CORBETT’S “AN AMERICAN PLACE”, 5050 Norton Healthcare Blvd., 327-5058, www.corbettsrestaurant.com. Housed in the 150-year-old farmhouse that was originally home to the Von Allmen dairy operation, Corbett’s “An American Place” opened in the winter, joining the ranks of the region’s top tables. Patrons can choose between dining al fresco, on the lower level, or in the private “chef’s room.” (Reviewed 7/2/08; Rating: 93)
JARFI’S BISTRO, 1543 Bardstown Rd., 589-5060, www.jarfis.com. Jarfi’s menu has changed a bit (it’s always evolving), but what is truly new here is the atmosphere — whereas Lentini’s was upscale and sophisticated, the new Jarfi’s is colorful, vibrant and ethnically diverse. Under one roof, diners can encounter a French-style bistro, a Moroccan lounge, a sushi bar, traditional formal dining and a Times Square-themed dining hall. (Reviewed 7/9/08; Rating: 90)
CAFFE PERUSA, 9200 Taylorsville Rd., 495-5070. The little-known Continental restaurant tucked away in a strip mall stands out with its succulent food well worth the cost. The variety of choices make it difficult to decide on just one entrée, but the “Study in Oysters” appetizer is a good start. (Reviewed 7/17/08; Rating: 91)
ASAHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT, 3701 Lexington Rd., 895-1130. Chef Yong Bong Tak has made Asahi a worthy addition to St. Matthews. The extensive menu includes more than 100 sushi options, including the “Hawaiian Roll” and pairs of nigiri sushi. (Reviewed 7/23/08; Rating: 78)
BUENOS DIAS CAFÉ, 1703 Charlestown-N.A. Pike, (812) 282-2233. A simple, modern strip-mall exterior conceals one of the region’s most interesting small Latino eateries. The menu includes affordable, delicious dishes such as a Honduran Breakfast, Mexican stewed beef and fiery shrimp. (Reviewed 8/6/08; Rating: 88)
CARLY RAE’S, 103 W. Oak St., 365-1003. With the arrival of Chef David Clancy (of the late Bistro New Albany), Carly Rae’s is emerging as a strong contender to break the spell of the doomed location at the corner of First and Oak streets in Old Louisville. The attractive and fair-priced casual bistro offers a mix of Cajun, Creole, Mediterranean and a lot of Clancy. (Reviewed 8/20/08; Rating: 88)
BIG AL’S BEERITAVILLE, 1715 Mellwood Ave., 893-4487. With a cozy bar, front patio with tables and an outdoor beer garden complete with a horseshoe pit and cornhole, it’s a fun, laid-back place to spend a Saturday afternoon or a weeknight happy hour. The typical pub-grub menu features an extra-thick fried bologna sandwich, wings, bratwursts and deli sandwiches. (Reviewed 9/3/08; Rating: 81)
