James Beard Semifinalist Unveils Fusion of Southern Soul and British Pub Culture in Louisville’s Highlands

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (December 11, 2025) – Louisville’s iconic Highlands neighborhood starts a new culinary chapter inspired by award-winning Chef Lawrence Weeks. Weeks, a James Beard semifinalist and rising Southern culinary talent proudly announces the grand opening of Murray’s Creole Pub, a restaurant rooted in family legacy, bursting with passion, and built to honor the culinary dreams of those who came before him.

Weeks is well known for the acclaimed restaurant North of Bourbon, which earned a coveted spot on The New York Times’ 50 Best Restaurants in America list while under his direction in 2024.

Named in tribute to his great-grandfather Lawrence Ignatius “Buzz” Murray and grandfather Lawrence Xavier Murray, Murray’s
carries the dreams of two men who always aspired to run their own kitchen.

“This is more than food,” says Weeks. “It’s a tribute to the men who inspired my fire for cooking. They never got their shot to be head chefs - so I’m giving them the stage they always deserved.”

At Murray’s Creole Pub, the convivial spirit of British pub culture finds unexpected harmony with the bold, soulful cadence of Creole cuisine. Here, the comforting ritual of gathering over a pint meets the vibrant storytelling of the Southern table. The downstairs pub invites guests into a come-as-you-are space, warm, and welcoming. Think classics like burgers, fish & chips and tikka masala curry.

Upstairs, the mood shifts. The dining room evokes a more refined rhythm - intimate lighting, thoughtful plating, and a menu that leans into fine dining without losing its soulful roots. Oysters and caviar service lead the way for an experiential pub style menu - reimagined to take you on a culinary journey like never before. It’s a dual experience under one roof and an ode to the art of Southern hospitality, plated with intention and poured with grace.

Murray’s Creole Pub is open to the public on Dec. 12th at 1576 Bardstown Rd., Louisville, KY. Lunch service begins at 12 p.m with dinner service from 5:00 p.m to 10:00 p.m. Happy hour from 3:30 p.m - 5 p.m. Reservations are available now on Resy and walk-ins are welcome.

While planning a trip to Louisville, guests can download a copy of Louisville Tourism’s annual Visitor Guide to see the city's top attractions and bourbon distilleries. Visitors also can get additional city attraction, lodging and dining assistance at gotolouisville.com.

Press contact: info@murrayscreolepub.com