In a groundbreaking initiative, Louisville has introduced an innovative food tour that combines culinary experiences with the rich history of Kentucky's LGBTQ+ community. Known as "Pride Plates," this walking tour takes participants through Bardstown Road, one of Louisville's most vibrant neighborhoods. Featuring stops at various eateries and bars, the tour offers a taste of local cuisine while sharing stories from the state's queer past. From fried chicken to bourbon cocktails, each dish is paired with tales of influential figures and pivotal moments in Kentucky's LGBTQ+ history.

Launched in 2024, "Pride Plates" emerged from the Bourbon and Belonging event held earlier that year. Richie Goff, marketing director for Louisville Food Tours, meticulously researched and crafted the narrative for this unique experience. Drawing on the extensive Williams Nichols collection housed at the University of Louisville Library, Goff wove together stories spanning over a century. These include accounts of early LGBTQ+ activists, literary icons like Oscar Wilde, and significant legal milestones such as the first lawsuit for marriage equality by a lesbian couple in the United States.

The tour begins at Bristol Bar & Grille, where guests enjoy classic Kentucky dishes like shrimp and grits and the Kentucky Hot Brown. As they savor these flavors, guide Hannah Greene regales them with fascinating historical anecdotes. The journey continues across Bardstown Road to The Eagle, where shared plates of fried chicken and spoonbread accompany more stories. Along the way, participants visit Carmichael’s Bookstore, once known for its rainbow flags, reinforcing its status as a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community.

At Ramsi’s Cafe on the World, the group indulges in decadent desserts and Old Fashioned cocktails before concluding their adventure at Big Bar and Chill Bar. Throughout the tour, Greene emphasizes the resilience and joy of Kentucky's queer population, highlighting how they have always been integral to the state's fabric. One poignant tale recounts informal Pride gatherings in Otter Creek Park during the 1980s, symbolizing the origins of today's celebrations.

Beyond the culinary delights, "Pride Plates" fosters a deeper understanding of Louisville's diverse heritage. Participants leave not only satisfied but also enlightened, having experienced firsthand the intertwining of food, culture, and history. This immersive tour stands out as a testament to the enduring spirit of Kentucky's LGBTQ+ community, offering a memorable glimpse into their contributions and triumphs.