Louisville eats

I know there are plenty of great restaurants in Louisville - plenty more than in Cincinnati (which still mystifies me) - but one of the best, most consistent places is still Lilly's on Bardstown Road. Chef-owner Kathy Cary was a trend setter when she opened more than 20 years ago, and she continues to excell at using local products creatively, such as crispy rabbit croquettes on creamy grits and foie gras on corn cakes. Atmosphere is hip, slightly upscale, but still comfortable. Service is attentive, yet not fussy. When we left the restaurant late on a Friday night, at least three staff members said good night, including one young woman who rushed to open the door.
At some point, we grow tired of Cincinnati restaurant owners who complain about this not being a great restaurant town. Do food, service and atmosphere like Kathy Cary, and you will succeed in Louisville, Cincinnati and just about anywhere else.
Having praised Lilly's, though, I must pan another Louisville restaurant. Based on word of mouth and reviews, I was lead to believe Jack E.'s was a solid, down-home steak and potato kind of place. It is that and the food, especially the garlicky fried frogs' legs and steaks, isn't bad. But on the Saturday night we visited, there was a live music duo in the main room loudly playing "Brick House" and other hits from the 70s and 80s.
Find another band, please, or at least make these guys take more breaks. And while you're at it, give me less cheddar on the stuffed baked potatoes and green salads, too.