J Graham's Cafe

I highly recommend visiting J Graham’s Café inside the famous Brown Hotel. This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that transports you back to the 1920s. The décor and architecture are stunning and make you feel like you’ve stepped into another time. I read that back in the day, the Brown would draw over 1,200 guests each evening for its dinner dances, which went late into the night and ended with the traditional ham and eggs. Out of that tradition, chef Fred Schmidt created the iconic Hot Brown—an open-faced turkey sandwich topped with bacon, tomatoes, and a delicate Mornay sauce. You absolutely must try the original right here where it all began. On Sundays, J Graham’s serves an extraordinary buffet with an impressive variety of food. You’ll find salmon, chicken and waffles, made-to-order omelets, fresh shrimp, deviled eggs, smoked salmon with bagels, Caesar salad, charcuterie, soups, vegetables, ribs, and so much more. What made our visit truly exceptional, though, was our server Kat. She went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. My daughter has a nut allergy, and Kat was so thorough and cautious, taking the time to confirm with the kitchen that every item was safe. Her genuine concern and careful attention gave my daughter such peace of mind and made us all feel completely cared for. Kat wasn’t just attentive, she was warm, thoughtful, and truly outstanding at her job. My daughter absolutely adored her, and our entire family was deeply impressed by the level of service she provided. Because of Kat, our experience at J Graham’s Café was not only delicious but also unforgettable. I would gladly come back here again and will absolutely request Kat as our server every time.

J Graham’s Cafe is a very classy place to have a meal, and it’s a great spot to try a hot brown sandwich for the first time. That’s what I did, and it was a great meal. I got the petite hot brown, and it was delicious. It was cheesy and savory with a bit of tomato and turkey. It was surprisingly complex in flavor despite looking a tad messy. It figures that the place that invented the sandwich does a fantastic job of making it. I’d be back just for another hot brown. The service was top notch and very polite. It’s worth going out of your way to visit.

What another iconic place that is run very well. Southern hospitality abodes. We have gone for brunch after day one of the CD and have always had an overwhelmingly great experience. This year the service hit a snag and then straightened out and flew right!! Thanks to Louise and staff for taking such great care of us.

This is the perfect place to go for a Sunday brunch buffet date. They had many options. My only complaint is they had like half lunch food and not as many breakfast options (the French toast was not 100% fresh and they did not have waffles or pancakes) but I loved everything else about it! Server was fantastic as well. Would have liked a hash brown option and waffle pancake for it to feel like a true brunch experience. But perfect for people who like the actual lunch/breakfast vibe!

We stayed at The Brown and had to try their world famous Hot Brown. It certainly didn't disappoint! The bread pudding was outstanding as well. One of the most unique and tasty versions of bread pudding I've ever had. Matthew took great care of us and we look forward to the next time we're in town to get another Hot Brown & bread pudding.

I really enjoyed the food and the experience of dining at J. Graham’s Cafe! The Hot Brown completely lived up to the hype, and everything else was delicious as well! It was also really interesting to be able to look around the historic Brown Hotel. I would highly recommend making this a destination when in Louisville, both for the history and the food!

Whenever we visit an area we like to try the foods that are distinct to it. In the case of Louisville this meant a hot brown and derby pies. We were surprised and relieved to be able to get into the cafe for lunch without too much difficulty. My wife and I split the hot brown. It was sooo good! The turkey part of the meal was so thick that we originally thought it was bread. As for the derby pie I personally didn't like it all that much but my wife did. It seems I'm not a pecan/almond pie person. The atmosphere of the restaurant was great and you could tell it was full of a lot of history. The service was generally good, but I wasn't given a refill of water until after we had finished our meal and were ready to leave.

Got a hot brown and the derby pie. I wish I could eat this pie every day. Not your classic sugary pie, tastes like European pies.

I will be the first to admit I'm a tourist and unabashedly do tourist-y things. And I love food so it's a bonus when I get to eat at places famous for or that invented fun and delicious sounding dishes. Before I even stepped foot into Louisville, I read about the Hot Brown and knew I had to come here to get it. Outside of the tourist aspect of it, this cafe is located within the Brown Hotel. Both the restaurant and hotel have a classy, old-timey vibe to them. Walking in, I was greeted and sat right away from some of the friendliest folks ever. The menu had quite a few items on it, but I already knew what I wanted - I was able to order a 'Petite Hot Brown'; the smaller version of the dish, which was plenty for me. I also got a Cafe Creamsicle coffee drink to wash it down. The dish is basically a cross between an open face turkey sandwich and mac cheese (the gooey cheese part). It's hot, comforting, rich and savory. Comfort food at it's finest. If I were to be back in Louisville or stayed longer, I would have loved to come back here for other meals or possibly stay at the hotel (assuming it's in my price range, haha) I was able to find a parking meter right across the small street the hotel is located on.

If you want to experience one of the best brunch buffets of your life, go downstairs to J. Graham's Cafe at the Brown Hotel and order weekend brunch. My waiter was the same one I had the night before up at the Lobby Bar and he was fantastic with his recs. I kicked off with an iced coffee and one of the sparkly spritzers, as one does when she's treating herself to Saturday brunch solo. I then went up to enjoy the $40 buffet which it sounds pricey, but where else are you going to have a chef preparing an omelet to your specifications right in front of you? I was so full still from the night before that I regret I could not eat more food, but I can confirm the mini desserts I had, parfait, and side salad were equally delish. And the mini bagel with lox? Genius. It's fancy, yet chill and lovely here at the same time. A new favorite brunch memory of mine for sure. *hearts*

Louisville, KY Ate here a few times. Good Avacado toast and breakfast sandwich. Terrible Cappuccino IMO, stick to Coffee.. Great Service.

You've got to try a Hot Brown at least once, and I'm glad to report that the original did not disappoint. My skillet came out scorching hot and I definitely risked my tongue for the first few bites. Worth it. The turkey was moist and the mornay sauce smooth and cheesy. My husband had the shrimp and grits and they too were delicious. My daughter's Bombay sandwich was the only miss. The flavors sounded intriguing but didn't quite work together. Service and decor are both a bit formal but in a warm way. Worth a visit if you've never been.

OMG! My hot brown sandwich was amazing! It was my first and I am going to have this every time I come back to Louisville Kentucky! It was so big and rich, my boyfriend and I shared it. I didn't share my Derby Pie ala mode! I could have because I had to take 1/2 of it home. I ate the leftover pie with my coffee the next morning. It reminded me of a great lunch the day before. Service was great too and so was the elegant atmosphere and history!

From the valet at the front door to the The Cafe and the wonderful experience there, make time to visit all the unique items in the gift shop, a first class treat we gave ourselves. Things have changed since this time last year. Instead of the Lunch choice of a hot brown, or Buffet, you now have a full menu with many choices. Of course, the petite hot brown is all the rage. However, if you like, you can choose from a burger, pimento cheese and bacon Sandwich, chicken salad, shrimp and grits. And on and on. We tried some of each, everything piping, hot and over and above the usual. We made reservations and had a perfect table, window view. The staff cannot be more engaging and on point. We spoke to the manager about their private room. It comfortably seats 24 guests, looks like three tables of eight in a beautifully decorated room. No charge for the room, they ask everyone eat and drink, hoping a minimum $300 charge. No problem with separate checks. that's amazing! Ten stars for Food, service, and ambiance. A step back in time, to the 1920s, when they had nightly dances at the hotel and late night snacks at J Graham's Café. Mr. Brown always had lunch up in the mezzanine along with his dog and cigar. Rumor has it you may still get a glimpse of him, or smell the aroma of the cigar. Treat yourself to this awesome experience. They are doing a great job of keeping prices in line so Louisville locals can enjoy lunch without breaking the bank. The sandwiches and salads are $16-$18 range and come with your choice of fries, sweet potato tots, salad. Of course the world renowned hot brown has a petite size of $20 and a large size which would serve three people of $33. And don't forget dessert. You can easily share their cobblers and bread pudding. By far, the best bread pudding in Louisville. Better yet, don't share and take half home for later in the evening.

Wow. I mean this place is amazing. My server Divine was "divine". So polite, so attentive. Food is amazing. We were here for our Bachelorette weekend and we can't wait to come back. Very clean and calm atmosphere. And the buffet they have on weekends??? I'm obsessed.

My dining experience at J. Graham's Cafe was delightful. Ever since I knew I'd be visiting Louisville, trying the hot brown sandwich in the restaurant where it originated was a priority. From the time I made my reservation to the end of the meal, I felt well taken care of, and that the extra splurge on a fancy lunch was worth it. I made my reservation for lunch the night prior to my visit, and I found the reservation service they use to be very helpful. As your reservation time approaches, you receive a text that gives you a chance to indicate if you are "on your way" to your reservation. While I arrived early, I know that this service can be helpful to anyone who might be stuck in traffic or running a little behind schedule. Once I arrived, I was promptly seated in a very comfy booth surrounded by pillows, and greeted by a friendly waitress who gave me the run-down of the day's offerings. I ordered the petite hot brown (slightly smaller version of the original) and a mint julep. Both were wonderful! Even though it was busy, I never felt rushed during my meal - which was extra special during this visit, because that meant I could appreciate the design and artwork of the space I was in. If I find myself in Louisville again, I'll be sure to return to J. Graham's Cafe at the Brown Hotel!

We had an AMAZING hot brown sandwich! We were told we needed to have it at the Brown Hotel where it originated. We are so glad we did! The atmosphere was bright and comfortable. We had the most wonderful waitress, Dawn. She was fun, helpful and showed the true hospitality of Louisville! We are from out of state or I would be going back OFTEN!!

Stayed at the Brown Hotel for work and had the opportunity to dine at J. Graham's a couple of times. Far exceeded what you may expect from a hotel eatery. First off the setting is fantastic. Inside the historic hotel, truly a great ambiance. Service was impeccable. I was really impressed by the staff. Food was excellent and the price was reasonable despite the upscale location. I'd come back even if I was not staying at the hotel! Note: if you order the signature "hot brown" (see their website for details), bring a friend! Amazing dish, but enough to feed you and your friends!

I have never had a bad dish here until today. I ordered the Fried Green Tomato Caprese. It was the worse fried green tomato's I've ever had and I'm from south, I know how to fry green tomatoes. If there was a tomato under the very heavy breading you couldn't taste it. It tasted like it was fried in a deep fryer with oil that was too hot because it was way overcooked. The mozzarella was melted on the crust. I expected fresh mozzarella uncooked. That is how Caprese is made. I gave them 3 stars because my husbands Cobb Salad was great. It was a great classic Cobb excellently presented.

Great ambiance! Good service. Now to try this food! We definitely plan to return in the afternoon for a bourbon pour - great menu and prices.

Went on New Years Day for brunch, unaware it was buffet only, the food was amazing. Omelette station, traditional black eyed peas and cabbage. As well as a wide array of meats, fruits, pastries, etc. Service was subpar, at best. The atmosphere and decor were lovely but the tables were very close together. It was hard to focus on my conversation with so many others seated close.

This is for the weekend brunch buffet experience. I've missed their famous weekend brunch. I was very excited to come back to try it again. While the ambiance and service were still top-notch, I was left a bit disappointed with a few of the buffet offerings. The sirloin was beyond well done and tough; salmon was the same. There were no other seafood offerings. At $37.95pp and $10 each mimosa prices, I felt the value was not there. Also, once the buffet starts at noon on Saturday and Sunday, you can only choose the buffet or order the Hot Brown. No other menu items are available. If you want old school glamor, impeccable service, and that original Hot Brown, then J. Graham Brown's Cafe is for you. But I don't think I will return for the brunch buffet.

A bit pricey however for the service, good breakfast food, coffee, professionalism and clean-worth it

The hot brown is worth it. We came here on the advice of a friend who lived in the area. It was great advice!

Wandered into this lovely place on Sunday morning and was thrilled to partake of the expansive brunch offerings. From the omelets made to order to the baked goods, everything was delicious. Presentation was beautiful (and bountiful) and the service was top notch. On top of it, the room is old school southern beautiful.

We had a great lunch at J. Graham's at The Brown Hotel. I had seen the Hot Brown sandwich features on The Food Network and knew I wanted to try one for myself. The sandwich is really tasty and really big. Layers of turkey and tomatoes are served open faced over perfectly toasted bread and then covered with an exceptional mornay sauce. Three people at my table all ordered The Hot Brown and we were all completely happy with our decision. Make time to look around The Brown Hotel as well. It has extensive amounts of charm, hospitality and history.

This is a classic--and classy--restaurant. Let's get the key part out of the way. If you haven't had the original hot brown, clear your afternoon to allow a nap, and order one up for lunch. Toast topped with moist, delicious turkey, bathed in savory mornay sauce (think a cheesy bechamel, but not mac and cheese level cheese or anything), topped with crisp bacon and fresh sliced tomatoes, broiled to bubbly, browned perfection. If you can't scrap the whole afternoon, there is a "petite" version you might be able to walk off on the way back to the office I suppose.... And there are plenty of other sandwiches, salads, etc. to enjoy. As noted this has a very classy ambiance. Very old school vibe, which is nice, but please don't think I'm saying it's pretentious or that you'll need a suit or evening dress to dine! Service is always top-notch. Great place to dine.

Good food, cute atmosphere, poor service. We had a Hot Brown at the Lobby Bar on our first night and wanted to finish on one for the last lunch, so we came to J Graham's. While it somehow wasn't quite as good as upstairs, it was still what we wanted. Also, we tried the soup of the day, and it was a take on a mullagatawny that, while there wasn't much to it, had a delicious spice. Service was extremely slow and just didn't have much awareness of our needs. Watching other tables, they had it worse and waited forever to even get to order. I'd only recommend if you're in no rush and don't care as much about good service because it is pretty annoying.

Visiting Louisville, had to try the original Hot Brown. I had never been to The Brown Hotel, where J. Graham's Cafe is located, so that is a little confusing, but not a big thing really. On a Saturday they had either a breakfast buffet, or the Hot Brown..my wife doesn't eat meat, and there was an option of a vegetarian Hot Brown..so, we each had The hot Brown, one with meat the other, without. So, I enjoyed my meal, I thought the mashed potatoes were light and creamy, the melted cheese was fairly tasteless, but blended well into the mashed potatoes. Bacon was perfect, and the chunks of turkey were outstanding. They've been making the Hot Brown for around 100 years, they have this down. I'd have it again!

Excellent food and ambience was great, the deco was beautiful , went there for a reunion

This was our first time at J. Graham's Cafe, and I'm sure it will not be the last. We wanted to find a romantic and quiet place where we could have a great conversation. The food was amazing, and my husband and I were grateful for the wonderful service.

We went to try the Original Hot Brown and it did not disappoint. The buffet was amazing! Jenise Hale - Author #gossamerkey #supportlocalbusinesses #supportlocalauthors GossamerKey.com

When I visited Louisville, I made sure to make a visit here, so that I could try Hot Brown and Derby Pie. I did not have to make a reservation, and just walked right in and was seated straight away. I think I should try Hot Brown again to be certain I like it. The Derby Pie was nutty, sweet and shareable. Overall, I had a good experience here! I think any visitor to Louisville should stop here to try these two Louisville staples!

Regular stop every time I'm in Louisville. It's a Louisville tradition that you can't miss. The hot brown is unique and delicious and the derby pie is amazing. Get the pie a la mode if you can to take it up a notch. Service is always spot on and so friendly! Love the feel of the restaurant, classy without feeling stuffy.

First stop in Louisville had to be here. The Hot Brown was excellent as expected and the bread pudding was to die for. The cocktails were excellent! The servers were pleasant and efficient. What else can I say? You have to eat here when you are in town!

First of all - let's talk about the "hot brown" -- you're going to pay about $30 for an open faced turkey sandwich with sauce. That's it. Don't buy into the hype. My partner and I came here for breakfast as we were staying In the hotel. The hostess? 10/10 service and friendly service. The server? Angie. 3/10. Dry, and right to the point, no sense of hospitality. Same with the gentleman walking around filling waters/coffees. My experience is that if you look like you don't have money - you won't really be paid attention. Stuffy ambiance. Older white men - that's all I'll say there. THE FOOD though; despite everything else and my expectations was delicious and delightful. Pricey but average in the area we are in. I had the Belgian waffles and my love had the avocado toast. Honestly won't come back because I'm cheap and don't like paying to be ignored.

We stayed at the Brown Hotel when visiting family in Louisville. We ate breakfast here in the morning before leaving town. The server was very friendly and sat us at our table promptly. Our orders came fairly quick and the food was good but nothing special. I'll eat here again if I have to.

this is a positively lovely place. The ambience is tough to beat. And the food is positively terrific. I've been happy with every visit I've made here and look forward to returning.

Well you can't go to Louisville and try one of their famous Hot Brown and not get it from the Brown Hotel, where got it's name. My wife got the Hot Brown, I got a BLT and we got fries to share as an appetizer. I did not care for the Hot Brown. Not because it was bad, rather, just not my cup o tea. The fries had great seasoning and flavor and the BLT was amazballs.

Located in the Brown Hotel, J. Graham's Cafe offers a lot of great options. I went in on a weekend morning when a fresh buffet brunch was being served for the cost of about $25. One of the biggest reason to come to the cafe is for the Hot Brown. It comes out served hit a very hot skillet taking a little longer to prepare. Fresh bacon, cheese, and turkey inside. Along with tomato quarters. There are two different size options to choose from for the Hot Brown. The larger size is definitely a hefty portion. If you are in Louisville and looking for a Hot Brown this is a great place to come or start things off.

Treated the hubby to THE REAL hot brown. Substitutes are nothing in comparison. If you've never had the original, you won't understand. This isn't the knock off hot brown with deli sliced turkey and cream of mushroom soup. This treat is made with house smoked turkey breast and cheese sauce. The story behind the hot brown is a wonderful late night meal idea that brings tears tradition to Kentucky. The J. Graham Cafe also sports a lovely buffet with a variety of fruits, proteins and sweets. Service could not have been better and the atmosphere is relaxing. This may be an anniversary brunch tradition.

The Hot Brown was delicious! Service was exceptional and the hotel is beautiful! A must visit should be on everyone's places to visit. Can't wait to enjoy again!

We gave visited The Brown Hotel for our Anniversary the last 3 years. We have frequented J. Graham's every year since if reopened after Covid but, this year it was exceptional. The service and food was wonderful. Louise and her staff went out of their way to make our Anniversary memorable. From arranging special room service for our Anniversary breakfast to a special dessert for lunch. The staff is by far the friendliest and most attentive I've ever experienced. Thank you again to Louise for a wonderful experience.

Outstanding venue for a family birthday luncheon for my Sister. Of course the Hot Browns were hot & tasty. But the Customer Service Representative (Louise Riley) was exceptional she gave a us a crash course of the Founder of the famous hotel & etc. She made us feel right at home we are very happy we picked this historic venue. Absolutely perfect day.

Outstanding historical hotel with a restaurant responsible for a Kentucky original, a hot brown sandwich. This is where the authentic dish started back in the 20's (The last ones, not the ones now) and it still has that early 20th century charm to it. We also tried the derby pie and it was outstanding. Definitely check this place out if you want a slice of old Kentucky original in a classic hotel.

We came for the Hot Brown and left with much more. The experience was extraordinary- amazing food and wonderful ambiance. The Hot Brown (petite sized) is very big. Every scrumptious bite was worth it but next time we will split one. As good as the food was, our server Brooke B was the highlight. Brooke was attentive but not intrusive. She is very knowledgeable about the restaurant, the Brown hotel, and the area. Being from out of town we were hoping for a local's perspective on where to go. She was the perfect tour guide in a matter of moments. The whole experience was wonderful. If ever back in the area we will definitely spend some time here. Thanks for a high point and a memorable experience.

Has to be the best brunch in town on Saturday/Sunday. If you go at 10:30/10:45 you get breakfast, then at 11ish they switch over to lunch. Delicious salads, desserts, grits, lox, Caesar salad; literally everything we had. We were there two different mornings and there was variety day over day. Service was wonderful, attentive staff. Ambiance and decor are beautiful, comfy chairs. We stayed at the Brown Hotel, but definitely worth going there for the brunch buffet alone. Highly recommend.

The brunch was dog kibbles fer real. My bisexual fiancé and me got finessed like a motha F'er. $30 for some microwave tortellinis, that sh*t hurt. I was feeling mad as hell but then I saw this sweet old grandma having a meal with her son and his wife and she seemed to grateful to be there with him. I felt like a terrible person caring so much about food...love and human connection is what life is about! Hold the people close to you tight, love them while they are here!!!! But if u care about food def skip. (Had to give 2 stars cause of the life lesson)

Great Hot Brown. Not sure what I was expecting, but this was not a mediocre dish. All the elements work very well together.

Omg! The food was AWESOME! The famous Hot Brown really is the go to meal here! This is their 100th anniversary of the Brown Hotel! Historic and beautiful. A must go to when visiting Louisville

I came here to try the famous Hot Brown, and I have to say I was mildly disappointed. I get it, that it's a relatively upscale restaurant but I have no idea where they get off charging almost $30 for what's basically a fancy open faced turkey sandwich. But considering all the hype surround the sandwich, I decided to order the petite sized lunch portion, which ended up being enough food to fill me up. When the sandwich came out, it was hard to identify what was what on the sandwich because there was so much of the mornay sauce on top. But I dug through and found good sized pieces of turkey which was good. There was very little bread for the behemoth of an entree. The sauce was pretty flavorless and had this gritty texture which I wasn't a fan of. The bacon wasn't crispy and wasn't undercooked, either. Rather, I think it was just stale and very hard to chew. The tomato on the side didn't add anything to the dish. The service was very good, and I'm glad I got to say I crossed the Hot Brown off my bucket list but definitely won't be ordering that again.

Where else can you get a Hot Brown for breakfast? I stayed at the hotel for a weekend and had breakfast or brunch everyday. Food is fantastic and service is top notch.

It was sooooo good. I had an infamous Brown and the taste was out of this world. I shared one with a friend but I wish I had bought one all for myself :) The restaurant gets packed so come early or get reservations. Everyone in my party enjoyed their food. The hostess and waiters were friendly. This was a great stop before getting on the plane to head home. I must come back.

We made a reservation for Sunday morning at 10 a.m. and had no problem getting in and settled. They had a great morning brunch w/ tons of awesome bites (outside of the typical buffet fare) and still had the option to order their legendary Hot Brown in both a full and petit size. We shared one full size Hot Brown, enjoyed a few breakfast bevvies and were able to grab a snack or two from the buffet without incurring a full buffet charge. Our server was Kat and she was not only upbeat and personable, but she made sure that our experience was great and went above and beyond to ensure our expectations were met. Would 100% recommend stopping here for brunch, if for the history of the hotel alone.

Just flew into Louisville and stopped here for lunch on a Friday. Ordered the bacon cheese burger with sweet potato tatertots and an iced tea. Total came to $23.85 plus a $4.15 tip. The burger was underwhelming in terms of taste. The $18 cheese burger tasted like it was mostly ground round, not particularly fatty or juicy but it was large, 10oz pre cooked. It would have benefited from some short rib and brisket mixed in. Looking at the other tables, seemed like most ordered the hot brown. If I came back I would try that. The ambience is charming old hotel and the service was excellent.

Such a beautiful cafe in a beautiful and historic hotel. The service and the food were outstanding. Loved our waitress Kat!!! We had the breakfast buffet, which had everything you could imagine, all which was very good!! We also had The Brown, which was very good!! They also brought out an amazing dessert to celebrate my husband's birthday. A must to stop at while in Louisville. Tour the hotel while there. It's amazing!!

Such a beautiful historic place with the most fabulous brunch... search for Saturdays and Sundays and I would suggest getting there by 9:45 to enjoy the delicious breakfast with Thomas need to order and then they switch over to lunch so you get the best of both worlds! We went the next day for the famous hot brown sandwich... Disappointing... Stick with the brunch!