Damaris Phillips Says Louisville Is the South’s Best City

Food Network host, cookbook author, and Kentucky’s favorite daughter, Damaris Phillips has major pride for her hometown.

“I think my hometown of Louisville is the best city in the South because: of our beautiful parks. Everywhere you turn a delightful scene begs you to slow down and have a picnic.”

If you follow Phillips on social media, you know that she and her husband Derek are always up for an adventure and she has plenty of suggestions to make the most of Louisville should you choose to visit her town. She has a whole itinerary, in fact. She shared recently shared her suggestions with Southern Living.

“You should go for a picnic. Pick up sandwiches at Morris' Deli or Stevens and Stevens and find a large tree in one of the parks to relax under. Walk across the big four walking bridge.

Visit the Speed museum to take in the Art.”

“See a show at Actors Theatre, Commonwealth Theatre, or The Squallis Puppeteers.

Do a little memorabilia hunting at our peddlers malls. One of my favorite spots to find vintage cast iron is a place called Tickled Pink,” she continued.

WATCH: Damaris Phillips' Cornbread & Sweet Milk

Phillips also gives you some options if you’re interested in one of Kentucky’s most famous exports.

“Learn a little more about Bourbon on a Louisville distillery tour. Have a specialty cocktail at Hell or High Water or Odeon.”

And of course, being a chef, we had to ask Phillips about her favorite restaurant in Louisville.

“I have too many favorite restaurants to name, but I will tell you my favorite coffee shop. Highland Coffee has delicious coffee, homemade baked goods, and the best customer service you can hope for. They somehow manage to make you feel like a regular even if it’s your first time visiting.”

But of course, while she may not be able to pick a favorite, she has plenty of suggestions of where to fuel up, so to speak.

“Eat as many times as you can...Grale Haus, Wiltshire Pantry, Con Huevos, Feast BBQ, Couvillion, Bar Vetti, Decca, El Mundo, Queen of Sheba, Dak Shin, Seviche, Havana Rumba, The Table, Nords (for the best glazed doughnuts...) the list goes on and on and on. Just plan on eating and eating often.”

There is no doubt that Phillips is proud of her roots and she wants you to fall in love with her town too.

“There is a local saying "Keep Louisville Weird" and when you visit you should live by that motto. With just a little digging you can find cool, odd, quirky events happening all over town. If you are anything like me and believe that every event is a little more fun with the proper costume, make sure to stop by Nitty Gritty Vintage for and inspired look!”