A Unique Twist on Louisville Whiskey Lounges: Introducing Tartan House

In a city known for its abundance of bourbon bars, Tartan House is breaking the mold and offering something different to whiskey enthusiasts in Louisville. Nestled near the Butchertown and NuLu neighborhoods, this new bar is setting itself apart by specializing in Scotch whiskey. With a collection of over 30 options, Tartan House is a haven for Scotch lovers.

Named after the iconic pattern associated with Scotland, Tartan House opened its doors on August 1st in a charming former house located at 1027 E. Main St. The trio behind this establishment, Jeff Knott, Peyton Beall, and Kyle Beall, joined forces to create a bar that reflects their shared passion for whiskey. Their journey began over a decade ago when Knott was working as a bartender in Pensacola, Florida, and the Beall couple became regulars. Numerous conversations and shared drinks later, the concept for Tartan House was born. Eventually, fate brought them all to Louisville, where Kyle Beall works as a nurse anesthetist and Peyton Beall found her footing in the hospitality industry at Peerless Distilling. Knott, who previously worked at Willett Distillery, was enlisted as the bar manager.

“When I think of a bar being called a house, it evokes a warmth,” said Peyton Beall. The idea of creating a welcoming atmosphere was at the center of Tartan House’s design. As you step inside this navy building, you’ll immediately notice the 1,000-square-foot space that was carefully crafted to make patrons feel right at home. The bar can accommodate up to 50 people, and various seating options are available, including a long yellow velvet couch and accent chairs. “We wanted it to feel like spooky New Orleans with an element of Scottish flair,” said Beall. The walls are adorned with funky artwork, including plaid prints, photos from Beall’s travels to Scotland, and even a taxidermized pig named “Bertie,” who serves as the bar’s mascot.

At the bar itself, you’ll find plenty of green chairs that provide an up-close view of Tartan House’s impressive whiskey selection. In addition to the familiar bourbon favorites like Maker’s Mark, Evan Williams, and Jim Beam, the shelves boast a range of Scotch bottles with intriguing names like Ardbeg Corryvreckan, Benriach, and Glenmorangie. “We want people, locals and tourists, to look at whiskey through a global lens,” Beall explained. “I think people have a thirst for something different.”

In its early stages, Tartan House will focus on delivering classic cocktails made with precision and quality. Options include well-known favorites such as the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Bee Keeper. If you’re in the mood for a scotch-based concoction, be sure to try the “Bobby Burns,” which combines Cocchi di Torino, benedictine, and bitters. Prices start at $12, and with the knowledgeable staff on hand, even Scotch newbies can find the perfect drink. “We really wanted to provide something different for this community,” Beall emphasized. “We don’t want it to feel pretentious. We want everyone to feel welcome and for them to form friendships and bonds with our staff.”

Tartan House welcomes customers from 4 p.m. daily. So, whether you’re a seasoned Scotch enthusiast or merely curious about expanding your whiskey horizons, make sure to pay a visit to this unique and inviting establishment. Louisville Courier Journal originally featured this article by Amanda Hancock. You can contact her at ahancock@courier-journal.com. Discover the world of Scotch at Tartan House, the whiskey lounge that brings a touch of Scotland to Louisville.