FAQ
Sometimes you have questions… we are here to answer as
many as possible.
Events
What types of events can be hosted at Down One?
Down One is ideal for welcome receptions, corporate gatherings, happy hours, social celebrations, holiday parties, and private group dining.
How many guests can the space accommodate?
Up to 60 guests for seated events and up to 120 guests for reception-style gatherings.
Do you offer a minimum spend or rental fee requirement?
Yes, a minimum spend is typically required. Details are provided by the Restaurant Sales Manager.
Can we decorate the space?
Yes, light décor such as table décor, signage, and centerpieces is allowed with prior approval. Confetti, glitter, and open-flame candles are not permitted.
Is outside catering or custom desserts allowed?
Outside food and beverage is not permitted, except for specialty desserts like cakes or cupcakes.
Bourbon & Whiskey
Do you have a large bourbon selection, including rare or hard-to-find bottles?
Down One features an extensive bourbon selection, with over 100 bourbons available.
Do you offer bourbon flights or tasting pours?
Bourbon flights are available, allowing guests to build a flight based on their preferences.
Can the bartender recommend a bourbon based on what I usually like?
Yes. The bartenders at Down One Bourbon Bar are knowledgeable about bourbon and can recommend selections based on your personal taste preferences, whether you prefer something smooth, bold, sweet, or smoky.
Do you serve other spirits besides bourbon (rye, scotch, etc.)?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar offers a full bar in addition to bourbon, including rye, scotch, vodka, tequila, and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages and other spirits.
What are your most popular bourbons to try for first-timers?
Popular bourbon recommendations for first-time guests at Down One Bourbon Bar include Old Forester 1920, Angel’s Envy Rye, and Four Roses Single Barrel. These selections are often suggested by bartenders as approachable yet distinctive options that showcase a range of flavor profiles.
Do you have barrel picks or rotating featured bourbons?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar features a rotating selection of barrel picks, along with a curated barrel pick flight that highlights unique and limited bourbon selections. Availability changes regularly based on current offerings.
Cocktails & Beer
Do you make classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar serves a full menu of classic cocktails, including the Old Fashioned, along with other bourbon-forward and traditional cocktail options.
Do you have signature cocktails or seasonal drink specials?
Yes. The bar offers an extensive cocktail menu featuring local favorites.
What is the beer selection like (including draft options)?
Down One offers a selection of draft, bottled, and canned beers. Draft options include choices like West Sixth Hopstatic Channel Rotator, Fall City Hipster Repellent, Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale, Goodwood “George Lagers Clark,” and Upland Wheat.
The bottled selection includes options such as Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light, Michelob Ultra, Budweiser, Miller High Life, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Corona, Heineken, Stella Artois, Samuel Adams, Goose Island IPA, and Angry Orchard.
Canned beers include selections like Goodwood Louisville Lager, Goodwood Pale Ale, and West Sixth IPA.
Do you have non-alcoholic options or mocktails?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar offers non-alcoholic beverage options, and our bartenders can also recommend or create mocktail options upon request.
Food & Menu
Do you have shareable appetizers (e.g., cheese curds), and what are the favorites?
Yes. The menu includes shareable items such as fried cheese curds, pretzel bites, wings, BBQ sliders, and shrimp.
Do you serve full meals beyond tacos (burgers, sandwiches, etc.)?
Yes. The menu includes sandwiches, bowls, tacos, salads, and other food items.
Do menu items change or get discontinued, and can you substitute items when they do?
Yes. Our menu occasionally changes throughout the year to showcase seasonal ingredients and new offerings. While some items may be retired or updated, our team is happy to discuss available substitutions whenever possible to help accommodate your preferences.
Do sandwiches/entrees come with a side, and what sides are included?
Yes. Entrées come with a choice of side. Available sides include items like sidewinders (potatoes), mac and cheese, street corn, collard greens, vinegar slaw, and side salad.
Are portion sizes more bar-snack style or full-plate meals?
The menu offers both shareable appetizers (“Neat Bites”) and full entrées (“Full Proof Fare”).
Happy Hour & Pricing
Do you have happy hour, and what days/times does it run?
Join us for Happy Hour daily from 4–6 PM. The perfect way to kick back and enjoy your evening.
What food and drink items are included in happy hour specials?
Happy hour at Down One Bourbon Bar includes a selection of discounted bar bites and drink specials. Food offerings typically feature shareable items such as wings, sliders, pretzel bites, fried cheese curds, and loaded sidewinders. Drink specials include select bourbon cocktails, draft beers, wine, and other featured happy hour beverages. Menu items and availability may vary.
Is happy hour a good value compared to regular pricing?
Yes. Happy hour at Down One Bourbon Bar offers discounted pricing on select food and drink items compared to regular menu pricing, making it a strong value option for guests looking to enjoy cocktails, bourbon, and bar bites at a lower price point.
Reservations & Seating
Do you take reservations, or is it walk-in only?
Down One Bourbon Bar welcomes walk-in guests for regular dining. For private events and group dining, reservations can be made by submitting a Request for Proposal (RFP) at least two weeks in advance. A Restaurant Sales Manager will follow up within 24–48 hours to confirm availability and details, and a deposit may be required to secure the reservation. Final guest count and menu selections are typically due five days before the event.
What are typical wait times during busy periods (weekends, game days, events)?
Wait times can vary depending on guest volume. During especially busy periods, such as weekends and events at the KFC Yum! Center, there may be a 25–30 minute wait for a table if the restaurant is at full capacity. Food preparation times may also be slightly longer during these peak periods, but our team works hard to serve every guest as efficiently as possible.
Can you accommodate larger groups and seat everyone together?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar can accommodate larger groups for both seated and reception-style events. The space can host up to 60 guests for seated gatherings and up to 120 guests for reception-style events, and the team will help determine the best layout for your group.
Do you have patio/enclosed patio seating, and is it comfortable in colder weather?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar offers an outdoor patio space that provides a lively downtown atmosphere and is commonly used for social gatherings and events.
Takeout & Ordering
Do you offer takeout/to-go orders?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar offers takeout.
Where do I pick up a to-go order (host stand vs. bar vs. nearby pickup spot)?
To-go orders at Down One Bourbon Bar can be picked up at the bar.
Do you accept cash, or are you card-only?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar accepts both cash and major credit cards for payment.
Service & Experience
How attentive is table service during peak hours (busy nights, understaffed shifts)?
Even during our busiest times, our team is committed to providing attentive, efficient service. While there may occasionally be a short wait during major downtown events, our servers work hard to ensure guests are well taken care of throughout their visit.
Is the bar a good option if you want faster service than a table?
Service times are typically similar whether you’re seated at the bar or at a table. The bar is a great option if you enjoy a more social atmosphere or want to chat with our bartenders and explore our bourbon selection.
Atmosphere
What’s the vibe—more casual bar, restaurant, or a mix?
Down One offers a casual, lively bar and restaurant atmosphere.
Is it loud or quiet (good for conversation vs. lively night out)?
Down One Bourbon Bar typically offers a comfortable, conversation-friendly atmosphere. The energy can vary depending on downtown Louisville events and peak nightlife periods, but it is generally suitable for relaxed conversation while still feeling lively.
Do you have TVs or a game-day feel when nearby events are happening?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar features TVs throughout the restaurant, creating a casual, game-day friendly atmosphere during major sporting events and downtown Louisville happenings.
Location & Parking
Are you located inside/connected to the Galt House (downtown area)?
Down One Bourbon Bar is not located inside the Galt House Hotel, but it is connected via the East Tower parking garage and is just steps away. The bar is also conveniently located across the street from the KFC Yum! Center in downtown Louisville.
What’s the best place to park (garage/valet/nearby options)?
The most convenient parking option for Down One Bourbon Bar is the Waterfront Plaza parking garage, which is directly connected to the restaurant. This provides easy access to the bar without needing to walk long distances. Additional nearby downtown Louisville parking options may also be available depending on event traffic.
Groups & Events
Can you host celebrations or group outings (birthdays, gatherings)?
Yes, Down One hosts group events and gatherings.
Dietary Needs
Do you have vegetarian-friendly options?
Yes. The menu includes salads and vegetable-based dishes such as side salad and street corn.
Do you have gluten-free-friendly options or allergy accommodations?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar offers gluten-free-friendly options and can accommodate dietary restrictions when possible. Guests are encouraged to communicate any allergies or sensitivities with their server so the team can assist appropriately.
Accessibility
Is the space accessible (step-free entry/elevator options) for guests with mobility needs?
Yes. Down One Bourbon Bar offers wheelchair accessibility. There is accessible entry available via the rear entrance through the Galt House parking garage, and the venue is listed as wheelchair accessible.