A second location of The Exchange is expanding across the Ohio River.
The Exchange, a well-known gastropub in New Albany, will open a new location inside Hotel Genevieve this spring, the hotel has announced. The Exchange NuLu, as it will be called, will be another upscale dining establishment in Louisville’s East Market District, adding to the hotel’s expanding culinary offerings.
The Exchange was founded in 2011 in New Albany under the direction of Ian and Nikki Hall. It has amassed a devoted following over the last ten or more years thanks to chef-driven comfort food that is based on local sourcing, seasonal ingredients, and traditional flavors.
The NuLu restaurant will adhere to the same tenets, serving a menu that emphasizes the area’s agricultural abundance and focuses on small plates. Longtime favorites will be served to diners, along with specialties made just for Louisville.
Hotel Genevieve’s strategy of establishing itself as a dining destination as much as a place to stay is reinforced by the addition of the new restaurant to its existing concepts, which include Bar Genevieve, Mini Marché, and Jimmy Can’t Dance.
“We couldn’t ask for a better partner than Hotel Genevieve for the opening of our second location,” said Ian Hall. “The energy in NuLu is unmatched, and we’re excited to bring our menu across the bridge and join such a welcoming and exciting community.”
Stephen Wendell, CEO of Mountain Shore Properties, said the partnership reflects what the neighborhood has been seeking.
“A refined and comfortable dining experience that celebrates the flavors and classic dishes that make our region great.”
The Exchange NuLu will take the place of the previous Byrdie. The Louisville restaurant will combine the warmth of the original concept with the lively design aesthetic of Hotel Genevieve, while the flagship location will feature historic masonry from the 1870s. To create the new area, the team is collaborating with Maddox & Rose, a design firm located in Louisville.
Located in the heart of NuLu, Hotel Genevieve is a 122-room boutique property within the JdV by Hyatt collection. Designed by Rohe Creative, the hotel draws inspiration from Saint Genevieve limestone.
The Exchange NuLu is expected to open in spring 2026.
This article appears in Feb 14-28, 2026.