1 word....FANTASTIC! And now, some more words about how great Meridian Cafe is. Set in a 1940's home, it is a quaint cafe open for breakfast and lunch. I've only had the pleasure of eating breakfast here, but can tell you that the lunch menu looks equally impressive. Made from all natural/organic ingredients from local markets I can honestly say that I don't recall a better breakfast restaurant in my life. The French Toast Megan's Way using Grand Marnier is to die for. The homemade corn beef Hash is exquisite. The Meridian Breakfast wrap is delicious. Service is always cheery and prompt with refills. It doesn't serve your normal greasy spoon type breakfast fare, but is more like a gourmet breakfast experience at very affordable prices. It is first on my list to take out of town visitors and a must for anyone looking for an exception breakfast experience in the St. Matthews/ Louisville area. Can't wait to try it for lunch!
(5)
Cinimod S.
Go here for breakfast. The food is absolutely incredible, innovative, and good portions too. The lunch choices sounded great, but we were in a breakfast mood when we went. Blueberry basil syrup for the french toast, hash, salmon bagel, and french press coffee. Everything was great, I have nothing bad to say.
(5)
Pedro M. F.
First time here, I don't know why, because I've passed here many of times while going to the bakery next door. Well, it's early so it's quiet. Service is friendly. I think I just ordered WAY too much, 3 dishes, just for me. Server must've thought I haven't eaten in a while, lol. I began with a cup of coffee, was glad to see that they offer packets of Stevia in the Raw and not just plain sugar and the pink packets. Dish #1: Uncle John's Sausage Egg and Cheese tacos ($8.95), not bad but not high on my list. The shell tastes like a corn tortilla and the spicy tomato jam added flavor to the dish. Dish #2: Claudia's Cheese Biscuits and Gravy ($8.25), was good. The sausage gravy was delish, not many places make a good sausage gravy. Dish#3: French Toast- Meagan's Way ($9.95 full order), this was amazing. The whipped cream cheese and the Grand Mariner marmalade was an excellent accent that made the French toast pop! Each of my dishes came with a side. So I got bacon, breakfast potatoes, and fruit. (I'm overwhelmed with food!) I really enjoyed myself, and I will return. There is more to try!
(5)
Carolyn W.
I might have given it 3-1/2 (going from A-OK to "Yay, I 'm a Fan" is too big of a stretch. The food was fresh and tasty (more on that in a bit). The seating is rather awkward as the rooms are small and the tables close to one another. You have to look for a table which is a challenge with the broken-up seating arrangement. It is clean. The staff was friendly and kept our waters filled. I wanted a smoothie that the rest of you raved about, but their machine was broken that day. I ordered Zan's Hash without cheese. It did not need cheese. Zan places together an amazing combination of flavors with lightly roasted/lightly crisp red potatoes. It was too oily for me and I tried to replicate it at home with less oil. Generous serving and I ended up giving part to my husband who was sadly disappointed with the White Bean Burger so many of you hailed as delicious. He said it was bland and my entree was much better. Since I couldn't get a smoothie, I opted for a fresh fruit side and it was beautifully arranged fruit that was obviously fresh. My last comment is that the staff were overworked (Hint, there was a sign saying they were hiring). Though the water was kept filled, they were not overly attentive and when we asked for something, we usually got only one of the items (like additional sauce or mustard). The table next to us, specifically asked for their tomatoes to be left off of their grilled sandwich and the waitress acknowledged (I told you the tables are close). But the customer had a nice little pile of tomatoes on the side of her plate by the time she was done. Would we go back? Yes, we might. My husband told me he is going to order Zan's Hash. Think he will share? Nah!
(3)
Sarah C.
My first time at Meridian was 4 years ago, and I left extremely pleased with the both the food at the atmosphere. I ordered a la carte and got eggs, sausage, cheddar biscuits, and the skillet fries. I loved the sausage because they weren't patties nor were they links, but ground up into pieces. However, each successive time I visited Meridian, the quality of the food declined. My boyfriend was an avid lover of the hash and I of Marsha's bacon egg and cheese panini (with sausage subbed instead of bacon). The more we went, the poorer the food quality. There was a noticeable change in the quality of food about 2 years ago. My boyfriend's beloved Mr. Brown's hash was topped with what looked like half-melted string cheese. I recently visited Meridian last week, hoping that they would redeem themselves. Unfortunately, that was not the case. I ordered my usual Marsha's bacon egg and cheese panini (sausage subbed). They had switched the sausage to links. The sandwich wasn't cold, but it also wasn't hot. Needless to say I was disappointed. The saving grace of Meridian Cafe is the atmosphere and the service. They renovated within the last year, which adds a nice touch. I've always loved the little knick knacks, like the unique salt and pepper shakers at each table. I'm still rooting for you, Meridian. One day, I will come back and be blown away again!
(3)
Viviana F.
I finally made it to The Meridian Cafe in St. Matthews and I'm kicking myself for not trying it sooner! I haven't had a good omelet in a while so I decided to try one this morning. I ordered the Marks Meat Omelet. It was stuffed with sausage, bacon, scallions and white cheddar cheese. I asked to add mushrooms thinking they were going to be just button mushrooms but to my delight they were portobello mushrooms! Yum! The breakfast potatoes were great! My brother ordered the Claudia's Cheese Biscuits and Sausage Gravy and I ended up eating half, LOL! Absolutely delicious! The Megan's Way French Toast was soooo good! Thick slices of vanilla custard dipped Brioche topped with whipped cream cheese and boozy Grand Marnier marmalade in a pool of maple syrup. We arrived at 8:40 and there were plenty of tables. Each table has a unique set if salt & pepper shakers. Today we had dogs or lambs? I will definitely be back again.
(5)
Zachary H.
I almost don't want to write a review because this is one of the few places we can get in quickly on a Sunday for a good breakfast. Everywhere else in the area seems to be at least an hour wait! I've never seen it too busy at any other time, either. I you're a person who likes weird, local, eccentric places you'll probably enjoy it here. It's sort of in an old house that was converted into a restaurant. There is a dearth of parking but if you want to risk it you can park in the St Matthews station parking. They have threatening signs saying they will tow you but those are probably just a suggestion :P As for the food everything I've had there has been very good, although that mostly consists of two items: various breakfast tacos and corned beef hash. The hash is homemade and well seasoned with some delicious brown mustard on the side. The tacos come in warmed corn tortillas which, as we can all agree, are way better than flour :) They also have daily specials which always look great but I can never quite talk myself into.
(5)
Jason L.
Excellent local fresh fare, great for breakfast or lunch!! Great location with outdoor seating. Don't miss the homemade Spicy Tomato jam, goes with everything.
(4)
Pat R.
I feel guilty, like I cheated on a lover. For months I proclaimed that the best corned beef hash in the area was at a fantastic spot in Anchorage. And then I came here. Apologies to my friends in Anchorage. You still have the best Bloody Mary's. Meridian has such an incredibly relaxing vibe from the moment you walk through the door that it really does feel like going to a friend's house to eat. The wait staff is friendly, the menu makes your taste buds start jumping, and the food... I can't begin to tell you how good this corned beef hash is. Perfectly spiced and slow cooked to perfection in house, the beef is complimented by tomatoes, roasted potatoes, and melted, gooey Swiss cheese. Nirvana. GF had the veggie omelette with a side of stewed tomatoes. The only complaint is that they don't do egg white omelettes and they're not very flexible on omelettes made to order (as in, "We don't do omelettes made to order"). But otherwise, this place nails breakfast.
(5)
Sara T.
I met two friends for brunch here and we had a good time. We were a little disappointed because our plan was to share some good conversation over some mimosas and another Yelp review mistakenly reported that they served alcohol but they don't. It wasn't a big deal but good to know. I ordered the Martha's panini and it was okay but a little dry. The potatoes that came with it were excellent and the coffee was good.I kind of wish I had ordered what my friend ordered, the Uncle John's breakfast tacos. I'll have to try those next time. The environment was really perfect for meeting friends -- we snagged one of the tables in their window nooks and it seemed really cozy and quiet. A good place for catching up and enjoying company. The service was really great, too. I would definitely like to go back.
(4)
Zack F.
Open, airy and Sun kissed rooms with colorful, whimsical paintings. Warm and welcoming ambiance. You can get food on the go or settle into your coffee/tea and enjoy the conversation. There are a lot of seemingly healthy options for vegetarians, though at least half these options include eggs. I'm not sure there is much on the menu for vegans...perhaps a couple. Coffee is ok, hot tea selection is nice. Food portions are large and filling for the price. The breakfast tacos in particular are quite large and come with a generous side. The hash was very good, though it seems like everything was cooked separately and combined at the end. This means the flavors had not fully melded, the cheese didn't get melty and it was a little on the wet side. I recommend adding green chili, salsa, avocado, and black beans. The staff is very friendly and accommodating to change requests. They are also direct and honest about which menu items you might prefer.
(4)
Terri W.
Well, I had high hopes. The server got my breakfast sandwich wrong twice and I didn't even order anything special. I ordered right off the menu. I ended up not having any food to even review because we had to leave. The potatoes were good. I can't believe they had the nerve to even charge me for my coffee after that kind of screw up. We visit louisville often and there are numerous breakfast places we enjoy. Too bad. The place was super cute.
(1)
Mike E.
I've been coming to this place for a few years now. I look forward to the breakfasts. The Mexican Coffee in the French Press is terrific. It is a cup of coffee with strength and flavor. The Haul and Oat cakes are original and very tasty. The 3 styles of French toast gives a variety of options, which I usually select the Heddie's way. The last visit I ordered a nice breakfast from the ala carte options. Oh yeah, and the bacon. I've never had bacon done so well. It's crispy and yet melts in your mouth. Awesome.
(4)
Anne R.
Went for an early Sunday breakfast and not only wasn't crowded but the food was piping hot and delicious! My husband said it was the best sausage gravy he's ever had and that's high praise coming from a country boy! Can't wait to go back and try the French toast! :-)))
(5)
Rachel R.
Situated off the main road by a few yards, the cafe is inviting and homey. The warm light through the many windows adds even more brightness to the cozy interior. I had the pleasure of sitting in the window nook overlooking the front entranceway. I attempted to get work done here but did not find it to be conducive to this kind of activity. Plus, it gets rather busy around lunch time and you get the distinct feeling that they need to clear your table ASAP. Not to say that they are rude, just be mindful of lingering too long. As for the food, I think this place is more for those who like hot sauce on their breakfasts. The food lacked seasoning, even with added salt. I would go back for the atmosphere and the waitstaff more than for the food. I'm sure I will be back!
(3)
Raquelle Z.
On our recent visit we arrived for brunch and opted for indoor seating although the tables outside seemed like a nice option. We started with coffee which is a special blend done locally. The coffee was a delicious beginning to meals which were equally pleasing. My selection was the chef's special a Blue cheese and bacon panini and potatoes with fresh fruit. I especially enjoyed that the bread tasted housemade. My dining partner chose his breakfast favorite and the Hall n oats pancakes met his full approval. We finished our meal completely satisfied with the food and service. Upon leaving I was asked if I would like a coffee to go, and I appreciated this additional effort to make sure I was leaving happy. Mission accomplished.
(5)
Bonnie L.
Second time here and both times have been a good experience overall. Enjoyed the gourmet grilled cheese that includes the house made sweet potato chips. It is a panini that has 3 cheeses, bacon, tomatoes and avocados. Could have used a little more bacon but overall it was good. Last time I ate here I got the falafel which was good but not great and the blue cheese potato salad which lacked flavor even after being salted. The service was good but slow. There were only 2 servers for the whole place and they were both in the weeds during the lunch rush. Parking can be difficult during lunch. I would like to come back for breakfast food which is served all day.
(4)
Dom D.
This is a great and innovative restaurant in St. Matthews. There is always something new worth trying, their specials are outstanding, TRY THEM. They gave great vegan/veg options, and lots of home-made sauces, spreads, and dressings. A great breakfast and lunch place for sure.
(5)
Dave Z.
Nothing I had for breakfast at this neat dining spot was bad. Everything was good, well-prepared and tasty. It just didn't blow me away. The home fries were crisp and had a nice, spicy flavoring to them. The coffee was good and fresh. The breakfast sandwiches were tasty, and the french toast was nicely done using thick brioche and a dollop of mascarpone, which was a nice touch. Although while it says the sauce on top is a basil blueberry, I didn't taste any hint of basil. Anyway, while I probably won't be back for breakfast, this spot seems to get pretty favorable reviews when it comes to their lunch sandwiches, so maybe that's something for me to consider in the future.
(3)
Sarah B.
My husband and I are vegan so it's hard to find a good selection in Louisville. The White Bean Burger is vegan and it's really good! It's very similar to what I can make at home, but it's nice they have an option.
(3)
Pam S.
Meridian Cafe is a lovely place to meet up with a friend for a chat. It's very popular, so don't go with more than a group of 4, and think about going at an off time. There are lots of vegan and vegetarian choices on the menu, my favorite being the white bean burger. The smoothies are also quite good. It has lots of options for your meat eaters as well. Parking in their lot is limited, but there's a church nearby that you can park at if there aren't services.
(4)
Sue P.
I absolutely did not want ordinary when I pulled into the parking lot of Panera. I walked inside and saw the electronic order taker before me. Nope...no way. I whipped out my YELP and asked it to find me breakfast. I could've walked I was so close to Meridian Cafe. Not ordinary at all. I had the French Toast Megan' way...grand Marnier marmalade...whipped cream cheese...maple syrup...crisp bacon from farm in Paris, Ky. Sweet and filling...reasonably priced...lovely surroundings as I sat looking out the windows. Service excellent and quick but not rushed...I will be back for more...right in heart of St. Matthews...pleasant surroundings and very pleasant server...makes you feel at home.
(4)
Andrea U.
This is a great little neighborhood spot. My husband and I always grab a table in one of the window nooks, and when our little man was tiny, we took him there often. The food is pretty good - my favorite are the Uncle John's Breakfast tacos - tomato jam, eggs, goat cheese (instead of the cheese it comes with) and sausage, with a side of potatoes. So yummy! I'm just sad they don't serve mimosas. No alcohol at all. Great service.
(4)
Carolyn H.
What a great menu full of variety, house made recipes, local fare like Benedictine, and whole ingredients. I love that there are so many vegan options and I feel I could return half a dozen times before repeating an order. The space is cozy and casual with cute outdoor seating (broad umbrellas make this even more appealing) but it's a little warm. This is definitely your small hometown spot and fits the bill perfectly. The 5th star is lost to the lack of charm on the part of our too-busy server and a less than enjoyable meal for my friend (over seasoned, she said). My pita sandwich was very fast - hummus, eggplant, roasted red peppers, spinach, and 15 bean salad with a side of seasonal fruit. Yum! At $18 for two people at lunch, it's a great value. Enjoy!
(4)
Annie S.
I'm going to need to go back during normal business hours but at the Yelp Elite Event I definitely had a lovely time and enjoyed all the food and drink I could stomach. This is definitely an outside dining place for the hotter months as their dining rooms air circulation isn't the best (to be expected because it is an old house) The food makes up for it. I enjoyed Cake Flour French Toast with cream cheese frosting AND marscapone frosting AND burnt sugar maple syrup. They also had a burrito bar with eggs, black beans, fresh stewed roma tomatoes and very homemade tasting tortillas that I very much enjoyed. Drinks? I had an Upland Wheat & Apple Juice AKA Rattlesnake. #refreshing. Looking forward to my next visit. Maybe there will be a groupon/living social/amazon local deal soon for me to take advantange of!
(4)
Amy T.
While traveling for business I stumbled on this delightful place. Finding vegetarian gluten free food is not an easy task on the road. The veggie wrap had hummus and walnuts with a dill spread, a surprisingly satisfying combination of flavors and textures. The cheesy grits are also a must, gooey and savory. Besides quick and courteous service the staff generously offered ideas on local theater events and places to visit during my stay.
(5)
Jasmine R.
We came for brunch on a Saturday at noon, they were pretty busy but not on a wait. The server was working really hard but they were just understaffed so the service wasn't great, even though she was trying really hard. The food took a really long time to come out maybe about 40 minutes. We were one of 3 tables that arrived at the same time...The table to our left got their food finished eating and paid before our food arrived, and the table to our right got fed up and left before theirs came. When the food finally came out it was very good, worth the wait which is why I'm giving them 4 stars.
(4)
Mookie M.
Yummy with healthy (and vegetarian) options. In a converted house in St Matthews, both breakfast and lunch are worth remembering it is there.
(4)
Jennifer M.
Best french toast ever! Both vegan and omni friendly. Reasonable prices. Outdoor seating as well.
(5)
Amanda L.
I really like the food here. There are fantastic healthy options and quite a bit for vegetarians. I've enjoyed everything I've had here and the service has always been good. The only bad thing about this place is that it gets super hot in the summers. It's almost unbearable to be in there on a hot day.
(4)
Megan P.
Great lunch spot with good fresh house made meals. They offer French pressed coffee which is also a plus! Their soups are usually delicious. Good salad options too.
(4)
Emily J.
This place is cute and the food is good but the service is terrible! Housed in an old house, Meridian Cafe was crowded and there were dirty, uncleared tables everywhere. My boyfriend and I were told to sit wherever we wanted to, but then we waited for almost 20 minutes for a server to come by. I got Grandma's Wrap, which was good but not as full of flavor as I would have liked it to be. My boyfriend's French toast was very good and tasted extremely homemade with a nice berry jam and marscapone cheese. Overall this cafe is pretty good but not somewhere I would frequent often just because of the inefficiency of the entire operation.
(3)
Shal V.
I stumbled upon this little gem when looking for breakfast options on a Saturday morning in the St Matthews and Crescent Hill area. I love Wild Eggs, Blue Dog and Superchef but I was looking for something different. Somehow Denny's only sounds good after a night of bacchanalia. Meridian is located behind Plehn's Bakery in a stand-alone home built in the 1940s, and has sufficient parking for patrons. I ordered Paul's Omlette Sandwich (omlette stuffed with house-made sausage, goat cheese and spicy tomato jam, served on a toasted French loaf) with a side of skillet fries. The omlette was delicious, although I would have preferred the French loaf a bit more toasted to crispiness. The same with the potatoes - seasoned to perfection but a tad less crispy than I normally like it...nothing a few extra minutes in the toaster over can't fix. My wife got the Hall and Oats Cakes (Pancakes made with steel cut oats and topped with seasonal fruit and agave nectar) with a side of bacon. She loved the pancakes and the bacon. Meridian is a locally owned cafe serving breakfast and lunch Monday through Saturday; they take pride in the ingredients they use and have vegan/vegetarian options. The service was excellent too.
(4)
Jessica D.
Meridian is like the most hit or miss restaurant in Louisville. When it's good, it's pretty freaking good. Vegetarian and omnivore friendly, with daily specials, tasty beverages, and lots of options, Meridian can be pretty sweet. But then there's the downside. The place is sometimes closed without reason or warning, no sign put up during normal open hours, just a locked door and dark restaurant. The service can be incredibly shoddy, sometimes you can't get seated even when there are numerous open tables, or your server just flat out disappears. And while some menu items are awesome, some just suck. It's all up in the air here. So, if you're feeling lucky, you should take a chance. But if you're no in the mood for an unexpected interruption to your day, take your business elsewhere.
(3)
Camille G.
Even though my husband was the only guy in the place (aside from one other brave gentleman) and it is the type of place that distinguishes between vegan and 'omni-friendly' dishes...still, it was so good! I enjoyed the best peanut-butter and jelly panini I'm ever like to get. The peanut-butter had that grainy, roasty fresh-ground taste and was wonderfully oozing a little oil over the sweet jelly and buttery-crisp edges of the flavorful wheat toast. The fresh fruit was not full of giant cantaloupe chunks and sour grapes but was actually a blend of berries, crisp apples, and some very good, sweet cantaloupe. My husband had what he pegged as the only 'guy fare' on the menu - a giant Italian sandwich with loads of roast beef, tomatoes, and pesto that he claimed was really good - and he knows good sandwiches. And I swear I'm not the type of person that usually does this - but I was traveling and had some tea I really wanted to enjoy that morning, and they kindly provided a cup of hot water and some sugar and cream without making me feel like an jerk. Sweet!
(4)
Dan W.
This is my favorite restaurant in Louisville. The food is simply superb. It's innovative, fresh and healthy. They have a slight tendency toward a Mediterranean influence to the food. Their milkshakes are fantastic, although very filling. Many of their dishes are available in vegetarian and vegan options. The specials frequently manage to surprise me, always in a good way. Although both breakfast and lunch choices are excellent, I tend to prefer their lunch choices. The service here is very good, and very friendly, although they can get a bit slow during the height of the lunchtime rush. The only bad things about the Meridian Cafe are that it doesn't serve dinner and that its popularity tends to result in a bit of a wait during the prime lunch rush.
(5)
Scott P.
I love the east coast turkey sandwich!! The breakfast potatoes and the hummus plate it amazingly good.The service is good and the space is fantastic. Finish off your meal with a Banana milkshake.
(4)
Allison S.
Cute little place, and great food for lunch! I love their sandwiches, especially their turkey with cranberry and apple (east coast turkey)! I also like the gordonia sandwich with turkey and avocado, and the benedictine is always a good option also. The salads and soups are all great too, especially the kates toss! The sides are awesome always, I especially like their roasted tomatoes. Such a unique side option to have! Service is a little slow, but they are always really friendly and offer a taste of soups if you are unsure of which one to get. Only other complaint is there isnt much parking, but I am always super satisfied coming here for lunch!
(5)
Maretta J.
So glad to have discovered this restaurant! Very charming setting in a small home-like atmosphere, friendly service. Superb food, lots of choices....
(5)
Beth M.
Love this little gem in St. Matthews. It is only open for breakfast and lunch, and I went for lunch. They have a good size menu with a wide range of options both vegetarian, vegan, and carnivorous. For lunch the menu includes soups, salads, pitas with hummus, sandwiches, and platters. Prices are around $7 per dish and come with chips & a pickle. For $1.50 you can substitute one of the side dishes like pasta salad or fresh fruit. It is in an old house which gives a lot of great character. Lastly, they are extremely quick with their service: it took about 10 minutes to get our sandwiches. I have only been once but I will certainly go back. The friend I went with goes often and said she had never had a bad meal. I look forward to trying their breakfast!
(5)
Emily Y.
Good food, good prices, just-right portions. The menus selection was varied and everything we order tasted extremely fresh. Non-greasy breakfast item options. Cute converted house setting. (and a 1 minute walk to phlen's for dessert afterwards).
(4)
Anne R.
Went for an early Sunday breakfast and not only wasn't crowded but the food was piping hot and delicious! My husband said it was the best sausage gravy he's ever had and that's high praise coming from a country boy! Can't wait to go back and try the French toast! :-)))
(5)
Jasmine R.
We came for brunch on a Saturday at noon, they were pretty busy but not on a wait. The server was working really hard but they were just understaffed so the service wasn't great, even though she was trying really hard. The food took a really long time to come out maybe about 40 minutes. We were one of 3 tables that arrived at the same time...The table to our left got their food finished eating and paid before our food arrived, and the table to our right got fed up and left before theirs came. When the food finally came out it was very good, worth the wait which is why I'm giving them 4 stars.
(4)
Mike E.
I've been coming to this place for a few years now. I look forward to the breakfasts. The Mexican Coffee in the French Press is terrific. It is a cup of coffee with strength and flavor. The Haul and Oat cakes are original and very tasty. The 3 styles of French toast gives a variety of options, which I usually select the Heddie's way. The last visit I ordered a nice breakfast from the ala carte options. Oh yeah, and the bacon. I've never had bacon done so well. It's crispy and yet melts in your mouth. Awesome.
(4)
Shawn W.
1 word....FANTASTIC! And now, some more words about how great Meridian Cafe is. Set in a 1940's home, it is a quaint cafe open for breakfast and lunch. I've only had the pleasure of eating breakfast here, but can tell you that the lunch menu looks equally impressive. Made from all natural/organic ingredients from local markets I can honestly say that I don't recall a better breakfast restaurant in my life. The French Toast Megan's Way using Grand Marnier is to die for. The homemade corn beef Hash is exquisite. The Meridian Breakfast wrap is delicious. Service is always cheery and prompt with refills. It doesn't serve your normal greasy spoon type breakfast fare, but is more like a gourmet breakfast experience at very affordable prices. It is first on my list to take out of town visitors and a must for anyone looking for an exception breakfast experience in the St. Matthews/ Louisville area. Can't wait to try it for lunch!
(5)
Cinimod S.
Go here for breakfast. The food is absolutely incredible, innovative, and good portions too. The lunch choices sounded great, but we were in a breakfast mood when we went. Blueberry basil syrup for the french toast, hash, salmon bagel, and french press coffee. Everything was great, I have nothing bad to say.
(5)
Emily Y.
Good food, good prices, just-right portions. The menus selection was varied and everything we order tasted extremely fresh. Non-greasy breakfast item options. Cute converted house setting. (and a 1 minute walk to phlen's for dessert afterwards).
(4)
Dom D.
This is a great and innovative restaurant in St. Matthews. There is always something new worth trying, their specials are outstanding, TRY THEM. They gave great vegan/veg options, and lots of home-made sauces, spreads, and dressings. A great breakfast and lunch place for sure.
(5)
Dave Z.
Nothing I had for breakfast at this neat dining spot was bad. Everything was good, well-prepared and tasty. It just didn't blow me away. The home fries were crisp and had a nice, spicy flavoring to them. The coffee was good and fresh. The breakfast sandwiches were tasty, and the french toast was nicely done using thick brioche and a dollop of mascarpone, which was a nice touch. Although while it says the sauce on top is a basil blueberry, I didn't taste any hint of basil. Anyway, while I probably won't be back for breakfast, this spot seems to get pretty favorable reviews when it comes to their lunch sandwiches, so maybe that's something for me to consider in the future.
(3)
Emily J.
This place is cute and the food is good but the service is terrible! Housed in an old house, Meridian Cafe was crowded and there were dirty, uncleared tables everywhere. My boyfriend and I were told to sit wherever we wanted to, but then we waited for almost 20 minutes for a server to come by. I got Grandma's Wrap, which was good but not as full of flavor as I would have liked it to be. My boyfriend's French toast was very good and tasted extremely homemade with a nice berry jam and marscapone cheese. Overall this cafe is pretty good but not somewhere I would frequent often just because of the inefficiency of the entire operation.
(3)
Pedro M. F.
First time here, I don't know why, because I've passed here many of times while going to the bakery next door. Well, it's early so it's quiet. Service is friendly. I think I just ordered WAY too much, 3 dishes, just for me. Server must've thought I haven't eaten in a while, lol. I began with a cup of coffee, was glad to see that they offer packets of Stevia in the Raw and not just plain sugar and the pink packets. Dish #1: Uncle John's Sausage Egg and Cheese tacos ($8.95), not bad but not high on my list. The shell tastes like a corn tortilla and the spicy tomato jam added flavor to the dish. Dish #2: Claudia's Cheese Biscuits and Gravy ($8.25), was good. The sausage gravy was delish, not many places make a good sausage gravy. Dish#3: French Toast- Meagan's Way ($9.95 full order), this was amazing. The whipped cream cheese and the Grand Mariner marmalade was an excellent accent that made the French toast pop! Each of my dishes came with a side. So I got bacon, breakfast potatoes, and fruit. (I'm overwhelmed with food!) I really enjoyed myself, and I will return. There is more to try!
(5)
Carolyn W.
I might have given it 3-1/2 (going from A-OK to "Yay, I 'm a Fan" is too big of a stretch. The food was fresh and tasty (more on that in a bit). The seating is rather awkward as the rooms are small and the tables close to one another. You have to look for a table which is a challenge with the broken-up seating arrangement. It is clean. The staff was friendly and kept our waters filled. I wanted a smoothie that the rest of you raved about, but their machine was broken that day. I ordered Zan's Hash without cheese. It did not need cheese. Zan places together an amazing combination of flavors with lightly roasted/lightly crisp red potatoes. It was too oily for me and I tried to replicate it at home with less oil. Generous serving and I ended up giving part to my husband who was sadly disappointed with the White Bean Burger so many of you hailed as delicious. He said it was bland and my entree was much better. Since I couldn't get a smoothie, I opted for a fresh fruit side and it was beautifully arranged fruit that was obviously fresh. My last comment is that the staff were overworked (Hint, there was a sign saying they were hiring). Though the water was kept filled, they were not overly attentive and when we asked for something, we usually got only one of the items (like additional sauce or mustard). The table next to us, specifically asked for their tomatoes to be left off of their grilled sandwich and the waitress acknowledged (I told you the tables are close). But the customer had a nice little pile of tomatoes on the side of her plate by the time she was done. Would we go back? Yes, we might. My husband told me he is going to order Zan's Hash. Think he will share? Nah!
(3)
Mookie M.
Yummy with healthy (and vegetarian) options. In a converted house in St Matthews, both breakfast and lunch are worth remembering it is there.
(4)
Jennifer M.
Best french toast ever! Both vegan and omni friendly. Reasonable prices. Outdoor seating as well.
(5)
Amanda L.
I really like the food here. There are fantastic healthy options and quite a bit for vegetarians. I've enjoyed everything I've had here and the service has always been good. The only bad thing about this place is that it gets super hot in the summers. It's almost unbearable to be in there on a hot day.
(4)
Sarah C.
My first time at Meridian was 4 years ago, and I left extremely pleased with the both the food at the atmosphere. I ordered a la carte and got eggs, sausage, cheddar biscuits, and the skillet fries. I loved the sausage because they weren't patties nor were they links, but ground up into pieces. However, each successive time I visited Meridian, the quality of the food declined. My boyfriend was an avid lover of the hash and I of Marsha's bacon egg and cheese panini (with sausage subbed instead of bacon). The more we went, the poorer the food quality. There was a noticeable change in the quality of food about 2 years ago. My boyfriend's beloved Mr. Brown's hash was topped with what looked like half-melted string cheese. I recently visited Meridian last week, hoping that they would redeem themselves. Unfortunately, that was not the case. I ordered my usual Marsha's bacon egg and cheese panini (sausage subbed). They had switched the sausage to links. The sandwich wasn't cold, but it also wasn't hot. Needless to say I was disappointed. The saving grace of Meridian Cafe is the atmosphere and the service. They renovated within the last year, which adds a nice touch. I've always loved the little knick knacks, like the unique salt and pepper shakers at each table. I'm still rooting for you, Meridian. One day, I will come back and be blown away again!
(3)
Viviana F.
I finally made it to The Meridian Cafe in St. Matthews and I'm kicking myself for not trying it sooner! I haven't had a good omelet in a while so I decided to try one this morning. I ordered the Marks Meat Omelet. It was stuffed with sausage, bacon, scallions and white cheddar cheese. I asked to add mushrooms thinking they were going to be just button mushrooms but to my delight they were portobello mushrooms! Yum! The breakfast potatoes were great! My brother ordered the Claudia's Cheese Biscuits and Sausage Gravy and I ended up eating half, LOL! Absolutely delicious! The Megan's Way French Toast was soooo good! Thick slices of vanilla custard dipped Brioche topped with whipped cream cheese and boozy Grand Marnier marmalade in a pool of maple syrup. We arrived at 8:40 and there were plenty of tables. Each table has a unique set if salt & pepper shakers. Today we had dogs or lambs? I will definitely be back again.
(5)
Zachary H.
I almost don't want to write a review because this is one of the few places we can get in quickly on a Sunday for a good breakfast. Everywhere else in the area seems to be at least an hour wait! I've never seen it too busy at any other time, either. I you're a person who likes weird, local, eccentric places you'll probably enjoy it here. It's sort of in an old house that was converted into a restaurant. There is a dearth of parking but if you want to risk it you can park in the St Matthews station parking. They have threatening signs saying they will tow you but those are probably just a suggestion :P As for the food everything I've had there has been very good, although that mostly consists of two items: various breakfast tacos and corned beef hash. The hash is homemade and well seasoned with some delicious brown mustard on the side. The tacos come in warmed corn tortillas which, as we can all agree, are way better than flour :) They also have daily specials which always look great but I can never quite talk myself into.
(5)
Jason L.
Excellent local fresh fare, great for breakfast or lunch!! Great location with outdoor seating. Don't miss the homemade Spicy Tomato jam, goes with everything.
(4)
Pat R.
I feel guilty, like I cheated on a lover. For months I proclaimed that the best corned beef hash in the area was at a fantastic spot in Anchorage. And then I came here. Apologies to my friends in Anchorage. You still have the best Bloody Mary's. Meridian has such an incredibly relaxing vibe from the moment you walk through the door that it really does feel like going to a friend's house to eat. The wait staff is friendly, the menu makes your taste buds start jumping, and the food... I can't begin to tell you how good this corned beef hash is. Perfectly spiced and slow cooked to perfection in house, the beef is complimented by tomatoes, roasted potatoes, and melted, gooey Swiss cheese. Nirvana. GF had the veggie omelette with a side of stewed tomatoes. The only complaint is that they don't do egg white omelettes and they're not very flexible on omelettes made to order (as in, "We don't do omelettes made to order"). But otherwise, this place nails breakfast.
(5)
Sara T.
I met two friends for brunch here and we had a good time. We were a little disappointed because our plan was to share some good conversation over some mimosas and another Yelp review mistakenly reported that they served alcohol but they don't. It wasn't a big deal but good to know. I ordered the Martha's panini and it was okay but a little dry. The potatoes that came with it were excellent and the coffee was good.I kind of wish I had ordered what my friend ordered, the Uncle John's breakfast tacos. I'll have to try those next time. The environment was really perfect for meeting friends -- we snagged one of the tables in their window nooks and it seemed really cozy and quiet. A good place for catching up and enjoying company. The service was really great, too. I would definitely like to go back.
(4)
Zack F.
Open, airy and Sun kissed rooms with colorful, whimsical paintings. Warm and welcoming ambiance. You can get food on the go or settle into your coffee/tea and enjoy the conversation. There are a lot of seemingly healthy options for vegetarians, though at least half these options include eggs. I'm not sure there is much on the menu for vegans...perhaps a couple. Coffee is ok, hot tea selection is nice. Food portions are large and filling for the price. The breakfast tacos in particular are quite large and come with a generous side. The hash was very good, though it seems like everything was cooked separately and combined at the end. This means the flavors had not fully melded, the cheese didn't get melty and it was a little on the wet side. I recommend adding green chili, salsa, avocado, and black beans. The staff is very friendly and accommodating to change requests. They are also direct and honest about which menu items you might prefer.
(4)
Terri W.
Well, I had high hopes. The server got my breakfast sandwich wrong twice and I didn't even order anything special. I ordered right off the menu. I ended up not having any food to even review because we had to leave. The potatoes were good. I can't believe they had the nerve to even charge me for my coffee after that kind of screw up. We visit louisville often and there are numerous breakfast places we enjoy. Too bad. The place was super cute.
(1)
Rachel R.
Situated off the main road by a few yards, the cafe is inviting and homey. The warm light through the many windows adds even more brightness to the cozy interior. I had the pleasure of sitting in the window nook overlooking the front entranceway. I attempted to get work done here but did not find it to be conducive to this kind of activity. Plus, it gets rather busy around lunch time and you get the distinct feeling that they need to clear your table ASAP. Not to say that they are rude, just be mindful of lingering too long. As for the food, I think this place is more for those who like hot sauce on their breakfasts. The food lacked seasoning, even with added salt. I would go back for the atmosphere and the waitstaff more than for the food. I'm sure I will be back!
(3)
Raquelle Z.
On our recent visit we arrived for brunch and opted for indoor seating although the tables outside seemed like a nice option. We started with coffee which is a special blend done locally. The coffee was a delicious beginning to meals which were equally pleasing. My selection was the chef's special a Blue cheese and bacon panini and potatoes with fresh fruit. I especially enjoyed that the bread tasted housemade. My dining partner chose his breakfast favorite and the Hall n oats pancakes met his full approval. We finished our meal completely satisfied with the food and service. Upon leaving I was asked if I would like a coffee to go, and I appreciated this additional effort to make sure I was leaving happy. Mission accomplished.
(5)
Bonnie L.
Second time here and both times have been a good experience overall. Enjoyed the gourmet grilled cheese that includes the house made sweet potato chips. It is a panini that has 3 cheeses, bacon, tomatoes and avocados. Could have used a little more bacon but overall it was good. Last time I ate here I got the falafel which was good but not great and the blue cheese potato salad which lacked flavor even after being salted. The service was good but slow. There were only 2 servers for the whole place and they were both in the weeds during the lunch rush. Parking can be difficult during lunch. I would like to come back for breakfast food which is served all day.
(4)
Sue P.
I absolutely did not want ordinary when I pulled into the parking lot of Panera. I walked inside and saw the electronic order taker before me. Nope...no way. I whipped out my YELP and asked it to find me breakfast. I could've walked I was so close to Meridian Cafe. Not ordinary at all. I had the French Toast Megan' way...grand Marnier marmalade...whipped cream cheese...maple syrup...crisp bacon from farm in Paris, Ky. Sweet and filling...reasonably priced...lovely surroundings as I sat looking out the windows. Service excellent and quick but not rushed...I will be back for more...right in heart of St. Matthews...pleasant surroundings and very pleasant server...makes you feel at home.
(4)
Andrea U.
This is a great little neighborhood spot. My husband and I always grab a table in one of the window nooks, and when our little man was tiny, we took him there often. The food is pretty good - my favorite are the Uncle John's Breakfast tacos - tomato jam, eggs, goat cheese (instead of the cheese it comes with) and sausage, with a side of potatoes. So yummy! I'm just sad they don't serve mimosas. No alcohol at all. Great service.
(4)
Carolyn H.
What a great menu full of variety, house made recipes, local fare like Benedictine, and whole ingredients. I love that there are so many vegan options and I feel I could return half a dozen times before repeating an order. The space is cozy and casual with cute outdoor seating (broad umbrellas make this even more appealing) but it's a little warm. This is definitely your small hometown spot and fits the bill perfectly. The 5th star is lost to the lack of charm on the part of our too-busy server and a less than enjoyable meal for my friend (over seasoned, she said). My pita sandwich was very fast - hummus, eggplant, roasted red peppers, spinach, and 15 bean salad with a side of seasonal fruit. Yum! At $18 for two people at lunch, it's a great value. Enjoy!
(4)
Annie S.
I'm going to need to go back during normal business hours but at the Yelp Elite Event I definitely had a lovely time and enjoyed all the food and drink I could stomach. This is definitely an outside dining place for the hotter months as their dining rooms air circulation isn't the best (to be expected because it is an old house) The food makes up for it. I enjoyed Cake Flour French Toast with cream cheese frosting AND marscapone frosting AND burnt sugar maple syrup. They also had a burrito bar with eggs, black beans, fresh stewed roma tomatoes and very homemade tasting tortillas that I very much enjoyed. Drinks? I had an Upland Wheat & Apple Juice AKA Rattlesnake. #refreshing. Looking forward to my next visit. Maybe there will be a groupon/living social/amazon local deal soon for me to take advantange of!
(4)
Amy T.
While traveling for business I stumbled on this delightful place. Finding vegetarian gluten free food is not an easy task on the road. The veggie wrap had hummus and walnuts with a dill spread, a surprisingly satisfying combination of flavors and textures. The cheesy grits are also a must, gooey and savory. Besides quick and courteous service the staff generously offered ideas on local theater events and places to visit during my stay.
(5)
Sarah B.
My husband and I are vegan so it's hard to find a good selection in Louisville. The White Bean Burger is vegan and it's really good! It's very similar to what I can make at home, but it's nice they have an option.
(3)
Pam S.
Meridian Cafe is a lovely place to meet up with a friend for a chat. It's very popular, so don't go with more than a group of 4, and think about going at an off time. There are lots of vegan and vegetarian choices on the menu, my favorite being the white bean burger. The smoothies are also quite good. It has lots of options for your meat eaters as well. Parking in their lot is limited, but there's a church nearby that you can park at if there aren't services.
(4)
Megan P.
Great lunch spot with good fresh house made meals. They offer French pressed coffee which is also a plus! Their soups are usually delicious. Good salad options too.
(4)
Shal V.
I stumbled upon this little gem when looking for breakfast options on a Saturday morning in the St Matthews and Crescent Hill area. I love Wild Eggs, Blue Dog and Superchef but I was looking for something different. Somehow Denny's only sounds good after a night of bacchanalia. Meridian is located behind Plehn's Bakery in a stand-alone home built in the 1940s, and has sufficient parking for patrons. I ordered Paul's Omlette Sandwich (omlette stuffed with house-made sausage, goat cheese and spicy tomato jam, served on a toasted French loaf) with a side of skillet fries. The omlette was delicious, although I would have preferred the French loaf a bit more toasted to crispiness. The same with the potatoes - seasoned to perfection but a tad less crispy than I normally like it...nothing a few extra minutes in the toaster over can't fix. My wife got the Hall and Oats Cakes (Pancakes made with steel cut oats and topped with seasonal fruit and agave nectar) with a side of bacon. She loved the pancakes and the bacon. Meridian is a locally owned cafe serving breakfast and lunch Monday through Saturday; they take pride in the ingredients they use and have vegan/vegetarian options. The service was excellent too.
(4)
Jessica D.
Meridian is like the most hit or miss restaurant in Louisville. When it's good, it's pretty freaking good. Vegetarian and omnivore friendly, with daily specials, tasty beverages, and lots of options, Meridian can be pretty sweet. But then there's the downside. The place is sometimes closed without reason or warning, no sign put up during normal open hours, just a locked door and dark restaurant. The service can be incredibly shoddy, sometimes you can't get seated even when there are numerous open tables, or your server just flat out disappears. And while some menu items are awesome, some just suck. It's all up in the air here. So, if you're feeling lucky, you should take a chance. But if you're no in the mood for an unexpected interruption to your day, take your business elsewhere.
(3)
Camille G.
Even though my husband was the only guy in the place (aside from one other brave gentleman) and it is the type of place that distinguishes between vegan and 'omni-friendly' dishes...still, it was so good! I enjoyed the best peanut-butter and jelly panini I'm ever like to get. The peanut-butter had that grainy, roasty fresh-ground taste and was wonderfully oozing a little oil over the sweet jelly and buttery-crisp edges of the flavorful wheat toast. The fresh fruit was not full of giant cantaloupe chunks and sour grapes but was actually a blend of berries, crisp apples, and some very good, sweet cantaloupe. My husband had what he pegged as the only 'guy fare' on the menu - a giant Italian sandwich with loads of roast beef, tomatoes, and pesto that he claimed was really good - and he knows good sandwiches. And I swear I'm not the type of person that usually does this - but I was traveling and had some tea I really wanted to enjoy that morning, and they kindly provided a cup of hot water and some sugar and cream without making me feel like an jerk. Sweet!
(4)
Dan W.
This is my favorite restaurant in Louisville. The food is simply superb. It's innovative, fresh and healthy. They have a slight tendency toward a Mediterranean influence to the food. Their milkshakes are fantastic, although very filling. Many of their dishes are available in vegetarian and vegan options. The specials frequently manage to surprise me, always in a good way. Although both breakfast and lunch choices are excellent, I tend to prefer their lunch choices. The service here is very good, and very friendly, although they can get a bit slow during the height of the lunchtime rush. The only bad things about the Meridian Cafe are that it doesn't serve dinner and that its popularity tends to result in a bit of a wait during the prime lunch rush.
(5)
Scott P.
I love the east coast turkey sandwich!! The breakfast potatoes and the hummus plate it amazingly good.The service is good and the space is fantastic. Finish off your meal with a Banana milkshake.
(4)
Allison S.
Cute little place, and great food for lunch! I love their sandwiches, especially their turkey with cranberry and apple (east coast turkey)! I also like the gordonia sandwich with turkey and avocado, and the benedictine is always a good option also. The salads and soups are all great too, especially the kates toss! The sides are awesome always, I especially like their roasted tomatoes. Such a unique side option to have! Service is a little slow, but they are always really friendly and offer a taste of soups if you are unsure of which one to get. Only other complaint is there isnt much parking, but I am always super satisfied coming here for lunch!
(5)
Maretta J.
So glad to have discovered this restaurant! Very charming setting in a small home-like atmosphere, friendly service. Superb food, lots of choices....
(5)
Beth M.
Love this little gem in St. Matthews. It is only open for breakfast and lunch, and I went for lunch. They have a good size menu with a wide range of options both vegetarian, vegan, and carnivorous. For lunch the menu includes soups, salads, pitas with hummus, sandwiches, and platters. Prices are around $7 per dish and come with chips & a pickle. For $1.50 you can substitute one of the side dishes like pasta salad or fresh fruit. It is in an old house which gives a lot of great character. Lastly, they are extremely quick with their service: it took about 10 minutes to get our sandwiches. I have only been once but I will certainly go back. The friend I went with goes often and said she had never had a bad meal. I look forward to trying their breakfast!
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Shawn W.
1 word....FANTASTIC! And now, some more words about how great Meridian Cafe is. Set in a 1940's home, it is a quaint cafe open for breakfast and lunch. I've only had the pleasure of eating breakfast here, but can tell you that the lunch menu looks equally impressive. Made from all natural/organic ingredients from local markets I can honestly say that I don't recall a better breakfast restaurant in my life. The French Toast Megan's Way using Grand Marnier is to die for. The homemade corn beef Hash is exquisite. The Meridian Breakfast wrap is delicious. Service is always cheery and prompt with refills. It doesn't serve your normal greasy spoon type breakfast fare, but is more like a gourmet breakfast experience at very affordable prices. It is first on my list to take out of town visitors and a must for anyone looking for an exception breakfast experience in the St. Matthews/ Louisville area. Can't wait to try it for lunch!
(5)Cinimod S.
Go here for breakfast. The food is absolutely incredible, innovative, and good portions too. The lunch choices sounded great, but we were in a breakfast mood when we went. Blueberry basil syrup for the french toast, hash, salmon bagel, and french press coffee. Everything was great, I have nothing bad to say.
(5)Pedro M. F.
First time here, I don't know why, because I've passed here many of times while going to the bakery next door. Well, it's early so it's quiet. Service is friendly. I think I just ordered WAY too much, 3 dishes, just for me. Server must've thought I haven't eaten in a while, lol. I began with a cup of coffee, was glad to see that they offer packets of Stevia in the Raw and not just plain sugar and the pink packets. Dish #1: Uncle John's Sausage Egg and Cheese tacos ($8.95), not bad but not high on my list. The shell tastes like a corn tortilla and the spicy tomato jam added flavor to the dish. Dish #2: Claudia's Cheese Biscuits and Gravy ($8.25), was good. The sausage gravy was delish, not many places make a good sausage gravy. Dish#3: French Toast- Meagan's Way ($9.95 full order), this was amazing. The whipped cream cheese and the Grand Mariner marmalade was an excellent accent that made the French toast pop! Each of my dishes came with a side. So I got bacon, breakfast potatoes, and fruit. (I'm overwhelmed with food!) I really enjoyed myself, and I will return. There is more to try!
(5)Carolyn W.
I might have given it 3-1/2 (going from A-OK to "Yay, I 'm a Fan" is too big of a stretch. The food was fresh and tasty (more on that in a bit). The seating is rather awkward as the rooms are small and the tables close to one another. You have to look for a table which is a challenge with the broken-up seating arrangement. It is clean. The staff was friendly and kept our waters filled. I wanted a smoothie that the rest of you raved about, but their machine was broken that day. I ordered Zan's Hash without cheese. It did not need cheese. Zan places together an amazing combination of flavors with lightly roasted/lightly crisp red potatoes. It was too oily for me and I tried to replicate it at home with less oil. Generous serving and I ended up giving part to my husband who was sadly disappointed with the White Bean Burger so many of you hailed as delicious. He said it was bland and my entree was much better. Since I couldn't get a smoothie, I opted for a fresh fruit side and it was beautifully arranged fruit that was obviously fresh. My last comment is that the staff were overworked (Hint, there was a sign saying they were hiring). Though the water was kept filled, they were not overly attentive and when we asked for something, we usually got only one of the items (like additional sauce or mustard). The table next to us, specifically asked for their tomatoes to be left off of their grilled sandwich and the waitress acknowledged (I told you the tables are close). But the customer had a nice little pile of tomatoes on the side of her plate by the time she was done. Would we go back? Yes, we might. My husband told me he is going to order Zan's Hash. Think he will share? Nah!
(3)Sarah C.
My first time at Meridian was 4 years ago, and I left extremely pleased with the both the food at the atmosphere. I ordered a la carte and got eggs, sausage, cheddar biscuits, and the skillet fries. I loved the sausage because they weren't patties nor were they links, but ground up into pieces. However, each successive time I visited Meridian, the quality of the food declined. My boyfriend was an avid lover of the hash and I of Marsha's bacon egg and cheese panini (with sausage subbed instead of bacon). The more we went, the poorer the food quality. There was a noticeable change in the quality of food about 2 years ago. My boyfriend's beloved Mr. Brown's hash was topped with what looked like half-melted string cheese. I recently visited Meridian last week, hoping that they would redeem themselves. Unfortunately, that was not the case. I ordered my usual Marsha's bacon egg and cheese panini (sausage subbed). They had switched the sausage to links. The sandwich wasn't cold, but it also wasn't hot. Needless to say I was disappointed. The saving grace of Meridian Cafe is the atmosphere and the service. They renovated within the last year, which adds a nice touch. I've always loved the little knick knacks, like the unique salt and pepper shakers at each table. I'm still rooting for you, Meridian. One day, I will come back and be blown away again!
(3)Viviana F.
I finally made it to The Meridian Cafe in St. Matthews and I'm kicking myself for not trying it sooner! I haven't had a good omelet in a while so I decided to try one this morning. I ordered the Marks Meat Omelet. It was stuffed with sausage, bacon, scallions and white cheddar cheese. I asked to add mushrooms thinking they were going to be just button mushrooms but to my delight they were portobello mushrooms! Yum! The breakfast potatoes were great! My brother ordered the Claudia's Cheese Biscuits and Sausage Gravy and I ended up eating half, LOL! Absolutely delicious! The Megan's Way French Toast was soooo good! Thick slices of vanilla custard dipped Brioche topped with whipped cream cheese and boozy Grand Marnier marmalade in a pool of maple syrup. We arrived at 8:40 and there were plenty of tables. Each table has a unique set if salt & pepper shakers. Today we had dogs or lambs? I will definitely be back again.
(5)Zachary H.
I almost don't want to write a review because this is one of the few places we can get in quickly on a Sunday for a good breakfast. Everywhere else in the area seems to be at least an hour wait! I've never seen it too busy at any other time, either. I you're a person who likes weird, local, eccentric places you'll probably enjoy it here. It's sort of in an old house that was converted into a restaurant. There is a dearth of parking but if you want to risk it you can park in the St Matthews station parking. They have threatening signs saying they will tow you but those are probably just a suggestion :P As for the food everything I've had there has been very good, although that mostly consists of two items: various breakfast tacos and corned beef hash. The hash is homemade and well seasoned with some delicious brown mustard on the side. The tacos come in warmed corn tortillas which, as we can all agree, are way better than flour :) They also have daily specials which always look great but I can never quite talk myself into.
(5)Jason L.
Excellent local fresh fare, great for breakfast or lunch!! Great location with outdoor seating. Don't miss the homemade Spicy Tomato jam, goes with everything.
(4)Pat R.
I feel guilty, like I cheated on a lover. For months I proclaimed that the best corned beef hash in the area was at a fantastic spot in Anchorage. And then I came here. Apologies to my friends in Anchorage. You still have the best Bloody Mary's. Meridian has such an incredibly relaxing vibe from the moment you walk through the door that it really does feel like going to a friend's house to eat. The wait staff is friendly, the menu makes your taste buds start jumping, and the food... I can't begin to tell you how good this corned beef hash is. Perfectly spiced and slow cooked to perfection in house, the beef is complimented by tomatoes, roasted potatoes, and melted, gooey Swiss cheese. Nirvana. GF had the veggie omelette with a side of stewed tomatoes. The only complaint is that they don't do egg white omelettes and they're not very flexible on omelettes made to order (as in, "We don't do omelettes made to order"). But otherwise, this place nails breakfast.
(5)Sara T.
I met two friends for brunch here and we had a good time. We were a little disappointed because our plan was to share some good conversation over some mimosas and another Yelp review mistakenly reported that they served alcohol but they don't. It wasn't a big deal but good to know. I ordered the Martha's panini and it was okay but a little dry. The potatoes that came with it were excellent and the coffee was good.I kind of wish I had ordered what my friend ordered, the Uncle John's breakfast tacos. I'll have to try those next time. The environment was really perfect for meeting friends -- we snagged one of the tables in their window nooks and it seemed really cozy and quiet. A good place for catching up and enjoying company. The service was really great, too. I would definitely like to go back.
(4)Zack F.
Open, airy and Sun kissed rooms with colorful, whimsical paintings. Warm and welcoming ambiance. You can get food on the go or settle into your coffee/tea and enjoy the conversation. There are a lot of seemingly healthy options for vegetarians, though at least half these options include eggs. I'm not sure there is much on the menu for vegans...perhaps a couple. Coffee is ok, hot tea selection is nice. Food portions are large and filling for the price. The breakfast tacos in particular are quite large and come with a generous side. The hash was very good, though it seems like everything was cooked separately and combined at the end. This means the flavors had not fully melded, the cheese didn't get melty and it was a little on the wet side. I recommend adding green chili, salsa, avocado, and black beans. The staff is very friendly and accommodating to change requests. They are also direct and honest about which menu items you might prefer.
(4)Terri W.
Well, I had high hopes. The server got my breakfast sandwich wrong twice and I didn't even order anything special. I ordered right off the menu. I ended up not having any food to even review because we had to leave. The potatoes were good. I can't believe they had the nerve to even charge me for my coffee after that kind of screw up. We visit louisville often and there are numerous breakfast places we enjoy. Too bad. The place was super cute.
(1)Mike E.
I've been coming to this place for a few years now. I look forward to the breakfasts. The Mexican Coffee in the French Press is terrific. It is a cup of coffee with strength and flavor. The Haul and Oat cakes are original and very tasty. The 3 styles of French toast gives a variety of options, which I usually select the Heddie's way. The last visit I ordered a nice breakfast from the ala carte options. Oh yeah, and the bacon. I've never had bacon done so well. It's crispy and yet melts in your mouth. Awesome.
(4)Anne R.
Went for an early Sunday breakfast and not only wasn't crowded but the food was piping hot and delicious! My husband said it was the best sausage gravy he's ever had and that's high praise coming from a country boy! Can't wait to go back and try the French toast! :-)))
(5)Rachel R.
Situated off the main road by a few yards, the cafe is inviting and homey. The warm light through the many windows adds even more brightness to the cozy interior. I had the pleasure of sitting in the window nook overlooking the front entranceway. I attempted to get work done here but did not find it to be conducive to this kind of activity. Plus, it gets rather busy around lunch time and you get the distinct feeling that they need to clear your table ASAP. Not to say that they are rude, just be mindful of lingering too long. As for the food, I think this place is more for those who like hot sauce on their breakfasts. The food lacked seasoning, even with added salt. I would go back for the atmosphere and the waitstaff more than for the food. I'm sure I will be back!
(3)Raquelle Z.
On our recent visit we arrived for brunch and opted for indoor seating although the tables outside seemed like a nice option. We started with coffee which is a special blend done locally. The coffee was a delicious beginning to meals which were equally pleasing. My selection was the chef's special a Blue cheese and bacon panini and potatoes with fresh fruit. I especially enjoyed that the bread tasted housemade. My dining partner chose his breakfast favorite and the Hall n oats pancakes met his full approval. We finished our meal completely satisfied with the food and service. Upon leaving I was asked if I would like a coffee to go, and I appreciated this additional effort to make sure I was leaving happy. Mission accomplished.
(5)Bonnie L.
Second time here and both times have been a good experience overall. Enjoyed the gourmet grilled cheese that includes the house made sweet potato chips. It is a panini that has 3 cheeses, bacon, tomatoes and avocados. Could have used a little more bacon but overall it was good. Last time I ate here I got the falafel which was good but not great and the blue cheese potato salad which lacked flavor even after being salted. The service was good but slow. There were only 2 servers for the whole place and they were both in the weeds during the lunch rush. Parking can be difficult during lunch. I would like to come back for breakfast food which is served all day.
(4)Dom D.
This is a great and innovative restaurant in St. Matthews. There is always something new worth trying, their specials are outstanding, TRY THEM. They gave great vegan/veg options, and lots of home-made sauces, spreads, and dressings. A great breakfast and lunch place for sure.
(5)Dave Z.
Nothing I had for breakfast at this neat dining spot was bad. Everything was good, well-prepared and tasty. It just didn't blow me away. The home fries were crisp and had a nice, spicy flavoring to them. The coffee was good and fresh. The breakfast sandwiches were tasty, and the french toast was nicely done using thick brioche and a dollop of mascarpone, which was a nice touch. Although while it says the sauce on top is a basil blueberry, I didn't taste any hint of basil. Anyway, while I probably won't be back for breakfast, this spot seems to get pretty favorable reviews when it comes to their lunch sandwiches, so maybe that's something for me to consider in the future.
(3)Sarah B.
My husband and I are vegan so it's hard to find a good selection in Louisville. The White Bean Burger is vegan and it's really good! It's very similar to what I can make at home, but it's nice they have an option.
(3)Pam S.
Meridian Cafe is a lovely place to meet up with a friend for a chat. It's very popular, so don't go with more than a group of 4, and think about going at an off time. There are lots of vegan and vegetarian choices on the menu, my favorite being the white bean burger. The smoothies are also quite good. It has lots of options for your meat eaters as well. Parking in their lot is limited, but there's a church nearby that you can park at if there aren't services.
(4)Sue P.
I absolutely did not want ordinary when I pulled into the parking lot of Panera. I walked inside and saw the electronic order taker before me. Nope...no way. I whipped out my YELP and asked it to find me breakfast. I could've walked I was so close to Meridian Cafe. Not ordinary at all. I had the French Toast Megan' way...grand Marnier marmalade...whipped cream cheese...maple syrup...crisp bacon from farm in Paris, Ky. Sweet and filling...reasonably priced...lovely surroundings as I sat looking out the windows. Service excellent and quick but not rushed...I will be back for more...right in heart of St. Matthews...pleasant surroundings and very pleasant server...makes you feel at home.
(4)Andrea U.
This is a great little neighborhood spot. My husband and I always grab a table in one of the window nooks, and when our little man was tiny, we took him there often. The food is pretty good - my favorite are the Uncle John's Breakfast tacos - tomato jam, eggs, goat cheese (instead of the cheese it comes with) and sausage, with a side of potatoes. So yummy! I'm just sad they don't serve mimosas. No alcohol at all. Great service.
(4)Carolyn H.
What a great menu full of variety, house made recipes, local fare like Benedictine, and whole ingredients. I love that there are so many vegan options and I feel I could return half a dozen times before repeating an order. The space is cozy and casual with cute outdoor seating (broad umbrellas make this even more appealing) but it's a little warm. This is definitely your small hometown spot and fits the bill perfectly. The 5th star is lost to the lack of charm on the part of our too-busy server and a less than enjoyable meal for my friend (over seasoned, she said). My pita sandwich was very fast - hummus, eggplant, roasted red peppers, spinach, and 15 bean salad with a side of seasonal fruit. Yum! At $18 for two people at lunch, it's a great value. Enjoy!
(4)Annie S.
I'm going to need to go back during normal business hours but at the Yelp Elite Event I definitely had a lovely time and enjoyed all the food and drink I could stomach. This is definitely an outside dining place for the hotter months as their dining rooms air circulation isn't the best (to be expected because it is an old house) The food makes up for it. I enjoyed Cake Flour French Toast with cream cheese frosting AND marscapone frosting AND burnt sugar maple syrup. They also had a burrito bar with eggs, black beans, fresh stewed roma tomatoes and very homemade tasting tortillas that I very much enjoyed. Drinks? I had an Upland Wheat & Apple Juice AKA Rattlesnake. #refreshing. Looking forward to my next visit. Maybe there will be a groupon/living social/amazon local deal soon for me to take advantange of!
(4)Amy T.
While traveling for business I stumbled on this delightful place. Finding vegetarian gluten free food is not an easy task on the road. The veggie wrap had hummus and walnuts with a dill spread, a surprisingly satisfying combination of flavors and textures. The cheesy grits are also a must, gooey and savory. Besides quick and courteous service the staff generously offered ideas on local theater events and places to visit during my stay.
(5)Jasmine R.
We came for brunch on a Saturday at noon, they were pretty busy but not on a wait. The server was working really hard but they were just understaffed so the service wasn't great, even though she was trying really hard. The food took a really long time to come out maybe about 40 minutes. We were one of 3 tables that arrived at the same time...The table to our left got their food finished eating and paid before our food arrived, and the table to our right got fed up and left before theirs came. When the food finally came out it was very good, worth the wait which is why I'm giving them 4 stars.
(4)Mookie M.
Yummy with healthy (and vegetarian) options. In a converted house in St Matthews, both breakfast and lunch are worth remembering it is there.
(4)Jennifer M.
Best french toast ever! Both vegan and omni friendly. Reasonable prices. Outdoor seating as well.
(5)Amanda L.
I really like the food here. There are fantastic healthy options and quite a bit for vegetarians. I've enjoyed everything I've had here and the service has always been good. The only bad thing about this place is that it gets super hot in the summers. It's almost unbearable to be in there on a hot day.
(4)Megan P.
Great lunch spot with good fresh house made meals. They offer French pressed coffee which is also a plus! Their soups are usually delicious. Good salad options too.
(4)Emily J.
This place is cute and the food is good but the service is terrible! Housed in an old house, Meridian Cafe was crowded and there were dirty, uncleared tables everywhere. My boyfriend and I were told to sit wherever we wanted to, but then we waited for almost 20 minutes for a server to come by. I got Grandma's Wrap, which was good but not as full of flavor as I would have liked it to be. My boyfriend's French toast was very good and tasted extremely homemade with a nice berry jam and marscapone cheese. Overall this cafe is pretty good but not somewhere I would frequent often just because of the inefficiency of the entire operation.
(3)Shal V.
I stumbled upon this little gem when looking for breakfast options on a Saturday morning in the St Matthews and Crescent Hill area. I love Wild Eggs, Blue Dog and Superchef but I was looking for something different. Somehow Denny's only sounds good after a night of bacchanalia. Meridian is located behind Plehn's Bakery in a stand-alone home built in the 1940s, and has sufficient parking for patrons. I ordered Paul's Omlette Sandwich (omlette stuffed with house-made sausage, goat cheese and spicy tomato jam, served on a toasted French loaf) with a side of skillet fries. The omlette was delicious, although I would have preferred the French loaf a bit more toasted to crispiness. The same with the potatoes - seasoned to perfection but a tad less crispy than I normally like it...nothing a few extra minutes in the toaster over can't fix. My wife got the Hall and Oats Cakes (Pancakes made with steel cut oats and topped with seasonal fruit and agave nectar) with a side of bacon. She loved the pancakes and the bacon. Meridian is a locally owned cafe serving breakfast and lunch Monday through Saturday; they take pride in the ingredients they use and have vegan/vegetarian options. The service was excellent too.
(4)Jessica D.
Meridian is like the most hit or miss restaurant in Louisville. When it's good, it's pretty freaking good. Vegetarian and omnivore friendly, with daily specials, tasty beverages, and lots of options, Meridian can be pretty sweet. But then there's the downside. The place is sometimes closed without reason or warning, no sign put up during normal open hours, just a locked door and dark restaurant. The service can be incredibly shoddy, sometimes you can't get seated even when there are numerous open tables, or your server just flat out disappears. And while some menu items are awesome, some just suck. It's all up in the air here. So, if you're feeling lucky, you should take a chance. But if you're no in the mood for an unexpected interruption to your day, take your business elsewhere.
(3)Camille G.
Even though my husband was the only guy in the place (aside from one other brave gentleman) and it is the type of place that distinguishes between vegan and 'omni-friendly' dishes...still, it was so good! I enjoyed the best peanut-butter and jelly panini I'm ever like to get. The peanut-butter had that grainy, roasty fresh-ground taste and was wonderfully oozing a little oil over the sweet jelly and buttery-crisp edges of the flavorful wheat toast. The fresh fruit was not full of giant cantaloupe chunks and sour grapes but was actually a blend of berries, crisp apples, and some very good, sweet cantaloupe. My husband had what he pegged as the only 'guy fare' on the menu - a giant Italian sandwich with loads of roast beef, tomatoes, and pesto that he claimed was really good - and he knows good sandwiches. And I swear I'm not the type of person that usually does this - but I was traveling and had some tea I really wanted to enjoy that morning, and they kindly provided a cup of hot water and some sugar and cream without making me feel like an jerk. Sweet!
(4)Dan W.
This is my favorite restaurant in Louisville. The food is simply superb. It's innovative, fresh and healthy. They have a slight tendency toward a Mediterranean influence to the food. Their milkshakes are fantastic, although very filling. Many of their dishes are available in vegetarian and vegan options. The specials frequently manage to surprise me, always in a good way. Although both breakfast and lunch choices are excellent, I tend to prefer their lunch choices. The service here is very good, and very friendly, although they can get a bit slow during the height of the lunchtime rush. The only bad things about the Meridian Cafe are that it doesn't serve dinner and that its popularity tends to result in a bit of a wait during the prime lunch rush.
(5)Scott P.
I love the east coast turkey sandwich!! The breakfast potatoes and the hummus plate it amazingly good.The service is good and the space is fantastic. Finish off your meal with a Banana milkshake.
(4)Allison S.
Cute little place, and great food for lunch! I love their sandwiches, especially their turkey with cranberry and apple (east coast turkey)! I also like the gordonia sandwich with turkey and avocado, and the benedictine is always a good option also. The salads and soups are all great too, especially the kates toss! The sides are awesome always, I especially like their roasted tomatoes. Such a unique side option to have! Service is a little slow, but they are always really friendly and offer a taste of soups if you are unsure of which one to get. Only other complaint is there isnt much parking, but I am always super satisfied coming here for lunch!
(5)Maretta J.
So glad to have discovered this restaurant! Very charming setting in a small home-like atmosphere, friendly service. Superb food, lots of choices....
(5)Beth M.
Love this little gem in St. Matthews. It is only open for breakfast and lunch, and I went for lunch. They have a good size menu with a wide range of options both vegetarian, vegan, and carnivorous. For lunch the menu includes soups, salads, pitas with hummus, sandwiches, and platters. Prices are around $7 per dish and come with chips & a pickle. For $1.50 you can substitute one of the side dishes like pasta salad or fresh fruit. It is in an old house which gives a lot of great character. Lastly, they are extremely quick with their service: it took about 10 minutes to get our sandwiches. I have only been once but I will certainly go back. The friend I went with goes often and said she had never had a bad meal. I look forward to trying their breakfast!
(5)Emily Y.
Good food, good prices, just-right portions. The menus selection was varied and everything we order tasted extremely fresh. Non-greasy breakfast item options. Cute converted house setting. (and a 1 minute walk to phlen's for dessert afterwards).
(4)Anne R.
Went for an early Sunday breakfast and not only wasn't crowded but the food was piping hot and delicious! My husband said it was the best sausage gravy he's ever had and that's high praise coming from a country boy! Can't wait to go back and try the French toast! :-)))
(5)Jasmine R.
We came for brunch on a Saturday at noon, they were pretty busy but not on a wait. The server was working really hard but they were just understaffed so the service wasn't great, even though she was trying really hard. The food took a really long time to come out maybe about 40 minutes. We were one of 3 tables that arrived at the same time...The table to our left got their food finished eating and paid before our food arrived, and the table to our right got fed up and left before theirs came. When the food finally came out it was very good, worth the wait which is why I'm giving them 4 stars.
(4)Mike E.
I've been coming to this place for a few years now. I look forward to the breakfasts. The Mexican Coffee in the French Press is terrific. It is a cup of coffee with strength and flavor. The Haul and Oat cakes are original and very tasty. The 3 styles of French toast gives a variety of options, which I usually select the Heddie's way. The last visit I ordered a nice breakfast from the ala carte options. Oh yeah, and the bacon. I've never had bacon done so well. It's crispy and yet melts in your mouth. Awesome.
(4)Shawn W.
1 word....FANTASTIC! And now, some more words about how great Meridian Cafe is. Set in a 1940's home, it is a quaint cafe open for breakfast and lunch. I've only had the pleasure of eating breakfast here, but can tell you that the lunch menu looks equally impressive. Made from all natural/organic ingredients from local markets I can honestly say that I don't recall a better breakfast restaurant in my life. The French Toast Megan's Way using Grand Marnier is to die for. The homemade corn beef Hash is exquisite. The Meridian Breakfast wrap is delicious. Service is always cheery and prompt with refills. It doesn't serve your normal greasy spoon type breakfast fare, but is more like a gourmet breakfast experience at very affordable prices. It is first on my list to take out of town visitors and a must for anyone looking for an exception breakfast experience in the St. Matthews/ Louisville area. Can't wait to try it for lunch!
(5)Cinimod S.
Go here for breakfast. The food is absolutely incredible, innovative, and good portions too. The lunch choices sounded great, but we were in a breakfast mood when we went. Blueberry basil syrup for the french toast, hash, salmon bagel, and french press coffee. Everything was great, I have nothing bad to say.
(5)Emily Y.
Good food, good prices, just-right portions. The menus selection was varied and everything we order tasted extremely fresh. Non-greasy breakfast item options. Cute converted house setting. (and a 1 minute walk to phlen's for dessert afterwards).
(4)Dom D.
This is a great and innovative restaurant in St. Matthews. There is always something new worth trying, their specials are outstanding, TRY THEM. They gave great vegan/veg options, and lots of home-made sauces, spreads, and dressings. A great breakfast and lunch place for sure.
(5)Dave Z.
Nothing I had for breakfast at this neat dining spot was bad. Everything was good, well-prepared and tasty. It just didn't blow me away. The home fries were crisp and had a nice, spicy flavoring to them. The coffee was good and fresh. The breakfast sandwiches were tasty, and the french toast was nicely done using thick brioche and a dollop of mascarpone, which was a nice touch. Although while it says the sauce on top is a basil blueberry, I didn't taste any hint of basil. Anyway, while I probably won't be back for breakfast, this spot seems to get pretty favorable reviews when it comes to their lunch sandwiches, so maybe that's something for me to consider in the future.
(3)Emily J.
This place is cute and the food is good but the service is terrible! Housed in an old house, Meridian Cafe was crowded and there were dirty, uncleared tables everywhere. My boyfriend and I were told to sit wherever we wanted to, but then we waited for almost 20 minutes for a server to come by. I got Grandma's Wrap, which was good but not as full of flavor as I would have liked it to be. My boyfriend's French toast was very good and tasted extremely homemade with a nice berry jam and marscapone cheese. Overall this cafe is pretty good but not somewhere I would frequent often just because of the inefficiency of the entire operation.
(3)Pedro M. F.
First time here, I don't know why, because I've passed here many of times while going to the bakery next door. Well, it's early so it's quiet. Service is friendly. I think I just ordered WAY too much, 3 dishes, just for me. Server must've thought I haven't eaten in a while, lol. I began with a cup of coffee, was glad to see that they offer packets of Stevia in the Raw and not just plain sugar and the pink packets. Dish #1: Uncle John's Sausage Egg and Cheese tacos ($8.95), not bad but not high on my list. The shell tastes like a corn tortilla and the spicy tomato jam added flavor to the dish. Dish #2: Claudia's Cheese Biscuits and Gravy ($8.25), was good. The sausage gravy was delish, not many places make a good sausage gravy. Dish#3: French Toast- Meagan's Way ($9.95 full order), this was amazing. The whipped cream cheese and the Grand Mariner marmalade was an excellent accent that made the French toast pop! Each of my dishes came with a side. So I got bacon, breakfast potatoes, and fruit. (I'm overwhelmed with food!) I really enjoyed myself, and I will return. There is more to try!
(5)Carolyn W.
I might have given it 3-1/2 (going from A-OK to "Yay, I 'm a Fan" is too big of a stretch. The food was fresh and tasty (more on that in a bit). The seating is rather awkward as the rooms are small and the tables close to one another. You have to look for a table which is a challenge with the broken-up seating arrangement. It is clean. The staff was friendly and kept our waters filled. I wanted a smoothie that the rest of you raved about, but their machine was broken that day. I ordered Zan's Hash without cheese. It did not need cheese. Zan places together an amazing combination of flavors with lightly roasted/lightly crisp red potatoes. It was too oily for me and I tried to replicate it at home with less oil. Generous serving and I ended up giving part to my husband who was sadly disappointed with the White Bean Burger so many of you hailed as delicious. He said it was bland and my entree was much better. Since I couldn't get a smoothie, I opted for a fresh fruit side and it was beautifully arranged fruit that was obviously fresh. My last comment is that the staff were overworked (Hint, there was a sign saying they were hiring). Though the water was kept filled, they were not overly attentive and when we asked for something, we usually got only one of the items (like additional sauce or mustard). The table next to us, specifically asked for their tomatoes to be left off of their grilled sandwich and the waitress acknowledged (I told you the tables are close). But the customer had a nice little pile of tomatoes on the side of her plate by the time she was done. Would we go back? Yes, we might. My husband told me he is going to order Zan's Hash. Think he will share? Nah!
(3)Mookie M.
Yummy with healthy (and vegetarian) options. In a converted house in St Matthews, both breakfast and lunch are worth remembering it is there.
(4)Jennifer M.
Best french toast ever! Both vegan and omni friendly. Reasonable prices. Outdoor seating as well.
(5)Amanda L.
I really like the food here. There are fantastic healthy options and quite a bit for vegetarians. I've enjoyed everything I've had here and the service has always been good. The only bad thing about this place is that it gets super hot in the summers. It's almost unbearable to be in there on a hot day.
(4)Sarah C.
My first time at Meridian was 4 years ago, and I left extremely pleased with the both the food at the atmosphere. I ordered a la carte and got eggs, sausage, cheddar biscuits, and the skillet fries. I loved the sausage because they weren't patties nor were they links, but ground up into pieces. However, each successive time I visited Meridian, the quality of the food declined. My boyfriend was an avid lover of the hash and I of Marsha's bacon egg and cheese panini (with sausage subbed instead of bacon). The more we went, the poorer the food quality. There was a noticeable change in the quality of food about 2 years ago. My boyfriend's beloved Mr. Brown's hash was topped with what looked like half-melted string cheese. I recently visited Meridian last week, hoping that they would redeem themselves. Unfortunately, that was not the case. I ordered my usual Marsha's bacon egg and cheese panini (sausage subbed). They had switched the sausage to links. The sandwich wasn't cold, but it also wasn't hot. Needless to say I was disappointed. The saving grace of Meridian Cafe is the atmosphere and the service. They renovated within the last year, which adds a nice touch. I've always loved the little knick knacks, like the unique salt and pepper shakers at each table. I'm still rooting for you, Meridian. One day, I will come back and be blown away again!
(3)Viviana F.
I finally made it to The Meridian Cafe in St. Matthews and I'm kicking myself for not trying it sooner! I haven't had a good omelet in a while so I decided to try one this morning. I ordered the Marks Meat Omelet. It was stuffed with sausage, bacon, scallions and white cheddar cheese. I asked to add mushrooms thinking they were going to be just button mushrooms but to my delight they were portobello mushrooms! Yum! The breakfast potatoes were great! My brother ordered the Claudia's Cheese Biscuits and Sausage Gravy and I ended up eating half, LOL! Absolutely delicious! The Megan's Way French Toast was soooo good! Thick slices of vanilla custard dipped Brioche topped with whipped cream cheese and boozy Grand Marnier marmalade in a pool of maple syrup. We arrived at 8:40 and there were plenty of tables. Each table has a unique set if salt & pepper shakers. Today we had dogs or lambs? I will definitely be back again.
(5)Zachary H.
I almost don't want to write a review because this is one of the few places we can get in quickly on a Sunday for a good breakfast. Everywhere else in the area seems to be at least an hour wait! I've never seen it too busy at any other time, either. I you're a person who likes weird, local, eccentric places you'll probably enjoy it here. It's sort of in an old house that was converted into a restaurant. There is a dearth of parking but if you want to risk it you can park in the St Matthews station parking. They have threatening signs saying they will tow you but those are probably just a suggestion :P As for the food everything I've had there has been very good, although that mostly consists of two items: various breakfast tacos and corned beef hash. The hash is homemade and well seasoned with some delicious brown mustard on the side. The tacos come in warmed corn tortillas which, as we can all agree, are way better than flour :) They also have daily specials which always look great but I can never quite talk myself into.
(5)Jason L.
Excellent local fresh fare, great for breakfast or lunch!! Great location with outdoor seating. Don't miss the homemade Spicy Tomato jam, goes with everything.
(4)Pat R.
I feel guilty, like I cheated on a lover. For months I proclaimed that the best corned beef hash in the area was at a fantastic spot in Anchorage. And then I came here. Apologies to my friends in Anchorage. You still have the best Bloody Mary's. Meridian has such an incredibly relaxing vibe from the moment you walk through the door that it really does feel like going to a friend's house to eat. The wait staff is friendly, the menu makes your taste buds start jumping, and the food... I can't begin to tell you how good this corned beef hash is. Perfectly spiced and slow cooked to perfection in house, the beef is complimented by tomatoes, roasted potatoes, and melted, gooey Swiss cheese. Nirvana. GF had the veggie omelette with a side of stewed tomatoes. The only complaint is that they don't do egg white omelettes and they're not very flexible on omelettes made to order (as in, "We don't do omelettes made to order"). But otherwise, this place nails breakfast.
(5)Sara T.
I met two friends for brunch here and we had a good time. We were a little disappointed because our plan was to share some good conversation over some mimosas and another Yelp review mistakenly reported that they served alcohol but they don't. It wasn't a big deal but good to know. I ordered the Martha's panini and it was okay but a little dry. The potatoes that came with it were excellent and the coffee was good.I kind of wish I had ordered what my friend ordered, the Uncle John's breakfast tacos. I'll have to try those next time. The environment was really perfect for meeting friends -- we snagged one of the tables in their window nooks and it seemed really cozy and quiet. A good place for catching up and enjoying company. The service was really great, too. I would definitely like to go back.
(4)Zack F.
Open, airy and Sun kissed rooms with colorful, whimsical paintings. Warm and welcoming ambiance. You can get food on the go or settle into your coffee/tea and enjoy the conversation. There are a lot of seemingly healthy options for vegetarians, though at least half these options include eggs. I'm not sure there is much on the menu for vegans...perhaps a couple. Coffee is ok, hot tea selection is nice. Food portions are large and filling for the price. The breakfast tacos in particular are quite large and come with a generous side. The hash was very good, though it seems like everything was cooked separately and combined at the end. This means the flavors had not fully melded, the cheese didn't get melty and it was a little on the wet side. I recommend adding green chili, salsa, avocado, and black beans. The staff is very friendly and accommodating to change requests. They are also direct and honest about which menu items you might prefer.
(4)Terri W.
Well, I had high hopes. The server got my breakfast sandwich wrong twice and I didn't even order anything special. I ordered right off the menu. I ended up not having any food to even review because we had to leave. The potatoes were good. I can't believe they had the nerve to even charge me for my coffee after that kind of screw up. We visit louisville often and there are numerous breakfast places we enjoy. Too bad. The place was super cute.
(1)Rachel R.
Situated off the main road by a few yards, the cafe is inviting and homey. The warm light through the many windows adds even more brightness to the cozy interior. I had the pleasure of sitting in the window nook overlooking the front entranceway. I attempted to get work done here but did not find it to be conducive to this kind of activity. Plus, it gets rather busy around lunch time and you get the distinct feeling that they need to clear your table ASAP. Not to say that they are rude, just be mindful of lingering too long. As for the food, I think this place is more for those who like hot sauce on their breakfasts. The food lacked seasoning, even with added salt. I would go back for the atmosphere and the waitstaff more than for the food. I'm sure I will be back!
(3)Raquelle Z.
On our recent visit we arrived for brunch and opted for indoor seating although the tables outside seemed like a nice option. We started with coffee which is a special blend done locally. The coffee was a delicious beginning to meals which were equally pleasing. My selection was the chef's special a Blue cheese and bacon panini and potatoes with fresh fruit. I especially enjoyed that the bread tasted housemade. My dining partner chose his breakfast favorite and the Hall n oats pancakes met his full approval. We finished our meal completely satisfied with the food and service. Upon leaving I was asked if I would like a coffee to go, and I appreciated this additional effort to make sure I was leaving happy. Mission accomplished.
(5)Bonnie L.
Second time here and both times have been a good experience overall. Enjoyed the gourmet grilled cheese that includes the house made sweet potato chips. It is a panini that has 3 cheeses, bacon, tomatoes and avocados. Could have used a little more bacon but overall it was good. Last time I ate here I got the falafel which was good but not great and the blue cheese potato salad which lacked flavor even after being salted. The service was good but slow. There were only 2 servers for the whole place and they were both in the weeds during the lunch rush. Parking can be difficult during lunch. I would like to come back for breakfast food which is served all day.
(4)Sue P.
I absolutely did not want ordinary when I pulled into the parking lot of Panera. I walked inside and saw the electronic order taker before me. Nope...no way. I whipped out my YELP and asked it to find me breakfast. I could've walked I was so close to Meridian Cafe. Not ordinary at all. I had the French Toast Megan' way...grand Marnier marmalade...whipped cream cheese...maple syrup...crisp bacon from farm in Paris, Ky. Sweet and filling...reasonably priced...lovely surroundings as I sat looking out the windows. Service excellent and quick but not rushed...I will be back for more...right in heart of St. Matthews...pleasant surroundings and very pleasant server...makes you feel at home.
(4)Andrea U.
This is a great little neighborhood spot. My husband and I always grab a table in one of the window nooks, and when our little man was tiny, we took him there often. The food is pretty good - my favorite are the Uncle John's Breakfast tacos - tomato jam, eggs, goat cheese (instead of the cheese it comes with) and sausage, with a side of potatoes. So yummy! I'm just sad they don't serve mimosas. No alcohol at all. Great service.
(4)Carolyn H.
What a great menu full of variety, house made recipes, local fare like Benedictine, and whole ingredients. I love that there are so many vegan options and I feel I could return half a dozen times before repeating an order. The space is cozy and casual with cute outdoor seating (broad umbrellas make this even more appealing) but it's a little warm. This is definitely your small hometown spot and fits the bill perfectly. The 5th star is lost to the lack of charm on the part of our too-busy server and a less than enjoyable meal for my friend (over seasoned, she said). My pita sandwich was very fast - hummus, eggplant, roasted red peppers, spinach, and 15 bean salad with a side of seasonal fruit. Yum! At $18 for two people at lunch, it's a great value. Enjoy!
(4)Annie S.
I'm going to need to go back during normal business hours but at the Yelp Elite Event I definitely had a lovely time and enjoyed all the food and drink I could stomach. This is definitely an outside dining place for the hotter months as their dining rooms air circulation isn't the best (to be expected because it is an old house) The food makes up for it. I enjoyed Cake Flour French Toast with cream cheese frosting AND marscapone frosting AND burnt sugar maple syrup. They also had a burrito bar with eggs, black beans, fresh stewed roma tomatoes and very homemade tasting tortillas that I very much enjoyed. Drinks? I had an Upland Wheat & Apple Juice AKA Rattlesnake. #refreshing. Looking forward to my next visit. Maybe there will be a groupon/living social/amazon local deal soon for me to take advantange of!
(4)Amy T.
While traveling for business I stumbled on this delightful place. Finding vegetarian gluten free food is not an easy task on the road. The veggie wrap had hummus and walnuts with a dill spread, a surprisingly satisfying combination of flavors and textures. The cheesy grits are also a must, gooey and savory. Besides quick and courteous service the staff generously offered ideas on local theater events and places to visit during my stay.
(5)Sarah B.
My husband and I are vegan so it's hard to find a good selection in Louisville. The White Bean Burger is vegan and it's really good! It's very similar to what I can make at home, but it's nice they have an option.
(3)Pam S.
Meridian Cafe is a lovely place to meet up with a friend for a chat. It's very popular, so don't go with more than a group of 4, and think about going at an off time. There are lots of vegan and vegetarian choices on the menu, my favorite being the white bean burger. The smoothies are also quite good. It has lots of options for your meat eaters as well. Parking in their lot is limited, but there's a church nearby that you can park at if there aren't services.
(4)Megan P.
Great lunch spot with good fresh house made meals. They offer French pressed coffee which is also a plus! Their soups are usually delicious. Good salad options too.
(4)Shal V.
I stumbled upon this little gem when looking for breakfast options on a Saturday morning in the St Matthews and Crescent Hill area. I love Wild Eggs, Blue Dog and Superchef but I was looking for something different. Somehow Denny's only sounds good after a night of bacchanalia. Meridian is located behind Plehn's Bakery in a stand-alone home built in the 1940s, and has sufficient parking for patrons. I ordered Paul's Omlette Sandwich (omlette stuffed with house-made sausage, goat cheese and spicy tomato jam, served on a toasted French loaf) with a side of skillet fries. The omlette was delicious, although I would have preferred the French loaf a bit more toasted to crispiness. The same with the potatoes - seasoned to perfection but a tad less crispy than I normally like it...nothing a few extra minutes in the toaster over can't fix. My wife got the Hall and Oats Cakes (Pancakes made with steel cut oats and topped with seasonal fruit and agave nectar) with a side of bacon. She loved the pancakes and the bacon. Meridian is a locally owned cafe serving breakfast and lunch Monday through Saturday; they take pride in the ingredients they use and have vegan/vegetarian options. The service was excellent too.
(4)Jessica D.
Meridian is like the most hit or miss restaurant in Louisville. When it's good, it's pretty freaking good. Vegetarian and omnivore friendly, with daily specials, tasty beverages, and lots of options, Meridian can be pretty sweet. But then there's the downside. The place is sometimes closed without reason or warning, no sign put up during normal open hours, just a locked door and dark restaurant. The service can be incredibly shoddy, sometimes you can't get seated even when there are numerous open tables, or your server just flat out disappears. And while some menu items are awesome, some just suck. It's all up in the air here. So, if you're feeling lucky, you should take a chance. But if you're no in the mood for an unexpected interruption to your day, take your business elsewhere.
(3)Camille G.
Even though my husband was the only guy in the place (aside from one other brave gentleman) and it is the type of place that distinguishes between vegan and 'omni-friendly' dishes...still, it was so good! I enjoyed the best peanut-butter and jelly panini I'm ever like to get. The peanut-butter had that grainy, roasty fresh-ground taste and was wonderfully oozing a little oil over the sweet jelly and buttery-crisp edges of the flavorful wheat toast. The fresh fruit was not full of giant cantaloupe chunks and sour grapes but was actually a blend of berries, crisp apples, and some very good, sweet cantaloupe. My husband had what he pegged as the only 'guy fare' on the menu - a giant Italian sandwich with loads of roast beef, tomatoes, and pesto that he claimed was really good - and he knows good sandwiches. And I swear I'm not the type of person that usually does this - but I was traveling and had some tea I really wanted to enjoy that morning, and they kindly provided a cup of hot water and some sugar and cream without making me feel like an jerk. Sweet!
(4)Dan W.
This is my favorite restaurant in Louisville. The food is simply superb. It's innovative, fresh and healthy. They have a slight tendency toward a Mediterranean influence to the food. Their milkshakes are fantastic, although very filling. Many of their dishes are available in vegetarian and vegan options. The specials frequently manage to surprise me, always in a good way. Although both breakfast and lunch choices are excellent, I tend to prefer their lunch choices. The service here is very good, and very friendly, although they can get a bit slow during the height of the lunchtime rush. The only bad things about the Meridian Cafe are that it doesn't serve dinner and that its popularity tends to result in a bit of a wait during the prime lunch rush.
(5)Scott P.
I love the east coast turkey sandwich!! The breakfast potatoes and the hummus plate it amazingly good.The service is good and the space is fantastic. Finish off your meal with a Banana milkshake.
(4)Allison S.
Cute little place, and great food for lunch! I love their sandwiches, especially their turkey with cranberry and apple (east coast turkey)! I also like the gordonia sandwich with turkey and avocado, and the benedictine is always a good option also. The salads and soups are all great too, especially the kates toss! The sides are awesome always, I especially like their roasted tomatoes. Such a unique side option to have! Service is a little slow, but they are always really friendly and offer a taste of soups if you are unsure of which one to get. Only other complaint is there isnt much parking, but I am always super satisfied coming here for lunch!
(5)Maretta J.
So glad to have discovered this restaurant! Very charming setting in a small home-like atmosphere, friendly service. Superb food, lots of choices....
(5)Beth M.
Love this little gem in St. Matthews. It is only open for breakfast and lunch, and I went for lunch. They have a good size menu with a wide range of options both vegetarian, vegan, and carnivorous. For lunch the menu includes soups, salads, pitas with hummus, sandwiches, and platters. Prices are around $7 per dish and come with chips & a pickle. For $1.50 you can substitute one of the side dishes like pasta salad or fresh fruit. It is in an old house which gives a lot of great character. Lastly, they are extremely quick with their service: it took about 10 minutes to get our sandwiches. I have only been once but I will certainly go back. The friend I went with goes often and said she had never had a bad meal. I look forward to trying their breakfast!
(5)