The Village Anchor Pub & Roost

My previous visit to the Anchor resulted in a 4-​star rating, but this time I had to downgrade for a few reasons. The food, however, was wonderful. The Shrimp and Grits with large shrimp, andouille, and creamy grits couldn’t be better. Our cocktails were very good. My companion’s meal was part of the problem. We alerted our server that my friend is allergic to tomatoes. He assured us there was no tomato product in the Airline Chicken Breast entrée. He even said he would double check with the chef. To our surprise, it arrived with the chicken garnished with a mound of chopped tomatoes! Our second disappointment was that when we made reservations, the main dining area was full for that Thursday evening but they said the patio was «enclosed». I really don’t consider a plastic-​wrapped patio very enclosed when it’s 30 degrees outside. We were the only diners out there. There was a machine blowing warm air and we were given lap blankets but even the server and hostess couldn’t stay outside. They disappeared after our order arrived and we had been finished eating long before we saw our server again.

Lovely, warm, satisfying to all of the senses. I came in for lunch on a snowy afternoon and enjoyed the Reuben with tomato bisque, by a crackling fire, in a beautifully appointed dining room. What a pleasure. The sandwich was just right with the right proportions of dressing, corned beef, sauerkraut and on the perfect bread for this sandwich. Followed it up with carrot cake with a cheesecake filling… oh my, and fresh, French-​pressed coffee. The cake was as aesthetically pleasing as it was to my tastebuds… rich, dense layer of carrot cake over a creamy light layer of cheesecake with a sweet buttery cream cheese icing. Few places go to the trouble to offer fresh pressed coffee, and I would go out of my way for it!

Kylee and Angela put on another great evening of hospitality, humor and enthusiasm. The perfect cocktail to erase a hard day at the office.

Another great night with my wife and I. The fire is always relaxing and the bar tenders are knowledgable. Factor in the food, it makes for anothewondeful experience. Will be back

I’ve been here twice around the holidays and both times have been very impressed. Everything from the food to the atmosphere and the service was top notch, especially considering how busy they were. I highly recommend this place.

Great food, beautiful/​cool building, good service… why the three star review? Village Anchor is, in paper, a perfect restaurant. In practice, however, rushed service and a crowded, uncomfortable room made it hard to appreciate my meal.
We went to Village Anchor on the recommendation of a friend. She’s a regular, and raves about it. After checking out the menu and website, I was excited about our visit, I made a reservation for an early dinner (6 pm) and headed out to Anchorage.
The building, inside and out, is like something from a movie set– absolutely gorgeous. I especially loved the «inside» space with velvet banquettes and a gorgeous bar. Alas, we were escorted to the outside area (in December!) and that is where problems began.
I bet the patio is amazing in the summer, and it was still beautiful in the winter (the upside-​down Christmas trees were cool), but it was freezing when we first sat down, they have a heater (I was right under a duct), but it wasn’t turned on at first and I had to keep my coat on for the first part of the meal to avoid shivering.
Our server greeted us promptly and provided us with water and menus. I had looked it over online, and it was the same. Most of the prices were reasonable for an upscale restaurant (especially the appetizers and salads/​soups), but beware of the special. No price was quoted, and I assumed that it would be somewhat in line with the rest of the prices (since that night it was a NY strip of no particularly vast size or impressive origin). I was surprised by the $ 69 charge (for that price, I would have spent the extra $ 3 for surf and turf). We started with sweet potato fries, a half-​portion fried goat cheese salad (me) and Caesar (husband), along with two glasses of Riesling (the wine selection is limited, pedestrian, and way overpriced but a) Louivino has me spoiled and b) this is more of a cocktail or beer place). I did feel like I got a generous pour.
The fries appeared almost immediately. They were perfectly cooked, and the dipping sauces were a whimsical delight.
Our salads appeared before we were quite finished with the fries, which was a little bit annoying, but not too much. I was eager for the salad, and I was not disappointed. It was delicious. My husband also liked his Caesar, although the only thing distinguished about that one was the actual anchovy in the bowl (usually the anchovies are chopped up or merely implied).
I got through about three bites of the salad before our mains appeared! That was when I really started to feel unwelcome and rushed. The place was filling up rapidly (it seemed like every table had 8 – 12 people! I was surprised by the number of groups!) and they really pack them in. The next table was so close that I actually had to ask someone to move so that I could get out of my chair. Apart from killing the atmosphere, I don’t see how it can be safe!
The mains were nice, if not memorable. I had the scallops. Like others, I missed the hard sear. I have read (from my own attempts to prepare scallops) that frozen scallops are soaked in a substance that preserves them and makes them almost impossible to sear. I assume that’s what these were. They tasted fine (and were cooked properly (albeit sans sear) which is not to be sniffed at. The mushroom risotto that came with it was heaven though! I could have eaten a whole plate! The asparagus rounded out the meal. As stated previously, my husband had the «special» which was a 12 oz NY Strip with mashed sweet potatoes and asparagus. The steak was fine. The asparagus was fine, and once again the side was a star– the mashed sweet potatoes were delicious!
By the time we finished (a mere 40 minutes after we sat down!) we were too full for dessert, which was only offered half-​heartedly (and the server already had our bill in hand). I don’t know if they desperately needed our table or just didn’t like us for some reason, but it was obviously time to go. It was a good thing though. I don’t know if they finally turned on the heater, or all of the people in the room were hearings things up, but it was stifling hot towards the end.
As we walked out, there was a final annoyance. We practically had to crawl over people to get outside. The chairs on the patio weigh about 50 pounds each and are hard to move. I was literally squeezing between people and brushing up against them when I passed (yuck!).
With tip, I spent $ 180 on the meal. I can’t say it was overpriced (obviously Village Anchor can pack them in at these prices, and I am all for capitalism), but I didn’t receive $ 180 of enjoyment.
I don’t know if I will go back. There are plenty of things in the menu I would like to explore (the things they did well were divine!), but my first visit was a disappointment.

I’ve visited here for lunch several times. My go-​to is the BLT. Thick, seasoned bacon and avocado with the lettuce and tomato. It also has a special sauce — it’s delicious but if you don’t like spicy, ask for it on the side. The fries are delicious as well!
The restaurant is small, even during better weather and with the patio open. By small I mean you are elbow to elbow with the next table, which can be uncomfortable. While I’ve seen large parties there, it’s almost impossible to take a group of more than 4 people. I wouldn’t bring my kids here simply based on layout of the restaurant.
Prices are on the higher side as well. Check out the menu in advance to avoid a surprise.

How do I not know about this place??? We were out driving and got hungry early so Unilocal’d and found Village Anchor was opening soon. We drove over (interesting neighborhood but the train tracks are kind of a pain if you hit trains) and it was still a few minutes before opening but they gave us a seat and we got to watch /​listen to the staff pre-​shift meeting. The place just gives off a vibe off good food, the staff well trained and professional, and the fireplace and seats make it warm and inviting. My wife got the pork loin and pork belly (it was ridiculously delicious and so not healthy for us but did not care) and I got the venison ribs. I had the waitress ask the chef for the deer rib recipe /​procedure as I am so trying this myself! I love this place and we are so coming back!

I. Am. In. Love.
My sister and I ate here (at the Sea Hag) the morning after two days spent running the Kentucky Bourbon Chase, and we were ready to just order the whole menu. Realizing how crazy that would have made us look, she narrowed it down to the farm fresh Sunday omelet, and I, the fried egg and pancetta sandwich. We also ordered the red velvet pancakes to split but only because our server said they were excellent. 3 entrees between 2 small girls, not ridiculous at all, right? Oh, and a side of the Candied Anchor bacon.
While waiting for our food to come out, I was dying for a Bloody Mary, and they have a variety. I couldn’t make up my mind until I saw one of them had bacon in it. Sold.
The omelet was perfectly prepared. The fried egg and pancetta sandwich was divine. I don’t remember the last time I ate that slowly just to make it all last longer. The bacon was delicious. We probably could have done without the pancakes. They were good, but we agreed that we didn’t really get the red velvet part. They tasted like regular pancakes to us, just red and a little heavier. We asked for the syrup and cream cheese frosting on the side and ended up not using either, so perhaps that was our mistake.
When we had finally admitted defeat, our server brought us a few boxes and the check. My sister and I looked at each other, not ready to leave, and decided we needed to sample the mimosas before we called it a day. Our server asked us if we wanted the $ 1 mimosas or the $ 3 mimosas? Apparently the latter is a better deal, although I forget how many ounces she said was in it. Why not? I’ve had some decent mimosas, but more often than not, they’re cheaply made, mostly OJ. This one was just so perfectly bubbly.
In short, the service is friendly, the ambiance is cozy (I think I could have hung out here all day long), and the food is wonderful. The bacon, BLT Bloody Mary and the mimosa I had here are among the best, if not the best, I have ever had anywhere. It has just earned a spot on My Favorite Places Ever list.

I must start off by saying that the meatloaf sandwich and sweet potato fries are to die for. Other favorites include the short rib, scallops, and Korean style BBQ (talk about u a foodgasm).
The bartender, I cannot remember his name, but with glasses… Is a bad ass. He is honest and if a guest is being snobby or rude — he will put them in their place. He gave us the most wonderful experience at the bar the last time we were in. We had visited many times but never sat at the bar. He made the day my grandmother and best friend passed away so much better. He went the extra ten miles and delivered some of the best Bloody Kentuckys!
I will be back and back and back some more hehe ;)

Fell in love with the décor once walking into the restaurant. The bar area is not very big, but nicely done. The patio area is kinda outdoor but covered. The music and the crowd made that covered area little loud.
We went there for lunch. They have a great selection of salad and sandwiches! I always have hard time making decision, but great that they have the pick-​3 lunch! I chose the cup of onion soup and half of the fried egg sandwich with fries. They are all great, but all 3 are on the slightly salty side. The portion is pretty big for me, and I had a bite of fries and sandwich left. The onion soup is pretty amazing!
Will definitely be back to try their brunch and dinner sometime later, I heard they are great!

I love The Village Anchor Pub & Roost! This place is so beautiful and the location, while a bit further out of our comfort zone than we travel on a regular basis, is wonderful. It’s so peaceful and the actual restaurant and surrounding area is gorgeous.
My favorite thing here is the Sunday brunch. Of course, breakfast/​brunch is always my favorite; but, this spot has an amazing brunch menu! The Village Anchor French Toast is absolutely delicious and the Village Anchor Red-​Velvet pancakes are out of this world. I almost can’t bring myself to order anything else from the menu, because these pancakes are always calling my name!
B’s favorite brunch item is a BLT. If there’s one on the menu in this city he’s tried it. If you ask him what the best BLT in Louisville is he’ll tell you it’s The Village Anchor. And he’s not wrong. The wheatberry bread is always toasted to crunchy perfection and the thick-​cut Candied Anchor Bacon (which you can also order as a side with other meals) is perfection. The sandwich is also topped with chipotle aioli and avocado, making for an absolutely delicious meal. Plus, you get a side with it! I opt for the sweet potato fries with marshmallow crème. Absolutely decadent.
The Village Anchor also has delicious lunch and dinner menus including too many items to list. A couple of my favorites are the green chili wontons, similar to those at Bristol that everyone loves, and the fish tacos. They also have a full bar that’s absolutely beautiful, just like the rest of the place.
There’s another bar downstairs called the Sea Hag that’s really great. They have awesome drink specials throughout the week, including a $ 1 mimosa during Sunday brunch; but, you have to sit downstairs to get that deal. Upstairs they’ll run you $ 6, and it’s the same champagne flute.
I highly recommend The Village Anchor. We don’t go often, because as I said it’s a bit out of our way, but every time we make it out there it’s totally worth the drive.

Pretty good upscale place. Staff was friendly and knowledgeable and the menu was better than most. The price here is high but your paying for a nice atmosphere, good service and food. Being a hot day I opted for the entrée size fried goat cheese salad and it was very well done. My wife had the shrimp and grits and although it wasn’t the best she has ever had it was high on her list.
All in all a very pleasant experience

Dining well-​to-​do families, mimosas, bloody marys and bloody harrys, paintings on the ceilings and crystal chandeliers in every corner of the room.
The Village Anchor is a majorly popular brunch spot in Anchorage. The have umbrella-​shaded outdoor seating or elegant indoor seating. Go downstairs to the Seahag for Saturday or Sunday brunch and you’ll be able to order $ 1 mimosas.
While it sounds rather ritzy, but it’s more reminiscent of a 1900’s mansion cabin. It’s fun and kitschy — your check will arrive inside of a corny harlequin romance novel.
The staff is good natured and jovial — especially if you sit in the bar. They’ll chat you up while they serve drinks and the manager will wave hello to you as they pass.
I had the ahi tuna salad. Anytime I see it on a menu, I’ll order it to see how it measures up against other restaurants. While the tuna flavor, quality and cooking was excellent, the flavors in the salad didn’t work together as well as I’d hoped for. It was meant to be Asian-​inspired (judging from the ingredients) but It needed crunch and the fruit addition just didn’t work. Between the mushy fruit and avocado, The salad was just not as balanced and flavorful as I was hoping for.
However, the candied bacon in their breakfast dishes was FANTASTIC. The sweet and salty work together in a savory symphony, neither overpowering the other. The eggs were seasoned well but a teensy bit oily. The bread tasted fresh and made in house. It was excellent. The Strawberry jam was also wonderful.
It can be very busy– usually expect a wait to be seated and a rather long wait for food to arrive.
Overall, it’s a solid brunch spot and worth looking into if not just for the fun ambiance.

Excellent brunch! I’m not always a huge brunch guy since I don’t like eggs but this place hits the spot. If you sit outside at the Sea Hag covered tent you get $ 1 mimosas so you can’t pass that up.
The red velvet pancakes with the cream cheese icing are very tasty and the portion is so large I could only eat about ¹⁄₃ of them. I didn’t feel too bad though since I saw a few others who barely made a dent. Two could easily split these. The candied bacon is a must try and just as interesting as it sounds, though too bad it’s extra and doesn’t come as a side with the pancakes. From what I could tell, portions of everything are huge so no nice looking but tiny portioned food here.
This place is a must for brunch and I’d be interested to also come back and try them for lunch or dinner.

Every single item I tried was the
. I made a reservation because I knew it would be a long wait otherwise. They offer online reservations and call the day of to confirm with you. My party was seated immediately, and the staff was friendly. We ate outside but was not hot or uncomfortable because of the large ceiling fans.
The food was top notch. Started with two appetizers: the deviled eggs 3 ways (oh my oh my) and shrimp wrapped bacon. I was on cloud 9 eating both of these. The eggs were creative — one was a buffalo style devil egg but nothing too creative that it took away from the fact it was a deviled egg. Shrimp wrapped bacon, I feel like that is self explanatory as to why it was little bits of heaven in my mouth.
Followed those up with a house salad featuring their honey-​walnut dressing. That dressing was perfect. Basically took what could have been a lame salad and turned it into a tasty treat. My entrée was the Bourbon Barrel Ale batter cod. I opted for the sautéed spinach instead of fries. Both were phenomenal. The portion was large, so I took half of it home. I cannot rave enough on their apple-​raisin coleslaw. Everything had such a unique twist on Southern Comfort food. It was divine.
I ended up sharing, you must share their desserts because the portion is massive, the chocolate chip bread pudding. It was warm and gooey. Everything there was worth the extra lbs. I left carrying on my body. I highly recommend this place.

Three years later and I didn’t forget that tasty «hotter» brown and the stunning «old money» feel of Anchor Village’s interior. Little did I know they also have a fantastic basement bar and patio. Our group of twelve found a perch on the patio and began a feast filled with fried green tomatoes, tasty bacon bloody Marys, fried chicken and of course, the «hotter» brown filled with chicken, parmesan gravy, chunks of bread and potato. Oh, the gluttony! Oh, the enjoyment! My only regret was not ordering a drink. After a day of distillery visits, I didn’t have it in me. For those looking to brunch, I highly recommend checking out their offerings (think red velvet pancakes, hash and eggs, mimosas, and so on). In true Kentucky fashion, Anchor offers a decent bourbon menu. Lastly, if you’re looking to just grab a drink, scope out the upstairs and basement bars — both are beautiful.

The Village Anchor is one of my favorite spots in Louisville.
First and foremost, the food is the bomb. Brunch, lunch, and dinner — everything I’ve had has been great. No matter what, order the sweet potato fries as your side. They come with a marshmallow dipping sauce which is out of this world. I would happily live off this for the rest of my life. Also, the hot brown is one of the best in Louisville, and I have a hard time not ordering it every time. Another recommendation — the elk chili. There’s plenty of delicious options on the menus to make everyone happy.
The next thing that I absolutely love about The Village Anchor is the atmosphere. The restaurant is uniquely adorable, with multiple levels and homey décor. The décor is so welcoming and really makes you feel like you’re at a neighborhood place.
Visit The Village Anchor — you won’t be disappointed!

Wow. Wow. Wow. The Village Anchor is this magical little gem tucked away in a nook and cranny of the city. It has this adorable vintage-​like exterior which is just so welcoming — you can’t help but get excited when you’re walking up the pebble — stone pathway! (I’m just a huge sucker for good aesthetics). It’s such a happy place, but it is also very romantic.
My boyfriend and I ate dinner at The Village Anchor for our date night and I couldn’t have asked for a better setting. The interior was just as cute as the exterior, not to mention there was a crackling fireplace for our enjoyment. Also, something very nice was that the head manager walked around throughout the night, talking to each of the customers there. It was definitely pleasant to see that the customers were cared about and respected in such a way. Now, onto the food…
The food was unlike anything from this planet… in the very best way possible. They had this extensive list of wine and it’s not a bad price for a bottle. I highly recommend ordering wine with your dinner, especially if you’re on a date night… another thing I recommend is the beer cheese and pretzel appetizer. The pretzel sticks were so soft and doughy and the beer cheese was just the right amount of flavor. You would probably be safe to order absolutely anything on the menu but if you’re a seafood junkie like me then I suggest the Cast Iron Scallops. They come in this Vanilla-​butter type sauce and the scallops practically melt in your mouth. The texture is good, the flavor is great and you will wish you had more of it to eat! For the caliber of food you’re receiving the price is bearable and I believe you will bookmark it as one of your favorite romantic venues!!!

I’ve been meaning to get over here for brunch for months now, and with my mother-in-law’s birthday coming up, this was a great excuse to take her out.
We were all pretty much sold on the $ 1 mimosas (I had three… oops…). While the indoor seating looked stunning, we sat outside at the Sea Hag to take advantage of the mimosa deal. My only complaint is that we were seated right in the sunlight, so it felt like we were suffocating with the heat lamps and the sun rays. But mimosas to the rescue…
I ordered the biscuits and gravy and only ate about half of it (it was HUGE). Big props to the bonus bacon thrown inside. It was like a scavenger hunt trying to find those puppies.
My husband got the biscuits with the filet mignon inside and I would love to order that next time. Especially since it comes with the side salad, which I’ve heard good things about.
I loved how the receipts came out in old books. Really cute touch! We agreed we’ll be back for dinner sometime, and I’d love to sit inside for that. I’ll definitely update again when we do that.