What is in season in Louisville. and what to order when the market changes.

Spring

  • Asparagus: Local Kentucky asparagus appears at the Bardstown Road Farmers Market through April and May.
  • Morel mushrooms: Foraged Kentucky morels show up in chef menus and at the farmers markets through April and May.
  • Country ham: Spring is country ham season for Derby parties; Kentucky cured hams turn up on every Hot Brown menu.

Summer

  • Derby tomatoes: Heirloom Kentucky tomatoes peak from late June through August on every farm-table menu in Louisville.
  • Sweet corn: Kentucky sweet corn appears at farmers markets from July through September across Louisville.
  • Burgoo: The Kentucky-style summer stew of mutton, vegetables and corn appears at festivals through July and August.

Autumn

  • Sorghum syrup: Kentucky sorghum is harvested in September and October, drizzled on biscuits at Louisville brunch counters.
  • Apple cider: Local cider appears in cocktails and at farmers markets through October across the Louisville area.
  • Sweet potatoes: Kentucky sweet potatoes anchor fall menus from October through November across Louisville kitchens.

Winter

  • Country ham (Christmas): December and January are peak country ham months for Louisville holiday parties and family suppers.
  • Hot Brown season: Winter is peak Hot Brown season, with the broiled sandwich anchoring lunch and late dinner menus in Louisville.
  • Bourbon balls: Hand-rolled bourbon balls at Muth's and Cellar Door Chocolates peak from Thanksgiving through Derby.

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