Silver Dollar to Reopen Aug. 23

Silver Dollar is getting a facelift. Well, internally, at least.                                                                                                                   Photo by Kevin Gibson

The Silver Dollar announced it will reopen Friday, Aug. 23, with a new menu and reimagined approach.  

“We are eager to welcome Louisville back to The Silver Dollar to create more memories in our newly revamped space,” said new owner and general manager Brian Downing.  

With its iconic sign out front detailing “whiskey by the drink,” The Silver Dollar is designed as an homage to 1950s Bakersfield with a highly curated whiskey and bourbon collection. Guests will find fresh takes on classic cocktails and a commitment to high-quality ingredients with its innovative beverage program.  

The revamped menu showcases southwestern fare while exploring modern culinary trends with its new offerings. Guests can enjoy dishes like birria tacos, a house-made black bean burger and an heirloom tomato sandwich. The restaurant also plans to host upcoming industry nights with late-night food and drink deals on Sundays starting at 10 p.m.  

Thoughtful updates create an inviting ambience in each area of the restaurant. The dining room includes an expansive bar and intimate booths, all made from wood reclaimed from Stitzel-Weller distillery. Behind the bar, a vintage record player is the source of all house music, spinning classic and neotraditional country. Outside, the patio offers ample seating with vintage furnishings, refinished tables, vibrant artwork and colorful lighting. 

Downing came to Louisville a decade ago to learn more about American whiskey and has since been leveling up his career in the industry.  His extensive background spans across bars and distilling, and he’s dedicated to creating a welcoming atmosphere for each guest at The Silver Dollar.  

Before it became Louisville’s honky tonk and beloved bourbon bar in 2011, the building was the oldest operating fire house in the country named after lawyer and politician Albert A. Stoll whose name is still reflected on the entrance. The restaurant still preserves original details, including a firepole and the hand-painted map of Louisville used by the firefighters. 

The Silver Dollar will be open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday 5 p.m. to midnight, and for brunch Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations can be made on Tock.  

The historic building is a former fire station, bearing the iconic words “Albert A. Stoll” on the facade. For years, visitors and passersby would question what that meant. There’s more in my book This Used to be Louisville, but Stoll was a a lawyer and former Louisville alderman was active in the state legislature. The tribute on what originally was home to Louisville’s Hook and Ladder Co. No. 3 (and one of the oldest existing firehouses in the city) was a nod to his work and popularity as a politician.