwick

Google
Being from New Jersey my partner and I love to visit gay bars whare ever we travel to. Weather in Europe or the U.S were always find friendly welcoming guys from are community. Big Bar was no different, wonderful drinks great music and hot bartenders. What could be better. Thanks for the fun!

Melinda Calvert

Google
Dusty Fridays are always so much fun and the money goes to charity! I like going even when there isn't an event because there is a nice patio and areas inside to fit something for everyone! The bathroom has cool art work and is great for photos

Murphy Tassin

Google
The atmosphere at Big Bar is decent, but my experience was affected by the security guard’s unprofessional attitude, which could have been handled better. The drink prices are reasonable, but the bartenders don’t put enough craft into mixing. I ordered a shot and was disappointed to receive something that was mostly juice with just a couple of drops of alcohol. It made the drinks quite unsatisfying overall. If you’re looking for a good vibe, it’s an okay spot, but don’t expect well-made drinks or top-notch service.

N Ja

Google
Brought 2 don Julio blanco shots…gave me a terrible cheap tequila that tasted like rubbing alcohol and charged me for DJ blanco…, I KNOW THE DIFFERENCE. When asked the bartender although he was very nice, he swore up and down it was…please do better! Thanks !

Chloe Turner

Google
went there for the first time, the downstairs was smaller than I expected, nice outside seating area, I didn’t go upstairs, the two bartenders were friendly and efficient, drinks were good, the music the DJ was playing definitely needs improvement. You would think they would play music the customers like. play music catered to the venue. and then there was no interaction from the DJ. unfortunately, minus two stars for the terrible music. the Restrooms were cleaner than expected. The busser was very efficient too. Parallel Parking on the public street.

Elizabeth Sheridan

Google
Everything about this place was fun. It happened to be leather night when my friend and I wandered in, but we never once were made to feel like we didn't belong. And, even though it was packed, the bartenders were friendly and the drinks were good!

John Townsend

Google
I think this bar has a good vibe ,good music and a pleasant and attentive staff. I pick up many of their clientele driving for Uber and Lyft ,and they are consistently nice people to drive for.

John Alexander Leeper

Google
Awesome food, too much soda. Cracked chairs

Alli C.

Yelp
Coming back to say - one of my favorite aperol spritzes! Zachary kills it behind the bar, and the rest of the staff from security to bar backs, are all just amazing.

Saphace A.

Yelp
My friends and I were killing time before heading to Play. It was almost empty for a Friday, but most people probably went early to Play to see Nymphia Wind. It was easy to find parallel parking on the side street. We saw a few drag performers which was fun! We were there to support our friends with QTAAPI. And we got free drinks so I can't speak for the price. I'm basic these days so I got a vodka soda which was a bit too strong. Couldn't finish it but we didn't have a ton of time. It's a fun vibe! It's a chill place to hang out.

Bianca L.

Yelp
Totally awesome place to go and dance and drink the night away. Drinks are pretty reasonable price as well.

Lorie L.

Yelp
I've visited Big Bar since its opening and its now officially bigger. Patio seating available, and its first door opens to the original bar. Bartenders have been friendly and attentive at almost every visit. A full bar is available plus they always have 1-2 frozen drink options. The expansion opens into a larger, open area with high tops, stage for karaoke and a floor for dancing. Another bar is open there and toward the back, two huge bathrooms. Small upstairs offers a glance over the main floor and more seating. The space is nicely done - tv monitors for karaoke and videos, plus bright, fun lighting. This change has definitely made Big Bar a louder venue, so if you want to sit back and catch up with friends the patio is going to be your best option.

Faith H.

Yelp
Absolutely my favorite place in Louisville, Kentucky. Hands-down! The vibe is extraordinary you have to go to know. Going by yourself you'll make friends instantly or just enjoy the vortex of love by yourself that Big Bar is built on. Also, they have expand it beautifully! MUST SEE!! Service is awesome, and on the spot!

Jessy Briton H.

Yelp
Hung out here while in Kentucky a few months back. Great atmosphere with something for everyone. Happy to to be able to both get drinks in a gay establishment AND also watch the Bengals game. Enjoyable experience - would go back if in town.

Tps B.

Yelp
Seedy hole in the wall that actually promotes rape and victim shaming, absolutely appalling and owners should be ashamed put on blast for letting this happen during pride month too. and ofc the food looked like it was fished out of a fresh barf bowl. Unreal experience, come here if you want to feel like it's the 1800s and you're in poverty.

Priscilla B.

Yelp
I went here for the first time with some of my gay friends on Saturday 10/27 at around 11pm. There was a cover fee, and the man who was charging us, was extremely rude to us, unhappy that we did not have cash on us, and annoyed that we had to Venmo. This did not rub us the right way, and because of his attitude we left. People working at the front of an establishment are the face of the business and should be friendly and positive. Because of this, we went to "Nowhere Bar" where the people charging the cover were extremely friendly and greeted us with smiles. I don't know if I will ever bring myself to Big Bar again if this is the type of staff they choose to hire.

Christina H.

Yelp
Idk when we started coming here but it's now a MUST that we stop by whenever we can! Our favorite bartender Zach knows what he's doing and never disappoints! Best bar ever! Gay or not

Mary B.

Yelp
Brandon is a phenomenal bartender and person. They have a small but regular happy hour crowd that makes the bar feel like home. Everyone is welcome there! Even though they don't serve food they often sit out snacks and never seem to mind if you bring your own food. They play old music videos that are interesting to watch and great conversation starters.

Miranda S.

Yelp
Super fun place and friendly people, drinks were well priced. We had a great time. I wish it was.. well..bigger but everyone was having so much fun being shoulder to shoulder wasn't a huge deal.

Addrianna C.

Yelp
This is literally one of the best gay bars in Louisville!!!! Zach is my FAVORITE bartender! Him and this bar are a god sent!

Lupe R.

Yelp
Wow a good example of an awesome bar. If your looking for a good hole in the wall bar this is it. It's small so if you want a good seat to hang out get there early. Outside is good as well as long as you don't mind getting wet when it rains. But after your wet it's a party! Sooooooo get the party started. Great music and great bartenders. Let your fun begin at this bar then work your way done Bardstown road. You won't regret it. You will soon fun that all things come with fun and entertainment. They have the music that's I'll entertain you for the night. You won't be disappointed. It will sure help you enjoy your night.

Tammy F.

Yelp
Has a great time everytume I have been the past few months. I went by myself once and with groups the other couple of times and everyone always had a great time. Great music, and a good atmosphere.

Miguelitoo D.

Yelp
Great environment weather you're lgbtq+ or not this a chill bar with great music, and great drinks. Zach is a great bartender and always In a great mood.

Joseph T.

Yelp
It's small. The music is loud, but there's no dance floor. It's mostly a place to go and hang with your friends. Not a huge fan. But they do have a good little front patio if you can claim a spot. And it's near enough to other places so if you were venturing around the Highlands, you needn't walk very far. Solid 3 Stars.

Timothy K.

Yelp
It's Saturday night, Christmas Eve, 18° outside and these clowns don't have a phone number, at least one that works I've only tried about six. I don't know about you but I'm not gonna park my big , sweet ass somewhere and walk two blocks to find out these clowns have four people in there and $10 to walk in... don't know Really how much it is because guess what I can't get any information.Get a damn phone number, answer it or post your shit on the socials so people can see what the Hells going on...it may be called big bar , ought to be to be called LITTLE SENSE!!!! Ugh gross

Zach M.

Yelp
One of the best queer spots in the city! The vibe is great with lots of fun events! The recently expanded bar has lot of room and an amazing space all around.

Ken K.

Yelp
We stopped here for a couple drinks on the first leg of a road trip to Wisconsin. We were made to feel welcome even before entering the bar. When we called the owner told us about a promotion they had going on that with a $10 drink they would give you a free collectors Maker's Mark cocktail glass, they came in six colors the colors of the gay flag, they only had one complete set left and the owner boxed them up nicely for us and they were waiting for us on our arrival. After three Maker's Mark's drinks each we went back to the hotel with our host gift for the guys putting us up in Milwaukee. It's a small bar, and I am sorry I don't remember the bartenders name, but, he is one of the best bartenders I have had the pleasure of experiencing in years. He made us feel welcome and spent just the right amount of time chatting with every patron at the bar....never once neglecting a customer, always watching out of the corner of his eye.It's non smoking but if it weren't I am confident he would be there with a light for every cigarette. Yes. the place was spotless too, even the bathrooms, and I am picky.

Zach F.

Yelp
Great team, super creative with such a small "big" space. One of the best gay bars around Louisville, but really everyone from ALL walks of life come to the watering hole. Sunday funday, Thursday night go go boys, interesting slushees, amazing owner and staff. Take my money.

Carolyn G.

Yelp
Love that the name is a sarcastic play on words! A tiny bar with a big hospitality. Had an au revoir get together and we brought in food of all kinds. Known as a "gay bar," everyone felt welcome and included. The bartender did a superior job. Love their house special bourbon cocktail Be sure to notice the floor. One inch squares in black and white laid to resemble a piano. Great addition to the ambiance.

Justin H.

Yelp
Great little bar, good atmosphere, and decently priced drinks! Definitely recommend if you're a local, or just visiting.

Shyran B.

Yelp
All of have to say is Best Frozen Alcoholic Drinks for only $5. My girlfriend and I love stopping by this friendly place to grab a quick frozen drink or two to cool off on these hot summer afternoons.

D S.

Yelp
The owner and crowd are very unequal. It's extremely too small to honestly have any fun, drinks are watered down and over priced. When it's crowded, it's unbearable. But, a slow night, if you're any a quick drink.. or shot, it's ok.

Travis S.

Yelp
A cute, social spot whether you're a local or a visitor! Gay friendly and growing! Big bar will be expanding soon and the patio space is a perfect spot to relax in the sun with friends. I've spent a few SUNDAY FUNDAYs enjoying the sun and $15 bottomless mimosas! The price is right at this bar!

Meghan H.

Yelp
I adore Big Bar, and have made some great memories there throughout the years. I live right down the road from it. The bartenders are some of the friendliest in town, and their weekly specials and events make this an exciting spot! It is a predominantly queer space, so if you're a straight ally, like me, just be respectful of that. I've never not felt welcome there (everyone is super friendly), but, you know, be cool. Drinks are always affordable here, and the pours are decent. I always see people drinking mimosas on the patio during brunch hours. I've got to take advantage of that sometime! Speaking of their patio, this spot gets hopping on the weekend, so try to get there early, as Big Bar's space is ironically small. The music, often accompanied with music videos, is always bumpin' in Big Bar, and it's also a great karaoke spot, on nights when that happens. So fun -- check it out!

Kathy V.

Yelp
It's not going to be my favorite place. But it alright. Awfully small. It will be interested to see how crowded it gets when the weather is *actually* bearable again....so small inside and a very small patio. It very well may burst. I'm sure I'll be there again at some point. :-)

Bryan J.

Yelp
This may be the most deceptively named bar in Louisville and it's pretty awesome. I've come to Big Bar on packed nights and dead nights with good experiences both times. The first time I came here was back when Scott and I started dating (more than two years ago), on a weekday night and it was literally just us plus the bartender and then there are nights where it's so packed that it is hard to move. When we went and it was just us, I ordered a drink I hadn't had in a while because Pheonix Hill's closure, liquid cocaine, I normally don't order these at many places because they're easy to mess up. However the lady tending the bar made it perfectly strong and sweet. It was relaxing because we were able to sit at the bar and have a conversation with us and talk with her as well. The other few times I have been, it wasn't dead, in fact it's been packed almost to capacity, especially when the weather is bad because no one wants to stand on the patio when it's cold, raining, snowing or muggy. Even when it's packed the bar still pushes drinks out quickly and the bartenders are always pleasant. I keep meaning to come here for their happy hours, but I either forget, work or just don't feel like getting out of my PJ's, but they've got great deals then as well. Overall, if you're not into crowded environments and the occasional read from someone in the bar then, this probably wouldn't be your place on a nice weekend night but could fit right up your alley if you're looking for a weekday, after work drink. Check it out and see for yourself why it should be called "Not Big Bar."

Sharron S.

Yelp
What a fun bar! Matt Cline always remembers my drink every time I come in! Great location on Bardstown Rd for a diverse bar! Everyone is very happy and happy to serve me! FUN FUN FUN

Hannah S.

Yelp
This bar has the best frozen drinks, hands down. I've had the blackberry, bourbon, lemonade, and watermelon flavored drinks. This place has great customer service and even better people watching location!

Yami D.

Yelp
Monday Movies???? If I'm paying for drinks and a good time listening to music, not to watch movies! I love the spot, but they should change that rule!

Jeremy L.

Yelp
If you're on bardstown road at night, stop here. Super friendly people and fun atmosphere. Wonderful drinks and small enough to pop in and out.

Alan K.

Yelp
I am not sure why they call this place "Big Bar" considering this bar is really small, but it is a great place to have a couple of cocktails. I noticed that they had drink specials posted all over the place, but considering that Kentucky is known for producing bourbon, they had a large variety of Bourbons on hand for mixing, including some ginger beer as a mixer which is a plus in my book. I loved the videos playing on the screens as many of those videos were from the 90's. As midnight struck, we noticed everyone trickle away.....as suspected, the reason why people left was they ended up at Nowhere Bar down the street to dance. Oh yeah, our bartender Reggie was really nice and friendly :)

Glenn W.

Yelp
Why aren't you here? It's BIG it's FUN and i'm here. What's more to want? Karaoke. Hot bar tenders. Fun crowd and clearly missing you to make it complete. Don't be silly. Represent!

Tobias B.

Yelp
My Partner and I LOVE this new establishment! We transplanted from NYC last year and Louisville was DEFINITELY lacking a fun, upscale, neighborhood gay friendly watering hole. The location and parking are excellent, fun diverse crowd, nicely decorated, great patio, and amazing drinks and drink prices! Yes it is small inside, but the size works...as you don't feel cramped if you are on a date, and I like that it promotes conversations between people if you decide to come alone.

Michael T.

Yelp
I'm one of the few not being a big fan of Big Bar. Fun crowd - absolutely, easy parking - well was the night I was there, cold drinks and good prices - yelpers, all in all a good time except one thing. One bathroom.......not fun! Sorry, I'm just old and cranky when it comes to such things! Its just me, everyone I know LOVES it!

Bek A.

Yelp
Very fun! But be careful. A lot of people have gotten drugged there! Watch your drinks!

Joseph D.

Yelp
I was NOT impressed. I arrived at this dump, was left standing for a good amount of time at the bar and when the bartender finally looked my way I had to flag him down for a drink. To begin with, when I walked in this small bar was filled and a fat black dude and a skanky white girl were trying to dance sexy blocking my walking in. They wouldn't move to let me probably because they were so drunk they didn't notice anyone else around them. I drank the one drink I bought and as I was walking out a guy said, "Hi, cutie!" to me. I told him that I was pissed, leaving and told him why. He happened to be the owner and I told him his bar sucked then turned around and walked out.

Steven C.

Yelp
This is my hangout. Neighborhood gay bar. Order whatever is in the slushy machine. If it's watermelon margarita, you're in luck! They use fresh watermelon! But most everything out of the machine is delicious. The bartenders are all friendly.

Brittany J.

Yelp
The Best small big loveable place you could ever go! I always meet new friends and have such an amazing time each and every time.

Kelly J.

Yelp
I love this place for happy hour! They have slushy bourbon drinks. C'mon, who wouldn't be a fan of that?!

Jerry P.

Yelp
Went to Big Bar Saturday night, May 12th. It's a very nice little bar. Very cool and modern decor. The owner Kevin Bryan was very friendly and the bartenders were working their tails off due to the crowd. I've been back after work through the week and it is very laid back and comfortable. With the garage door open you have a great view of busy Bardstown Rd. There is also very nice out door seating. I highly recommend this place. Greaty location, good service, good mix of people.

Bradley P.

Yelp
First time bring here so first impressions... Hot bartender, small place, gay music... Not bad :)

Rachel S.

Yelp
Easily tied for my favorite bar in the city. Every weekend night, this place is hopping. While the name is rather tongue in cheek due to the small size of the establishment, you won't mind mingling with the crowd. My advice? Always go for the slushie of the night. You can never got wrong. Whether it is bourbon and orange (my fave), vodka lemonade, a nutty Irishman, or any of their other wonderful concoctions, they are all delicious! The bartenders also provide wonderful drink ideas based on your personal tastes. It is a wonderful way to start the night off, and the music is always top notch.

Craig S.

Yelp
Turn around, big brown eye.. GREAT Total Eclipse of the Heart party Kevin. If it is gonna end-I'm going out with Stacy.

Bethany Z.

Yelp
This place is a great place to just be yourself! Even though it's called Big Bar its a pretty small bar which creates a large demand! Love this place. Only down side is the size.

Kyle P.

Yelp
Service was great and drink were awesome. Drinks were also surprisingly well priced. It had to have been some kind of happy hour when I went because I was pleasantly surprised. Very small bar, but I think thats kind of the idea. Perfect location for what we were looking for, which was a place to stop in for happy hour to have a couple cocktails! Will most definitely go back.

Minda H.

Yelp
Was here 3xs in one week! Drinks are cheap AND excellent. Bar tenders were also really friendly. It's one of those neighborhood bars where people actually interact with people they don't know. I know it's technically listed as a gay bar but they let us straights slip by if we're well-behaved ;) I really enjoyed the DJ on Thursday night.

Adam W.

Yelp
Big Bar has cheap drinks and a great atmosphere! The only downfall of Big Bar is that despite it's name it is actually quite small inside. The lines for the restroom are long and you can't get from one side of the bar to the other without walking over someone or having your drink spilled.